(Prepared by Fr. Francis Scaria)

DAY 1

Cel.:- In the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit.

All:- Amen.

Cel.:- May the Peace of our Saviour, promised to all men of good-will be with you all.

All:- And also with you.

Cel.:- Dear brothers and Sisters, we have come together to prepare ourselves to receive our Lord and Master. May His Spirit make us worthy to celebrate the mystery of the Divine Incarnation with a pure heart and a clear conscience.
(Silent reflection)

Prayer:-

Cel.:- Let us Pray, Lord, Heavenly Father, you sent your only Son into this world to renew it and to make it acceptable to you. We implore your help to grasp the profound truth he came to unravel before us and to be able to live our lives inspired by His constant presence with us. We ask this through our Lord Jesus Christ your Son, who lives and reigns with You and the Holy Spirit one God for ever and ever.

All:- Amen.

Psalm 86:1-8

Cel.:- Our God will come to save us, Immanuel is His name.
(Psalm is recited in two groups)

Incline your ear, O Lord, and answer me,
for I am poor and needy.

Preserve my life, for I am godly;
save your servant who trusts in You.

You are my God;
be gracious to me, O Lord,
for to You do I cry all the day.

Gladden the soul of your servant,
for to You, O Lord, do I lift up my soul.

For You, O Lord, are good and forgiving,
abounding in steadfast love to all who call on You.

Give ear, O Lord, to my prayer;
hearken to my cry of supplication.

In the day of my trouble I call on You,
for You answer me.

There is none like You among the gods, O Lord,
nor are there any works like your.

Glory be to the Father and to the Son
and to the Holy Spirit

As it was in the beginning is now
and every shall be world without end. Amen

All:- Our God will come to save us, Immanuel is His name.

Reading:- Philippians 3:17-21
Brethren, join in imitating me, and mark those who so live as you have an example in us. For many, of whom I have often told you and now tell you even with tears, live as enemies of the cross of Christ. Their end is destruction, their god is the belly, and they glory in their shame, with minds set on earthly things. But our commonwealth is in heaven, and from it we await a Saviour, the Lord Jesus Christ, who will change our lowly body to be like his glorious body, by the power which enables him even to subject all things to himself.
This is the word of the Lord

All:-Thanks be to God.

Magnificat

Cel.:- Let us join our Blessed Mother in singing praises to the Living God.

All:- My soul magnifies the Lord, and my spirit rejoices in God my Saviour,

Cel.:- for he has regarded the low estate of his handmaiden. henceforth all generations will call me blessed;

All:- for he who is mighty has done great things for me, and holy is his name.

Cel.:- And his mercy is on those who fear him from generation to generation.

All:- He has shown strength with his arm, he has scattered the proud-hearted

Cel.:- he has put down the mighty from their thrones, and exalted those of low degree;

All:- he has filled the hungry with good things, and the rich he has sent empty away.

Cel.:- He has helped his servant Israel, in remembrance of his mercy,

All:- as he spoke to Our Fathers, to Abraham and to his posterity for ever."

Cel.:- Glory be to the Father and to the Son and to the Holy Spirit

All:- As it was in the beginning is now and ever shall be world without end. Amen.

Cel.:- Dear brothers and Sisters, coming together as God's people united in His Spirit, let us invoke His Holy Name and say, "Lord come into our lives".

All:- Lord come into our lives.

Cel.:- That the Christians all over the world may experience the coming of Jesus into their day to day lives.

All:- Lord come into our lives.

Cel.:- That the Leaders of the Church may experience His coming to fill them with His Spirit.

All:- Lord come into our lives.

Cel.:- That all the consecrated people may experience His coming and may be strengthened to face the challenges of following Him.

All:- Lord come into our lives.

Cel.:- That all of us gathered here and our families may be touched and renewed by his coming.

All:- Lord come into our lives.

Cel.:- May the gift of peace promised by the angels at the manger be ours forever.

All:- Lord come into our lives. (Other prayers may be added)

Cel.:- United with the whole world, let us invoke the Father in the words of His eternal Son. Our Father in heaven....

All:- Holy be your name, your kingdom come, your will be done, on earth as in heaven. Give us today our daily bread, forgive us our sins, as we forgive those who sin against us, do not bring us to the test, but deliver us from evil.

Cel.:- Let us invite the King of peace to rule over our lives

All:- Come Lord, Leader and King, Come to establish your peace.
Come to wipe away our tears, Come to make us humble.
And reign over our lives.

Come Lord, Master and Saviour, Come to befriend the lonely,
Come to exalt the lowly, Come to console the suffering
And save us in your love.

Come Lord, Liberator and deliverer, Come to lighten our burden
Come to brighten our lives, come to comfort the oppressed
And liberate us from darkness.

Come Lord, God and Creator, Come to renew the creation,
Come to enforce your Order, Come to generate good will,
And take possession of our lives.

Come Lord, Redeemer and Guard, Come to deliver us from evil
Come to refresh our souls, Come to feed your sheep,
And grant us eternal life.

Concluding Prayer

Cel.:- Let us pray Lord eternal Father, Your Word became flesh in the manger of Bethlehem in the fullness of time. Born of a woman, your Son manifested to us how we can live as your children. Help us Father, that we may labour to bear Christ in our lives. We ask this through our Lord Jesus Christ your Son who lives and reigns with you and the Holy Spirit, one God forever and ever.

All:- Amen.

Cel.:- The Lord be with you.

All:- And also with you.

Cel.:- May the blessing of the Almighty God who came to live among us, descend upon you and remain with you forever, in the name of the Father, and of the Son and of the holy Spirit.

All:- Amen.

Cel.:- Let us go in the peace of Christ.

All:- Thanks be to God.
*********

DAY 2

Cel.:- In the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit.

All:- Amen.

Cel.:- May the Peace of our Saviour, promised to all men of good-will be with you all.

All:- And also with you.

Cel.:- Dear brothers and Sisters, we have come together to prepare ourselves to receive our Lord and Master. May His Spirit make us worthy to celebrate the mystery of the Divine Incarnation with a pure heart and a clear conscience. (Silent reflection)

Prayer:-

Cel.:- Let us Pray, God Almighty, You elevate the meek and pull down the haughty. May the liturgical celebrations of the coming of your Son renew us in humility and meekness. We ask this through our Lord Jesus Christ your Son, who lives and reigns with you and the Holy Spirit one God forever and ever.

All:- Amen.

Psalm 86:9-16

Cel.:- My help shall come from the Lord, who made heaven and earth.
(Psalm is recited in two groups)

All the nations You have made
shall come and bow down before You, O Lord,
and shall glorify your name.

For You are great and do wondrous things,
You alone are God.

Teach me your way, O Lord,
that I may walk in your truth;
unite my heart to fear your name.

I give thanks to You, O Lord my God,
with my whole heart,
and I will glorify your name for ever.

For great is your steadfast love toward me;
You have delivered my soul from the depths of Sheol

O God, insolent men have risen up against me;
a band of ruthless men seek my life,
and they do not set You before them.

But You, O Lord, are a God merciful and gracious,
slow to anger and abounding in steadfast love.

Turn to me and take pity on me;
give your strength to your servant,
and save the son of your handmaid.

Glory be to the Father and to the Son
and to the Holy Spirit

As it was in the beginning is now
and every shall be world without end. Amen

All:- My help shall come from the Lord, who made heaven and earth.

Reading:- Rom 13:11-14
Besides this you know what hour it is, how it is full time now for you to wake from sleep. For salvation is nearer to us now than when we first believed; the night is far gone, the day is at hand. Let us then cast off the works of darkness and put on the armour of light; let us conduct ourselves becomingly as in the day, not in revelling and drunkenness, not in debauchery and licentiousness, not in quarrelling and jealousy. But put on the Lord Jesus Christ, and make no provision for the flesh, to gratify its desires.
This is the word of the Lord.

All:- Thanks be to God.

Magnificat

Cel.:- Let us join our Blessed Mother in singing praises to the Living God.

All:- My soul magnifies the Lord, and my spirit rejoices in God my Saviour,

Cel.:- for he has regarded the low estate of his handmaiden. henceforth all generations will call me blessed;

All:- for he who is mighty has done great things for me, and holy is his name.

Cel.:- And his mercy is on those who fear him from generation to generation.

All:- He has shown strength with his arm, he has scattered the proud-hearted

Cel.:- he has put down the mighty from their thrones, and exalted those of low degree;

All:- he has filled the hungry with good things, and the rich he has sent empty away.

Cel.:- He has helped his servant Israel, in remembrance of his mercy,

All:- as he spoke to Our Fathers, to Abraham and to his posterity for ever."

Cel.:- Glory be to the Father and to the Son and to the Holy Spirit

All:- As it was in the beginning is now and ever shall be world without end. Amen.

Cel.:- Dear brothers and Sisters, Let us now offer our concerns to the Father of the Universe and say, "Lord do not be late in coming".

All:- Lord do not be late in coming.

Cel.:- That like Mary and Joseph, we too may accept the Word of God in profound trust.

All:- Lord do not be late in coming.

Cel.:- That all Christians may open their hearts to the invitations of the Word made flesh.

All:- Lord do not be late in coming.

Cel.:- That all the leaders of the nation and of the Church may follow the example of the humility of the Divine Son.

All:- Lord do not be late in coming.

Cel.:- That the light of the Divine Word illuminate the dark areas of our lives.

All:- Lord do not be late in coming.

Cel.:- That we may all be reckoned worthy to be the recipients of the incarnational gift of peace.

All:- Lord do not be late in coming. (Other prayers may be added)

Cel.:- United with the whole world, let us invoke the Father in the words of His eternal Son. Our Father in heaven....

All:- Holy be your name, your kingdom come, your will be done, on earth as in heaven. Give us today our daily bread, forgive us our sins, as we forgive those who sin against us, do not bring us to the test, but deliver us from evil.

Cel.:- Let us invite the King of peace to rule over our lives

All:- Come Lord, Leader and King, Come to establish your peace.
Come to wipe away our tears, Come to make us humble.
And reign over our lives.

Come Lord, Master and Saviour, Come to befriend the lonely,
Come to exalt the lowly, Come to console the suffering
And save us in your love.

Come Lord, Liberator and deliverer, Come to lighten our burden
Come to brighten our lives, come to comfort the oppressed
And liberate us from darkness.

Come Lord, God and Creator, Come to renew the creation,
Come to enforce your Order, Come to generate good will,
And take possession of our lives.

Come Lord, Redeemer and Guard, Come to deliver us from evil
Come to refresh our souls, Come to feed your sheep,
And grant us eternal life.

Concluding Prayer

Cel.:- Let us pray Lord, God of heaven and earth, you sent your Son into this world out of love for your creatures, because you willed all men to be saved. Grant us, that we may turn away from sin and evil and may wait in hope to receive our Lord and Master. We ask this through our Lord Jesus Christ your Son who lives and reigns with you and the Holy Spirit, one God forever and ever.

All:- Amen.

Cel.:- The Lord be with you.

All:- And also with you.

Cel.:- May the blessing of the Almighty God who came to live among us, descend upon you and remain with you forever, in the name of the Father, and of the Son and of the holy Spirit.

All:- Amen.

Cel.:- Let us go in the peace of Christ.

All:- Thanks be to God.
*********

DAY 3

Cel.:- In the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit.

All:- Amen.

Cel.:- May the Peace of our Saviour, promised to all men of good-will be with you all.

All:- And also with you.

Cel.:- Dear brothers and Sisters, we have come together to prepare ourselves to receive our Lord and Master. May His Spirit make us worthy to celebrate the mystery of the Divine Incarnation with a pure heart and a clear conscience. (Silent reflection)

Prayer:-

Cel.:- Let us Pray, Lord, God of Abraham and Jacob, you created man and blessed him with a profusion of Grace. Even when he disobeyed you and wandered far away from you, you called him to your fellowship by sending your Only Son. Watch over us, that we may live our lives solely for your glory. We ask this through our Lord Jesus Christ your Son, who lives and reigns with You and the Holy Spirit one God for ever and ever.

All:- Amen.

Psalm 8

Cel.:- O Lord, our Lord, how majestic is your name in all the earth!
(Psalm is recited in two groups)
You whose glory above the heavens is chanted
by the mouth of babes and infants,
You have founded a bulwark because of your foes,
to still the enemy and the avenger.

When I look at your heavens, the work of your fingers,
the moon and the stars which You have established;
what is man that You are mindful of him,
and the son of man that You care for him?

Yet You have made him little less than God,
and crown him with glory and honour.

You have given him dominion over the works of your hands;
You have put all things under his feet,
all sheep and oxen, and also the beasts of the field,
the birds of the air, and the fish of the sea,
whatever passes along the paths of the sea.

Glory be to the Father and to the Son
and to the Holy Spirit

As it was in the beginning is now
and every shall be world without end. Amen

All:- O Lord, our Lord, how majestic is your name in all the earth! 1

Reading:- 1 Cor 1:3-9
Grace to you and peace from God Our Father and the Lord Jesus Christ. I give thanks to God always for you because of the grace of God which was given you in Christ Jesus, that in every way you were enriched in him with all speech and all knowledge even as the testimony to Christ was confirmed among you so that you are not lacking in any spiritual gift, as you wait for the revealing of our Lord Jesus Christ; who will sustain you to the end, guiltless in the day of our Lord Jesus Christ. God is faithful, by whom you were called into the fellowship of his Son, Jesus Christ our Lord. This is the word of the Lord

All:- Thanks be to God.

Magnificat

Cel.:- Let us join our Blessed Mother in singing praises to the Living God.

All:- My soul magnifies the Lord, and my spirit rejoices in God my Saviour,

Cel.:- for he has regarded the low estate of his handmaiden. henceforth all generations will call me blessed;

All:- for he who is mighty has done great things for me, and holy is his name.

Cel.:- And his mercy is on those who fear him from generation to generation.

All:- He has shown strength with his arm, he has scattered the proud-hearted

Cel.:- he has put down the mighty from their thrones, and exalted those of low degree;

All:- he has filled the hungry with good things, and the rich he has sent empty away.

Cel.:- He has helped his servant Israel, in remembrance of his mercy,

All:- as he spoke to Our Fathers, to Abraham and to his posterity for ever."

Cel.:- Glory be to the Father and to the Son and to the Holy Spirit

All:- As it was in the beginning is now and ever shall be world without end. Amen.

Cel.:- Dear brothers and Sisters, Let us now offer our lives and aspirations at the feet of the Heavenly King and say, "Lord, come into our hearts".

All:- Lord, come into our hearts.

Cel.:- That all ages and people may experience the love and mercy of the heavenly Father in the commemoration of the mystery of the incarnation.

All:- Lord, come into our hearts.

Cel.:- That like the star of Bethlehem, all the Christians may lead people to Christ.

All:- Lord, come into our hearts.

Cel.:- That all those, in deep sincerity, search for the God of the living and of the dead, may find in the child of Bethlehem fulfilment and joy.

All:- Lord, come into our hearts.

Cel.:- That all the followers of Christ may become vehicles of the Good news of the eternal and merciful love of the Father.

All:- Lord, come into our hearts.

Cel.:- That the Incarnation may be an everyday inner experience of all of us gathered here.

All:- Lord, come into our hearts. (Other prayers may be added)

Cel.:-United with the whole world, let us invoke the Father in the words of His eternal Son. Our Father in heaven....

All:-Holy be your name, your kingdom come, your will be done, on earth as in heaven. Give us today our daily bread, forgive us our sins, as we forgive those who sin against us, do not bring us to the test, but deliver us from evil.

All:-Amen.

Cel.:-Let us invite the King of peace to rule over our lives

All:- Come Lord, Leader and King, Come to establish your peace.
Come to wipe away our tears, Come to make us humble.
And reign over our lives.

Come Lord, Master and Saviour, Come to befriend the lonely,
Come to exalt the lowly, Come to console the suffering
And save us in your love.

Come Lord, Liberator and deliverer, Come to lighten our burden
Come to brighten our lives, come to comfort the oppressed
And liberate us from darkness.

Come Lord, God and Creator, Come to renew the creation,
Come to enforce your Order, Come to generate good will,
And take possession of our lives.

Come Lord, Redeemer and Guard, Come to deliver us from evil
Come to refresh our souls, Come to feed your sheep,
And grant us eternal life.

Concluding Prayer

Cel.:-Let us pray Lord, Source of all wisdom and goodness, open our ears to your invitations, our lives to your guidance and our hearts to receive your Son and our Lord in this holy season and all the days of our lives. We ask this through our Lord Jesus Christ your Son who lives and reigns with you and the Holy Spirit, one God forever and ever.

All:-Amen.

Cel.:-The Lord be with you.

All:-And also with you.

Cel.:-May the blessing of the Almighty God who came to live among us, descend upon you and remain with you forever, in the name of the Father, and of the Son and of the holy Spirit.

All:-Amen.

Cel.:-Let us go in the peace of Christ.

All:-Thanks be to God.

DAY 4

Cel.:-In the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit.

All:-Amen.

Cel.:-May the Peace of our Saviour, promised to all men of good-will be with you all.

All:-And also with you.

Cel.:-Dear brothers and Sisters, we have come together to prepare ourselves to receive our Lord and Master. May His Spirit make us worthy to celebrate the mystery of the Divine Incarnation with a pure heart and a clear conscience. (Silent reflection)

Prayer:-

Cel.:-Let us Pray, Lord, you have promised your peace to this world which you created. Come into our world to liberate it from oppression, poverty and exploitation, so that your people may be worthy to be in your sight at your final coming. We ask this through our Lord Jesus Christ your Son, who lives and reigns with You and the Holy Spirit one God for ever and ever.

All:-Amen.

Psalm 15

Cel.:-I will be glad and exult in You, I will sing praise to your name, O Most High.
(Psalm is recited in two groups)

O Lord, who shall sojourn in your tent?
Who shall dwell on your holy hill?

He who walks blamelessly, and does what is right,
and speaks truth from his heart;

who does not slander with his tongue,
and does no evil to his friend,

nor takes up a reproach against his neighbour;
in whose eyes a reprobate is despised,

but who honours those who fear the Lord;
who swears to his own hurt and does not change;

who does not put out his money at interest,
and does not take a bribe against the innocent.
He who does these things shall never be moved.

Glory be to the Father and to the Son
and to the Holy Spirit

As it was in the beginning is now
and every shall be world without end. Amen

All:-I will be glad and exult in You, I will sing praise to your name, O Most High.

Reading:- Is.7:10-15
Again the Lord spoke to Ahaz, "Ask a sign of the Lord your God; let it be deep as Sheol or high as heaven. "But Ahaz said, "I will not ask, and I will not put the Lord to the test." And he said, "Hear then, O house of David! Is it too little for you to weary men, that you weary my God also? Therefore the Lord himself will give you a sign. Behold, a young woman shall conceive and bear a son, and shall call his name Immanuel. He shall eat curds and honey when he knows how to refuse the evil and choose the good. This is the word of the Lord

All:-Thanks be to God.

Magnificat

Cel.:-Let us join our Blessed Mother in singing praises to the Living God.

All:-My soul magnifies the Lord, and my spirit rejoices in God my Saviour,

Cel.:-for he has regarded the low estate of his handmaiden. henceforth all generations will call me blessed;

All:-for he who is mighty has done great things for me, and holy is his name.

Cel.:-And his mercy is on those who fear him from generation to generation.

All:-He has shown strength with his arm, he has scattered the proud-hearted

Cel.:-he has put down the mighty from their thrones, and exalted those of low degree;

All:-he has filled the hungry with good things, and the rich he has sent empty away.

Cel.:-He has helped his servant Israel, in remembrance of his mercy,

All:-as he spoke to Our Fathers, to Abraham and to his posterity for ever."

Cel.:-Glory be to the Father and to the Son and to the Holy Spirit

All:-As it was in the beginning is now and ever shall be world without end. Amen.

Cel.:-Dear brothers and Sisters, as we await the Saviour of the world and of our hearts, let us invoke his blessings and say, "Lord touch our lives".

All:-Lord touch our lives.

Cel.:-That our Holy Father...., our bishop.... and the clergy may be faithful to the demands of the Incarnate Word.

All:-Lord touch our lives.

Cel.:-That the world may experience grace and peace which are the signs of your Kingdom.

All:-Lord touch our lives.

Cel.:-That we may all learn to be humble so as to be worthy to inherit the kingdom of God.

All:-Lord touch our lives.

Cel.:-That we may always be ready to welcome Christ into our personal lives and into our families.

All:-Lord touch our lives.

Cel.:-That our daily lives may be enriched by the constant coming of the Son of God.

All:-Lord touch our lives. (Other prayers may be added)

Cel.:-United with the whole world, let us invoke the Father in the words of His eternal Son. Our Father in heaven....

All:-Holy be your name, your kingdom come, your will be done, on earth as in heaven. Give us today our daily bread, forgive us our sins, as we forgive those who sin against us, do not bring us to the test, but deliver us from evil.

Cel.:-Let us invite the King of peace to rule over our lives

All:- Come Lord, Leader and King, Come to establish your peace.
Come to wipe away our tears, Come to make us humble.
And reign over our lives.

Come Lord, Master and Saviour, Come to befriend the lonely,
Come to exalt the lowly, Come to console the suffering
And save us in your love.

Come Lord, Liberator and deliverer, Come to lighten our burden
Come to brighten our lives, come to comfort the oppressed
And liberate us from darkness.

Come Lord, God and Creator, Come to renew the creation,
Come to enforce your Order, Come to generate good will,
And take possession of our lives.

Come Lord, Redeemer and Guard, Come to deliver us from evil
Come to refresh our souls, Come to feed your sheep,
And grant us eternal life.

Concluding Prayer

Cel.:-Let us pray Father, Your all powerful Word became flesh to regain for us the dignity of being your children. May his merits and life bring us your constant protection. We ask this through our Lord Jesus Christ your Son who lives and reigns with you and the holy Spirit, one God forever and ever.

All:-Amen.

Cel.:-The Lord be with you.

All:-And also with you.

Cel.:-May the blessing of the Almighty God who came to live among us, descend upon you and remain with you forever, in the name of the Father, and of the Son and of the holy Spirit.

All:-Amen.

Cel.:-Let us go in the peace of Christ.

All:-Thanks be to God.
*********

DAY 5

Cel.:-In the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit.

All:-Amen.

Cel.:-May the Peace of our Saviour, promised to all men of good-will be with you all.

All:-And also with you.

Cel.:-Dear brothers and Sisters, we have come together to prepare ourselves to receive our Lord and Master. May His Spirit make us worthy to celebrate the mystery of the Divine Incarnation with a pure heart and a clear conscience. (Silent reflection)

Prayer:-

Cel.:-Let us Pray, Lord, your love is infinite and your mercy boundless. Pour out your Spirit on your faithful people, so that walking continually on the way of your righteousness, we may always remain prepared to receive your Son and Our Lord. We ask this through our Lord Jesus Christ your Son, who lives and reigns with You and the Holy Spirit one God for ever and ever.

All:-Amen.

Psalm 130

Cel.:-Behold the Saviour of the world comes; he will grant you his peace.
(Psalm is recited in two groups)

Out of the depths I cry to You, O Lord!
Lord, hear my voice!
Let your ears be attentive
to the voice of my supplications!

If You, O Lord, should mark iniquities,
Lord, who could stand?
But there is forgiveness with You,
that You may be feared.

I wait for the Lord, my soul waits,
and in his word I hope;
my soul waits for the Lord
more than watchmen for the morning,
more than watchmen for the morning.

O Israel, hope in the Lord!
For with the Lord there is steadfast love,
and with him is plenteous redemption.
And he will redeem Israel
from all his iniquities.
Glory be to the Father and to the Son
and to the Holy Spirit

As it was in the beginning is now
and every shall be world without end. Amen

All:-Behold the Saviour of the world comes; he will grant you his peace.

Reading:- Isaiah.11:1-9
There shall come forth a shoot from the stump of Jesse, and a branch shall grow out of his roots. And the Spirit of the Lord shall rest upon him, the spirit of wisdom and understanding, the spirit of counsel and might, the spirit of knowledge and the fear of the Lord. And his delight shall be in the fear of the Lord. He shall not judge by what his eyes see, or decide by what his ears hear; but with righteousness he shall judge the poor, and decide with equity for the meek of the earth; and he shall smite the earth with the rod of his mouth, and with the breath of his lips he shall slay the wicked. Righteousness shall be the girdle of his waist, and faithfulness the girdle of his loins. The wolf shall dwell with the lamb, and the leopard shall lie down with the kid, and the calf and the lion and the fatling together, and a little child shall lead them. The cow and the bear shall feed; their young shall lie down together; and the lion shall eat straw like the ox. The sucking child shall play over the hole of the asp, and the weaned child shall put his hand on the adder's den. They shall not hurt or destroy in all my holy mountain; for the earth shall be full of the knowledge of the Lord as the waters cover the sea.
This is the word of the Lord

All:-Thanks be to God.

Magnificat

Cel.:-Let us join our Blessed Mother in singing praises to the Living God.

All:-My soul magnifies the Lord, and my spirit rejoices in God my Saviour,

Cel.:-for he has regarded the low estate of his handmaiden. henceforth all generations will call me blessed;

All:-for he who is mighty has done great things for me, and holy is his name.

Cel.:-And his mercy is on those who fear him from generation to generation.

All:-He has shown strength with his arm, he has scattered the proud-hearted

Cel.:-he has put down the mighty from their thrones, and exalted those of low degree;

All:-he has filled the hungry with good things, and the rich he has sent empty away.

Cel.:-He has helped his servant Israel, in remembrance of his mercy,

All:-as he spoke to Our Fathers, to Abraham and to his posterity for ever."

Cel.:-Glory be to the Father and to the Son and to the Holy Spirit

All:-As it was in the beginning is now and ever shall be world without end. Amen.

Cel.:-Dear brothers and Sisters, in this holy season of advent, let us humbly lay our lives before the Saviour of the World and invoke his benediction and say,"Lord come to stay with us".

All:-Lord come to stay with us.

Cel.:-That as we prepare to celebrate the coming of our Lord and Master, we may be able to offer ourselves entirely to him. Let us pray to the Lord

All:-Lord come to stay with us.

Cel.:-That like Mary, we may accept the Word of God in our day to day lives with faith in His eternal benevolence.

All:-Lord come to stay with us.

Cel.:-That like the shepherds, we may seek the Lord and finding him, may offer ourselves to Him.

All:-Lord come to stay with us.

Cel.:-That like the magi, without counting the cost, we may also seek him in sincerity and accept him as the king of our hearts.

All:-Lord come to stay with us.

Cel.:-That within our hearts, we may prepare an abode for the God-child born for the salvation of all.

All:-Lord come to stay with us. (Other prayers may be added)

Cel.:-United with the whole world, let us invoke the Father in the words of His eternal Son. Our Father in heaven....

All:-Holy be your name, your kingdom come, your will be done, on earth as in heaven. Give us today our daily bread, forgive us our sins, as we forgive those who sin against us, do not bring us to the test, but deliver us from evil.

Cel.:-Let us invite the King of peace to rule over our lives

All:- Come Lord, Leader and King, Come to establish your peace.
Come to wipe away our tears, Come to make us humble.
And reign over our lives.

Come Lord, Master and Saviour, Come to befriend the lonely,
Come to exalt the lowly, Come to console the suffering
And save us in your love.

Come Lord, Liberator and deliverer, Come to lighten our burden
Come to brighten our lives, come to comfort the oppressed
And liberate us from darkness.

Come Lord, God and Creator, Come to renew the creation,

Come to enforce your Order, Come to generate good will, And take possession of our lives.

Come Lord, Redeemer and Guard, Come to deliver us from evil
Come to refresh our souls, Come to feed your sheep,
And grant us eternal life.

Concluding Prayer

Cel.:-Let us pray Lord you called and prepared the people of Israel to receive your Word. May the Church, the new Israel faithfully respond to your invitations to holiness. We ask this through our Lord Jesus Christ your Son who lives and reigns with you and the holy Spirit, one God forever and ever.

All:-Amen.

Cel.:-The Lord be with you.

All:-And also with you.

Cel.:-May the blessing of the Almighty God who came to live among us, descend upon you and remain with you forever, in the name of the Father, and of the Son and of the holy Spirit.

All:-Amen.

Cel.:-Let us go in the peace of Christ.

All:-Thanks be to God.
*********

DAY 6

Cel.:-In the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit.

All:-Amen.

Cel.:-May the Peace of our Saviour, promised to all men of good-will be with you all.

All:-And also with you.

Cel.:-Dear brothers and Sisters, we have come together to prepare ourselves to receive our Lord and Master. May His Spirit make us worthy to celebrate the mystery of the Divine Incarnation with a pure heart and a clear conscience. (Silent reflection)

Prayer:-

Cel.:-Let us Pray, Almighty and merciful god, may our prayers and aspirations rise up to you and may your blessings come down upon us and make us bearers of Christ. We ask this through our Lord Jesus Christ your Son, who lives and reigns with You and the Holy Spirit one God for ever and ever.

All:-Amen.

Psalm 143

Cel.:-Seek the Lord with a heart that is pure, for He is near.
(Psalm is recited in two groups)

Hear my prayer, O Lord; give ear to my supplications
In your faithfulness answer me, in your righteousness!

Enter not into judgment with your servant;
for no man living is righteous before You.

For the enemy has pursued me;
he has crushed my life to the ground;
he has made me sit in darkness like those long dead.

Therefore my spirit faints within me;
my heart within me is appalled.

I remember the days of old,
I meditate on all that You have done;
I muse on what your hands have wrought.

I stretch out my hands to You;
my soul thirsts for You like a parched land.

Make have e to answer me, O Lord!
My spirit fails! Hide not your face from me,
lest I be like those who go down to the Pit.

Let me hear in the morning of your steadfast love,
for in You I put my trust.
Teach me the way I should go,
for to You I lift up my soul.

Deliver me, O Lord, from my enemies!
I have fled to You for refuge!

Teach me to do your will,
for You are my God!
Let your good spirit lead me on a level path!

For your name's sake, O Lord, preserve my life!
In your righteousness bring me out of trouble!

Glory be to the Father and to the Son
and to the Holy Spirit

As it was in the beginning is now
and every shall be world without end. Amen

All:-Seek the Lord with a heart that is pure, for He is near.

Reading:- Is 40:9-11, 26-31
Get you up to a high mountain, O Zion, herald of good tidings; lift up your voice with strength, O Jerusalem, herald of good tidings, lift it up, fear not; say to the cities of Judah, "Behold your God!" Behold, the Lord GOD comes with might, and his arm rules for him; behold, his reward is with him, and his recompense before him. He will feed his flock like a shepherd, he will gather the lambs in his arms, he will carry them in his bosom, and gently lead those that are with young. Lift up your eyes on high and see: who created these? He who brings out their host by number, calling them all by name; by the greatness of his might, and because he is strong in power not one is missing. Why do you say, O Jacob, and speak, O Israel, "My way is hid from the Lord, and my right is disregarded by my God"? Have you not known? Have you not heard? The Lord is the everlasting God, the Creator of the ends of the earth. He does not faint or grow weary, his understanding is unsearchable. He gives power to the faint, and to him who has no might he increases strength. Even youths shall faint and be weary, and young men shall fall exhausted; but they who wait for the Lord shall renew their strength, they shall mount up with wings like eagles, they shall run and not be weary, they shall walk and not faint.
This is the word of the Lord

All:-Thanks be to God.

Magnificat

Cel.:-Let us join our Blessed Mother in singing praises to the Living God.

All:-My soul magnifies the Lord, and my spirit rejoices in God my Saviour,

Cel.:-for he has regarded the low estate of his handmaiden. henceforth all generations will call me blessed;

All:-for he who is mighty has done great things for me, and holy is his name.

Cel.:-And his mercy is on those who fear him from generation to generation.

All:-He has shown strength with his arm, he has scattered the proud-hearted

Cel.:-he has put down the mighty from their thrones, and exalted those of low degree;

All:-he has filled the hungry with good things, and the rich he has sent empty away.

Cel.:-He has helped his servant Israel, in remembrance of his mercy,

All:-as he spoke to Our Fathers, to Abraham and to his posterity for ever."

Cel.:-Glory be to the Father and to the Son and to the Holy Spirit

All:-As it was in the beginning is now and ever shall be world without end. Amen.

Cel.:-Dear brothers and Sisters, Let us place before the Lord of the universe our day-to-day life and ask him to penetrate into every realm of our lives and activities, and say 'Lord, give us your Light and your Life'

All:-Lord, give us your Light and your Life

Cel.:- That the Christian families all over the world may find in the Jesus the head of their own families.

All:-Lord, give us your Light and your Life

Cel.:-That the Church may be filled with the Peace and joy of the Word incarnate.

All:-Lord, give us your Light and your Life

Cel.:-That the dying may find in Jesus a merciful redeemer and may be able to enjoy the eternal life with Him forever.

All:-Lord, give us your Light and your Life

Cel.:-That the Christians who suffer persecutions and insults may be strengthened to confess their faith without fear and may bear living witness to the Saviour of the World.

All:-Lord, give us your Light and your Life

Cel.:-That discrimination between sexes, races and creeds may end and that every nation and people may enjoy the fruit of the salvation brought by the only Saviour of the world.

All:-Lord, give us your Light and your Life (Other prayers may be added)

Cel.:-United with the whole world, let us invoke the Father in the words of His eternal Son. Our Father in heaven....

All:-Holy be your name, your kingdom come, your will be done, on earth as in heaven. Give us today our daily bread, forgive us our sins, as we forgive those who sin against us, do not bring us to the test, but deliver us from evil.

Cel.:-Let us invite the King of peace to rule over our lives

All:- Come Lord, Leader and King, Come to establish your peace.
Come to wipe away our tears, Come to make us humble.
And reign over our lives.

Come Lord, Master and Saviour, Come to befriend the lonely,
Come to exalt the lowly, Come to console the suffering
And save us in your love.

Come Lord, Liberator and deliverer, Come to lighten our burden
Come to brighten our lives, come to comfort the oppressed
And liberate us from darkness.

Come Lord, God and Creator, Come to renew the creation,
Come to enforce your Order, Come to generate good will,
And take possession of our lives.

Come Lord, Redeemer and Guard, Come to deliver us from evil
Come to refresh our souls, Come to feed your sheep,
And grant us eternal life.

Concluding Prayer

Cel.:-Let us pray Lord, you created man and when he went astray you did not hesitate to send your only Son to save him. Grant that the world may receive him with joy and humility. We ask this through our Lord Jesus Christ your Son who lives and reigns with you and the holy Spirit, one God forever and ever.

All:-Amen.

Cel.:-The Lord be with you.

All:-And also with you.

Cel.:-May the blessing of the Almighty God who came to live among us, descend upon you and remain with you forever, in the name of the Father, and of the Son and of the holy Spirit.

All:-Amen.

Cel.:-Let us go in the peace of Christ.

All:-Thanks be to God.
*********

DAY 7

Cel.:-In the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit.

All:-Amen.

Cel.:-May the Peace of our Saviour, promised to all men of good-will be with you all.

All:-And also with you.

Cel.:-Dear brothers and Sisters, we have come together to prepare ourselves to receive our Lord and Master. May His Spirit make us worthy to celebrate the mystery of the Divine Incarnation with a pure heart and a clear conscience. (Silent reflection)

Prayer:-

Cel.:-Let us Pray, Lord, creator and Sustainer of the universe, the coming your Son is the manifestation of your all-embracing love. In your love enable the Church and all her members to remain faithful to your holy designs. We ask this through our Lord Jesus Christ your Son, who lives and reigns with You and the Holy Spirit one God for ever and ever.

All:-Amen.

Psalm 23

Cel.:-Be glad in the Lord and rejoice, O righteous and shout for joy all you upright in heart.
(Psalm is recited in two groups)

The Lord is my shepherd, I shall not want;
he makes me lie down in green pastures.

He leads me beside still waters;
he restores my soul.

He leads me in paths of righteousness
for his name's sake.

Even Yough I walk through the valley
of the shadow of death,
I fear no evil; for You are with me;
your rod and your staff, they comfort me.

You preparest a table before me
in the presence of my enemies;
You anointest my head with oil,
my cup overflows.

Surely goodness and mercy shall follow me
all the days of my life;
and I shall dwell in the house of the Lord for ever.

Glory be to the Father and to the Son
and to the Holy Spirit

As it was in the beginning is now
and every shall be world without end. Amen

All:-Be glad in the Lord and rejoice, O righteous and shout for joy all you upright in heart.

Reading:- Isaiah: 35:1-10
The wilderness and the dry land shall be glad, the desert shall rejoice and blossom; like the crocus it shall blossom abundantly, and rejoice with joy and singing. The glory of Lebanon shall be given to it, the majesty of Carmel and Sharon. They shall see the glory of the Lord, the majesty of our God. Strengthen the weak hands, and make firm the feeble knees. Say to those who are of a fearful heart, "Be strong, fear not! Behold, your God will come with vengeance, with the recompense of God. He will come and save you." Then the eyes of the blind shall be opened, and the ears of the deaf unstopped; then shall the lame man leap like a hart, and the tongue of the dumb sing for joy. For waters shall break forth in the wilderness, and streams in the desert; the burning sand shall become a pool, and the thirsty ground springs of water; the haunt of jackals shall become a swamp, the grass shall become reeds and rushes. And a highway shall be there, and it shall be called the Holy Way; the unclean shall not pass over it, and fools shall not err therein. No lion shall be there, nor shall any ravenous beast come up on it; they shall not be found there, but the redeemed shall walk there. And the ransomed of the Lord shall return, and come to Zion with singing; everlasting joy shall be upon their heads; they shall obtain joy and gladness, and sorrow and sighing shall flee away. This is the word of the Lord

All:-Thanks be to God.

Magnificat

Cel.:-Let us join our Blessed Mother in singing praises to the Living God.

All:-My soul magnifies the Lord, and my spirit rejoices in God my Saviour,

Cel.:-for he has regarded the low estate of his handmaiden. henceforth all generations will call me blessed;

All:-for he who is mighty has done great things for me, and holy is his name.

Cel.:-And his mercy is on those who fear him from generation to generation.

All:-He has shown strength with his arm, he has scattered the proud-hearted

Cel.:-he has put down the mighty from their thrones, and exalted those of low degree;

All:-he has filled the hungry with good things, and the rich he has sent empty away.

Cel.:-He has helped his servant Israel, in remembrance of his mercy,

All:-as he spoke to Our Fathers, to Abraham and to his posterity for ever."

Cel.:-Glory be to the Father and to the Son and to the Holy Spirit

All:-As it was in the beginning is now and ever shall be world without end. Amen.

Cel.:-Dear brothers and Sisters, as we prepare to celebrate the feast of the Incarnation of the Word, let us invoke the blessings and graces of the Father and say, 'Hear us Lord, in your mercy'.

All:-Hear us Lord, in your mercy

Cel.:-That people in authority in every society may find in their subjects a community to be served rather than to serve.

All:-Hear us Lord, in your mercy.

Cel.:-That believers in Christ may be united in His name and Mission, so that the Gospel may be faithfully preached to the ends of the earth.

All:-Hear us Lord, in your mercy.

Cel.:-That to the people affected by war, terrorism and natural calamities, the powerful name of the Lord may bring hope and security.

All:-Hear us Lord, in your mercy.

Cel.:-That all who thirst for truth and lasting peace may turn to Christ, the Living God, for He is source of them all.

All:-Hear us Lord, in your mercy.

Cel.:-That philosophers and theologians of our society may be inspired by the all-penetrating presence of the Lord in the world which He created out of love.

All:-Hear us Lord, in your mercy. (Other prayers may be added)

Cel.:-United with the whole world, let us invoke the Father in the words of His eternal Son. Our Father in heaven....

All:-Holy be your name, your kingdom come, your will be done, on earth as in heaven. Give us today our daily bread, forgive us our sins, as we forgive those who sin against us, do not bring us to the test, but deliver us from evil.

Cel.:-Let us invite the King of peace to rule over our lives

All:- Come Lord, Leader and King, Come to establish your peace.
Come to wipe away our tears, Come to make us humble.
And reign over our lives.

Come Lord, Master and Saviour, Come to befriend the lonely,
Come to exalt the lowly, Come to console the suffering
And save us in your love.

Come Lord, Liberator and deliverer, Come to lighten our burden
Come to brighten our lives, come to comfort the oppressed
And liberate us from darkness.

Come Lord, God and Creator, Come to renew the creation,
Come to enforce your Order, Come to generate good will,
And take possession of our lives.

Come Lord, Redeemer and Guard, Come to deliver us from evil
Come to refresh our souls, Come to feed your sheep,
And grant us eternal life.

Concluding Prayer

Cel.:-Let us pray Heavenly Father, you sent your only Son into this world to grant us once again the privilege of being called your children. Grant us, who prepare to receive Him, your grace to strengthen us in your Spirit. We ask this through our Lord Jesus Christ your Son who lives and reigns with you and the holy Spirit, one God forever and ever.

All:-Amen

Cel.:-The Lord be with you.

All:-And also with you.

Cel.:-May the blessing of the Almighty God who came to live among us, descend upon you and remain with you forever, in the name of the Father, and of the Son and of the holy Spirit.

All:-Amen.

Cel.:-Let us go in the peace of Christ.

All:-Thanks be to God.
*********

DAY 8

Cel.:-In the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit.

All:-Amen.

Cel.:-May the Peace of our Saviour, promised to all men of good-will be with you all.

All:-And also with you.

Cel.:-Dear brothers and Sisters, we have come together to prepare ourselves to receive our Lord and Master. May His Spirit make us worthy to celebrate the mystery of the Divine Incarnation with a pure heart and a clear conscience. (Silent reflection)

Prayer:-

Cel.:-Let us Pray, Lord, most gracious and loving, Your only Son accomplished our salvation according to your Holy Plan and enabled us to call you 'Father' . Give us your Grace that we may live as your children. We ask this through our Lord Jesus Christ your Son, who lives and reigns with You and the Holy Spirit one God for ever and ever.

All:-Amen.

Psalm 24

Cel.:-Blessed is the man to whom the Lord imputes no iniquity, and in whose spirit there is no deceit.
(Psalm is recited in two groups)

The earth is the Lord's and the fullness thereof,
the world and those who dwell therein;

for he has founded it upon the seas,
and established it upon the rivers.

Who shall ascend the hill of the Lord?
And who shall stand in his holy place?

He who has clean hands and a pure heart,
who does not lift up his soul to what is false,
and does not swear deceitfully.

He will receive blessing from the Lord,
and vindication from the God of his salvation.

Such is the generation of those who seek him,
who seek the face of the God of Jacob.

Lift up your heads, O gates!
and be lifted up, O ancient doors
that the King of glory may come in.

Who is the King of glory?
The Lord, strong and mighty,
the Lord, mighty in battle!

Lift up your heads, O gates!
and be lifted up, O ancient doors!
that the King of glory may come in.

Who is this King of glory?
The Lord of hosts,
he is the King of glory!

Glory be to the Father and to the Son
and to the Holy Spirit

As it was in the beginning is now
and every shall be world without end. Amen

All:-Blessed is the man to whom the Lord imputes no iniquity, and in whose spirit there is no deceit.

Reading:- Isaiah: 29:17-24
Is it not yet a very little while until Lebanon shall be turned into a fruitful field, and the fruitful field shall be regarded as a forest? In that day the deaf shall hear the words of a book, and out of their gloom and darkness the eyes of the blind shall see. The meek shall obtain fresh joy in the Lord, and the poor among men shall exult in the Holy One of Israel. For the ruthless shall come to nought and the scoffer cease, and all who watch to do evil shall be cut off, who by a word make a man out to be an offender, and lay a snare for him who reproves in the gate, and with an empty plea turn aside him who is in the right. Therefore thus says the Lord, who redeemed Abraham, concerning the house of Jacob: "Jacob shall no more be ashamed, no more shall his face grow pale. For when he sees his children, the work of my hands, in his midst, they will sanctify my name; they will sanctify the Holy One of Jacob, and will stand in awe of the God of Israel. And those who err in spirit will come to understanding, and those who murmur will accept instruction."
This is the word of the Lord

All:-Thanks be to God.

Magnificat

Cel.:-Let us join our Blessed Mother in singing praises to the Living God.

All:-My soul magnifies the Lord, and my spirit rejoices in God my Saviour,

Cel.:-for he has regarded the low estate of his handmaiden. henceforth all generations will call me blessed;

All:-for he who is mighty has done great things for me, and holy is his name.

Cel.:-And his mercy is on those who fear him from generation to generation.

All:-He has shown strength with his arm, he has scattered the proud-hearted

Cel.:-he has put down the mighty from their thrones, and exalted those of low degree;

All:-he has filled the hungry with good things, and the rich he has sent empty away.

Cel.:-He has helped his servant Israel, in remembrance of his mercy,

All:-as he spoke to Our Fathers, to Abraham and to his posterity for ever."

Cel.:-Glory be to the Father and to the Son and to the Holy Spirit

All:-As it was in the beginning is now and ever shall be world without end. Amen.

Cel.:-Dear brothers and Sisters, during this season of expectation, let us invite the Lord into our day-to-day lives and say, 'Lord come and dwell in us.'

All:-Lord come and dwell in us.

Cel.:-That peace may be established between nations, societies and races in the world, so that we as one single family may offer living praise to you.

All:-Lord come and dwell in us.

Cel.:-That the Lord may grant justice to the oppressed and consolation to the suffering, so that they may all know the power of His liberation.

All:-Lord come and dwell in us.

Cel.:-That the dying may find in Jesus Christ a merciful saviour and may be prepared to accept Him as their own personal Saviour.

All:-Lord come and dwell in us.

Cel.:-That the labourers and artisans may find happiness and fulfilment in their lives and works.

All:-Lord come and dwell in us.

Cel.:-That the Church, the temple of the Holy Spirit, may be renewed to receive her Lord and Master.

All:-Lord come and dwell in us. (Other prayers may be added)

Cel.:-United with the whole world, let us invoke the Father in the words of His eternal Son. Our Father in heaven....

All:-Holy be your name, your kingdom come, your will be done, on earth as in heaven. Give us today our daily bread, forgive us our sins, as we forgive those who sin against us, do not bring us to the test, but deliver us from evil.

Cel.:-Let us invite the King of peace to rule over our lives

All:- Come Lord, Leader and King, Come to establish your peace.
Come to wipe away our tears, Come to make us humble.
And reign over our lives.

Come Lord, Master and Saviour, Come to befriend the lonely,
Come to exalt the lowly, Come to console the suffering
And save us in your love.

Come Lord, Liberator and deliverer, Come to lighten our burden
Come to brighten our lives, come to comfort the oppressed
And liberate us from darkness.

Come Lord, God and Creator, Come to renew the creation,
Come to enforce your Order, Come to generate good will,
And take possession of our lives.

Come Lord, Redeemer and Guard, Come to deliver us from evil
Come to refresh our souls, Come to feed your sheep,
And grant us eternal life.

Concluding Prayer

Cel.:-Let us pray Almighty God, you created everything good and beautiful, and made man in your own image. Listen to the prayers and supplications of those who have assembled here and make us worthy to receive your Son who alone can lead us to you. We ask this through our Lord Jesus Christ your Son who lives and reigns with you and the holy Spirit, one God forever and ever.

All:-Amen.

Cel.:-The Lord be with you.

All:-And also with you.

Cel.:-May the blessing of the Almighty God who came to live among us, descend upon you and remain with you forever, in the name of the Father, and of the Son and of the holy Spirit.

All:-Amen.

Cel.:-Let us go in the peace of Christ.

All:-Thanks be to God.
*********

DAY 9

Cel.:-In the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit.

All:-Amen.

Cel.:-May the Peace of our Saviour, promised to all men of good-will be with you all.

All:-And also with you.

Cel.:-Dear brothers and Sisters, we have come together to prepare ourselves to receive our Lord and Master. May His Spirit make us worthy to celebrate the mystery of the Divine Incarnation with a pure heart and a clear conscience. (Silent reflection)

Prayer:-

Cel.:-Let us Pray, Lord, Your glory overshadows everything that exists. Every creature proclaims the tale of your justice and majesty. May the celebration of the coming of your Son renew the whole creation in your Spirit and Love. We ask this through our Lord Jesus Christ your Son, who lives and reigns with You and the Holy Spirit one God for ever and ever.

All:-Amen.

Psalm 34:1-11

Cel.:-Behold the eye of the Lord is on those who fear him, on those who hope in his steadfast Love.
(Psalm is recited in two groups)

I will bless the Lord at all times;
his praise shall continually be in my mouth.

My soul makes its boast in the Lord;
let the afflicted hear and be glad.

O magnify the Lord with me,
and let us exalt his name together!

I sought the Lord, and he answered me,
and delivered me from all my fears.

Look to him, and be radiant;
so your faces shall never be ashamed.

This poor man cried, and the Lord heard him,
and saved him out of all his troubles.

The angel of the Lord encamps around those who fear Him,
and delivers them.

O taste and see that the Lord is good!
Happy is the man who takes refuge in him!

O fear the Lord, you his saints,
for those who fear him have no want!

The young lions suffer want and hunger;
but those who seek the Lord lack no good thing.

Come, O sons, listen to me,
I will teach you the fear of the Lord.

Glory be to the Father and to the Son
and to the Holy Spirit

As it was in the beginning is now
and every shall be world without end. Amen

All:-Behold the eye of the Lord is on those who fear him, on those who hope in his steadfast Love.

Reading:- Luke 3:3-17
And he went into all the region about the Jordan, preaching a baptism of repentance for the forgiveness of sins. As it is written in the book of the words of Isaiah the prophet, "The voice of one crying in the wilderness: Prepare the way of the Lord, make his paths straight. Every valley shall be filled, and every mountain and hill shall be brought low, and the crooked shall be made straight, and the rough ways shall be made smooth; and all flesh shall see the salvation of God." He said therefore to the multitudes that came out to be baptized by him, "You brood of vipers! Who warned you to flee from the wrath to come? Bear fruits that befit repentance, and do not begin to say to yourselves, `We have Abraham as Our Father'; for I tell you, God is able from these stones to raise up children to Abraham. Even now the axe is laid to the root of the trees; every tree therefore that does not bear good fruit is cut down and thrown into the fire." And the multitudes asked him, "What then shall we do?" And he answered them, "He who has two coats, let him share with him who has none; and he who has food, let him do likewise." Tax collectors also came to be baptized, and said to him, "Teacher, what shall we do?" And he said to them, "Collect no more than is appointed you." Soldiers also asked him, "And we, what shall we do?" And he said to them, "Rob no one by violence or by false accusation, and be content with your wages." As the people were in expectation, and all men questioned in their hearts concerning John, whether perhaps he were the Christ, John answered them all, "I baptize you with water; but he who is mightier than I is coming, the thong of whose sandals I am not worthy to untie; he will baptize you with the Holy Spirit and with fire. His winnowing fork is in his hand, to clear his threshing floor, and to gather the wheat into his granary, but the chaff he will burn with unquenchable fire." This is the word of the Lord

All:-Thanks be to God.

Magnificat

Cel.:-Let us join our Blessed Mother in singing praises to the Living God.

All:-My soul magnifies the Lord, and my spirit rejoices in God my Saviour,

Cel.:-for he has regarded the low estate of his handmaiden. henceforth all generations will call me blessed;

All:-for he who is mighty has done great things for me, and holy is his name.

Cel.:-And his mercy is on those who fear him from generation to generation.

All:-He has shown strength with his arm, he has scattered the proud-hearted

Cel.:-he has put down the mighty from their thrones, and exalted those of low degree;

All:-he has filled the hungry with good things, and the rich he has sent empty away.

Cel.:-He has helped his servant Israel, in remembrance of his mercy,

All:-as he spoke to Our Fathers, to Abraham and to his posterity for ever."

Cel.:-Glory be to the Father and to the Son and to the Holy Spirit

All:-As it was in the beginning is now and ever shall be world without end. Amen.

Cel.:-Dear brothers and Sisters, as the feast of the birth of Christ is at hand let us prepare ourselves intensely placing before the Father our daily needs and say, 'Emmanuel, come to live with us.'

All:-Emmanuel, come to live with us.

Cel.:-That our hearts may be cleansed of all evil, so that the Babe of Bethlehem may find in them a welcome home.

All:-Emmanuel, come to live with us.

Cel.:-That we may find Jesus in the oppressed and the abandoned and may serve them with love.

All:-Emmanuel, come to live with us.

Cel.:-That those gathered here may listen to the Word of God and believe in it, so that we may be found worthy to receive the Lord.

All:-Emmanuel, come to live with us.

Cel.:-That those frequent the sacraments may live what they celebrate and those who keep themselves away from God's sanctifying Grace may be drawn to them.

All:-Emmanuel, come to live with us.

Cel.:-That the celebration of the Nativity of Christ may become an experience for us, of the renewal of our personal commitment to the author and sustainer of our lives. (Other prayers may be added)

Cel.:-United with the whole world, let us invoke the Father in the words of His eternal Son. Our Father in heaven....

All:-Holy be your name, your kingdom come, your will be done, on earth as in heaven. Give us today our daily bread, forgive us our sins, as we forgive those who sin against us, do not bring us to the test, but deliver us from evil.

Cel.:-Let us invite the King of peace to rule over our lives

All:- Come Lord, Leader and King, Come to establish your peace.
Come to wipe away our tears, Come to make us humble.
And reign over our lives.

Come Lord, Master and Saviour, Come to befriend the lonely,
Come to exalt the lowly, Come to console the suffering
And save us in your love.

Come Lord, Liberator and deliverer, Come to lighten our burden
Come to brighten our lives, come to comfort the oppressed
And liberate us from darkness.

Come Lord, God and Creator, Come to renew the creation,
Come to enforce your Order, Come to generate good will,
And take possession of our lives.

Come Lord, Redeemer and Guard, Come to deliver us from evil
Come to refresh our souls, Come to feed your sheep,
And grant us eternal life.

Concluding Prayer

Cel.:-Let us pray Lord, Living God, you are a God who saves. Enlighten our hearts and forgive our sins. May your Spirit make us worthy to receive your Son with pure hearts. We ask this through our Lord Jesus Christ your Son who lives and reigns with you and the Holy Spirit, one God forever and ever.

All:-Amen.

Cel.:-The Lord be with you.

All:-And also with you.

Cel.:-May the blessing of the Almighty God who came to live among us, descend upon you and remain with you forever, in the name of the Father, and of the Son and of the holy Spirit.

All:-Amen.

Cel.:-Let us go in the peace of Christ.

All:-Thanks be to God.