Christmas Tree Cluster –NASA

Advent Prayer by Henri Nouwen link

Lord Jesus,
Master of both the light and the darkness, send your Holy Spirit upon our preparations for Christmas.
We who have so much to do and seek quiet spaces to hear your voice each day,
We who are anxious over many things look forward to your coming among us.
We who are blessed in so many ways long for the complete joy of your kingdom.
We whose hearts are heavy seek the joy of your presence.
We are your people, walking in darkness, yet seeking the light.
To you we say, “Come Lord Jesus!’
Amen.

Prayer of St. Ephraim the Syrian 4th century link

The feast day of your birth resembles You, Lord Because it brings joy to all humanity.
Old people and infants alike enjoy your day. Your day is celebrated from generation to generation.
Kings and emperors may pass away, And the festivals to commemorate them soon lapse.
But your festival will be remembered until the end of time.
Your day is a means and a pledge of peace. At Your birth heaven and earth were reconciled,
Since you came from heaven to earth on that day You forgave our sins and wiped away our guilt.
You gave us so many gifts on the day of your birth: A treasure chest of spiritual medicines for the sick;
Spiritual light for the blind; The cup of salvation for the thirsty; The bread of life for the hungry.
In the winter when trees are bare, You give us the most succulent spiritual fruit.
In the frost when the earth is barren, You bring new hope to our souls.
In December when seeds are hidden in the soil, The staff of life springs forth from the virgin womb.
Amen

Christmas Prayer – St Augustine of HIppo 354-440AD
Let the just rejoice,
for their justifier is born.
Let the sick and infirm rejoice,
For their saviour is born.
Let the captives rejoice,
For their Redeemer is born.
Let slaves rejoice,
for their Master is born.
Let free men rejoice,
For their Liberator is born.
Let All Christians rejoice,
For Jesus Christ is born.
Amen

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Benediction: Epiphany Solemn Blessing link

God has called you out of darkness,
into his wonderful light.
May you experience his kindness and blessings,
and be strong in faith, in hope, and in love.

because you are followers of Christ,
who appeared on this day as a light shining in darkness,
may he make you a light to all your sisters and brothers.

The wise men followed the star,
and found Christ who is light from light.
May you too find the Lord
when your pilgrimage is ended.
Amen