Christmas Eve and Christman Day 2024
At the conclusion of the “Creed” (use the missalette to follow the Creed….we’ll be kneeling briefly during it at Christmas Masses), please come forward right away, bowing to the altar before entering the sanctuary. Be confident and don’t be hesitant coming forward. The priest won’t prompt you to come forward.
Priest: As we rejoice at the birth of Jesus, our Saviour, we turn with confidence to God our Father praying that the peace and light which Christ brings will be welcomed into the world.
- For the Church, that the one people of God will always be a light to the world for those who live in darkness.
(pause) Lord, hear us - For peace on earth, especially in those places experiencing armed conflicts this year, that the peace which Christ offers will be a reality for all peoples.
(pause) Lord, hear us - For all who are welcoming a new child into their family, that they may receive this gift of new life with joy and be blessed with patience, health and strength.
(pause) Lord, hear us - For our own community, that our celebration of the birth of our Saviour will make us more aware of our unity in Jesus Christ.
(pause) Lord, hear us - For the lonely, the sick, and all those who are suffering in any way, that the light of Christ will shine on them.
(pause) Lord, hear us - For those in our community who have lost loved ones in the last year. May they find consolation in the goodness of the Father who sent his only Beloved Son onto this earth to show his love for us.
(pause) Lord, hear us
Please remain in the sanctuary until the priest invites people to pray for the dead, and then concludes with the following prayer:
Priest: God of love, Father of all,
the darkness that covered the earth has given way
to the bright dawn of your Word made flesh.
Make us a people who allow your divine light to be seen
by those who live in darkness.
Through Christ our Lord. Amen.
Then return to your place, bowing to the altar as you leave the sanctuary.
