Issuu

St Lucy Parish Church Diocese of Barbados Nestfield, St. Lucy

CHRISTMAS EVE – YEAR A 24th December 2025 Rector: The Rev’d Hugh Sandiford Deacon: The Rev’d Sharon King Seminarians: Mr. Asteir Dean Mr. Shaquan Thomas Church Wardens: Justice Anthony Blackman Mr. William Yearwood Organist: Mr. Matthew Banfield Sexton: Mr. Noverton Gibson Our Vision: To be an authentic community where all are accepted, loved and disciples are formed! CONTACT US:

Telephone/Whatsapp: 572-5336/230-9405 Email: stlucychurch1627@yahoo.com A Address: Nesfield, Saint Lucy, Barbados

ORDER OF SERVICE CAROL SINGING HYMN: 88 - The first Nowell the angel did say 1

The first Nowell the angel did say Was to certain poor shepherds in fields as they lay; In fields as they lay, keeping their sheep, On a cold winter's night that was so deep. Refrain Nowell, Nowell, Nowell, Nowell, Born is the King of Israel.

They looked up and saw a star Shining in the east, beyond them far; And to the earth it gave great light, And so it continued both day and night. Refrain

And by the light of that same star Three Wise Men came from country far; To seek for a king was their intent, And to follow the star wherever it went. Refrain

This star drew nigh to the northwest, O'er Bethlehem it took its rest; And there it did both stop and stay, Right over the place where Jesus lay. Refrain

Then entered in those Wise Men three, Full reverently upon the knee, And offered there, in his presence, Gold and myrrh, and frankincense. Refrain

Then let us all with one accord Sing praise to our heavenly Lord; That hath made heaven and earth of nought, And with His blood our life hath bought. Refrain

HYMN: 70 - It came upon the midnight clear 1

It came upon the midnight clear, that glorious song of old, from angels bending near the earth to touch their harps of gold: ‘Peace on the earth, good will to men, from heaven’s all-glorious King!’ the world is solemn stillness lay to hear the angels sing.

Still through the cloven skies they come, with peaceful wings unfurled; and s till their heavenly music floats o’er all the weary world: above its sad and lowly plains they bend on hovering wing; and ever o’er its Babel-sounds the blessèd angels sing.

Yet with the woes of sin and strife the world has suffered long; beneath the angel-strain have rolled two thousand years of wrong; and man, at war with man, hears not the love-song which they bring: O hush the noise, ye men of strife, and hear the angels sing.

*And ye, beneath life’s crushing load, whose forms are bending low, who toil along the climbing way with painful steps and slow, look, now! For glad and golden hours come swiftly on the wing; O rest beside the weary road, and hear the angels sing.

For lo, the days are hastening on, by prophet-bards foretold, when, with the ever-circling years, comes round the age of gold; when peace shall over all the earth its ancient splendours fling, and the whole world give back the song which now the angels sing.

HYMN: 749 MP - What Child is This 1

What Child is this who, laid to rest, On Mary's lap is sleeping? Whom angels greet with anthems sweet, While shepherds watch are keeping? This, this is Christ, the King, Whom shepherds guard and angels sing: Haste, haste to bring Him laud, The Babe, the Son of Mary!

Why lies He in such mean estate, Where ox and ass are feeding? Good Christian, fear: for sinners here The silent Word is pleading Nails, spear shall pierce Him through, The cross be borne for me, for you. Hail, hail the Word made flesh, The Babe, the Son of Mary.

So bring Him incense, gold and myrrh, Come peasant, king to own Him. The King of kings salvation brings; Let loving hearts enthrone Him. Raise, raise a song on high, The virgin sings her lullaby. Joy, joy for Christ is born, The Babe, the Son of Mary.

HYMN: God rest you merry gentlemen 1

God rest you merry, gentlemen, let nothing you dismay, remember Christ our Saviour was born on Christmas Day to save us all from Satan's pow'r when we were gone astray. Refrain: O tidings of comfort and joy, comfort and joy; O tidings of comfort and joy.

From God our heav'nly Father a blessed angel came and unto certain shepherds brought tidings of the same; how that in Bethlehem was born the Son of God by name. Refrain

"Fear not," then said the angel, "Let nothing you affright; this day is born a Saviour of a pure virgin bright, to free all those who trust in Him from Satan's pow'r and might." Refrain

The shepherds at those tidings rejoiced much in mind, and left their flocks afeeding, in tempest, storm, and wind, and went to Bethlehem straightway, this blessed Babe to find. Refrain

Now to the Lord sing praises all you within this place, and with true love and brotherhood each other now embrace; this holy tide of Christmas all other doth deface. Refrain

HYMN: Silent night, holy night 1

Silent night, holy night, all is calm, all is bright round yon virgin mother and child. Holy infant, so tender and mild, sleep in heavenly peace, sleep in heavenly peace.

Silent night, holy night, shepherds quake at the sight; glories stream from heaven afar, heavenly hosts sing Alleluia! Christ the Saviour is born, Christ the Saviour is born!

Silent night, holy night, Son of God, love's pure light; radiant beams from Thy holy face with the dawn of redeeming grace, Jesus, Lord, at thy birth, Jesus, Lord, at thy birth.

ENTRANCE HYMN: 665 - Once in royal David’s city 1

Once in royal David’s city stood a lowly cattle shed, where a mother laid her baby in a manger for his bed: Mary was that Mother mild, Jesus Christ her little Child.

He came down to earth from heaven who is God and Lord of all, and his shelter was a stable, and his cradle was a stall; with the poor, and mean, and lowly lived on earth our Saviour holy.

(vs 1 & 2)

LIGHTING OF THE LAST CANDLE Christmas Day The Last Candle – The Birth of Christ Leader: Light and peace, in Jesus Christ our Lord All: Thanks be to God Leader: Today is Christmas Day, in which we recall the hope we have in Christ. Today we light again the candles of hope, peace, love and joy. (Each candle will be lit as the reader speaks) First Candle We speak of hope - because God keeps his promises to us. Second Candle We work for peace - because Jesus is the ‘Prince of Peace’ and he calls his children to work for peace in his name. Third Candle We share joy - because the Holy Spirit fills our hearts and minds with the presence the God. Fourth Candle We show love - because Jesus gave everything for us and led us to know the forgiveness of God.

Last Candle (Christmas Day) Now we light our last candle to remember the birth of our Lord and Saviour Jesus Christ. As the prophets promised so long ago, you have come to us once again; and with the shepherds, we are filled with wonder and amazement. (The white Christ candle is lit now) Lord, you come as a tiny, fragile baby; yet we know that you are God and you are with us. May the flame of this candle remind us that you are the light of the world and that if we follow you, we will never walk in darkness but will have the true light of life. All: Come, Lord Jesus, come. Amen. BLESSING OF THE CHRISTMAS CRECHE O great mystery, and wonderful sacrament, that animals should see the new-born Lord, lying in a manger! Blessed is the Virgin whose womb was worthy to bear Christ the Lord. Alleluia! V. The Word was made flesh R. And dwelt among us. President: Let us pray. Almighty God, who in the Incarnation of your Son has revealed to us the holiness of creation, be pleased to bless Blessing of a Crèche and hallow this image of his sacred birth, so that those who gaze upon it may behold this mystery, whereby humanity shares in your very nature; through Christ our Lord. Amen. PROCESSIONAL HYMNS: 61, 81 PRESIDENT: The Lord be with you ALL: And also with you.

PRESIDENT: Let us proceed in peace ALL: In the name of Christ, our Lord. HYMN: 61 - Christians, awake! Salute the happy morn 1

Christians, awake! Salute the happy morn, whereon the Saviour of the world was born; rise to adore the mystery of love, which hosts of angels chanted from above: with them the joyful tidings first begun of God Incarnate and the Virgin’s Son.

Then to the watchful shepherds it was told, who heard the angelic herald’s voice, 'Behold, I bring good tidings of a Saviour’s birth to you and all the nations upon earth: this day hath God fulfilled his promised word, this day is born a Saviour, Christ the Lord.'

He spake; and straightway the celestial choir in hymns of joy, unknown before, conspire; the praises of redeeming love they sang, and heaven’s whole orb with alleluias rang: God’s highest glory was their anthem still, peace upon earth, and unto men good will.

To Bethlehem straight the enlightened shepherds ran, to see the wonder God had wrought for man, and found, with Joseph and the blessèd Maid, her Son, the Saviour, in a manger laid: then to their flocks, still praising God, return, and their glad hearts with holy rapture burn.

O may we keep and ponder in our mind God’s wondrous love in saving lost mankind; trace we the Babe, who hath retrieved our loss, from his poor manger to his bitter cross; tread in his steps, assisted by his grace, till man’s first heavenly state again takes place.

Then may we hope, the angelic hosts among, to sing, redeemed, a glad triumphal song: he that was born upon this joyful day around us all his glory shall display; saved by his love, incessant we shall sing eternal praise to heaven’s almighty King.

HYMN: 81 - O come, Redeemer of mankind, appear 1

O come, Redeemer of mankind, appear, thee with full hearts the Virgin-born we greet; let every age with rapt amazement hear that wondrous birth which for our God is meet.

Not by the will of man, or mortal seed, but by the Spirit’s breathed mysterious grace the Word of God became our flesh indeed, and grew a tender plant of human race.

Lo! Mary’s virgin womb its burthen bears; nor less abides her virgin purity; in the King’s glory see our nature shares; here in his temple God vouchsafes to be.

From His bright chamber, virtue’s holy shrine, the royal Bridegroom cometh to the day; of twofold substance, human and divine, as giant swift, rejoicing on his way.

Forth from His Father to the world he goes, back to the Father’s face his way regains, far down to souls beneath his glory shows, again at God’s right hand victorious reigns.

With the Eternal Father equal, thou girt with our flesh dost triumph evermore, strengthening our feeble bodies here below with endless grace from thine own living store.

How doth thy lowly manger radiant shine! On the sweet breath of night new splendour grows; so may our spirits glow with faith Divine, where no dark cloud of sin shall interpose.

All praise and glory to the Father be, all praise and glory to his only son, all praise and glory, Holy Ghost, to thee, both now, and while eternal ages run.

INTROIT HYMN: 79 - O Christ, Redeemer of our race 1

O Christ, Redeemer of our race, thou brightness of the Father's face, of him, and with him ever one, ere times and seasons had begun.

Thou art that very Light of Light, unfailing hope in sin's dark night, hear thou the prayers thy people pray, the wide world o'er, this blessed day.

Remember, Lord of life and grace, how once, to save a ruined race, thou didst our very flesh assume In Mary's undefiled womb.

To-day, as year by year its light sheds o'er the world a radiance bright, one precious truth is echoed on, "'tis thou hast saved us, thou alone."

Thou from the Father's throne didst come to call his banished children home; and heav'n, and earth, and sea, and shore his love who sent thee here adore.

And gladsome too are we to-day, whose guilt thy blood has washed away; redeemed the new-made song we sing; it is the birthday of our King.

O Lord, the virgin-born, to thee eternal praise and glory be, whom with the Father we adore and Holy Ghost forevermore.

SALUTATION PRESIDENT: Good morning, brothers and sisters in Christ. A warm welcome to the First Mass of Christmas. Today, we celebrate The Nativity of our Lord, and our collect can be found on page 158. The Eucharist continues on page 97. OPENING SENTENCE: PRESIDENT: But when the fullness of time was come, God sent His son, born of a woman, born under the law, so that we might become His children. Alleluia. Galatians 4:4-5 VERSICLE & RESPONSE (BCP Page 101) PRESIDENT: Blessed be God: Father, Son and Holy Spirit. Alleluia. Alleluia. ALL: And blessed be His Kingdom, now and forever. Amen. Alleluia. Alleluia. ALL: Blessed Lord and Father, we have assembled in your name and in fellowship with one another. Enable us by your grace to offer the sacrifice of praise and thanksgiving; to proclaim and respond to your holy word. Teach us to pray for your world and your Church. Grant that we, confessing our sins, may worthily offer to you our souls and bodies as a living sacrifice and eat and drink of your spiritual food in this Holy Sacrament. Amen.

COLLECT FOR PURITY (BCP Page 101) ALL: Almighty God, to you all hearts are open, all desires known, and from you no secrets are hid: cleanse the thoughts of our hearts by the inspiration of your Holy Spirit, that we may perfectly love you, and worthily magnify your Holy Name, through Christ our Lord. Amen. THE KYRIE (BCP Page 102) Lord, have mercy. Lord, have mercy. Christ, have mercy. Christ, have mercy. Lord, have mercy. Lord, have mercy. GLORIA IN EXCELSIS

(BCP Page 102)

Glory to God in the highest, and peace to His people on earth. Lord God, heavenly King, almighty God and Father, we worship you, we give you thanks, we praise you for your glory. Lord Jesus Christ, only Son of the Father, Lord God, Lamb of God, you take away the sin of the world: have mercy on us; you are seated at the right hand of the Father: receive our prayer. For you alone are the Holy One; you alone are the Lord: you alone are the Most High, Jesus Christ, with the Holy Spirit, in the glory of God the Father. Amen. COLLECT

PRESIDENT: The Lord be with you! ALL: And also with you! PRESIDENT: Let us pray. Christmas Eve (vigil)

(BCP page 158)

O God, you make us glad by the yearly festival of the birth of your only Son Jesus Christ: Grant that we, who joyfully receive him as our Redeemer, may with sure confidence behold him when he comes to be our Judge; who lives and reigns with you and the Holy Spirit, one God, now and for ever. Amen. PRESIDENT: Kindly sit for the ministry of the word. FIRST LESSON: Isaiah 9:2-7

(Mrs. Agnes Armstrong-Bowen)

READER: A reading from the Word of God written in the book of the Prophet Isaiah, chapter nine beginning at the second verse. ILLUMINATION: READER: The people who walked in darkness have seen a great light; those who lived in a land of deep darkness--on them light has shined. You have multiplied the nation, you have increased its joy; they rejoice before you as with joy at the harvest, as people exult when dividing plunder. For the yoke of their burden, and the bar across their shoulders, the rod of their oppressor, you have broken as on the day of Midian. For all the boots of the tramping warriors and all the garments rolled in blood shall be burned as fuel for the fire. For a child has been born for us, a son given to us; authority rests upon his shoulders; and he is named Wonderful Counsellor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace. His authority shall grow continually, and there shall be endless peace for the throne of David and his kingdom. He will establish and uphold it with justice and with righteousness from this time onward and forevermore. The zeal of the Lord of hosts will do this. READER: The word of the Lord. ALL: Thanks be to God.

PSALM - 96 1

O sing unto the Lord a new song: sing unto the Lord, all the whole earth.

Sing unto the Lord, and praise his Name: be telling of his salvation from day to day.

Declare his honour unto the heathen: and his wonders unto all people.

For the Lord is great, and cannot worthily be praised: he is more to be feared than all gods.

As for all the gods of the heathen, they are but idols: but it is the Lord that made the heavens.

Glory and worship are before him: power and honour are in his sanctuary.

Ascribe unto the Lord, O ye kindreds of the people: ascribe unto the Lord worship and power.

Ascribe unto the Lord the honour due unto his Name: bring presents and come into his courts.

O worship the Lord in the beauty of holiness: let the whole earth stand in awe of him.

Tell it out among the heathen that the Lord is King: and that it is he who hath made the round world so fast that it cannot be moved; and how that he shall judge the people righteously.

Let the heavens rejoice, and let the earth be glad: let the sea make a noise, and all that therein is.

Let the field be joyful, and all that is in it: then shall all the trees of the wood rejoice before the Lord.

For he cometh, for he cometh to judge the earth: and with righteousness to judge the world, and the people with his truth.

Glory be to the Father, and to the Son, and to the Holy Ghost; As it was in the beginning, is now, and ever shall be, world without end. Amen. SECOND LESSON: Titus 2:11-14

(Mr. Darren Goodridge)

READER: A reading from the word of God written in the book of Titus, chapter two beginning at the eleventh verse.

ILLUMINATION: Reader: For the grace of God has appeared, bringing salvation to all, training us to renounce impiety and worldly passions, and in the present age to live lives that are self-controlled, upright, and godly, while we wait for the blessed hope and the manifestation of the glory of our great God and Saviour, Jesus Christ. He it is who gave himself for us that he might redeem us from all iniquity and purify for himself a people of his own who are zealous for good deeds. READER: The word of the Lord. ALL: Thanks be to God. GRADUAL HYMN: 91 - While shepherds watched their flocks by night (verses 1 – 4) 1 While shepherds watched their flocks by night, all seated on the ground, the angel of the Lord came down, and glory shone around. 2

‘Fear not,’ said he (for mighty dread had seized their troubled mind); ‘Glad tidings of great joy I bring to you and all mankind.

‘To you in David’s town this day is born of David’s line a Saviour, who is Christ the Lord; and this shall be the sign:

‘The heavenly Babe you there shall find to human view displayed, all meanly wrapped in swathing bands, and in a manger laid.’

The Gospel: Luke 2:1-14, [15-20] PRESIDENT: The Lord be with you. ALL: And also with you.

PRESIDENT: The Holy Gospel of our Lord Jesus Christ according to Luke, the second chapter beginning at the first verse. ALL: Glory to Christ our Saviour ILLUMINATION: PRESIDENT: In those days a decree went out from Emperor Augustus that all the world should be registered. This was the first registration and was taken while Quirinius was governor of Syria. All went to their own towns to be registered. Joseph also went from the town of Nazareth in Galilee to Judea, to the city of David called Bethlehem, because he was descended from the house and family of David. He went to be registered with Mary, to whom he was engaged and who was expecting a child. While they were there, the time came for her to deliver her child. And she gave birth to her firstborn son and wrapped him in bands of cloth, and laid him in a manger, because there was no place for them in the inn. In that region there were shepherds living in the fields, keeping watch over their flock by night. Then an angel of the Lord stood before them, and the glory of the Lord shone around them, and they were terrified. But the angel said to them, ‘Do not be afraid; for see—I am bringing you good news of great joy for all the people: to you is born this day in the city of David a Saviour, who is the Messiah, the Lord. This will be a sign for you: you will find a child wrapped in bands of cloth and lying in a manger.’ And suddenly there was with the angel a multitude of the heavenly host, praising God and saying, ‘Glory to God in the highest heaven, and on earth peace among those whom he favours!’ [When the angels had left them and gone into heaven, the shepherds said to one another, "Let us go now to Bethlehem and see this thing that has taken place, which the Lord has made known to us." So they went with haste and found Mary and Joseph, and the child lying in the manger. When they saw this, they made known what had been told them about this child; and all who heard it were amazed at what the shepherds told them. But Mary treasured all these words and pondered them in her heart. The shepherds returned, glorifying and praising God for all they had heard and seen, as it had been told them.] PRESIDENT: This is the Gospel of Christ ALL: Praise to Christ our Lord

HYMN: 91

(verses 5 - 6)

Thus spake the seraph; and forthwith appeared a shining throng of angels praising God, who thus addressed their joyful song:

‘All glory be to God on high, and to the earth be peace; good will henceforth from heaven to men begin and never cease.”

THE SERMON HYMN: 561 - We believe in God the Father 1

We believe in God the Father, God almighty, by whose plan earth and heaven sprang to being, all created things began. We believe in Christ the Saviour, Son of God in human frame, virgin-born, the child of Mary upon whom the Spirit came.

Christ, who on the cross forsaken, like a lamb to slaughter led, suffered under Pontius Pilate, he descended to the dead. we believe in Jesus risen, heaven's king to rule and reign, to the Father’s side ascended till as judge he comes again.

We believe in God the Spirit; in one church, below, above: saints of God in one communion, one in holiness and love.

So by faith, our sins forgiven, Christ our Saviour, Lord and friend, we shall rise with him in glory to the life that knows no end. PRAYERS FOR CELEBRATING THE SEASON OF CHRISTMAS (From the Church of England) Holy Jesus, by being born one of us, and lying humbly in a manger, you show how much God loves the world. Let the light of your love always shine in our hearts, until we reach our home in heaven, and see you on your throne of glory. in your mercy Hear our prayer. Lord Jesus Christ, your birth at Bethlehem draws us to kneel in wonder at heaven touching earth: accept our heartfelt praise as we worship you, our Saviour and our eternal God. in your mercy Hear our prayer. Loving Jesus, you were born in a stable but worshipped by the angels. Be with all who are lonely this Christmastide and with all who feel distant from celebrations. Be for us a living hope that lightens their hearts. in your mercy Hear our prayer. Jesus, as you healed the sick, bring healing to those in our families who are ill today.

Jesus, Lord of love, in your mercy Hear our prayer. Christ born for us, Son of God, given for us, help us to know you, to worship and to serve you. in your mercy Hear our prayer. The kings, Lord, brought myrrh, frankincense, and gold. Lord, we have nothing of our own to bring; we bring you what you have given: our lives for your life. in your mercy Hear our prayer. Jesus, Saviour, son of Mary, you know us and love us, you share our lives and hear our prayer. Glory to you for ever. in your mercy Hear our prayer. May God, who has called us out of darkness into his marvellous light, bless us and fill us with peace. Lord of the Church hear our prayer, and make us one in heart and mind to serve you with joy for ever. Amen. ACT OF PENITENCE (BCP Page 123)

PRESIDENT: If we say we have no sin, we deceive ourselves, and the truth is not in us. If we confess our sins, God is faithful and just, and will forgive our sins, and cleanse us from all un-righteousness. A period of silence shall be kept. PRESIDENT: Let us therefore confess our sins. FORM A (BCP Page 123) ALL: Almighty God, our Heavenly Father, we have sinned against you and one another, in thought, word and deed, and in what we have left undone. We are sorry and repent of all our sins. For your Son, our Lord Jesus Christ's sake, forgive us all that is past, and grant that we may serve you in newness of life to the glory of your Name. Amen. THE ABSOLUTION (BCP Page 124) PRESIDENT: Almighty God, have mercy upon you, pardon and deliver you from all your sins, confirm and strengthen you in all goodness, and keep you in life eternal; through Jesus Christ our Lord. ALL: Amen. THE GREETING OF PEACE (BCP Page 125) FORM A PRESIDENT: We are the body of Christ. By the one Spirit we were all baptized into one body. and have all been made to drink of the one Spirit. ALL: Let us then pursue the things that make for peace and build up the common life. PRESIDENT: The peace of the Lord be always with you. ALL: And also with you. PRESIDENT: Let us share that peace.

THE PEACE SONG: Mary’s Boy Child 1

Long time ago in Bethlehem So the Holy Bible say Mary's boy child Jesus Christ Was born on Christmas Day.

While Shepherds watched their flock by night They see a bright new shining star They hear a choir of angels sing The music seems to come from afar. Chorus Hark now, hear the angels sing A new King's born today And man will live for evermore Because of Christmas Day Trumpets sound and angels sing Listen to what they say That man will live for evermore Because of Christmas Day

Now Joseph and his wife Mary Come to Bethlehem that night They find no place to bear her child Not a single room was in sight.

And then they found a little nook In a stable all forlorn, and in a manger cold and dark, Mary's little boy child was born. Chorus

OFFERTORY HYMNS: 77, 60 HYMN: 77 - O come, all ye faithful 1

O come, all ye faithful, joyful and triumphant, O come ye, O come ye to Bethlehem; Come and behold him, born the King of angels:

Refrain O come, let us adore him, O come, let us adore him, O come, let us adore him, Christ the Lord. 2

God of God, Light of Light, Lo, he abhors not the virgin’s womb; Very God, begotten, not created: Refrain

Sing, choirs of angels, sing in exultation, Sing all ye citizens of heaven above: ‘Glory to God in the highest:’ Refrain

Yea, Lord, we greet thee, born this happy morning; Jesu, to thee be glory given; Word of the Father now in flesh appearing: Refrain

HYMN: 60 - Angels, from the realms of glory 1

Angels, from the realms of glory, Wing your flight o'er all the earth; Ye who sang creation's story, Now proclaim Messiah's birth: Refrain (with IRIS) Come and worship Christ the newborn King, come and worship, worship Christ the newborn King.

or Refrain (with regent square): Come and worship, come and worship, Worship Christ, the new-born King. 2

Shepherds, in the field abiding, Watching o'er your flocks by night,

God with man is now residing, Yonder shines the infant Light: Refrain 3

Sages, leave your contemplations; Brighter visions beam afar: Seek the great Desire of Nations; Ye have seen his natal star: Refrain

Saints before the altar bending, Watching long in hope and fear, Suddenly the Lord, descending, In his temple shall appear: Refrain

Though an infant now we view him, He shall fill his Father's throne, Gather all the nations to him; Every knee shall then bow down: Refrain

THE PRESENTATION OF OFFERING - FORM B (BCP Page 126) PRESIDENT AND PEOPLE Father, we offer to you these gifts which you have given us; this bread, this wine, this money. With them we offer ourselves, our lives, and our work, to become through your Holy Spirit a reasonable, holy, and lively sacrifice. As this bread and wine become the Body and Blood of Christ, so may we and all your people become channels of your love; through the same Christ our Lord. Amen. THE EUCHARISTIC PRAYERS SURSUM CORDA PRESIDENT: The Lord be with you. ALL: And also with you.

PRESIDENT: Lift up your hearts. ALL: We lift them up to the Lord. PRESIDENT: Let us give thanks to the Lord our God. ALL: It is right to give God thanks and praise. PRESIDENT: It is right, and a good and joyful thing, always and everywhere to give you thanks, Father Almighty, everlasting God: Because you gave Jesus Christ, your only Son, to be born for us; who, by the mighty power of the Holy Spirit, was made perfect Man of the flesh of the Virgin Mary his mother; so that we might be delivered from the bondage of sin, and receive power to become your children. Therefore, we praise you; joining our voices with angels and archangels and with all the company of heaven, who forever sing this hymn to proclaim the glory of your Name: ALL: Holy, holy, holy, Lord, God of power and might; heaven and earth are full of your glory. Hosanna in the highest. Blessed is he who comes in the name of the Lord. Hosanna in the highest. EUCHARISTIC PRAYER E (BCP Page 142) PRESIDENT: Sovereign Lord and Father, To you be glory and praise for ever. In your boundless wisdom you brought creation into being; In your great love you fashioned us in your image; In your tender compassion you sent your Son, Jesus Christ, our Saviour, to share our human nature; In the power of the Holy Spirit, He overcame the power of sin and death and brought your people to new birth as first fruits of your new creation. On the night that He was betrayed He took bread, and when He had given thanks to you, He broke it and gave it to his disciples and said: “Take this, and eat it: This is my Body which is given for you, Do this for the remembrance of me.”

And after supper He took the cup of wine: and when He had given thanks, He gave it to them and said: “Drink this, all of you: This is my Blood of the New Covenant, which is shed for you and for many for the forgiveness of sins. Whenever you drink it, do this for the remembrance of me.” PRESIDENT Therefore, Father, according to the command of your dearly beloved Son ALL We remember His death We proclaim His resurrection We await His coming in glory PRESIDENT And we offer you, Father, our sacrifice of thanks and praise. Send your Holy Spirit on these gifts of bread and wine that they may become the Body and Blood of your Son, Jesus, our Lord and Redeemer. As we partake of this holy food of new and unending life, may your Holy Spirit establish us as a royal priesthood with the Blessed Virgin Mary, St. Lucy and all your sons and daughters who share in your eternal inheritance; Through Jesus Christ our Lord. With Him and in Him and through Him, by the power of the Holy Spirit, we worship you, Father Almighty, with all who stand before you in earth and heaven, in songs of everlasting praise: ALL Blessing and honour and glory and power be yours for ever and ever. Amen. THE LORD’S PRAYER (BCP Page 144) PRESIDENT: As our Saviour has taught us, so we pray: ALL: Our Father in heaven, hallowed be your Name, your kingdom come, your will be done on earth as in heaven. Give us today our daily bread. Forgive us our sins as we forgive those who sin against us. Save us from the time of trial and deliver us from evil. For the kingdom, the power, and the glory are yours, now and forever. Amen. THE BREAKING OF BREAD (BCP Page 145)

God of promise, You have prepared a Banquet for us. ALL: Happy are those who are called to the supper of the Lamb. The INVITATION (BCP Page 145-146) THE AGNUS DEI (BCP Page 147) Lamb of God, you take away the sin of the world: have mercy on us. Lamb of God, you take away the sin of the world: have mercy on us. Lamb of God, you take away the sin of the world: grant us peace. DEACON: My brothers and sisters in Christ, draw near and receive His Body which He gave for you, and His Blood, which He shed for you. Remember that He died for you, and feed on Him in your hearts by faith with thanksgiving. ALL: Grant gracious Lord, that we so eat the flesh of your dear Son, Jesus Christ, and drink His blood, that we may evermore dwell in Him and He in us. Amen. THE COMMUNION COMMUNION HYMNS: 82, 64, 73, 67 HYMN: 82 - O little town of Bethlehem 1

O little town of Bethlehem, How still we see thee lie! Above thy deep and dreamless sleep The silent stars go by: Yet in thy dark streets shineth The everlasting Light; The hopes and fears of all the years Are met in thee tonight.

For Christ is born of Mary; And, gathered all above, While mortals sleep, the angels keep Their watch of wondering love. O morning stars, together Proclaim the holy birth, And praises sing to God the King, And peace to men on earth.

How silently, how silently, The wondrous gift is given! So God imparts to human hearts The blessings of his heaven. No ear may hear his coming; But in this world of sin, Where meek souls will receive him, still The dear Christ enters in.

O holy Child of Bethlehem, Descend to us, we pray; Cast out our sin, and enter in: Be born in us to-day. We hear the Christmas angels The great glad tidings tell: O come to us, abide with us, Our Lord Emmanuel.

HYMN: 64 – Glory to God! All heaven with joy is ringing 1

‘Glory to God!' all heaven with joy is ringing; angels proclaim the gospel of Christ's birth, ‘Glory to God!', and still their song is bringing good news of God incarnate here on earth.

Lowly in wonder shepherds kneel before him, no gift to bring save love of heart and mind: come like those shepherds, sing his praise, adore him, a babe so weak, yet Saviour of mankind.

Humble, yet regal, wise men kneel before him, gold, incense, myrrh, their gifts to Christ they bring: come like those wise men, sing his praise, adore him a babe so poor and modest, yet a King.

Though now no crib or cradle is concealing Jesus our Lord in that far-distant shrine, Christ at each eucharist is still revealing his very self in forms of bread and wine.

HYMN: 73 - Joy to the world 1

Joy to the world! The Lord has come; Let earth receive her King: Let every heart prepare him room, And heaven and nature sing, And heaven and nature sing, And heaven, and heaven and nature sing.

Joy to the world! The Saviour reigns: Let us our songs employ: While fields and floods, rocks, hills and plains Repeat the sounding joy, Repeat the sounding joy, Repeat, repeat the sounding joy.

No more let sins and sorrows grow, Nor thorns infest the ground: He comes to make his blessings flow Far as the curse is found, Far as the curse is found, Far as, far as the curse is found.

He rules the world with truth and grace, And makes the nations prove The glories of his righteousness And wonders of his love, And wonders of his love, And wonders, and wonders of his love.

HYMN: 67 - Good Christian friends, rejoice 1

Good Christian friends, rejoice with heart and soul and voice; give ye heed to what we say; Jesus Christ is born today; ox and ass before him bow, and he is in the manger now. Christ is born today! Christ is born today!

Good Christian friends, rejoice with heart and soul and voice; now ye hear of endless bliss; Jesus Christ was born for this! He hath opened heaven's door, and we are blessed for evermore. Christ was born for this! Christ was born for this!

Good Christian friends, rejoice with heart and soul and voice; now ye need not fear the grave: Jesus Christ was born to save! Calls you one and calls you all to gain his everlasting hall. Christ was born to save! Christ was born to save!

BLESSING: 642, 65 HYMN: 642 - Away in a manger 1

Away in a manger, no crib for a bed, The little Lord Jesus laid down his sweet head; The stars in the bright sky looked down where he lay, The little Lord Jesus, asleep on the hay.

The cattle are lowing, the baby awakes, But little Lord Jesus, no crying he makes; I love thee, Lord Jesus! Look down from the sky, And stay by my cradle till morning is nigh.

Be near me, Lord Jesus, I ask thee to stay Close by me forever, and love me, I pray; Bless all the dear children in thy tender care, And fit us for heaven to live with thee there.

HYMN: 65 - Go tell it on the mountain Refrain: Go tell it on the mountain, over the hills and everywhere; Ago tell it on the mountain, that Jesus Christ is born! 1

While shepherds kept their watching o'er silent flocks by night, behold, throughout the heavens there shone a holy light. Refrain

The shepherds feared and trembled when lo! above the earth rang out the angel chorus that hailed our Saviour’s birth. Refrain

Down in a lowly manger the humble Christ was born, and God sent us salvation that blessèd Christmas morn. Refrain

THE DISMISSAL

POST COMMUNION PRAYER

(BCP Page 148)

ALL: Eternal God and Heavenly Father, we thank you for feeding us with the Body and Blood of your Son Jesus Christ. Send us now into the world in peace, and grant us strength and courage to love and serve you, and all persons in you, with gladness and singleness of heart, through your Son Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen. BLESSING: PRESIDENT: Christ the Son of God, born of Mary, fill you with His grace to trust His promises and obey His will; and the blessing of God Almighty, the Father, the Son and the Holy Spirit be among you and remain with you always. ALL:

Amen.

PRESIDENT: Kindly be seated for the Notices NOTICES & HIGHLIGHTS RECESSIONAL HYMN: 68 - Hark the herald angels sing 1

Hark! The herald-angels sing Glory to the new-born King, Peace on earth, and mercy mild, God and sinners reconciled. Joyful, all ye nations, rise, Join the triumph of the skies; With the angelic host proclaim, “Christ is born in Bethlehem.” Hark! The herald-angels sing Glory to the new-born King.

Christ, by highest heaven adored, Christ, the everlasting Lord, Late in time behold him come, Offspring of a Virgin’s womb.

Veiled in flesh the Godhead see! Hail, the incarnate Deity! Pleased as Man with man to dwell, Jesus, our Emmanuel. Hark! The herald-angels sing Glory to the new-born King. 3

Hail, the heaven-born Prince of Peace! Hail, the Sun of Righteousness! Light and life to all he brings, Risen with healing in his wings. Mild he lays his glory by, Born that man no more may die, Born to raise the sons of earth, Born to give them second birth. Hark! The herald-angels sing Glory to the new-born King.

CLOSING PRAYERS PRESIDENT: Go in peace and serve the Lord. ALL: In the name of Christ. Amen.

BENEDICTION: We wish you a Merry Christmas We wish you a merry Christmas We wish you a merry Christmas We wish you a merry Christmas And a Happy New Year! Good tidings we bring to you and your kin We wish you a merry Christmas and a Happy New Year!

ANNOUNCEMENTS & NOTICES Greetings and Welcome We greet you warmly today to our Eucharistic worship. We now invite or visitors to share your name and church community with us. Thank you for worshipping with us today. Events in our Parish Liturgies for the Christmas Season (see flyer): • 1st Sunday after Christmas • Old Years Night

December 28th December 31st

8:00 a.m. 11:00 p.m

Events of our Lives Birthdays Congratulations to all persons celebrating birthdays this week. As their days increase, God’s richest blessing on them. Anniversaries Congratulations to all persons celebrating anniversaries this week. Bereavement May all persons who have died rest in peace and rise in glory. Sick & Shut-Ins/Prayer Request Please remember the sick or injured in our parish and the wider community.

Liturgies for the Season