Christmas Carol Service Prayer

Introduction

We gather together today to hear with joy the message brought by angels. We shall journey in heart and mind to Bethlehem, to reflect on the nativity of our Saviour, and to bow in adoration and humility before the throne of God.

We shall do this through song, and through listening to the holy word of God; and as we lift up our hearts in praise, we shall also pray: for peace on earth, for fellowship among those created in the image of God, for care for the poor and needy, for the unity of the Church, and for ourselves.

Let us pray:

Collect

O God, who fills us with joy at the yearly remembrance of the birth of your only Son, Jesus Christ, give us ever thankful hearts for the holy child destined to be the Saviour of the world, and sustain us in the hope which will be fulfilled in your eternal kingdom.
Amen.

Prayers (set 1)

Heavenly Father, our hearts are full of praise for the Christ child. His lowly cradle on earth was down at the level of poor and humble people like the shepherds who knelt before him.
God of love
Hear our prayer.

We also bow in adoration and worship before you, for your great love has come among us in the precious gift of your Son.
God of love
Hear our prayer.

We pray that the peace that Jesus came to bring may descend on human hearts, quenching anger and dissolving hate.
God of love
Hear our prayer.

Through Jesus Christ you have blessed all human beings. May we recognise your image in others, and care for all your children.
God of love
Hear our prayer.

Jesus is the first of many brothers and sisters. You have called us to be members of his family; help us to live in harmony together and to help each other.
God of love
Hear our prayer.

May the hope that Jesus brought into the world be seen in our hearts, our words and our actions, for his sake.
Amen.

Prayers (set 2)

Heavenly Father, we thank you for the gift of Jesus Christ, born into our world. As we look forward to giving and receiving gifts, we thank you for all the good things we enjoy.
God of love
hear our prayer.

We pray for people who are not looking forward to Christmas, because they are cold or hungry, or are on their own. May they receive the things they need, and find friendship and care.
God of love
hear our prayer.

As we celebrate the wonderful birth of Jesus our Saviour, which shows us your great love, we thank you for the joy of human birth. Protect and strengthen all babies and those who care for them.
God of love
hear our prayer.

We pray for our families and friends: for those travelling to celebrate Christmas, and for all our loved ones. May we share with each other in happiness and peace.
God of love
hear our prayer.

Prayers (set 3)

Lord God, Mary was willing to be the mother of Jesus; we pray for our families, and for all entrusted with the care of children: that they may know love and care.
Lord, hear your people
and answer our prayers.

Jesus was born in a stable, a temporary home; we pray for refugees and all who are homeless today, that they may find a place where they can rest.
Lord, hear your people
and answer our prayers.

The shepherds came to worship Jesus; we pray for all who do not know you, and for those who are unhappy or unwell, that they may come close and be glad in your presence.
Lord, hear your people
and answer our prayers.

The angels filled the sky with praise because of Jesus; may our lives be lit up with joy at the good news of the gift of Jesus Christ to all the world, today and always.
Lord, hear your people
and answer our prayers.

Blessing

May God, who in Jesus Christ united earth and heaven, grant you his peace in your hearts, the joy of his Holy Spirit, and the love which knows no end; and the blessing ...