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Presider’s Page for 4 Advent (22 December)

Opening Comment (for the Presider)

The Season of Advent ends on Tuesday, so the celebration of the birth of Christ is now very close. We gather in preparation for that great event, worshipping God who was made flesh to bring us to glory. Penitential Rite: As we prepare ourselves to celebrate God’s immense love for us, let reflect on how ready we are to celebrate this great feast (pause) Lord Jesus, you came to gather the nations into the peace of God’s kingdom … You come in word and sacrament to strengthen us in holiness …You will come in glory with salvation: Lord, have mercy.

 

Introduction to the Scripture Readings (for Ministers of the Word)

Isaiah 7:10-16 Contains Isaiah’s prophecy of the events we celebrate at Christmas — words repeated in today’s Gospel.

Romans 1:1-7 Paul begins his letter to the Romans by summing up the message of Advent and Christmas.

Matthew 1:18-24 Matthew recalls some events that happened before the birth of Jesus.

 

BIDDING PRAYERS

Introduction (by the Presider) Let us bring our prayers to the Lord, the King of Glory.

  1. For all who follow Christ,that they may make their hearts ready for Christmas (pause for silent prayer). Lord, hear us.
  2. For parents who look forward to the birth of their offspring, as Joseph and Mary did, that they may have a safe delivery and the gift of a healthy child (pause for silent prayer). Lord, hear us.
  3. For the families of Syria and the Philippines, that this Christmas they may enjoy God’s comforting and healing love (pause for quiet prayer). Lord, hear us.
  4. For our relatives and friends travelling home, that they may travel safely, and find rest and refreshment here (pause for silent prayer). Lord, hear us.
  5. For people who dread Christmas because of bereavement or loneliness, that our support may help them (pause for silent prayer) Lord, hear us.
  6. For our parishioners who are sick or in hospital, that God may be close to them (pause for quiet prayer). Lord, hear us.

 The presider prayes for those who have gone before us in faith (especially N and N), “that they may share in Christ’s resurrection from the dead” (pause for silent prayer). Lord, hear us.

Conclusion (by the Presider) O God, yours is the earth and its fullness, bless your people by hearing the prayers we make, through Christ our Lord. Amen.

SONGS AT MASS (for Ministers of Music) O Come, O Come, Emmanuel; Magnificat; Maranatha.

 

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