December 23

An angel of the Lord appeared and said: “Do not be afraid; for see—I am
bringing you good news of great joy for all the people: 11 to you is born this day in the city of David a Savior, who is the Messiah, [a] the Lord. 12 This will be a sign for you: you will find a child wrapped in bands of cloth and lying in a manger.” 13 And suddenly there was with the angel a multitude of the heavenly host, [b] praising God and saying, 14 “Glory to God in the highest heaven, and on earth peace among those whom he favors!”

Listen:

Hark the Herald Angels Sing performed by St. Mary’s Choir

Watch:

Pray

Pray for those who feel afraid at the moment. May they feel comfort and protection.

With the shepherds of Bethlehem
help us, oh Lord, to stand in vigil on the eve of your Coming,
to run with haste to meet you,
to see your face in the faces of others
and to wake from our sleep as a new world is being born.
With the angels of Bethlehem help us,
oh Lord, to tell the whole world of your presence
God is with us!
Let us create peace amongst people
and work for justice amongst nations.
With Jesus, the infant Christ
help us, oh Lord,
to cherish the hope that is born at Advent,
to hear the calling of your people,
to nurture the seeds of your Kingdom
and through our actions to be messengers of your love
in building communities of service and prayer.
Amen.
This prayer was sent by Miguel Alonzo Macias from Honduras for CAFOD