Readings (Click the links to see the readings)

Zephaniah 3:14-20 | Song of Isaiah (APBA, p. 391) | Philippians 4:4-7 | Luke 3:7-18

Adult Advent Announcement
by David A. Redding

O Lord,
Let Advent begin again
In us,
Not merely in commercials;
For that first Christmas was not
Simply for children,
But for the
Wise and the strong.
It was
Crowded around that cradle,
With kings kneeling.
Speak to us
Who seek an adult seat this year.
Help us to realize,
As we fill stockings,
Christmas is mainly
For the old folks—
Bent backs
And tired eyes
Need relief and light
A little more.
No wonder
It was grown-ups
Who were the first
To notice
Such a star.
—From If I Could Pray Again (1965)

Prayer

Blessèd are you, Sovereign God of all,
to you be glory and praise for ever!
From the rising of the sun to its setting
your glory is proclaimed in all the world.
You gave the Christ as a light to the nations,
and through the anointing of his Spirit
you established us as a royal priesthood.
As you call us into his marvellous light,
may our lives bear witness to your truth
and our lips never cease to proclaim your praise,
Father, Son and Holy Spirit:
Blessèd be God for ever!
— Celebrating common prayer.

"Because Christmas is almost here … Gaudete."

Andy Warhol. Untitled (Nativity).

Advent Glad Song (Zephaniah 3:14) from Living Spirit composed and conducted by Sr Suzanne Toolan RSM. Mercy Burlingame Chorale Choir, 2008.