ADVENT 2023
Christmas Day
December 25th
Christmas Day
Reflections
(to view the Reflections,
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Opening Song
Light of the World
Lauren Daigle
Opening Prayer
O Emmanuel,
may this wreath and its light remind us
that it is Jesus who came to fulfill all our desires.
Bless this wreath and all who gather around it
as we celebrate Christmas.
Come, Lord Jesus, bring HOPE, PEACE, JOY, and LOVE to our world.
(Light the Christ Candle of the Advent Wreath; White. Carefully take the Christ Candle throughout your home and pray this simple blessing in each room)
May the Light of Christ surround us,
the Love of Christ enfold us,
the Power of Christ protect us, and
the Presence of Christ watch over us.
Amen.
Gospel Reading
A Reading from the Gospel according to Saint Luke.
While Joseph and Mary were in Bethlehem the time came for the baby to be born, and she gave birth to her firstborn, a son. She wrapped him in cloths and placed him in a manger, because there was no guest room available for them.
And there were shepherds living out in the fields nearby, keeping watch over their flocks at night. An angel of the Lord appeared to them, and the glory of the Lord shone around them, and they were terrified. But the angel said to them, “Do not be afraid. I bring you good news that will cause great joy for all the people. Today in the town of David a Savior has been born to you; he is the Messiah, the Lord. This will be a sign to you: You will find a baby wrapped in cloths and lying in a manger.”
(Luke 2:6-12)
The Gospel of the Lord.
Praise to You, Lord Jesus Christ.
Reflection
As we contemplate the coming of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ, may our hearts become like a manger where we may experience the presence and peace of Christ within us.
Children’s Video
The Star
Brother Francis
Meditation
For Unto Us – JESUS
by Lo Alaman
Questions to Contemplate
In what conditions was Jesus born?
What did the shepherds come to see?
What do you discover in the birth of Jesus?
How can you find Jesus every day in prayer and in His Word?
How can we share the gift we found in Jesus with others?
Closing Prayer
Jesus, may the light of Your Love always shine in our hearts. By Your Holy Spirit, grant us a true desire to adore You in all seasons of life, and let Your HOPE, PEACE, JOY, and LOVE, joyfully and triumphantly fill our hearts to the glory of God the Father. Amen.
Closing Song
O Come All Ye Faithful
The Five Strings