christmas 2011
Father, at this holy time your Son our Saviour
was born as a child among us.
Renew your Church as the Body of Christ.
Holy God
hear our prayer.
At this holy time there was no room for your Son
in the inn.
Protect with your love those who have no home
and all who live in poverty.
Holy God
hear our prayer.
At this holy time Mary, in the pain of labour,
brought your Son to birth.
Hold in your hand all who are in pain or distress.
Holy God
hear our prayer.
At this holy time you Christ came
as a light shining in the darkness.
Bring comfort to all who suffer
in the sadness of our world.
Holy God
hear our prayer.
At this holy time the angels sang
“Peace to God’s people on earth”.
Strengthen those who work for peace and justice
in all the world.
Holy God
hear our prayer.
At this holy time shepherds in the field heard
Good tidings of joy.
Give us grace to preach the gospel of Christ’s redemption.
Holy God
hear our prayer.
At this holy time heaven is come down to earth,
and earth is raised to heaven.
Keep in safety all those who have
passed through death in the hope of heaven.
Holy God
hear our prayer.
At this holy time Christians the world over
celebrate his birth.
Open our hearts that he may be born in us today.
Holy God
hear our prayer.
Father,
at this holy time angels and shepherds worshipped at
the manger throne.
Receive the worship we offer in fellowship with Mary,
Joseph and the saints
through him who is your Word made flesh,
our Saviour Jesus Christ.
Amen.