A.D. 1952 December 25
The Nativity of Our Lord Jesus Christ (Christmas Day)
unknown Indian artist, Nativity, c. 1720–c. 1725, National Museum of India, New Delhi.
Collects
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.
or
O God, you have caused this holy night to shine with the brightness of the true Light: Grant that we, who have known the mystery of that Light on earth, may also enjoy him perfectly in heaven; where with you and the Holy Spirit he lives and reigns, one God, in glory everlasting. Amen.
or
Almighty God, you have given your only-begotten Son to take our nature upon him, and to be born [this day] of a pure virgin: Grant that we, who have been born again and made your children by adoption and grace, may daily be renewed by your Holy Spirit; through our Lord Jesus Christ, to whom with you and the same Spirit be honor and glory, now and for ever. Amen.
Lessons
Revised Common Lectionary — Year C
I
II
III
Daily Office Lectionary — Year One
Morning Prayer
Evening Prayer
- Psalm 110; 132 or 110:1–5; 132
- Micah 4:1–5; 5:2–4 (optional)
- John 3:31–36
1979 Lectionary — Year C
I
II
III
Prefaces
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.
Liturgical Colors
White or Gold