In today’s reading from the Gospel of Luke, we see that the child Jesus is growing and maturing, specifically in strength, or stature, and in wisdom and favor.
As we read of his visit to Jerusalem with His parents, we can see that Jesus’ growth is based on His understanding of His identity as God‘s child, and also by his willingness to submit to His heavenly Father and to his earthly parents.
We, too, will grow in strength, wisdom, and favor this year, as we understand our true identity and live it out in humility, with God’s power.
Readings and Sermon: Pastor Jonathan Lange.
Order of service:
Readings:
- Reflection on God's Forgiveness is from Psalm 86:3–5
- Psalm reading is from Psalm 119:97–104
- Old Testament reading is from 1 Kings 3:4–15
- Epistle reading is from Ephesians 1:3–14
- Holy Gospel is from Luke 2:40–52
Songs and Hymns:
- Joy to the World
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Text: Isaac Watts
Tune: George Frideric Handel
Public domain - Once in Royal David’s City
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Text: Cecil F. Alexander
Tune: Henry J. Gauntlett
Public domain - Holy Forever
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Brian Johnson, Chris Tomlin, Jason Ingram, Jenn Johnson, Phil Wickham
© 2022 Brian and Jenn Publishing; Capitol CMG Paragon; S. D. G. Publishing
© 2022 Be Essential Songs; My Magnolia Music; Phil Wickham Music
© 2022 Simply Global Songs; Bethel Music Publishing
Used with permission: CCLI license #20286740 - Infant Holy, Infant Lowly
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Text: Polish, tr. Edith M.G. Reed
Tune: Polish
Public domain
Liturgies:
- Gloria in Excelsis
- Text: Stephen P. Starke
- Sanctus
- Text: Stephen P. Starke
- Agnus Dei
- Text: Stephen P. Starke
- Nunc Dimittis
Recording:
- Audio:
- Video:
- Watch on YouTube
Announcements:
- Sunday, Jan 5:
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- Worship Service: 9 AM to 10:15 AM
- Special Congregational Meeting: 10:15 AM
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Immediately following worship.
- Wednesday, Jan 8:
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- Men’s Bible Study: 6:30 AM to 7:30 AM
- Jr & Sr High Youth Group @ The Staake's Home: 6:30 PM to 8 PM
- Saturday, Jan 11:
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- Women’s Bible Study: 9 AM to 10:30 AM
- Help Removing The Christmas Decorations: 8:30 AM to 10 AM
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Please join the Altar Guild in removing the Christmas decorations on January 11 between 8:30 and 10. Please contact Nic Schatte with any questions.
- Tuesday, Jan 14:
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- Second Tuesday Women’s Bible Study: 6 PM to 8 PM
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Our next meeting will be on Tuesday Jan. 14th from 6-8pm in the fellowship hall. Text Shala Baker with any questions at 618-315-0788.
- The Divine Call to Pastors
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The most recent episode of Craving Answers Craving God is unique and special. Aaron is now the pastor at Trinity Lutheran Church in Springfield. Our discussion includes what makes a Divine Call “Divine” and how Aaron and his family worked their way to his decision to accept the Call. Listen to it on iHeart Raido, Spotify, Pandora, or on your favorite podcast app.
- St. James Life Ministry: Advocating, Educating, and Caring for All Human Life
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At St. James, we are committed to upholding the sanctity of all human life, recognizing the inherent value of every person from conception to natural death. Guided by the LCMS Life Ministry roadmap, we actively advocate, educate, and care for individuals at every stage of life. In 2025, we are focused on providing education opportunities, offering financial support, and engaging in life-affirming activities that reflect our dedication to protecting and supporting life.
Our Mission: The Life Ministry at St. James embraces the full spectrum of life, encouraging respect and care for all God’s creation. Through advocacy, education, and compassionate outreach, we aim to make a meaningful impact on our community by fostering a culture of life that reflects God’s love.
For more information check out stjamesglencarbon.org/st-james-life-ministry-life-month-2025 or contact Janice Lanto or Cheryl Schnicker in the church office. Together, we can make a difference!
- St. James Community Groups: A Great Way to Get Into Community!
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- What Are Community Groups?
- Community Groups offer a wonderful opportunity for Christian fellowship, scripture study, and prayer in a more intimate, small group setting. These gatherings are designed to build relationships, encourage spiritual growth, and provide a space for meaningful discussions.
- Where Do They Meet?
- Community Groups meet wherever is most convenient for the group—whether that’s at a coffee shop, in someone’s home, or even at the church. The goal is to create a welcoming environment for everyone to connect and grow in their faith.
- When Do They Meet?
- Each group has its own schedule based on the needs of its members. Some groups meet during the day, while others meet in the evening. Whether weekly or bi-weekly, there’s a meeting time that fits your schedule!
- Can Children Attend?
- Yes! Children are absolutely welcome, and we provide babysitting services to ensure that everyone can participate without worry.
- How Many Groups Are There Now?
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We currently have five thriving Community Groups:
- Mondays at 6:30pm in Collinsville with Kevin & Shanna Covarrubias
- Tuesdays at 6pm in Maryville with Dave & Jamie Moldenhauer
- Wednesdays at 10:00am at St. James Fellowship Hall with Bob & Marilyn Whipkey
- Wednesdays at 6:30pm in Glen Carbon
- Every other Thursday at 6:00pm in Caseyville with Tim & Cheryl Schnicker
While all of our Community Groups share the same core mission—studying God’s word in Christian community—they are tailored to meet the needs and preferences of their participants, creating a dynamic and supportive environment. Join a Group Today!
For more information check out stjamesglencarbon.org/community-groups or please reach out to Shanna at shanna@stjamesglencarbon.org for more information on available locations and times. Don’t miss out on this amazing opportunity to grow together in faith!
- Lutheran Young Adults (LYA)
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LYA will be meeting at the Gruben home for a game night on Friday, January 17th from 6:30-8:30p. Bring a game, snack, desert, or drink to share. And don’t forget to invite a friend!
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