Sources:
Book of Alternative Services
thebigandthesmall blog
NRSV
thisischurch website
Bread for the Journey (Ruth Duck)
Anglican Eucharistic Liturgies 1985-2010 (Colin Buchanan)
Christmas Eve Celebration of Eucharist
Pre-Lude Ready My Heart
Acknowledgement
The impossible is about to happen in a stable. The people who walked in darkness have seen a great light;
Those who lived in a land of deep darkness, on them has the light shined!
This is the evening when creation stood still and held its breath, for God was doing the most unbelievable, dangerous thing.
This is the evening when God embraced humanity from the inside, as one of us, from birth to death.
In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God.
And the Word became flesh and dwelt among us, full of grace and truth. Amen!
WREATH LIGHTING CHRISTMAS DAY/EVE - God is With Us (Based on Psalm 98)
We light our first candle, a symbol of Hope.
Light first candle
We light our second candle, a symbol of Peace.
Light second candle
We light our third candle, a symbol of Joy.
Light third candle
We light our fourth candle, a symbol of Love.
Light fourth candle
We light our Christ candle, a symbol of the long-awaited birth of Jesus.
Light Christ candle
With trumpets and the sound of the horn, make a joyful noise before the King, the Lord.
Make a joyful noise to the Lord, all the earth!
Let the sea roar, and all that fills it; the world and all who live in it.
Make a joyful noise to the Lord, all the earth!
Let the floods clap their hands; let the hills sing together for joy at the presence of the Lord.
Make a joyful noise to the Lord, all the earth!
For born this happy day is Christ our King, come to dwell among us, God with us, Emmanuel.
Make a joyful noise to the Lord, all the earth!
We join in the Collect together
Eternal God, this holy night is radiant with the brilliance of your one true light. As we have known the revelation of that light on earth, bring us to see the splendour of your heavenly glory; through Jesus Christ our Lord, who is alive and reigns with you and the Holy Spirit, one God, now and for ever. Amen
Candle Lighting Song: Like a Candle
Like a candle burning wildly,
Raging soft against the night,
Spark that leaps to clear the shadows
Sending warm, disturbing night.
We are called to live the passion,
Hope stands strong against all pain.
For it’s only in the burning
That the candle shows its flame.
Like a river running freely,
Rapids swirl beside our feet,
Swiftly lowing from the highland
Comes to rest, still waters meet.
All our journeys rising, falling,
Making turns we least expect,
When the Spirit churns within us,
Know God’s power through the test.
Like an angel walking lightly
On this fragile earth of clay,
Touching folk with raw compassion,
Laughing, playing on the way.
Freely living every moment
In the mystery of grace.
Giving, dying, living, rising
See the beauty of God’s face.
See the hope that burns in darkness,
Show compassion, strong and kind,
Bind the hurt and broken hearted,
Be God’s hands and voice and eyes.
Sing a new song every sunrise,
Climb to places out of reach,
Walk in freedom of God’s Spirit,
As we die so we shall live.
We are called to live the passion,
Hope stands strong against all pain.
For it’s only in the burning
That the candle shows its flame.
A Reading from the prophet Isaiah (62.6–12)
The people who walked in darkness have seen a great light; those who lived in a land of deep darkness—on them light has shined. You have multiplied the nation, you have increased its joy; they rejoice before you as with joy at the harvest, as people exult when dividing plunder. For the yoke of their burden, and the bar across their shoulders, the rod of their oppressor, you have broken as on the day of Midian. For all the boots of the tramping warriors and all the garments rolled in blood shall be burned as fuel for the fire. For a child has been born for us, a son given to us; authority rests upon his shoulders; and he is named Wonderful Counsellor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace. His authority shall grow continually, and there shall be endless peace for the throne of David and his kingdom. He will establish and uphold it with justice and with righteousness from this time onwards and for evermore. The zeal of the Lord of hosts will do this.
Listen for the Leading of the Spirit R: Thanks be to God
Psalm 97 Refrain: All the ends of the earth have seen the salvation of our God.
The Lord is king! Let the earth rejoice; let the many coastlands be glad!
Clouds and thick darkness are all around him; righteousness and justice are the foundation of his throne.
Fire goes before him, and consumes his adversaries on every side.
His lightnings light up the world; the earth sees and trembles.
All the ends of the earth have seen the salvation of our God.
The mountains melt like wax before the Lord, before the Lord of all the earth.
The heavens proclaim his righteousness; and all the peoples behold his glory.
All worshippers of images are put to shame, those who make their boast in worthless idols; all gods bow down before him.
All the ends of the earth have seen the salvation of our God.
Zion hears and is glad, and the towns of Judah rejoice, because of your judgements, O God.
For you, O Lord, are most high over all the earth; you are exalted far above all gods.
All the ends of the earth have seen the salvation of our God.
The Lord loves those who hate evil; he guards the lives of his faithful; he rescues them from the hand of the wicked.
Light dawns for the righteous, and joy for the upright in heart.
Rejoice in the Lord, O you righteous, and give thanks to his holy name!
All the ends of the earth have seen the salvation of our God.
A Reading from the letter of Paul to Titus (3.4–7)
But when the goodness and loving-kindness of God our Saviour appeared, he saved us, not because of any works of righteousness that we had done, but according to his mercy, through the water of rebirth and renewal by the Holy Spirit. This Spirit he poured out on us richly through Jesus Christ our Saviour, so that, having been justified by his grace, we might become heirs according to the hope of eternal life.
Listen for the Leading of the Spirit R: Thanks be to God
Gradual Hymn Hark the Herald Angels Sing
Hark! The herald angels sing,
"Glory to the new-born King,
peace on earth, and mercy mild,
God and sinners reconciled."
Joyful, all ye nations, rise,
join the triumph of the skies;
with the angelic hosts proclaim,
"Christ is born in Bethlehem!"
Chorus
Hark! the herald angels sing,
"Glory to the newborn King."
Christ, by highest heaven adored;
Christ, the everlasting Lord;
late in time behold him come,
offspring of a virgin's womb.
Veiled in flesh the Godhead see;
hail, the incarnate Deity,
pleased as one of us to dwell,
Jesus, our Emmanuel! Chorus
Hail, the heaven-born Prince of Peace!
Hail, the Sun of Righteousness!
Light and life to all he brings,
risen with healing in his wings,
Mild he lays his glory by,
born that we no more may die,
born to raise each child of earth,
born to give us second birth. Chorus
The Holy Gospel of our Lord Jesus Christ according to St. Luke (2:1-20)
Glory to you, Lord Jesus Christ
In those days a decree went out from Emperor Augustus that all the world should be registered. This was the first registration and was taken while Quirinius was governor of Syria. All went to their own towns to be registered. Joseph also went from the town of Nazareth in Galilee to Judea, to the city of David called Bethlehem, because he was descended from the house and family of David. He went to be registered with Mary, to whom he was engaged and who was expecting a child. While they were there, the time came for her to deliver her child. And she gave birth to her firstborn son and wrapped him in bands of cloth, and laid him in a manger, because there was no place for them in the inn.
In that region there were shepherds living in the fields, keeping watch over their flock by night. Then an angel of the Lord stood before them, and the glory of the Lord shone around them, and they were terrified. But the angel said to them, ‘Do not be afraid; for see—I am bringing you good news of great joy for all the people: to you is born this day in the city of David a Saviour, who is the Messiah, the Lord. This will be a sign for you: you will find a child wrapped in bands of cloth and lying in a manger.’ And suddenly there was with the angel a multitude of the heavenly host, praising God and saying,
‘Glory to God in the highest heaven,
and on earth peace among those whom he favours!’
When the angels had left them and gone into heaven, the shepherds said to one another, ‘Let us go now to Bethlehem and see this thing that has taken place, which the Lord has made known to us.’ So they went with haste and found Mary and Joseph, and the child lying in the manger. When they saw this, they made known what had been told them about this child; and all who heard it were amazed at what the shepherds told them. But Mary treasured all these words and pondered them in her heart. The shepherds returned, glorifying and praising God for all they had heard and seen, as it had been told them.
The Gospel of Christ R: Praise to you Lord Jesus Christ
The Homily
An Affirmation of Faith for Christmas
We believe in God, the creator and giver of life,
who brought all creation to birth,
who mothers us and fathers us,
protecting, nurturing, and cherishing us.
We believe in Jesus Christ:
God born among us as a fragile baby,
embodying both love and the need for love,
and calling us to rest in God as trustingly as a tiny child.
We believe in the Holy Spirit,
breathed into us at our birth,
always drawing us on to be born again,
encouraging, exhorting, comforting,
nourishing our growth and inspiring our living.
We believe in the reconciliation of the world to God, through Christ.
Hunted at birth and humiliated at death,
Christ entered our fearful darkness
so that we might enter his glorious light and share the life of his resurrection.
And we believe that each new child
is a glimpse of the face of God,
a sign of the life to come,
and a call to live in peace and celebrate living together.
Glory to God in the highest, and peace to God's people on earth. Amen.
Prayer of Intercession for Christmas Eve
Good and gracious God, on this holy night you gave us your Son, the Lord of the universe, wrapped in swaddling clothes, the Saviour of all, lying in a manger. On this holy night draw us into the mystery of your love. Join our voices with the heavenly host, that we may sing your glory on high. Give us a place among the shepherds, that we may find the one for whom we have waited, Jesus Christ, your Word made flesh, who lives and reigns with you in the unity of the Holy Spirit, in the splendour of eternal light, God forever and ever. Amen
On this holy night in which God joins heaven and earth, let us offer our prayers for the church, the world, and all those in need.
Let us pray for the Church around the world as it celebrates the birth of Christ. Bless all those who are entrusted with Christian ministry that your Word might be proclaimed with truth and courage across our world.
Bestow your wisdom on all who govern, that in honouring the earth and its diverse races, cultures, and religions, we may celebrate the light of this holy night.
Grant reconciliation to those surrounded with conflict and violence, that they may live in the peace of this holy night.
Let us pray for all who are cold, hungry, or alone this night. Embrace with your tender care all who wander alone or have no place to lay their head, they may experience the hope of this holy night.
Let us pray for all who are anxious, depressed, or ill. Draw near to those who find this season a source of pain or grief, and to all who are suffering or sick, especially those we remember in our own hearts . . . that they may feel the comfort of this holy night.
Let us pray for parents, families, and newborn infants. Strengthen families in the bonds of love and commitment, that they may delight in the joy of this holy night.
Let us pray for ourselves and for the blessings of Christmas. Open our hearts to your presence, that we may be transformed by the new birth of this holy night.
Prayer after Communion together
Thank you,
Scandalous God,
For giving yourself to the world,
Not in the powerful and extraordinary,
But in weakness and the familiar:
In a baby; in bread and wine.
Thank you
For offering, at journey’s end, a new beginning;
For setting, in the poverty of a stable,
The richest jewel of your love;
For revealing, in a particular place,
Your light for all nations.
Thank you
For bringing us to Bethlehem, House of Bread,
Where the empty are filled,
And the filled are emptied;
Where the poor find riches,
And the rich recognize their poverty;
Where all who kneel and hold out their hands
Welcome
We are here because we have heard a promise of peace and we have faith its day will come
we have heard a rumour of justice and we have faith its day will come
we have heard a whisper of hope and we have faith its day will come
we have heard a hint of love and we have faith its day will come
we have heard of the birth of the Christ-child and we have faith his day is here.
Welcome to Christmas! Welcome to worship here at St. Paul’s
Gathering Song O Come all Ye Faithful
O come, all ye faithful, joyful and triumphant
O come ye, o come ye to Bethlehem
Come and behold Him, born the King of Angels
O come, let us adore Him
O come, let us adore Him
O come, let us adore Him, Christ the Lord.
See how the shepherds, summoned to his cradle,
Leaving their flocks, draw nigh with lowly fear;
We too will thither bend out joyful footsteps Refrain
Yea, Lord, we greet thee, born this happy morning,
Jesus to thee be glory given;
Word of the Father, now in flesh appearing Refrain
Gathering (inspired by Isaiah 9:2, John 1:1, 14)
We are here because we have heard a promise of peace and we have faith its day will come
we have heard a rumour of justice and we have faith its day will come
we have heard a whisper of hope and we have faith its day will come
we have heard a hint of love and we have faith its day will come
we have heard of the birth of the Christ-child and we have faith his day is here.
Welcome to Christmas! Welcome to worship here at St. Paul’s
Gathering Song O Come all Ye Faithful
O come, all ye faithful, joyful and triumphant
O come ye, o come ye to Bethlehem
Come and behold Him, born the King of Angels
O come, let us adore Him
O come, let us adore Him
O come, let us adore Him, Christ the Lord.
See how the shepherds, summoned to his cradle,
Leaving their flocks, draw nigh with lowly fear;
We too will thither bend out joyful footsteps Refrain
Yea, Lord, we greet thee, born this happy morning,
Jesus to thee be glory given;
Word of the Father, now in flesh appearing Refrain
Gathering (inspired by Isaiah 9:2, John 1:1, 14)
The impossible is about to happen in a stable. The people who walked in darkness have seen a great light;
Those who lived in a land of deep darkness, on them has the light shined!
This is the evening when creation stood still and held its breath, for God was doing the most unbelievable, dangerous thing.
This is the evening when God embraced humanity from the inside, as one of us, from birth to death.
In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God.
And the Word became flesh and dwelt among us, full of grace and truth. Amen!
WREATH LIGHTING CHRISTMAS DAY/EVE - God is With Us (Based on Psalm 98)
We light our first candle, a symbol of Hope.
Light first candle
We light our second candle, a symbol of Peace.
Light second candle
We light our third candle, a symbol of Joy.
Light third candle
We light our fourth candle, a symbol of Love.
Light fourth candle
We light our Christ candle, a symbol of the long-awaited birth of Jesus.
Light Christ candle
With trumpets and the sound of the horn, make a joyful noise before the King, the Lord.
Make a joyful noise to the Lord, all the earth!
Let the sea roar, and all that fills it; the world and all who live in it.
Make a joyful noise to the Lord, all the earth!
Let the floods clap their hands; let the hills sing together for joy at the presence of the Lord.
Make a joyful noise to the Lord, all the earth!
For born this happy day is Christ our King, come to dwell among us, God with us, Emmanuel.
Make a joyful noise to the Lord, all the earth!
We join in the Collect together
Eternal God, this holy night is radiant with the brilliance of your one true light. As we have known the revelation of that light on earth, bring us to see the splendour of your heavenly glory; through Jesus Christ our Lord, who is alive and reigns with you and the Holy Spirit, one God, now and for ever. Amen
Candle Lighting Song: Like a Candle
Like a candle burning wildly,
Raging soft against the night,
Spark that leaps to clear the shadows
Sending warm, disturbing night.
We are called to live the passion,
Hope stands strong against all pain.
For it’s only in the burning
That the candle shows its flame.
Like a river running freely,
Rapids swirl beside our feet,
Swiftly lowing from the highland
Comes to rest, still waters meet.
All our journeys rising, falling,
Making turns we least expect,
When the Spirit churns within us,
Know God’s power through the test.
Like an angel walking lightly
On this fragile earth of clay,
Touching folk with raw compassion,
Laughing, playing on the way.
Freely living every moment
In the mystery of grace.
Giving, dying, living, rising
See the beauty of God’s face.
See the hope that burns in darkness,
Show compassion, strong and kind,
Bind the hurt and broken hearted,
Be God’s hands and voice and eyes.
Sing a new song every sunrise,
Climb to places out of reach,
Walk in freedom of God’s Spirit,
As we die so we shall live.
We are called to live the passion,
Hope stands strong against all pain.
For it’s only in the burning
That the candle shows its flame.
The Proclamation of the Word
A Reading from the prophet Isaiah (62.6–12)
The people who walked in darkness have seen a great light; those who lived in a land of deep darkness—on them light has shined. You have multiplied the nation, you have increased its joy; they rejoice before you as with joy at the harvest, as people exult when dividing plunder. For the yoke of their burden, and the bar across their shoulders, the rod of their oppressor, you have broken as on the day of Midian. For all the boots of the tramping warriors and all the garments rolled in blood shall be burned as fuel for the fire. For a child has been born for us, a son given to us; authority rests upon his shoulders; and he is named Wonderful Counsellor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace. His authority shall grow continually, and there shall be endless peace for the throne of David and his kingdom. He will establish and uphold it with justice and with righteousness from this time onwards and for evermore. The zeal of the Lord of hosts will do this.
Listen for the Leading of the Spirit R: Thanks be to God
Psalm 97 Refrain: All the ends of the earth have seen the salvation of our God.
The Lord is king! Let the earth rejoice; let the many coastlands be glad!
Clouds and thick darkness are all around him; righteousness and justice are the foundation of his throne.
Fire goes before him, and consumes his adversaries on every side.
His lightnings light up the world; the earth sees and trembles.
All the ends of the earth have seen the salvation of our God.
The mountains melt like wax before the Lord, before the Lord of all the earth.
The heavens proclaim his righteousness; and all the peoples behold his glory.
All worshippers of images are put to shame, those who make their boast in worthless idols; all gods bow down before him.
All the ends of the earth have seen the salvation of our God.
Zion hears and is glad, and the towns of Judah rejoice, because of your judgements, O God.
For you, O Lord, are most high over all the earth; you are exalted far above all gods.
All the ends of the earth have seen the salvation of our God.
The Lord loves those who hate evil; he guards the lives of his faithful; he rescues them from the hand of the wicked.
Light dawns for the righteous, and joy for the upright in heart.
Rejoice in the Lord, O you righteous, and give thanks to his holy name!
All the ends of the earth have seen the salvation of our God.
A Reading from the letter of Paul to Titus (3.4–7)
But when the goodness and loving-kindness of God our Saviour appeared, he saved us, not because of any works of righteousness that we had done, but according to his mercy, through the water of rebirth and renewal by the Holy Spirit. This Spirit he poured out on us richly through Jesus Christ our Saviour, so that, having been justified by his grace, we might become heirs according to the hope of eternal life.
Listen for the Leading of the Spirit R: Thanks be to God
Gradual Hymn Hark the Herald Angels Sing
Hark! The herald angels sing,
"Glory to the new-born King,
peace on earth, and mercy mild,
God and sinners reconciled."
Joyful, all ye nations, rise,
join the triumph of the skies;
with the angelic hosts proclaim,
"Christ is born in Bethlehem!"
Chorus
Hark! the herald angels sing,
"Glory to the newborn King."
Christ, by highest heaven adored;
Christ, the everlasting Lord;
late in time behold him come,
offspring of a virgin's womb.
Veiled in flesh the Godhead see;
hail, the incarnate Deity,
pleased as one of us to dwell,
Jesus, our Emmanuel! Chorus
Hail, the heaven-born Prince of Peace!
Hail, the Sun of Righteousness!
Light and life to all he brings,
risen with healing in his wings,
Mild he lays his glory by,
born that we no more may die,
born to raise each child of earth,
born to give us second birth. Chorus
The Holy Gospel of our Lord Jesus Christ according to St. Luke (2:1-20)
Glory to you, Lord Jesus Christ
In those days a decree went out from Emperor Augustus that all the world should be registered. This was the first registration and was taken while Quirinius was governor of Syria. All went to their own towns to be registered. Joseph also went from the town of Nazareth in Galilee to Judea, to the city of David called Bethlehem, because he was descended from the house and family of David. He went to be registered with Mary, to whom he was engaged and who was expecting a child. While they were there, the time came for her to deliver her child. And she gave birth to her firstborn son and wrapped him in bands of cloth, and laid him in a manger, because there was no place for them in the inn.
In that region there were shepherds living in the fields, keeping watch over their flock by night. Then an angel of the Lord stood before them, and the glory of the Lord shone around them, and they were terrified. But the angel said to them, ‘Do not be afraid; for see—I am bringing you good news of great joy for all the people: to you is born this day in the city of David a Saviour, who is the Messiah, the Lord. This will be a sign for you: you will find a child wrapped in bands of cloth and lying in a manger.’ And suddenly there was with the angel a multitude of the heavenly host, praising God and saying,
‘Glory to God in the highest heaven,
and on earth peace among those whom he favours!’
When the angels had left them and gone into heaven, the shepherds said to one another, ‘Let us go now to Bethlehem and see this thing that has taken place, which the Lord has made known to us.’ So they went with haste and found Mary and Joseph, and the child lying in the manger. When they saw this, they made known what had been told them about this child; and all who heard it were amazed at what the shepherds told them. But Mary treasured all these words and pondered them in her heart. The shepherds returned, glorifying and praising God for all they had heard and seen, as it had been told them.
The Gospel of Christ R: Praise to you Lord Jesus Christ
The Homily
An Affirmation of Faith for Christmas
We believe in God, the creator and giver of life,
who brought all creation to birth,
who mothers us and fathers us,
protecting, nurturing, and cherishing us.
We believe in Jesus Christ:
God born among us as a fragile baby,
embodying both love and the need for love,
and calling us to rest in God as trustingly as a tiny child.
We believe in the Holy Spirit,
breathed into us at our birth,
always drawing us on to be born again,
encouraging, exhorting, comforting,
nourishing our growth and inspiring our living.
We believe in the reconciliation of the world to God, through Christ.
Hunted at birth and humiliated at death,
Christ entered our fearful darkness
so that we might enter his glorious light and share the life of his resurrection.
And we believe that each new child
is a glimpse of the face of God,
a sign of the life to come,
and a call to live in peace and celebrate living together.
Glory to God in the highest, and peace to God's people on earth. Amen.
Prayer of Intercession for Christmas Eve
Good and gracious God, on this holy night you gave us your Son, the Lord of the universe, wrapped in swaddling clothes, the Saviour of all, lying in a manger. On this holy night draw us into the mystery of your love. Join our voices with the heavenly host, that we may sing your glory on high. Give us a place among the shepherds, that we may find the one for whom we have waited, Jesus Christ, your Word made flesh, who lives and reigns with you in the unity of the Holy Spirit, in the splendour of eternal light, God forever and ever. Amen
On this holy night in which God joins heaven and earth, let us offer our prayers for the church, the world, and all those in need.
Let us pray for the Church around the world as it celebrates the birth of Christ. Bless all those who are entrusted with Christian ministry that your Word might be proclaimed with truth and courage across our world.
Bestow your wisdom on all who govern, that in honouring the earth and its diverse races, cultures, and religions, we may celebrate the light of this holy night.
Grant reconciliation to those surrounded with conflict and violence, that they may live in the peace of this holy night.
Let us pray for all who are cold, hungry, or alone this night. Embrace with your tender care all who wander alone or have no place to lay their head, they may experience the hope of this holy night.
Let us pray for all who are anxious, depressed, or ill. Draw near to those who find this season a source of pain or grief, and to all who are suffering or sick, especially those we remember in our own hearts . . . that they may feel the comfort of this holy night.
Let us pray for parents, families, and newborn infants. Strengthen families in the bonds of love and commitment, that they may delight in the joy of this holy night.
Let us pray for ourselves and for the blessings of Christmas. Open our hearts to your presence, that we may be transformed by the new birth of this holy night.
Let us give thanks for all the faithful departed who have been bearers of the Word made flesh. Give us grace to follow your holy ones in lives of faith and commitment, that we may we join with the hosts of heaven in singing the praises of this holy night.
All these things and whatever else you see that we need, grant us, O God, for the sake of him who died and rose again, and now lives and reigns with in the unity of the Holy Spirit, one God, now and forever. Amen
Prayer of Confession (from Bread for the Journey R. Duck)
O God, the Baby has come, and we see that we are waiting for ourselves. We delay changing our lives, in the small ways as well as the large. It is hard to work for systemic change from within the system, and still harder to remain objective in the midst of our struggle. For these and other failings, we are most sorry. We pray for strength and wisdom, that we may better carry out your word.
Assurance
Let us give thanks to God for those who repent are forgiven and strengthened in goodness
The Peace (from the Church of India)
Let there be peace
Peace among nations
Peace among people
Peace among neighbours
Peace among friends
The Peace of Christ above all.
Let us bring our offerings to God – the offering of our hope, talents and gifts and we prepare our offering of bread and wine at home to celebrate together the Lord’s feast
Offering Hymn Away In a Manger
Away in a manger, no crib for a bed.
The little Lord Jesus laid down His sweet head.
The stars in the sky looked down where He lay,
The little Lord Jesus asleep on the hay.
The cattle are lowing, the baby awakes,
But little Lord Jesus, no crying He makes.
I love you, Lord Jesus! Look down from the sky,
And stay by my cradle till morning is nigh.
Be near me, Lord Jesus, I ask you to stay
Close by me forever and love me I pray.
Bless all the dear children in your tender care,
And take us to heaven to live with you there.
Prayer over the gifts
Source of light and gladness, accept all we offer on this joyful feast. May we grow up in him who unites our lives to yours; for he is Lord now and for ever. Amen
Setting of the Table
This table stands among us – Christ’s table and our tables.
We gather around our tables as did the first disciples, humble people, who love Jesus
Hopeful people in the power of the Holy Spirit
Little children stand under the holy table, old people hold on to it.
Symbols of our life are placed upon it. With joy we dress it in colour and light.
With joy we bring our gifts. In faith we name it our Holy table as it carries the body of Christ.
The Great Thanksgiving (New Zealand Prayer book)
God is here
We praise God together
Let us say thank you to God
who has done so much for us.
God, you made us, and the world and everything in it.
All the good we see comes from you.
You have always loved us but people have not always loved you.
You sent Jesus to show us how to live and to bring us back to you again.
Amen. We are alive in Jesus
He died for us on the cross so that through your Spirit
we can all be your people.
And so with thanks we praise you.
Holy, Holy, Holy Lord
God of power and might
Heaven and Earth are full of your glory
Hosanna in the Highest.
Blessed is the one that comes in the name of the Lord
All these things and whatever else you see that we need, grant us, O God, for the sake of him who died and rose again, and now lives and reigns with in the unity of the Holy Spirit, one God, now and forever. Amen
— posted on the thisischurch
Prayer of Confession (from Bread for the Journey R. Duck)
O God, the Baby has come, and we see that we are waiting for ourselves. We delay changing our lives, in the small ways as well as the large. It is hard to work for systemic change from within the system, and still harder to remain objective in the midst of our struggle. For these and other failings, we are most sorry. We pray for strength and wisdom, that we may better carry out your word.
Assurance
Let us give thanks to God for those who repent are forgiven and strengthened in goodness
The Peace (from the Church of India)
Let there be peace
Peace among nations
Peace among people
Peace among neighbours
Peace among friends
The Peace of Christ above all.
Let us bring our offerings to God – the offering of our hope, talents and gifts and we prepare our offering of bread and wine at home to celebrate together the Lord’s feast
Offering Hymn Away In a Manger
Away in a manger, no crib for a bed.
The little Lord Jesus laid down His sweet head.
The stars in the sky looked down where He lay,
The little Lord Jesus asleep on the hay.
The cattle are lowing, the baby awakes,
But little Lord Jesus, no crying He makes.
I love you, Lord Jesus! Look down from the sky,
And stay by my cradle till morning is nigh.
Be near me, Lord Jesus, I ask you to stay
Close by me forever and love me I pray.
Bless all the dear children in your tender care,
And take us to heaven to live with you there.
Prayer over the gifts
Source of light and gladness, accept all we offer on this joyful feast. May we grow up in him who unites our lives to yours; for he is Lord now and for ever. Amen
Setting of the Table
This table stands among us – Christ’s table and our tables.
We gather around our tables as did the first disciples, humble people, who love Jesus
Hopeful people in the power of the Holy Spirit
Little children stand under the holy table, old people hold on to it.
Symbols of our life are placed upon it. With joy we dress it in colour and light.
With joy we bring our gifts. In faith we name it our Holy table as it carries the body of Christ.
The Great Thanksgiving (New Zealand Prayer book)
God is here
We praise God together
Let us say thank you to God
who has done so much for us.
God, you made us, and the world and everything in it.
All the good we see comes from you.
You have always loved us but people have not always loved you.
You sent Jesus to show us how to live and to bring us back to you again.
Amen. We are alive in Jesus
He died for us on the cross so that through your Spirit
we can all be your people.
And so with thanks we praise you.
Holy, Holy, Holy Lord
God of power and might
Heaven and Earth are full of your glory
Hosanna in the Highest.
Blessed is the one that comes in the name of the Lord
Hosanna in the Highest
We are here because on the night before he died
Jesus shared a meal with his friends.
There he took some bread and gave thanks to you, God.
He broke it into pieces, and gave it to them.
“This is my body,” he said.
“Do this, and know that I am with you.”
Amen. We are alive in Jesus
Later, he took a cup of wine and gave thanks to you.
He shared it with them, and said
“This is my blood, which brings new life.
Do this, and know that I am with you.”
Amen. We are alive in Jesus
And so, remembering Jesus who died,
was raised to new life by you, and is alive forever,
we are glad to share that life and live in him.
Amen. We are alive in Jesus
Send your Holy Spirit
so that this bread and wine
can be for us the body and blood of Jesus,
and through this food give us strength to live as your people
Amen. We are alive in Jesus
Help us to care for your world and for each other
in the way that Jesus showed us.
Until he comes again with all your people
in every time and every land
we worship you and say:
We praise you.
We thank you.
We bless you. Amen
The Lord’s Prayer
Breaking of the Bread
The bread we break is a sharing of the body of Christ
We who are many are one body, for we all share the one bread
The Invitation
Bread and wine, the gifts of God for the people of God
May we who share these gifts be found in Christ and Christ in us
The Communion
We are here because on the night before he died
Jesus shared a meal with his friends.
There he took some bread and gave thanks to you, God.
He broke it into pieces, and gave it to them.
“This is my body,” he said.
“Do this, and know that I am with you.”
Amen. We are alive in Jesus
Later, he took a cup of wine and gave thanks to you.
He shared it with them, and said
“This is my blood, which brings new life.
Do this, and know that I am with you.”
Amen. We are alive in Jesus
And so, remembering Jesus who died,
was raised to new life by you, and is alive forever,
we are glad to share that life and live in him.
Amen. We are alive in Jesus
Send your Holy Spirit
so that this bread and wine
can be for us the body and blood of Jesus,
and through this food give us strength to live as your people
Amen. We are alive in Jesus
Help us to care for your world and for each other
in the way that Jesus showed us.
Until he comes again with all your people
in every time and every land
we worship you and say:
We praise you.
We thank you.
We bless you. Amen
Anglican Eucharistic Liturgies 1985-2010 (Colin Buchanan)
Breaking of the Bread
The bread we break is a sharing of the body of Christ
We who are many are one body, for we all share the one bread
The Invitation
Bread and wine, the gifts of God for the people of God
May we who share these gifts be found in Christ and Christ in us
The Communion
It Came Upon a Midnight Clear – Arranged by Jim Brickman
Prayer after Communion together
Thank you,
Scandalous God,
For giving yourself to the world,
Not in the powerful and extraordinary,
But in weakness and the familiar:
In a baby; in bread and wine.
Thank you
For offering, at journey’s end, a new beginning;
For setting, in the poverty of a stable,
The richest jewel of your love;
For revealing, in a particular place,
Your light for all nations.
Thank you
For bringing us to Bethlehem, House of Bread,
Where the empty are filled,
And the filled are emptied;
Where the poor find riches,
And the rich recognize their poverty;
Where all who kneel and hold out their hands
Are unstintingly fed.
Closing Hymn Joy to the World
Joy to the world! The Lord is come:
Let earth receive her King;
Let every heart prepare him room
And heaven and nature sing,
And heaven and nature sing,
And heaven and heaven and nature sing.
Joy to the earth! The Saviour reigns:
Let us glad songs employ,
While fields and floods,
Rocks, hills and plains
Repeat the sounding joy,
Repeat the sounding joy,
Repeat, repeat the sounding joy.
He rules the world with truth and grace,
And makes the nations prove
The glories of his righteousness
And wonders of his love,
And wonders of his love,
And wonders, wonders of his love.
The Blessing
May the God of the angels, who heralded Christ's birth, bring joy to your hearts this day and always.
May the God of love, who gave his only Son to be born for you, fill your life with love and peace.
May Emmanuel, God with us, be with you in all your doings and all your celebrations, until he brings you into his eternal kingdom.
And may almighty God, Creator, Redeemer and Sustainer, bless you and all whom you love this night and forevermore. Amen.
Dismissal
The Word has become flesh and dwells among us. Let Christ’s light shine in the darkest corner of your life.
Let Christ’s light shine in the darkest corners of our world. God is with us. Alleluia. Amen
Post Lude Mary's Boy Child
Closing Hymn Joy to the World
Joy to the world! The Lord is come:
Let earth receive her King;
Let every heart prepare him room
And heaven and nature sing,
And heaven and nature sing,
And heaven and heaven and nature sing.
Joy to the earth! The Saviour reigns:
Let us glad songs employ,
While fields and floods,
Rocks, hills and plains
Repeat the sounding joy,
Repeat the sounding joy,
Repeat, repeat the sounding joy.
He rules the world with truth and grace,
And makes the nations prove
The glories of his righteousness
And wonders of his love,
And wonders of his love,
And wonders, wonders of his love.
The Blessing
May the God of the angels, who heralded Christ's birth, bring joy to your hearts this day and always.
May the God of love, who gave his only Son to be born for you, fill your life with love and peace.
May Emmanuel, God with us, be with you in all your doings and all your celebrations, until he brings you into his eternal kingdom.
And may almighty God, Creator, Redeemer and Sustainer, bless you and all whom you love this night and forevermore. Amen.
Dismissal
The Word has become flesh and dwells among us. Let Christ’s light shine in the darkest corner of your life.
Let Christ’s light shine in the darkest corners of our world. God is with us. Alleluia. Amen
Post Lude Mary's Boy Child
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