DECEMBER 24, 2025 • 12 NOON & 7 PM
SERVICE OF LESSONS, CAROLS, AND CANDLELIGHT
Asbury First United Methodist Church 1050 East Ave, Rochester NY 14607 (585) 271-1050 asburyfirst.org
FIRST TIME HERE We are so glad you are joining worship today, whether in person or online. Please sign in on the red fellowship pad and pass it down your pew. Our hope is to get to know you better and help you find your place within this community. You can also drop an email to info@asburyfirst.org. If you’re participating offsite, check in through the website or take a picture and post it on social media using #asburyfirstathome. ACCESSIBILITY FOR ALL Large print bulletins and hymnals are available from the ushers. A hearing loop is available for those who have hearing aids with T switches, and you may also request earphones from the ushers to aid you in hearing the service. The screens located in the sanctuary now display the service stream to aid in visibility. Please help us welcome differently-abled worshipers and visitors by not interacting with or distracting service animals. Need prayer? Share your prayer requests by filling out one of the prayer cards found in the pews or by emailing prayers@asburyfirst.org. All requests are prayed over by the Ministers and Intercessory Prayer Team. Children Children are a sacred gift, and they are welcome in worship. Children will be invited forward during worship for a Children’s Time. Following this, children age 4 through 5th grade are invited to go with the children’s educators for Sunday School or return to their caretaker for the remainder of the service. RECONCILING STATEMENT Asbury First is a reconciling congregation and seeks to be a fully inclusive church, believing that all people are God’s children. Read a full statement at asburyfirst.org/about-us/#reconciling-statement. GIVE TO ASBURY FIRST Your generous gifts support everyday ministries and operations, allowing this church to live into the vision to Do More Good. Cash/Check—We welcome gifts by check in the mail or a cash/check gift placed in the offering plate as it is passed to you. Text to Give—You may give a gift with a debit/credit card by texting the dollar amount to 206-222-1050. Online—Online giving is available on the website at asburyfirst.org/give. Venmo—You may give a gift through Venmo by finding “@givingasburyfirst” or by scanning the QR code to the right. Watch and listen The livestream of the 11 am service is found at asburyfirst.org/live-stream. Listen live on WRFZ 106.3 FM Rochester Free Radio, or call this toll-free number: 833-829-1050. The video archive of past services is at asburyfirst.org/archive.
Staff Emails are typically first initial then last name @asburyfirst.org. (ex. mboguetrost@asburyfirst.org) Rev. Dr. Michelle Bogue-Trost — Senior Minister, x125 Rev. Kathy Thiel — Minister for Congregational Care, x106 Position funded in part by the Susan Shafer Pastoral Care Fund Rev. Patrick Dupont — Minister for Outreach, x136 Michele Layher — Storehouse Coordinator Mike Mullin — Minister for Discipleship and Youth, x105 Dr. Carl Johengen — Director of Music Ministry, x134 Position funded in part by the Helen Fultz Music Fund Duane Prill — Principal Organist, x100 Position funded in part by the Craighead Fund David Strong — Assistant Organist Holly Temming — Operations Manager; Director of Children's Music, x114 Deb Bullock-Smith — Director of Operations, x117 John Ormsbee — Director of Finance, x107 Johnny Colón — Director of Property Care, x123 David Stith — Director of Communications, x109 Ly Tran — Communications Associate
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As the community gathers, may the music of the prelude draw your hearts and minds to God. (* Please stand as you are able.)
12 noon & 7 pm December 24, 2025
Christmas Eve
PRELUDE: Seasonal music performed by Duane Prill, organ/piano, assisted by: Annette Farrington, flute and Brian Donat, cello (noon & 7 pm) Asbury Ringers, Elizabeth Church, Director (7 pm) *PROCESSIONAL CAROL: #234 “O Come, All Ye Faithful”, vv. 1, 2, 3, 6 WELCOME LIGHTING THE ADVENT CANDLES Each week in Advent, we have lit candles on the wreath as a sign of the growing light of Christ in the world. The circle of evergreen reminds us that God’s love has no end, and the candles mark our journey from darkness toward the dawn of new creation. As the flame is shared, we remember that God’s promise is unfolding still—hope, peace, joy, and love taking root in us and among us, until the light of Christ leads us to new life. RESPONSE (as the candles are lit) Tonight we light all the candles—of hope, peace, joy, and love—and the Christ candle in the center. For the people who walked in darkness have seen a great light. The promise is fulfilled: the Word has become flesh and dwells among us. In Christ, the new creation dawns—radiant, tender, and strong. Glory to God in the highest, and peace on earth! Come, Lord Jesus—Light of the World, make all things new. *CAROL: #238 “Angels We Have Heard on High”, v. 1 SCRIPTURE: GOD'S PROMISE Isaiah 9:2-7 (New Revised Standard Version, Updated) The people who walked in darkness have seen a great light; those who lived in a land of deep darkness—on them light has shined. You have multiplied exultation; you have increased its joy; they rejoice before you as with joy at the harvest, as people exult when dividing plunder. For the yoke of their burden and the bar across their shoulders, the rod of their oppressor, you have broken as on the day of Midian. For all the boots of the tramping warriors and all the garments rolled in blood shall be burned as fuel for the fire. For a child has been born for us, a son given to us; authority rests upon his shoulders, and he is named Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace. Great will be his authority, and there shall be endless peace for the throne of David and his kingdom. He will establish and uphold it with justice and with righteousness from this time onward and forevermore. The zeal of the Lord of hosts will do this. ANTHEM (12 NOON): Solo Quartet "Prayer for Peace” — words and music by Abbie Betinis, inspired by Rev. Bates G. Burt ANTHEM (7 PM): Asbury Ringers, Elizabeth Church, Director; Annette Farrington, flute “Celtic Noel” — arr. Sandra K. Tucker SCRIPTURE: THE BIRTH Luke 2:1-7 (New Revised Standard Version, Updated) In those days a decree went out from Emperor Augustus that all the world should be registered. This was the first registration and was taken while Quirinius was governor of Syria. All went to their own towns to be registered. Joseph also went from the town of Nazareth in Galilee to Judea, to the city of David called Bethlehem, because he was descended from the house and family of David. He went to be registered with Mary, to whom he was engaged and who was expecting a child. While they were there, the time came for her to deliver her child. And she gave birth to her firstborn son and wrapped him in bands of cloth, and laid him in a manger, because there was no place for them in the inn. ANTHEM (12 NOON): Solo Quartet "In the Bleak Midwinter” — Harold Darke; words by Christina Rosetti ANTHEM (7 PM): Sanctuary Choir, Annette Farrington, flute “Wexford Carol” — traditional Irish carol, arr. Larry L. Finke SCRIPTURE: THE SHEPHERDS Luke 2:8-20 (New Revised Standard Version, Updated) In that region there were shepherds living in the fields, keeping watch over their flock by night. Then an angel of the Lord stood before them, and the glory of the Lord shone around them, and they were terrified. But the angel said to them, ‘Do not be afraid; for see—I am bringing you good news of great joy for all the people: to you is born this day in the city of David a Savior, who is the Messiah, the Lord. This will be a sign for you: you will find a child wrapped in bands of cloth and lying in a manger.’ And suddenly there was with the angel a multitude of the heavenly host, praising God and saying, ‘Glory to God in the highest heaven, and on earth peace among those whom he favors!’ When the angels had left them and gone into heaven, the shepherds said to one another, ‘Let us go now to Bethlehem and see this thing that has taken place, which the Lord has made known to us.’ So they went with haste and found Mary and Joseph, and the child lying in the manger. When they saw this, they made known what had been told them about this child; and all who heard it were amazed at what the shepherds told them. But Mary treasured all these words and pondered them in her heart. The shepherds returned, glorifying and praising God for all they had heard and seen, as it had been told them. *CAROL: #240 “Hark! The Herald Angles Sing” CHRISTMAS MESSAGE MEDITATION: Duane Prill, organ, Annette Farrington, flute, Brian Donat, cello “Coventry Carol” — arr. Lloyd Larson CHRISTMAS PRAYER INVITATION TO DISCIPLESHIP AND ENGAGEMENT: We are delighted you have joined us and ask that you sign and pass the ritual of friendship pad from the center aisle down the pew. Offering Ourselves to God's Purposes: 100% of Christmas Eve offerings will be directed to our Outreach Ministries alongside vulnerable and marginalized people. Visit asburyfirst.org/christmas to learn more. There are multiple ways to make a gift to Asbury First: Cash/Check—We welcome you to send a gift by check in the mail or place your cash/check gift in the offering plate as it is passed to you. Text to Give—You may give a gift with a debit/credit card by texting the dollar amount to 206-222-1050. Online—Online giving is available on our website at asburyfirst.org/give. Venmo—To give a gift through Venmo, send to “@givingasburyfirst” or scan the QR code to the right. OFFERTORY: 12 Noon: Solo Quartet; 7 pm: Sanctuary Choir “A Great and Mighty Wonder” — Ian Higginson; words 7th-c. Greek, tr. John Mason Neale *SHARING OF CHRIST’S LIGHT We share with one another the light from the Christ candle. Acolytes will bring the light to the person on the end of each aisle. To receive the light, tilt your unlit candle towards a lit candle. Then turn and share the light of Christ with those around you. *ANTHEM AS CANDLES ARE LIT: 12 Noon: Solo Quartet; 7 pm: Sanctuary Choir "Christmas Night" - 16th cent. French melody arr. John Rutter *CAROL: #239 “Silent Night, Holy Night” vv. 1, 2 Silent night! Holy night! All is calm, all is bright ’round yon virgin mother and child! Holy infant, so tender and mild, sleep in heavenly peace, sleep in heavenly peace. Silent night! Holy night! Shepherds quake at the sight. Glories stream from heaven afar, heavenly hosts sing, “Alleluia! Christ the Savior is born! Christ the Savior is born!” *CHRISTMAS GREETING *RECESSIONAL CAROL: #246 “Joy to the World” POSTLUDE: “Chorale/Joy To The World” — Healy Willan, Michael Bedford
PLEASE LET US KNOW YOU'RE HERE! SCAN TO SIGN IN
SCAN TO GIVE VIA VENMO
We are grateful to all who have participated in Christmas Eve services, including those whose names are not listed due to printing deadlines. If you feel moved to participate with your gifts in worship, please contact Andrew Hunt at worship@asburyfirst.org.
Joy!
As we exchange gifts with loved ones this Christmas, let us also consider sharing our abundance with those for whom, and among whom, the Christ child was born: the poor, homeless and oppressed. Visit asburyfirst.org/christmas to learn more. 100% of our Christmas Eve offerings, along with special gifts made throughout the Christmas season, will fund outreach ministry in the community through partnerships with a variety of programs. Learn more at asburyfirst.org/christmas.
“Prayer for Peace” © 2009 H.T. Fitzsimmons Co.; “Celtic Noel” © Alfred Publishing Co.; “Wexford Carol” and “A Great and Mighty Wonder” © St. James Music Press; “Christmas Night” © 1987 Oxford University Press; Hymns © 1989 The United Methodist Publishing House; OneLicense.net #A-721053. Illustration Credits: Designed by David Stith
Joy of Christmas Giving
The glorious poinsettias adorning the sanctuary were donated in honor or memory of many beloved ones, and we are grateful for this beautiful generosity. A list of those names and donors is available at the Welcome Desk if you would like to take one home with you today, or scan the QR code to view a PDF version of the list.
Participants In the Service
Preacher: Rev. Dr. Michelle Bogue-Trost Liturgists: Rev. Kathy Thiel, Rev. Pat Dupont, Mike Mullin Organist: Duane Prill Soloists: Juli Elliot, Brenda Nitsch, Dan McInerney, Jordan Bachmann Sanctuary Choir (7 pm) Asbury Ringers (7 pm): Elizabeth Church, Director Flute: Annette Farrington Cello: Brian Donat Director of Music Ministry: Dr. Carl Johengen Head Usher: Dennis Roote, Tommy Johnson, Jr. Acolytes, Crucifers: Kathie Collier-Bryant, Bennet Marsiglio, Poppy Marsiglio Production Suite Team (7 pm): Rick Church, Kenny Bailey Technology Support Team: Dave Rice, Dave Berg, Kenny Bailey, Larry Dugan, Rick Church
Permissions:
Grief Group
Young Adulting AF
Asbury First (AF) is launching a Young Adult Fellowship in 2026, meeting the first Sunday of each month from 6:30 to 8 pm. We'll share snacks, discuss a parable from Peter Rollins' "The Orthodox Heretic," and connect through games and conversation. Young Adults are typically 18 - 35, but all who feel they'd fit in are welcome. First session: January 4. Questions? Contact Mike Mullin at mmullin@asburyfirst.org.
This Christmas season, Asbury First is channeling its holiday spirit in a new direction. In response to growing food insecurity, we're redirecting our seasonal creativity to address hunger in our community. Thanks to our Monday Morning Crew and Pumpernickel Crew, a beautiful Giving Tree now stands in the Gathering Center. We invite you to place food donations under the tree to support our Community Outreach Center's food programs and help neighbors in need.
A new grief group is being offered on Wednesday evenings from 4 to 5 pm in the Red Room (at the Community Outreach Center). This is an opportunity for people to come together and talk about their loved one who has recently died (in the last five months, or even the last five years). All are welcome to join the group for one or every meeting. For more information contact Rev. Kathy Thiel at (585) 271-1050 x106 or kthiel@asburyfirst.org.
The Giving Tree
Wednesday, December 31, 5 - 6 pm
New Years Eve Open Service of Meditation and Communion
Join us New Year's Eve for a drop-in service of meditation and communion. The sanctuary will be open 5 - 6 pm and you are welcome to come for the whole time or part of the time as we look back at this year and look with hope toward next year. This service will include long periods of silence interspersed with reflective music. All are welcome.
Sign up for the Email Newsletter, which arrives every Thursday afternoon, as well as the Monday Reader, a weekly look deeper into the life of Asbury First through short, colorful articles. Scan the QR code or sign up at asburyfirst.org/newsletter
Trying to keep up with all that goes on here? We’ve got you covered!
Welcome to Asbury First United Methodist Church, a community of open hearts and open minds. You’re invited to know yourself, your neighbors, and Christ a little better, and to love, live, and serve in his name. With more than 200 years in ministry in Rochester, Asbury First is: Progressive. Christ-centered. Making a difference. Come as you are—we will save you a seat!
This Lent, we are encouraging everyone to join us in a study of "Prayer in the Night" by Tish Harrison Warren. This book explores a season of doubt and loss, navigating themes of human vulnerability, suffering, and God's seeming absence. It also offers prayerful and frank approaches to living in a world filled with uncertainty.
Coming to Asbury First in 2026
In February, Asbury First will be part of hosting two clergy from the Holy Land. All will be welcome to attend a program to greet them and learn more about Interfaith Initiatives around the world. Firm details will be available in January. Contact Rev. Kathy Thiel at kthiel@asburyfirst.org for more information.
Temple Sinai Collab
Spirituality/Chakra Workshop
Banned Book Club
WELCOME!
In early 2026, we will host a half-day workshop that empowers us to understand the relationship between body and soul. All are welcome to attend. Firm details will be available soon. Please contact Rev. Kathy Thiel at kthiel@asburyfirst.org if you are interested.
Love God and Neighbor. Live Fully. Serve All. Repeat.
Lenten Book Study
SCAN THE QR CODE, VISIT ASBURYFIRST.ORG OR CALL THE CHURCH OFFICE AT (585) 271-1050 AND WE WILL HELP YOU GET CONNECTED
Monday, January 19, from 7 to 8 pm in the Red Room or via zoom, join the Banned Book Club for a discussion of James Baldwin's "Go Tell It On The Mountain," celebrated for its lyrical prose and psychological depth, and established Baldwin as a major literary voice. Email programs@asburyfirst.org for more details.
Give Online at www.asburyfirst.org/GIVE, text to give at (206) 222-1050, VENMO VIA THE QR CODE, OR MAIL IN A CHECK TO 1050 EAST AVENUE, ROCHESTER, NY 14607 Facebook and instagram: @asburyfirstumc