Year B: Advent
1st Sunday of Advent, November 27th
Isaiah 64:1-9
Psalm 80:1-7, 16-181 Corinthians 1:3-9
Mark 13:24-37
Almighty God, give us grace to cast away the works of darkness, and put on the armor of light, now in the time of this mortal life in which your Son Jesus Christ came to visit us in great humility; that in the last day, when he shall come again in his glorious majesty to judge both the living and the dead, we may rise to the life immortal; through him who lives and reigns with you and the Holy Spirit, one God, now and for ever. Amen.
Isaiah 64:1-9O that you would tear open the heavens and come down,so that the mountains would quake at your presence--as when fire kindles brushwoodand the fire causes water to boil--to make your name known to your adversaries,so that the nations might tremble at your presence!When you did awesome deeds that we did not expect,you came down, the mountains quaked at your presence.From ages past no one has heard,no ear has perceived,no eye has seen any God besides you,who works for those who wait for him.You meet those who gladly do right,those who remember you in your ways.But you were angry, and we sinned;because you hid yourself we transgressed.We have all become like one who is unclean,and all our righteous deeds are like a filthy cloth.We all fade like a leaf,and our iniquities, like the wind, take us away.There is no one who calls on your name,or attempts to take hold of you;for you have hidden your face from us,and have delivered us into the hand of our iniquity.Yet, O LORD, you are our Father;we are the clay, and you are our potter;we are all the work of your hand.Do not be exceedingly angry, O LORD,and do not remember iniquity forever.Now consider, we are all your people.
Psalm 80:1-7, 16-18 Page 702, BCPQui regis Israel
1Hear, O Shepherd of Israel, leading Joseph like a flock; *
shine forth, you that are enthroned upon the cherubim.
2In the presence of Ephraim, Benjamin, and Manasseh, *
stir up your strength and come to help us.
3Restore us, O God of hosts; *
show the light of your countenance, and we shall be saved.
4O LORD God of hosts, *
how long will you be angered despite the prayers of your people?
5You have fed them with the bread of tears; *
you have given them bowls of tears to drink.
6You have made us the derision of our neighbors, *
and our enemies laugh us to scorn.
7Restore us, O God of hosts; *
show the light of your countenance, and we shall be saved.
16Let your hand be upon the man of your right hand, *
the son of man you have made so strong for yourself.
17And so will we never turn away from you; *
give us life, that we may call upon your Name.
18Restore us, O LORD God of hosts; *
show the light of your countenance, and we shall be saved.
1 Corinthians 1:3-9Grace to you and peace from God our Father and the Lord Jesus Christ.
I give thanks to my God always for you because of the grace of God that has been given you in Christ Jesus, for in every way you have been enriched in him, in speech and knowledge of every kind-- just as the testimony of Christ has been strengthened among you-- so that you are not lacking in any spiritual gift as you wait for the revealing of our Lord Jesus Christ. He will also strengthen you to the end, so that you may be blameless on the day of our Lord Jesus Christ. God is faithful; by him you were called into the fellowship of his Son, Jesus Christ our Lord.
Mark 13:24-37Jesus said to his disciples, "In those days, after that suffering,
the sun will be darkened,and the moon will not give its light,and the stars will be falling from heaven,and the powers in the heavens will be shaken.Then they will see `the Son of Man coming in clouds' with great power and glory. Then he will send out the angels, and gather his elect from the four winds, from the ends of the earth to the ends of heaven.
"From the fig tree learn its lesson: as soon as its branch becomes tender and puts forth its leaves, you know that summer is near. So also, when you see these things taking place, you know that he is near, at the very gates. Truly I tell you, this generation will not pass away until all these things have taken place. Heaven and earth will pass away, but my words will not pass away.
"But about that day or hour no one knows, neither the angels in heaven, nor the Son, but only the Father. Beware, keep alert; for you do not know when the time will come. It is like a man going on a journey, when he leaves home and puts his slaves in charge, each with his work, and commands the doorkeeper to be on the watch. Therefore, keep awake-- for you do not know when the master of the house will come, in the evening, or at midnight, or at cockcrow, or at dawn, or else he may find you asleep when he comes suddenly. And what I say to you I say to all: Keep awake."
Psalm 80:1-7, 16-181 Corinthians 1:3-9
Mark 13:24-37
Almighty God, give us grace to cast away the works of darkness, and put on the armor of light, now in the time of this mortal life in which your Son Jesus Christ came to visit us in great humility; that in the last day, when he shall come again in his glorious majesty to judge both the living and the dead, we may rise to the life immortal; through him who lives and reigns with you and the Holy Spirit, one God, now and for ever. Amen.
Isaiah 64:1-9O that you would tear open the heavens and come down,so that the mountains would quake at your presence--as when fire kindles brushwoodand the fire causes water to boil--to make your name known to your adversaries,so that the nations might tremble at your presence!When you did awesome deeds that we did not expect,you came down, the mountains quaked at your presence.From ages past no one has heard,no ear has perceived,no eye has seen any God besides you,who works for those who wait for him.You meet those who gladly do right,those who remember you in your ways.But you were angry, and we sinned;because you hid yourself we transgressed.We have all become like one who is unclean,and all our righteous deeds are like a filthy cloth.We all fade like a leaf,and our iniquities, like the wind, take us away.There is no one who calls on your name,or attempts to take hold of you;for you have hidden your face from us,and have delivered us into the hand of our iniquity.Yet, O LORD, you are our Father;we are the clay, and you are our potter;we are all the work of your hand.Do not be exceedingly angry, O LORD,and do not remember iniquity forever.Now consider, we are all your people.
Psalm 80:1-7, 16-18 Page 702, BCPQui regis Israel
1Hear, O Shepherd of Israel, leading Joseph like a flock; *
shine forth, you that are enthroned upon the cherubim.
2In the presence of Ephraim, Benjamin, and Manasseh, *
stir up your strength and come to help us.
3Restore us, O God of hosts; *
show the light of your countenance, and we shall be saved.
4O LORD God of hosts, *
how long will you be angered despite the prayers of your people?
5You have fed them with the bread of tears; *
you have given them bowls of tears to drink.
6You have made us the derision of our neighbors, *
and our enemies laugh us to scorn.
7Restore us, O God of hosts; *
show the light of your countenance, and we shall be saved.
16Let your hand be upon the man of your right hand, *
the son of man you have made so strong for yourself.
17And so will we never turn away from you; *
give us life, that we may call upon your Name.
18Restore us, O LORD God of hosts; *
show the light of your countenance, and we shall be saved.
1 Corinthians 1:3-9Grace to you and peace from God our Father and the Lord Jesus Christ.
I give thanks to my God always for you because of the grace of God that has been given you in Christ Jesus, for in every way you have been enriched in him, in speech and knowledge of every kind-- just as the testimony of Christ has been strengthened among you-- so that you are not lacking in any spiritual gift as you wait for the revealing of our Lord Jesus Christ. He will also strengthen you to the end, so that you may be blameless on the day of our Lord Jesus Christ. God is faithful; by him you were called into the fellowship of his Son, Jesus Christ our Lord.
Mark 13:24-37Jesus said to his disciples, "In those days, after that suffering,
the sun will be darkened,and the moon will not give its light,and the stars will be falling from heaven,and the powers in the heavens will be shaken.Then they will see `the Son of Man coming in clouds' with great power and glory. Then he will send out the angels, and gather his elect from the four winds, from the ends of the earth to the ends of heaven.
"From the fig tree learn its lesson: as soon as its branch becomes tender and puts forth its leaves, you know that summer is near. So also, when you see these things taking place, you know that he is near, at the very gates. Truly I tell you, this generation will not pass away until all these things have taken place. Heaven and earth will pass away, but my words will not pass away.
"But about that day or hour no one knows, neither the angels in heaven, nor the Son, but only the Father. Beware, keep alert; for you do not know when the time will come. It is like a man going on a journey, when he leaves home and puts his slaves in charge, each with his work, and commands the doorkeeper to be on the watch. Therefore, keep awake-- for you do not know when the master of the house will come, in the evening, or at midnight, or at cockcrow, or at dawn, or else he may find you asleep when he comes suddenly. And what I say to you I say to all: Keep awake."
2nd Sunday in Advent, December 4th
Isaiah 40:1-11
Psalm 85:1-2, 8-13
2 Peter 3:8-15a
Mark 1:1-8
Merciful God, who sent your messengers the prophets to preach repentance and prepare the way for our salvation: Give us grace to heed their warnings and forsake our sins, that we may greet with joy the coming of Jesus Christ our Redeemer; who lives and reigns with you and the Holy Spirit, one God, now and for ever. Amen.
Isaiah 40:1-11Comfort, O comfort my people,says your God.Speak tenderly to Jerusalem,and cry to herthat she has served her term,that her penalty is paid,that she has received from the LORD's handdouble for all her sins.A voice cries out:"In the wilderness prepare the way of the LORD,make straight in the desert a highway for our God.Every valley shall be lifted up,and every mountain and hill be made low;the uneven ground shall become level,and the rough places a plain.Then the glory of the LORD shall be revealed,and all people shall see it together,for the mouth of the LORD has spoken."A voice says, "Cry out!"And I said, "What shall I cry?"All people are grass,their constancy is like the flower of the field.The grass withers, the flower fades,when the breath of the LORD blows upon it;surely the people are grass.The grass withers, the flower fades;but the word of our God will stand forever.Get you up to a high mountain,O Zion, herald of good tidings;lift up your voice with strength,O Jerusalem, herald of good tidings,lift it up, do not fear;say to the cities of Judah,"Here is your God!"See, the Lord GOD comes with might,and his arm rules for him;his reward is with him,and his recompense before him.He will feed his flock like a shepherd;he will gather the lambs in his arms,and carry them in his bosom,and gently lead the mother sheep.
Psalm 85:1-2, 8-13 Page 708, 709, BCPBenedixisti, Domine
1You have been gracious to your land, O LORD, *
you have restored the good fortune of Jacob.
2You have forgiven the iniquity of your people *
and blotted out all their sins.
8I will listen to what the LORD God is saying, *
for he is speaking peace to his faithful people and to those who turn their hearts to him.
9Truly, his salvation is very near to those who fear him, *
that his glory may dwell in our land.
10Mercy and truth have met together; *
righteousness and peace have kissed each other.
11Truth shall spring up from the earth, *
and righteousness shall look down from heaven.
12The LORD will indeed grant prosperity, *
and our land will yield its increase.
13Righteousness shall go before him, *
and peace shall be a pathway for his feet.
2 Peter 3:8-15aDo not ignore this one fact, beloved, that with the Lord one day is like a thousand years, and a thousand years are like one day. The Lord is not slow about his promise, as some think of slowness, but is patient with you, not wanting any to perish, but all to come to repentance. But the day of the Lord will come like a thief, and then the heavens will pass away with a loud noise, and the elements will be dissolved with fire, and the earth and everything that is done on it will be disclosed.
Since all these things are to be dissolved in this way, what sort of persons ought you to be in leading lives of holiness and godliness, waiting for and hastening the coming of the day of God, because of which the heavens will be set ablaze and dissolved, and the elements will melt with fire? But, in accordance with his promise, we wait for new heavens and a new earth, where righteousness is at home.
Therefore, beloved, while you are waiting for these things, strive to be found by him at peace, without spot or blemish; and regard the patience of our Lord as salvation.
Mark 1:1-8The beginning of the good news of Jesus Christ, the Son of God.
As it is written in the prophet Isaiah,
"See, I am sending my messenger ahead of you,who will prepare your way;the voice of one crying out in the wilderness:`Prepare the way of the Lord,make his paths straight,'"John the baptizer appeared in the wilderness, proclaiming a baptism of repentance for the forgiveness of sins. And people from the whole Judean countryside and all the people of Jerusalem were going out to him, and were baptized by him in the river Jordan, confessing their sins. Now John was clothed with camel's hair, with a leather belt around his waist, and he ate locusts and wild honey. He proclaimed, "The one who is more powerful than I is coming after me; I am not worthy to stoop down and untie the thong of his sandals. I have baptized you with water; but he will baptize you with the Holy Spirit."
Psalm 85:1-2, 8-13
2 Peter 3:8-15a
Mark 1:1-8
Merciful God, who sent your messengers the prophets to preach repentance and prepare the way for our salvation: Give us grace to heed their warnings and forsake our sins, that we may greet with joy the coming of Jesus Christ our Redeemer; who lives and reigns with you and the Holy Spirit, one God, now and for ever. Amen.
Isaiah 40:1-11Comfort, O comfort my people,says your God.Speak tenderly to Jerusalem,and cry to herthat she has served her term,that her penalty is paid,that she has received from the LORD's handdouble for all her sins.A voice cries out:"In the wilderness prepare the way of the LORD,make straight in the desert a highway for our God.Every valley shall be lifted up,and every mountain and hill be made low;the uneven ground shall become level,and the rough places a plain.Then the glory of the LORD shall be revealed,and all people shall see it together,for the mouth of the LORD has spoken."A voice says, "Cry out!"And I said, "What shall I cry?"All people are grass,their constancy is like the flower of the field.The grass withers, the flower fades,when the breath of the LORD blows upon it;surely the people are grass.The grass withers, the flower fades;but the word of our God will stand forever.Get you up to a high mountain,O Zion, herald of good tidings;lift up your voice with strength,O Jerusalem, herald of good tidings,lift it up, do not fear;say to the cities of Judah,"Here is your God!"See, the Lord GOD comes with might,and his arm rules for him;his reward is with him,and his recompense before him.He will feed his flock like a shepherd;he will gather the lambs in his arms,and carry them in his bosom,and gently lead the mother sheep.
Psalm 85:1-2, 8-13 Page 708, 709, BCPBenedixisti, Domine
1You have been gracious to your land, O LORD, *
you have restored the good fortune of Jacob.
2You have forgiven the iniquity of your people *
and blotted out all their sins.
8I will listen to what the LORD God is saying, *
for he is speaking peace to his faithful people and to those who turn their hearts to him.
9Truly, his salvation is very near to those who fear him, *
that his glory may dwell in our land.
10Mercy and truth have met together; *
righteousness and peace have kissed each other.
11Truth shall spring up from the earth, *
and righteousness shall look down from heaven.
12The LORD will indeed grant prosperity, *
and our land will yield its increase.
13Righteousness shall go before him, *
and peace shall be a pathway for his feet.
2 Peter 3:8-15aDo not ignore this one fact, beloved, that with the Lord one day is like a thousand years, and a thousand years are like one day. The Lord is not slow about his promise, as some think of slowness, but is patient with you, not wanting any to perish, but all to come to repentance. But the day of the Lord will come like a thief, and then the heavens will pass away with a loud noise, and the elements will be dissolved with fire, and the earth and everything that is done on it will be disclosed.
Since all these things are to be dissolved in this way, what sort of persons ought you to be in leading lives of holiness and godliness, waiting for and hastening the coming of the day of God, because of which the heavens will be set ablaze and dissolved, and the elements will melt with fire? But, in accordance with his promise, we wait for new heavens and a new earth, where righteousness is at home.
Therefore, beloved, while you are waiting for these things, strive to be found by him at peace, without spot or blemish; and regard the patience of our Lord as salvation.
Mark 1:1-8The beginning of the good news of Jesus Christ, the Son of God.
As it is written in the prophet Isaiah,
"See, I am sending my messenger ahead of you,who will prepare your way;the voice of one crying out in the wilderness:`Prepare the way of the Lord,make his paths straight,'"John the baptizer appeared in the wilderness, proclaiming a baptism of repentance for the forgiveness of sins. And people from the whole Judean countryside and all the people of Jerusalem were going out to him, and were baptized by him in the river Jordan, confessing their sins. Now John was clothed with camel's hair, with a leather belt around his waist, and he ate locusts and wild honey. He proclaimed, "The one who is more powerful than I is coming after me; I am not worthy to stoop down and untie the thong of his sandals. I have baptized you with water; but he will baptize you with the Holy Spirit."
3rd Sunday of Advent, December 11
Isaiah 61:1-4, 8-11
Psalm 126 or Canticle 3 or Canticle 15
1 Thessalonians 5:16-24
John 1:6-8, 19-28
Stir up your power, O Lord, and with great might come among us; and, because we are sorely hindered by our sins, let your bountiful grace and mercy speedily help and deliver us; through Jesus Christ our Lord, to whom, with you and the Holy Spirit, be honor and glory, now and for ever. Amen.
Isaiah 61:1-4, 8-11The spirit of the Lord GOD is upon me,because the LORD has anointed me;he has sent me to bring good news to the oppressed,to bind up the brokenhearted,to proclaim liberty to the captives,and release to the prisoners;to proclaim the year of the LORD's favor,and the day of vengeance of our God;to comfort all who mourn;to provide for those who mourn in Zion—to give them a garland instead of ashes,the oil of gladness instead of mourning,the mantle of praise instead of a faint spirit.They will be called oaks of righteousness,the planting of the LORD, to display his glory.They shall build up the ancient ruins,they shall raise up the former devastations;they shall repair the ruined cities,the devastations of many generations.For I the LORD love justice,I hate robbery and wrongdoing;I will faithfully give them their recompense,and I will make an everlasting covenant with them.Their descendants shall be known among the nations,and their offspring among the peoples;all who see them shall acknowledgethat they are a people whom the LORD has blessed.I will greatly rejoice in the LORD,my whole being shall exult in my God;for he has clothed me with the garments of salvation,he has covered me with the robe of righteousness,as a bridegroom decks himself with a garland,and as a bride adorns herself with her jewels.For as the earth brings forth its shoots,and as a garden causes what is sown in it to spring up,so the Lord GOD will cause righteousness and praiseto spring up before all the nations.
Psalm 126 Page 782, BCPIn convertendo
1When the LORD restored the fortunes of Zion, *
then were we like those who dream.
2Then was our mouth filled with laughter, *
and our tongue with shouts of joy.
3Then they said among the nations, *
"The LORD has done great things for them."
4The LORD has done great things for us, *
and we are glad indeed.
5Restore our fortunes, O LORD, *
like the watercourses of the Negev.
6Those who sowed with tears *
will reap with songs of joy.
7Those who go out weeping, carrying the seed, *
will come again with joy, shouldering their sheaves.
Canticle 15The Song of Mary Magnificat
Luke 1:46-55
My soul proclaims the greatness of the Lord,
my spirit rejoices in God my Savior; *
for he has looked with favor on his lowly servant.
From this day all generations will call me blessed: *
the Almighty has done great things for me, and holy is his Name.
He has mercy on those who fear him *
in every generation.
He has shown the strength of his arm, *
he has scattered the proud in their conceit.
He has cast down the mighty from their thrones, *
and has lifted up the lowly.
He has filled the hungry with good things, *
and the rich he has sent away empty.
He has come to the help of his servant Israel, *
for he has remembered his promise of mercy,
The promise he made to our fathers, *
to Abraham and his children for ever.
Glory to the Father, and to the Son, and to the Holy Spirit: *
as it was in the beginning, is now, and will be for ever. Amen.
1 Thessalonians 5:16-24Rejoice always, pray without ceasing, give thanks in all circumstances; for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus for you. Do not quench the Spirit. Do not despise the words of prophets, but test everything; hold fast to what is good; abstain from every form of evil.
May the God of peace himself sanctify you entirely; and may your spirit and soul and body be kept sound and blameless at the coming of our Lord Jesus Christ. The one who calls you is faithful, and he will do this.
John 1:6-8,19-28There was a man sent from God, whose name was John. He came as a witness to testify to the light, so that all might believe through him. He himself was not the light, but he came to testify to the light.
This is the testimony given by John when the Jews sent priests and Levites from Jerusalem to ask him, "Who are you?" He confessed and did not deny it, but confessed, "I am not the Messiah." And they asked him, "What then? Are you Elijah?" He said, "I am not." "Are you the prophet?" He answered, "No." Then they said to him, "Who are you? Let us have an answer for those who sent us. What do you say about yourself?" He said, "I am the voice of one crying out in the wilderness, `Make straight the way of the Lord,'" as the prophet Isaiah said. Now they had been sent from the Pharisees. They asked him, "Why then are you baptizing if you are neither the Messiah, nor Elijah, nor the prophet?" John answered them, "I baptize with water. Among you stands one whom you do not know, the one who is coming after me; I am not worthy to untie the thong of his sandal." This took place in Bethany across the Jordan where John was baptizing.
Psalm 126 or Canticle 3 or Canticle 15
1 Thessalonians 5:16-24
John 1:6-8, 19-28
Stir up your power, O Lord, and with great might come among us; and, because we are sorely hindered by our sins, let your bountiful grace and mercy speedily help and deliver us; through Jesus Christ our Lord, to whom, with you and the Holy Spirit, be honor and glory, now and for ever. Amen.
Isaiah 61:1-4, 8-11The spirit of the Lord GOD is upon me,because the LORD has anointed me;he has sent me to bring good news to the oppressed,to bind up the brokenhearted,to proclaim liberty to the captives,and release to the prisoners;to proclaim the year of the LORD's favor,and the day of vengeance of our God;to comfort all who mourn;to provide for those who mourn in Zion—to give them a garland instead of ashes,the oil of gladness instead of mourning,the mantle of praise instead of a faint spirit.They will be called oaks of righteousness,the planting of the LORD, to display his glory.They shall build up the ancient ruins,they shall raise up the former devastations;they shall repair the ruined cities,the devastations of many generations.For I the LORD love justice,I hate robbery and wrongdoing;I will faithfully give them their recompense,and I will make an everlasting covenant with them.Their descendants shall be known among the nations,and their offspring among the peoples;all who see them shall acknowledgethat they are a people whom the LORD has blessed.I will greatly rejoice in the LORD,my whole being shall exult in my God;for he has clothed me with the garments of salvation,he has covered me with the robe of righteousness,as a bridegroom decks himself with a garland,and as a bride adorns herself with her jewels.For as the earth brings forth its shoots,and as a garden causes what is sown in it to spring up,so the Lord GOD will cause righteousness and praiseto spring up before all the nations.
Psalm 126 Page 782, BCPIn convertendo
1When the LORD restored the fortunes of Zion, *
then were we like those who dream.
2Then was our mouth filled with laughter, *
and our tongue with shouts of joy.
3Then they said among the nations, *
"The LORD has done great things for them."
4The LORD has done great things for us, *
and we are glad indeed.
5Restore our fortunes, O LORD, *
like the watercourses of the Negev.
6Those who sowed with tears *
will reap with songs of joy.
7Those who go out weeping, carrying the seed, *
will come again with joy, shouldering their sheaves.
Canticle 15The Song of Mary Magnificat
Luke 1:46-55
My soul proclaims the greatness of the Lord,
my spirit rejoices in God my Savior; *
for he has looked with favor on his lowly servant.
From this day all generations will call me blessed: *
the Almighty has done great things for me, and holy is his Name.
He has mercy on those who fear him *
in every generation.
He has shown the strength of his arm, *
he has scattered the proud in their conceit.
He has cast down the mighty from their thrones, *
and has lifted up the lowly.
He has filled the hungry with good things, *
and the rich he has sent away empty.
He has come to the help of his servant Israel, *
for he has remembered his promise of mercy,
The promise he made to our fathers, *
to Abraham and his children for ever.
Glory to the Father, and to the Son, and to the Holy Spirit: *
as it was in the beginning, is now, and will be for ever. Amen.
1 Thessalonians 5:16-24Rejoice always, pray without ceasing, give thanks in all circumstances; for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus for you. Do not quench the Spirit. Do not despise the words of prophets, but test everything; hold fast to what is good; abstain from every form of evil.
May the God of peace himself sanctify you entirely; and may your spirit and soul and body be kept sound and blameless at the coming of our Lord Jesus Christ. The one who calls you is faithful, and he will do this.
John 1:6-8,19-28There was a man sent from God, whose name was John. He came as a witness to testify to the light, so that all might believe through him. He himself was not the light, but he came to testify to the light.
This is the testimony given by John when the Jews sent priests and Levites from Jerusalem to ask him, "Who are you?" He confessed and did not deny it, but confessed, "I am not the Messiah." And they asked him, "What then? Are you Elijah?" He said, "I am not." "Are you the prophet?" He answered, "No." Then they said to him, "Who are you? Let us have an answer for those who sent us. What do you say about yourself?" He said, "I am the voice of one crying out in the wilderness, `Make straight the way of the Lord,'" as the prophet Isaiah said. Now they had been sent from the Pharisees. They asked him, "Why then are you baptizing if you are neither the Messiah, nor Elijah, nor the prophet?" John answered them, "I baptize with water. Among you stands one whom you do not know, the one who is coming after me; I am not worthy to untie the thong of his sandal." This took place in Bethany across the Jordan where John was baptizing.
4th Sunday of Advent, December 18
2 Samuel 7:1-11, 16
Canticle 3 or Canticle 15 or Psalm 89:1-4, 19-26
Romans 16: 25-27
Luke 1: 26-38
Purify our conscience, Almighty God, by your daily visitation, that your Son Jesus Christ, at his coming, may find in us a mansion prepared for himself; who lives and reigns with you, in the unity of the Holy Spirit, one God, now and for ever. Amen.
2 Samuel 7:1-11, 16Now when the king was settled in his house, and the LORD had given him rest from all his enemies around him, the king said to the prophet Nathan, "See now, I am living in a house of cedar, but the ark of God stays in a tent." Nathan said to the king, "Go, do all that you have in mind; for the LORD is with you."
But that same night the word of the LORD came to Nathan: Go and tell my servant David: Thus says the LORD: Are you the one to build me a house to live in? I have not lived in a house since the day I brought up the people of Israel from Egypt to this day, but I have been moving about in a tent and a tabernacle. Wherever I have moved about among all the people of Israel, did I ever speak a word with any of the tribal leaders of Israel, whom I commanded to shepherd my people Israel, saying, "Why have you not built me a house of cedar?" Now therefore thus you shall say to my servant David: Thus says the LORD of hosts: I took you from the pasture, from following the sheep to be prince over my people Israel; and I have been with you wherever you went, and have cut off all your enemies from before you; and I will make for you a great name, like the name of the great ones of the earth. And I will appoint a place for my people Israel and will plant them, so that they may live in their own place, and be disturbed no more; and evildoers shall afflict them no more, as formerly, from the time that I appointed judges over my people Israel; and I will give you rest from all your enemies. Moreover the LORD declares to you that the LORD will make you a house. Your house and your kingdom shall be made sure forever before me; your throne shall be established forever.
Canticle 15The Song of Mary Magnificat
Luke 1:46-55
My soul proclaims the greatness of the Lord,
my spirit rejoices in God my Savior; *
for he has looked with favor on his lowly servant.
From this day all generations will call me blessed: *
the Almighty has done great things for me, and holy is his Name.
He has mercy on those who fear him *
in every generation.
He has shown the strength of his arm, *
he has scattered the proud in their conceit.
He has cast down the mighty from their thrones, *
and has lifted up the lowly.
He has filled the hungry with good things, *
and the rich he has sent away empty.
He has come to the help of his servant Israel, *
for he has remembered his promise of mercy,
The promise he made to our fathers, *
to Abraham and his children for ever.
Glory to the Father, and to the Son, and to the Holy Spirit: *
as it was in the beginning, is now, and will be for ever. Amen.
Psalm 89:1-4, 19-26 Page 713, BCPMisericordias Domini
1Your love, O LORD, for ever will I sing; *
from age to age my mouth will proclaim your faithfulness.
2For I am persuaded that your love is established for ever; *
you have set your faithfulness firmly in the heavens.
3"I have made a covenant with my chosen one; *
I have sworn an oath to David my servant:
4'I will establish your line for ever, *
and preserve your throne for all generations.'"
19You spoke once in a vision and said to your faithful people: *
"I have set the crown upon a warrior
and have exalted one chosen out of the people.
20I have found David my servant; *
with my holy oil have I anointed him.
21My hand will hold him fast *
and my arm will make him strong.
22No enemy shall deceive him, *
nor any wicked man bring him down.
23I will crush his foes before him *
and strike down those who hate him.
24My faithfulness and love shall be with him, *
and he shall be victorious through my Name.
25I shall make his dominion extend *
from the Great Sea to the River.
26He will say to me, 'You are my Father, *
my God, and the rock of my salvation.'"
Romans 16:25-27Now to God who is able to strengthen you according to my gospel and the proclamation of Jesus Christ, according to the revelation of the mystery that was kept secret for long ages but is now disclosed, and through the prophetic writings is made known to all the Gentiles, according to the command of the eternal God, to bring about the obedience of faith-- to the only wise God, through Jesus Christ, to whom be the glory forever! Amen.
Luke 1:26-38In the sixth month the angel Gabriel was sent by God to a town in Galilee called Nazareth, to a virgin engaged to a man whose name was Joseph, of the house of David. The virgin's name was Mary. And he came to her and said, "Greetings, favored one! The Lord is with you." But she was much perplexed by his words and pondered what sort of greeting this might be. The angel said to her, "Do not be afraid, Mary, for you have found favor with God. And now, you will conceive in your womb and bear a son, and you will name him Jesus. He will be great, and will be called the Son of the Most High, and the Lord God will give to him the throne of his ancestor David. He will reign over the house of Jacob forever, and of his kingdom there will be no end." Mary said to the angel, "How can this be, since I am a virgin?" The angel said to her, "The Holy Spirit will come upon you, and the power of the Most High will overshadow you; therefore the child to be born will be holy; he will be called Son of God. And now, your relative Elizabeth in her old age has also conceived a son; and this is the sixth month for her who was said to be barren. For nothing will be impossible with God." Then Mary said, "Here am I, the servant of the Lord; let it be with me according to your word." Then the angel departed from her.
Canticle 3 or Canticle 15 or Psalm 89:1-4, 19-26
Romans 16: 25-27
Luke 1: 26-38
Purify our conscience, Almighty God, by your daily visitation, that your Son Jesus Christ, at his coming, may find in us a mansion prepared for himself; who lives and reigns with you, in the unity of the Holy Spirit, one God, now and for ever. Amen.
2 Samuel 7:1-11, 16Now when the king was settled in his house, and the LORD had given him rest from all his enemies around him, the king said to the prophet Nathan, "See now, I am living in a house of cedar, but the ark of God stays in a tent." Nathan said to the king, "Go, do all that you have in mind; for the LORD is with you."
But that same night the word of the LORD came to Nathan: Go and tell my servant David: Thus says the LORD: Are you the one to build me a house to live in? I have not lived in a house since the day I brought up the people of Israel from Egypt to this day, but I have been moving about in a tent and a tabernacle. Wherever I have moved about among all the people of Israel, did I ever speak a word with any of the tribal leaders of Israel, whom I commanded to shepherd my people Israel, saying, "Why have you not built me a house of cedar?" Now therefore thus you shall say to my servant David: Thus says the LORD of hosts: I took you from the pasture, from following the sheep to be prince over my people Israel; and I have been with you wherever you went, and have cut off all your enemies from before you; and I will make for you a great name, like the name of the great ones of the earth. And I will appoint a place for my people Israel and will plant them, so that they may live in their own place, and be disturbed no more; and evildoers shall afflict them no more, as formerly, from the time that I appointed judges over my people Israel; and I will give you rest from all your enemies. Moreover the LORD declares to you that the LORD will make you a house. Your house and your kingdom shall be made sure forever before me; your throne shall be established forever.
Canticle 15The Song of Mary Magnificat
Luke 1:46-55
My soul proclaims the greatness of the Lord,
my spirit rejoices in God my Savior; *
for he has looked with favor on his lowly servant.
From this day all generations will call me blessed: *
the Almighty has done great things for me, and holy is his Name.
He has mercy on those who fear him *
in every generation.
He has shown the strength of his arm, *
he has scattered the proud in their conceit.
He has cast down the mighty from their thrones, *
and has lifted up the lowly.
He has filled the hungry with good things, *
and the rich he has sent away empty.
He has come to the help of his servant Israel, *
for he has remembered his promise of mercy,
The promise he made to our fathers, *
to Abraham and his children for ever.
Glory to the Father, and to the Son, and to the Holy Spirit: *
as it was in the beginning, is now, and will be for ever. Amen.
Psalm 89:1-4, 19-26 Page 713, BCPMisericordias Domini
1Your love, O LORD, for ever will I sing; *
from age to age my mouth will proclaim your faithfulness.
2For I am persuaded that your love is established for ever; *
you have set your faithfulness firmly in the heavens.
3"I have made a covenant with my chosen one; *
I have sworn an oath to David my servant:
4'I will establish your line for ever, *
and preserve your throne for all generations.'"
19You spoke once in a vision and said to your faithful people: *
"I have set the crown upon a warrior
and have exalted one chosen out of the people.
20I have found David my servant; *
with my holy oil have I anointed him.
21My hand will hold him fast *
and my arm will make him strong.
22No enemy shall deceive him, *
nor any wicked man bring him down.
23I will crush his foes before him *
and strike down those who hate him.
24My faithfulness and love shall be with him, *
and he shall be victorious through my Name.
25I shall make his dominion extend *
from the Great Sea to the River.
26He will say to me, 'You are my Father, *
my God, and the rock of my salvation.'"
Romans 16:25-27Now to God who is able to strengthen you according to my gospel and the proclamation of Jesus Christ, according to the revelation of the mystery that was kept secret for long ages but is now disclosed, and through the prophetic writings is made known to all the Gentiles, according to the command of the eternal God, to bring about the obedience of faith-- to the only wise God, through Jesus Christ, to whom be the glory forever! Amen.
Luke 1:26-38In the sixth month the angel Gabriel was sent by God to a town in Galilee called Nazareth, to a virgin engaged to a man whose name was Joseph, of the house of David. The virgin's name was Mary. And he came to her and said, "Greetings, favored one! The Lord is with you." But she was much perplexed by his words and pondered what sort of greeting this might be. The angel said to her, "Do not be afraid, Mary, for you have found favor with God. And now, you will conceive in your womb and bear a son, and you will name him Jesus. He will be great, and will be called the Son of the Most High, and the Lord God will give to him the throne of his ancestor David. He will reign over the house of Jacob forever, and of his kingdom there will be no end." Mary said to the angel, "How can this be, since I am a virgin?" The angel said to her, "The Holy Spirit will come upon you, and the power of the Most High will overshadow you; therefore the child to be born will be holy; he will be called Son of God. And now, your relative Elizabeth in her old age has also conceived a son; and this is the sixth month for her who was said to be barren. For nothing will be impossible with God." Then Mary said, "Here am I, the servant of the Lord; let it be with me according to your word." Then the angel departed from her.
1st Sunday of Christmas, Christmas Day, December 25th
Isaiah 9:2-7
Titus 2:11-14
Luke 2:1-14(15-20)
Psalm 96
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 this
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 this
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.
Isaiah 9:2-7The people who walked in darknesshave 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 youas 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 warriorsand all the garments rolled in bloodshall 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 namedWonderful Counselor, Mighty God,Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace.His authority shall grow continually,and there shall be endless peacefor the throne of David and his kingdom.He will establish and uphold itwith justice and with righteousnessfrom this time onward and forevermore.The zeal of the LORD of hosts will do this.
Psalm 96 Page 725, BCPCantate Domino
1Sing to the LORD a new song; *
sing to the LORD, all the whole earth.
2Sing to the LORD and bless his Name; *
proclaim the good news of his salvation from day to day.
3Declare his glory among the nations *
and his wonders among all peoples.
4For great is the LORD and greatly to be praised; *
he is more to be feared than all gods.
5As for all the gods of the nations, they are but idols; *
but it is the LORD who made the heavens.
6Oh, the majesty and magnificence of his presence! *
Oh, the power and the splendor of his sanctuary!
7Ascribe to the LORD, you families of the peoples; *
ascribe to the LORD honor and power.
8Ascribe to the LORD the honor due his Name; *
bring offerings and come into his courts.
9Worship the LORD in the beauty of holiness; *
let the whole earth tremble before him.
10Tell it out among the nations: "The LORD is King! *
he has made the world so firm that it cannot be moved;
he will judge the peoples with equity."
11Let the heavens rejoice, and let the earth be glad;
let the sea thunder and all that is in it; *
let the field be joyful and all that is therein.
12Then shall all the trees of the wood shout for joy
before the LORD when he comes, *
when he comes to judge the earth.
13He will judge the world with righteousness *
and the peoples with his truth.
Titus 2:11-14For 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 Savior, 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.
Luke 2:1-14(15-20)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 Savior, 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 favors!"[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. ]
Titus 2:11-14
Luke 2:1-14(15-20)
Psalm 96
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 this
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 this
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.
Isaiah 9:2-7The people who walked in darknesshave 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 youas 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 warriorsand all the garments rolled in bloodshall 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 namedWonderful Counselor, Mighty God,Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace.His authority shall grow continually,and there shall be endless peacefor the throne of David and his kingdom.He will establish and uphold itwith justice and with righteousnessfrom this time onward and forevermore.The zeal of the LORD of hosts will do this.
Psalm 96 Page 725, BCPCantate Domino
1Sing to the LORD a new song; *
sing to the LORD, all the whole earth.
2Sing to the LORD and bless his Name; *
proclaim the good news of his salvation from day to day.
3Declare his glory among the nations *
and his wonders among all peoples.
4For great is the LORD and greatly to be praised; *
he is more to be feared than all gods.
5As for all the gods of the nations, they are but idols; *
but it is the LORD who made the heavens.
6Oh, the majesty and magnificence of his presence! *
Oh, the power and the splendor of his sanctuary!
7Ascribe to the LORD, you families of the peoples; *
ascribe to the LORD honor and power.
8Ascribe to the LORD the honor due his Name; *
bring offerings and come into his courts.
9Worship the LORD in the beauty of holiness; *
let the whole earth tremble before him.
10Tell it out among the nations: "The LORD is King! *
he has made the world so firm that it cannot be moved;
he will judge the peoples with equity."
11Let the heavens rejoice, and let the earth be glad;
let the sea thunder and all that is in it; *
let the field be joyful and all that is therein.
12Then shall all the trees of the wood shout for joy
before the LORD when he comes, *
when he comes to judge the earth.
13He will judge the world with righteousness *
and the peoples with his truth.
Titus 2:11-14For 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 Savior, 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.
Luke 2:1-14(15-20)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 Savior, 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 favors!"[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. ]