A Christmas Prayer, 2025

Having spoken with some for whom the Christmas story is almost an irrelevance, totally unconnected with the realities they face in their lives, as authentic as a favourite Christmas film, I have tried to look at the story of Jesus' birth in a fresh way, to see what connections may be in Jesus' story which resonates with ours.

I believe that part of the wonder of what we celebrate is the very real sense that God indeed comes into the reality of the lives we and others are living, as testified to by the photo above in which Mary and her precious child stand serene amidst the rubble and debris of destruction and offer you the following prayer which celebrates that connection and offers us a way of praying what was experienced 2,000 years ago in to the experiences many are having today.

With blessings and best wishes for an enjoyable Christmas and a marvellous new year.

Father Jeff                                      

CHRISTMAS PRAYER 2025

As we ponder Jesus' birth in Bethlehem, we think of children the world over and pray for their wellbeing.

As we remember the vulnerability of Mary, we pray for all women and girls who are exploited and abused.

As we think of Mary and Joseph, we pray for all soon to become parents and those struggling with parenthood.

As we recall their need to flee to another country to escape Herod's hatred, we pray for all those fleeing persecution.

As we remember the suffering endured by many due to Herod's orders, we pray God's protection of the innocent.

As we think about the political oppression experienced then, so we pray for all in areas of warfare and ethnic cleansing.

As we read of shepherds out in the fields tending their sheep, we pray for all who tend and nurture others and keep them safe.

As we remember the innkeepers of Bethlehem at census time, we pray for all those in the hospitality sector this Christmastide.

As we recall Mary giving birth outside an inn, so we give thanks for our own hospitals and health care services and pray for those who work in them.

The Magi remind us of those of other faith traditions and communities from our own, asking that we may celebrate all we have in common in respect and gratitude for the gift of life.

As we remember wise men from the east, so we pray for wise men and women in the east, west, south, north of our world, that they may help lead us forward in the new year and give us the vision of a kinder, more compassionate and cohesive world community.

As we remember the wise men's awe in looking at the night sky, seeking guidance and inspiration, so we give thanks for the beauty of creation and ask that we may learn to be better stewards of all that has been entrusted to us.

And may the joy of the angels, the eagerness of the shepherds, the perseverance of the wise men, the trust of Mary and Joseph, and the peace of the Christ Child be with us and those for whom we pray, this Christmas and throughout the coming year.

AMEN.