2. Advent II – Peace
Malachi 3:1-4; Luke 1:68-79

3. Lighting the Second Advent Candle
(The Hope candle should be lit before the service begins.)
Lighting the Second Advent Candle
One In this holy place, O God, we seek to prepare a path through the wilderness of our lives.
Many Quiet our souls that we may hear your voice.
One Keep us mindful of the work yet to be done in your Kingdom.
Many Remind us to see that work through the lens of possibility.

4. One Help us remember the covenant of hope you forged with our ancestors, even as we yearn for your presence in our world today. Many Illuminate our path, that our feet may be guided toward the way of peace.

5. Many May the Peace of the coming Christ child live within us all.
One Today we light the second candle on our Advent wreath, the candle of Peace.
Many May the Peace of the coming Christ child live within us all.
(The candle of Peace is lit, and the congregation sings a hymn of your choice.)

6. Prayer of Dedication “The messenger of the covenant in whom you delight—indeed he is coming, says the Lord of Hosts.” Through our generosity, we, too, act as messengers preparing the way of light and hope. Since ancient times, our covenant has been not only with the Lord but with one another in blessed community. May this offering be a message of peace for all those who serve our church. Amen.