A Convergence Epiphany Service

The service outlined below is designed for January 6. Since many churches celebrate Epiphany on the first Sunday of January, much of the following material could be adapted or incorporated into a standard Sunday morning service in an evangelical or charismatic church. Adapt to local custom and style.

ACTS OF ENTRANCE Processional Commentary: As Epiphany marks a special pilgrimage for the magi to the Christ child, the church could, at this service, become the processional. Have the people gather in the foyer or another part of the church and process together into an empty sanctuary to a hymn or contemporary worship choruses that are upbeat and victorious. The processional is led by a crucifer, followed by banner carriers, singers, dancers, and the congregation. Three men dressed as wise men could also help lead the processional. Each person coming that night should bring something to present to the Christ child, based on a theme announced earlier. Ideas included food for the poor, new toys for the nursery, or some other special offering. Opening Sentences I will make you a light for the Gentiles, That you may bring my salvation to the ends of the earth (Is. 49:6b). Acts of Praise and Worship Commentary: The songs should be focused on the power of the gospel to change lives. Just as the Wise Men were led to Jesus by the light of a star, so the light of Jesus' in us guides those around us to him. He is continually "manifested" to the world through his church. Litanies, responsive readings, poetry, etc., can all be utilized during this time of worship. MINISTRY OF THE WORD Collect Heavenly Father, you used the light of a star to tell the world of Your Son; through the church and by Your Holy Spirit send your light again that all the peoples of this world will learn of His love; through Jesus Christ our Lord, who lives and reigns with you and the Holy Spirit, one God, world without end. Amen. Readings First Reading: Isaiah 60:1–6 Psalm 72 Second Reading: Ephesians 3:1–12 Third Reading: Matthew 2:1–12 OR See Lectionary Texts Message Commentary: The theme of Epiphany holds a great deal of breadth and depth for preaching. However, a drama concerning the magi, a reading, etc., could be used instead. If you have someone creative in your church, have them write a short contemporary play based on the story of the discovery of Christ (Matt. 2). Testimonies are also very useful after the readings. Choose members from the congregation to talk about their own personal epiphanies. Creed Commentary: The Apostles' Creed, which is the baptismal creed of the church, should be said. It reminds us that Epiphany is a time to celebrate Christ's reality in our own lives, which was sealed in baptismal waters. MINISTRY OF THE TABLE Offertory Commentary: Epiphany is a day of giving. The Wise Men came bearing gifts. If the processional involved the giving of gifts, these should now be consecrated. Tithes and other offerings should also be collected, and then a prayer of dedication said over them all. If the church is interested in designating a special season of sacrificial giving, Epiphany is a good day to begin. At the end of the offertory, a time of dedication for such special emphases can be added. Great Thanksgiving Commentary: Communion, if celebrated, focuses on Christ's manifestation; thus, Communion becomes a time of celebration as we remember that he has revealed himself to us as our Savior and Lord. If Communion is not celebrated, the service should end with more time in musical praise and worship. This could be followed by a prayer of dedication, sending the people out as light to the world, the manifest presence of Christ to those who know them.