What has come into being in him was life, and the life was the light of all people. The light shines in the darkness, and the darkness did not overcome it. … He was the true light that enlightens everyone coming into the world" (John 1.3-5,9). Indian soldiers light candles to celebrate Diwali, placing them on the India-Bangladesh border fence near the city of Siliguri, 17 October 2009. (Reuters/Rupak De Chowdhuri)

The Wexford Carol. Yo-Yo Ma (Cello) and Alison Krauss (Soprano).

Let the just rejoice
Augustine of Hippo (AD 354-440)

Let the just rejoice,
for their justifier is born.
Let the sick and infirm rejoice,
For their saviour is born.
Let the captives rejoice,
For their Redeemer is born.
Let slaves rejoice,
for their Master is born.
Let free men rejoice,
For their Liberator is born.
Let All Christians rejoice,
For Jesus Christ is born.

Prayer

God of all time,
who makes all things new,
we bring before you the year now ending.
For life full and good,
for opportunities recognized and taken,
for love known and shared,
we thank You.
Where we have fallen short,
forgive us.
When we worry over what is past,
free us.
As we begin again
and take our first few steps into the future,
where nothing is safe and certain,
except you,
we ask for the courage of the wise men
who simply went and followed a star.
We ask for their wisdom,
in choosing to pursue the deepest truth,
not knowing where they would be led
In the year to come, God of all time,
be our help and company.
Hold our hands as we journey onwards
and may your dream of shalom,
where all will be at Peace,
be our guiding star.
—Francis Brienen