CELEBRANT
As Christmas approaches, we turn to God, believing in his never -failing love which was revealed in the birth of Jesus.
READER
Let us listen to our Holy Father Pope Francis as he asks us to rejoice in the Lord. He reminds us that “The closer the Lord is to us; the more joy we feel.” May our relationship with God be strengthened this Christmas and give us renewed hope for the future. We pray: Come Lord Jesus come
We pray for families divided by bitterness and tragedy. May God’s healing spirit enable them to strive for reconciliation and future harmony. We remember especially the families of the children who died so tragically in Solihull this week. We pray: Come Lord Jesus come
We remember people who find it hard to be happy and optimistic, particularly those suffering with depression or bereavement: may they find hope in God’s loving presence in our world, especially this Christmastime. We pray: Come Lord Jesus come
Let us pray for a healthy and peaceful Christmas, help us to protect those we love. We give thanks to all NHS staff, Care workers and those manning the support services who will continue working over the Christmas period. Grant them every blessing in caring for the sick and vulnerable. We pray: Come Lord Jesus come
Let us pause for a moment in silence as we bring to the Lord our personal prayers and those presented today in our parish book of intentions…………………………… We pray: Come Lord Jesus come
We ask Mary our mother to watch over and guide us as we pray; Hail Mary…………………….
CELEBRANT
Heavenly Father you sent your son Jesus Christ to bring the message of salvation to the world, let us follow the Star of Bethlehem this Advent and prepare for the coming of Jesus’s birth. Guide us with your love and compassion as we place all our trust and hope in you, through Christ Our Lord. Amen