Songs & Stories for Christmas Eve
St. John’s Anglican Church, Wolfville, Nova Scotia
4pm, December 24th, 2025
All hymn numbers refer to the blue Common Praise hymnal.
4pm, December 24th, 2025
All hymn numbers refer to the blue Common Praise hymnal.
Prelude of seasonal music
Greeting and Words of Welcome
Carol: #118, O Come, All Ye Faithful (v. 1, 3-5)
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;
O come, let us adore him,
O come, let us adore him,
O come, let us adore him, Christ the Lord!
Sing, choirs of angels, sing in exultation,
sing, all ye citizens of heaven above;
glory to God, glory in the highest:
O come, let us adore him,
O come, let us adore him,
O come, let us adore him, Christ the Lord!
See how the shepherds, summoned to his cradle,
leaving their flocks, draw nigh with lowly fear;
we too will thither bend our joyful footsteps;
O come, let us adore him,
O come, let us adore him,
O come, let us adore him, Christ the Lord!
Yea, Lord, we greet thee, born this happy morning,
Jesus, to thee be glory given;
Word of the Father, now in flesh appearing:
O come, let us adore him,
O come, let us adore him,
O come, let us adore him, Christ the Lord!
Lighting of the Advent Wreath
Leader: Advent, a season of four weeks leading up to Christmas, is a time of longing, watching, and
praying for God’s healing presence to be ever more vibrantly present in the world. To help us
pray, we light the candles of the Advent wreath to symbolize that even in the shadows cast by
suffering and sorrow, God is coming into the world. The light of God brings hope, peace, joy
and love. Tonight, we complete this circle of light by illuminating the Christ candle.
Reader One: Because injustice and despair threaten to overwhelm us, we pray for hope.
Reader Two: Because so many swords have not yet been remade into ploughshares we pray for peace.
Reader One: Because grief and loss weigh so heavily, we pray for joy.
Reader Two: Because hatred is still so strong and hurts people all over the world, we pray for love.
The candles of hope, peace, joy, and love are lit.
Reader One: God has come to us as a child, to dwell with us, and to walk with us.
The Christ candle at the centre of the wreath is lit.
Reader Two: May the light and the fire of these candles burn away whatever would prevent the God
of hope, peace, joy, and love from being born among us.
Reader One: Friends, be not afraid, even now — even now — the light of Christ is illuminating the
world, on earth as it is in heaven! Alleluia!
Hymn: All Creation Sings #35 Hope is a Star
Hope is a star that shines in the night,
Leading us on till the morning is bright.
When God is a child there's joy in our song.
The last shall be first and the weak shall be strong,
and none shall be afraid.
Peace is a ribbon that circles the earth,
Giving a promise of safety and worth.
When God is a child there's joy in our song.
The last shall be first and the weak shall be strong,
and none shall be afraid.
Joy is a song that welcomes the dawn,
Telling the world that the Savior is born.
When God is a child there's joy in our song.
The last shall be first and the weak shall be strong,
and none shall be afraid.
Love is a flame that burns in our heart.
Jesus has come and will never depart.
When God is a child there's joy in our song.
The last shall be first and the weak shall be strong,
and none shall be afraid.
Opening Prayer
Tender and precious God, from ancient times the promise of your saving grace has sustained
your people. With Mary and Joseph, teach us to treasure in our hearts the birth of Jesus, and with
shepherds and angels, lead us to rejoice with songs of praise. Amen.
Time for All Ages
Carol: #126 Away in a Manger
Away in a manger, no crib for his 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 you, Lord Jesus -- look down from on high
and stay by my side until morning is nigh.
Be near me, Lord Jesus; I ask you to stay
close by me forever and love me, I pray.
Bless all the dear children in your tender care,
and fit us for heaven to live with you there.
The Gospel - Luke 2:1-20
In those days a decree went out from Caesar 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 in the guest room.
Now in that same 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 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, and 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, just as it had been told them.
The word of the Lord.
Thanks be to God.
At the conclusion of the Gospel, we pray together:
God of all ages, God here among us, we thank you for the love you have made known in the birth of
Jesus. Be born in us with that same love and light, that our song may blend with all the choirs of
heaven and earth, to the glory of your holy name. Amen.
Carol: #121 O Little Town of Bethlehem (Tune: Forest Green)
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 all on earth.
How silently, how silently, the wondrous Gift is given
as love imparts to human hearts the blessings of God's 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 today.
We hear the Christmas angels the great glad tidings tell;
O come to us, abide with us, our Lord Emmanuel.
The Prayers of the People
On this holy night, we offer our prayers, trusting in God’s abounding love to transform.
The Lord's Prayer
Our Father, who art in heaven, hallowed be thy name, thy kingdom come, thy will be done, on earth as
it is in heaven. Give us this day our daily bread. And forgive us our trespasses, as we forgive those who
trespass against us. And lead us not into temptation, but deliver us from evil. For thine is the kingdom,
the power, and the glory, for ever and ever. Amen.
Offertory Hymn: #154, Joy to the World
During the hymn, the offering of the church is brought forward. Your gifts support the ongoing work of this
parish, so that people may find hope, purpose, guidance, and joy in a community striving to follow the Way
of Christ. Thank you!
Joy to the world! The Lord is come:
let earth receive the 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 glad 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 wrongs and sorrows grow,
nor thorns infest the ground;
he comes to make his blessings flow
far as our sin is found,
far as our sin is found,
far as, far as our sin 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, wonders of his love.
Thanksgiving Over the Offering
Together let us pray,
Good and loving God, we rejoice in the birth of Jesus, who came among the poor to bring the riches
of your grace. As you have blessed us with your gifts, let them be a blessing for others. With the trees
of the field, with all earth and heaven, we shout for joy at the coming of your Son, Jesus Christ our
Lord. Amen.
Blessing
Anthem: Lo, How a Rose E'er Blooming (arr. Mark Hayes)
Meg Finlay, Soloist
Carol: #119 Silent Night
lights are turned out and candles are lit as we sing
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.
Dismissal
Go out with joy to share the good news:
Christ the Saviour is born! Alleluia!
Thanks be to God! Alleluia, alleluia!
Candles are extinguished.
Greeting and Words of Welcome
Carol: #118, O Come, All Ye Faithful (v. 1, 3-5)
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;
O come, let us adore him,
O come, let us adore him,
O come, let us adore him, Christ the Lord!
Sing, choirs of angels, sing in exultation,
sing, all ye citizens of heaven above;
glory to God, glory in the highest:
O come, let us adore him,
O come, let us adore him,
O come, let us adore him, Christ the Lord!
See how the shepherds, summoned to his cradle,
leaving their flocks, draw nigh with lowly fear;
we too will thither bend our joyful footsteps;
O come, let us adore him,
O come, let us adore him,
O come, let us adore him, Christ the Lord!
Yea, Lord, we greet thee, born this happy morning,
Jesus, to thee be glory given;
Word of the Father, now in flesh appearing:
O come, let us adore him,
O come, let us adore him,
O come, let us adore him, Christ the Lord!
Lighting of the Advent Wreath
Leader: Advent, a season of four weeks leading up to Christmas, is a time of longing, watching, and
praying for God’s healing presence to be ever more vibrantly present in the world. To help us
pray, we light the candles of the Advent wreath to symbolize that even in the shadows cast by
suffering and sorrow, God is coming into the world. The light of God brings hope, peace, joy
and love. Tonight, we complete this circle of light by illuminating the Christ candle.
Reader One: Because injustice and despair threaten to overwhelm us, we pray for hope.
Reader Two: Because so many swords have not yet been remade into ploughshares we pray for peace.
Reader One: Because grief and loss weigh so heavily, we pray for joy.
Reader Two: Because hatred is still so strong and hurts people all over the world, we pray for love.
The candles of hope, peace, joy, and love are lit.
Reader One: God has come to us as a child, to dwell with us, and to walk with us.
The Christ candle at the centre of the wreath is lit.
Reader Two: May the light and the fire of these candles burn away whatever would prevent the God
of hope, peace, joy, and love from being born among us.
Reader One: Friends, be not afraid, even now — even now — the light of Christ is illuminating the
world, on earth as it is in heaven! Alleluia!
Hymn: All Creation Sings #35 Hope is a Star
Hope is a star that shines in the night,
Leading us on till the morning is bright.
When God is a child there's joy in our song.
The last shall be first and the weak shall be strong,
and none shall be afraid.
Peace is a ribbon that circles the earth,
Giving a promise of safety and worth.
When God is a child there's joy in our song.
The last shall be first and the weak shall be strong,
and none shall be afraid.
Joy is a song that welcomes the dawn,
Telling the world that the Savior is born.
When God is a child there's joy in our song.
The last shall be first and the weak shall be strong,
and none shall be afraid.
Love is a flame that burns in our heart.
Jesus has come and will never depart.
When God is a child there's joy in our song.
The last shall be first and the weak shall be strong,
and none shall be afraid.
Opening Prayer
Tender and precious God, from ancient times the promise of your saving grace has sustained
your people. With Mary and Joseph, teach us to treasure in our hearts the birth of Jesus, and with
shepherds and angels, lead us to rejoice with songs of praise. Amen.
Time for All Ages
Carol: #126 Away in a Manger
Away in a manger, no crib for his 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 you, Lord Jesus -- look down from on high
and stay by my side until morning is nigh.
Be near me, Lord Jesus; I ask you to stay
close by me forever and love me, I pray.
Bless all the dear children in your tender care,
and fit us for heaven to live with you there.
The Gospel - Luke 2:1-20
In those days a decree went out from Caesar 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 in the guest room.
Now in that same 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 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, and 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, just as it had been told them.
The word of the Lord.
Thanks be to God.
At the conclusion of the Gospel, we pray together:
God of all ages, God here among us, we thank you for the love you have made known in the birth of
Jesus. Be born in us with that same love and light, that our song may blend with all the choirs of
heaven and earth, to the glory of your holy name. Amen.
Carol: #121 O Little Town of Bethlehem (Tune: Forest Green)
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 all on earth.
How silently, how silently, the wondrous Gift is given
as love imparts to human hearts the blessings of God's 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 today.
We hear the Christmas angels the great glad tidings tell;
O come to us, abide with us, our Lord Emmanuel.
The Prayers of the People
On this holy night, we offer our prayers, trusting in God’s abounding love to transform.
The Lord's Prayer
Our Father, who art in heaven, hallowed be thy name, thy kingdom come, thy will be done, on earth as
it is in heaven. Give us this day our daily bread. And forgive us our trespasses, as we forgive those who
trespass against us. And lead us not into temptation, but deliver us from evil. For thine is the kingdom,
the power, and the glory, for ever and ever. Amen.
Offertory Hymn: #154, Joy to the World
During the hymn, the offering of the church is brought forward. Your gifts support the ongoing work of this
parish, so that people may find hope, purpose, guidance, and joy in a community striving to follow the Way
of Christ. Thank you!
Joy to the world! The Lord is come:
let earth receive the 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 glad 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 wrongs and sorrows grow,
nor thorns infest the ground;
he comes to make his blessings flow
far as our sin is found,
far as our sin is found,
far as, far as our sin 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, wonders of his love.
Thanksgiving Over the Offering
Together let us pray,
Good and loving God, we rejoice in the birth of Jesus, who came among the poor to bring the riches
of your grace. As you have blessed us with your gifts, let them be a blessing for others. With the trees
of the field, with all earth and heaven, we shout for joy at the coming of your Son, Jesus Christ our
Lord. Amen.
Blessing
Anthem: Lo, How a Rose E'er Blooming (arr. Mark Hayes)
Meg Finlay, Soloist
Carol: #119 Silent Night
lights are turned out and candles are lit as we sing
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.
Dismissal
Go out with joy to share the good news:
Christ the Saviour is born! Alleluia!
Thanks be to God! Alleluia, alleluia!
Candles are extinguished.
Prelude of seasonal music
Greeting and Words of Welcome
Carol:
#118, O Come, All Ye Faithful (v. 1, 3-5)
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;
O come, let us adore him,
O come, let us adore him,
O come, let us adore him,
Christ the Lord!
Sing, choirs of angels,
sing in exultation,
sing, all ye citizens
of heaven above;
glory to God,
glory in the highest:
O come, let us adore him,
O come, let us adore him,
O come, let us adore him,
Christ the Lord!
See how the shepherds,
summoned to his cradle,
leaving their flocks,
draw nigh with lowly fear;
we too will thither
bend our joyful footsteps;
O come, let us adore him,
O come, let us adore him,
O come, let us adore him,
Christ the Lord!
Yea, Lord, we greet thee,
born this happy morning,
Jesus, to thee be glory given;
Word of the Father,
now in flesh appearing:
O come, let us adore him,
O come, let us adore him,
O come, let us adore him,
Christ the Lord!
Lighting of the Advent Wreath
Leader: Advent, a season of four weeks leading up to Christmas, is a time of longing, watching, and praying for God’s healing presence to be ever more vibrantly present in the world. To help us pray, we light the candles of the Advent wreath to symbolize that even in the shadows cast by suffering and sorrow, God is coming into the world. The light of God brings hope, peace, joy and love. Tonight, we complete this circle of light by illuminating the Christ candle.
Reader One: Because injustice and despair threaten to overwhelm us, we pray for hope.
Reader Two: Because so many swords have not yet been remade into ploughshares, we pray for peace.
Reader One: Because grief and loss weigh so heavily, we pray for joy.
Reader Two: Because hatred is still so strong and hurts people all over the world, we pray for love.
The candles of hope, peace, joy, and love are lit.
Reader One: God has come to us as a child, to dwell with us, and to walk with us.
The Christ candle at the centre of the wreath is lit.
Reader Two: May the light and the fire of these candles burn away whatever would prevent the God of hope, peace, joy, and love from being born among us.
Reader One: Friends, be not afraid, even now — even now — the light of Christ is illuminating the world, on earth as it is in heaven! Alleluia!
Hymn:
All Creation Sings #35 Hope is a Star
Hope is a star that shines in the night,
Leading us on till the morning is bright.
When God is a child
there's joy in our song.
The last shall be first
and the weak shall be strong,
and none shall be afraid.
Peace is a ribbon that circles the earth,
Giving a promise of safety and worth.
When God is a child
there's joy in our song.
The last shall be first
and the weak shall be strong,
and none shall be afraid.
Joy is a song that welcomes the dawn,
Telling the world that the Savior is born.
When God is a child
there's joy in our song.
The last shall be first
and the weak shall be strong,
and none shall be afraid.
Love is a flame that burns in our heart.
Jesus has come and will never depart.
When God is a child
there's joy in our song.
The last shall be first
and the weak shall be strong,
and none shall be afraid.
Opening Prayer
Tender and precious God, from ancient times the promise of your saving grace has sustained your people. With Mary and Joseph, teach us to treasure in our hearts the birth of Jesus, and with shepherds and angels, lead us to rejoice with songs of praise. Amen.
Time for All Ages
Carol:
#126 Away in a Manger
Away in a manger,
no crib for his 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 you, Lord Jesus —
look down from on high
and stay by my side
until morning is nigh.
Be near me, Lord Jesus;
I ask you to stay
close by me forever
and love me, I pray.
Bless all the dear children
in your tender care,
and fit us for heaven
to live with you there.
The Gospel
Luke 2:1-20
In those days a decree went out from Caesar 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 in the guest room.
Now in that same 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, and 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, just as it had been told them.
The word of the Lord.
Thanks be to God.
At the conclusion of the Gospel, we pray together:
God of all ages, God here among us, we thank you for the love you have made known in the birth of Jesus. Be born in us with that same love and light, that our song may blend with all the choirs of heaven and earth, to the glory of your holy name. Amen.
Carol:
#121 O Little Town of Bethlehem (Tune: Forest Green)
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 all on earth.
How silently, how silently,
the wondrous Gift is given
as love imparts to human hearts
the blessings of God's 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 today.
We hear the Christmas angels
the great glad tidings tell;
O come to us, abide with us,
our Lord Emmanuel.
The Prayers of the People
On this holy night, we offer our prayers, trusting in God’s abounding love to transform the world.
The Lord's Prayer
Let us gather our prayers in the words that Jesus taught us.
Our Father, who art in heaven, hallowed be thy name, thy kingdom come, thy will be done, on earth as it is in heaven. Give us this day our daily bread. And forgive us our trespasses, as we forgive those who trespass against us. And lead us not into temptation, but deliver us from evil. For thine is the kingdom, the power, and the glory, for ever and ever. Amen.
Offertory Hymn: #154, Joy to the World
During the hymn, the offering of the church is brought forward. Your gifts support the ongoing work of this parish, so that people may find hope, purpose, guidance, and joy in a community striving to follow the Way of Christ. Thank you!
Joy to the world! The Lord is come:
let earth receive the 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 glad 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 wrongs and sorrows grow,
nor thorns infest the ground;
he comes to make his blessings flow
far as our sin is found,
far as our sin is found,
far as, far as our sin 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, wonders of his love.
Thanksgiving Over the Offering
Together let us pray,
Good and loving God, we rejoice in the birth of Jesus, who came among the poor to bring the riches of your grace. As you have blessed us with your gifts, let them be a blessing for others. With the trees of the field, with all earth and heaven, we shout for joy at the coming of your Son, Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen.
Anthem:
Lo, How a Rose E'er Blooming (arr. Mark Hayes)
Meg Finlay, Soloist
Blessing
Carol:
#119 Silent Night
lights are turned out and candles are lit as we sing
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.
Dismissal
Go out with joy to share the good news:
Christ the Saviour is born! Alleluia!
Thanks be to God! Alleluia, alleluia!
Candles are extinguished.
Greeting and Words of Welcome
Carol:
#118, O Come, All Ye Faithful (v. 1, 3-5)
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;
O come, let us adore him,
O come, let us adore him,
O come, let us adore him,
Christ the Lord!
Sing, choirs of angels,
sing in exultation,
sing, all ye citizens
of heaven above;
glory to God,
glory in the highest:
O come, let us adore him,
O come, let us adore him,
O come, let us adore him,
Christ the Lord!
See how the shepherds,
summoned to his cradle,
leaving their flocks,
draw nigh with lowly fear;
we too will thither
bend our joyful footsteps;
O come, let us adore him,
O come, let us adore him,
O come, let us adore him,
Christ the Lord!
Yea, Lord, we greet thee,
born this happy morning,
Jesus, to thee be glory given;
Word of the Father,
now in flesh appearing:
O come, let us adore him,
O come, let us adore him,
O come, let us adore him,
Christ the Lord!
Lighting of the Advent Wreath
Leader: Advent, a season of four weeks leading up to Christmas, is a time of longing, watching, and praying for God’s healing presence to be ever more vibrantly present in the world. To help us pray, we light the candles of the Advent wreath to symbolize that even in the shadows cast by suffering and sorrow, God is coming into the world. The light of God brings hope, peace, joy and love. Tonight, we complete this circle of light by illuminating the Christ candle.
Reader One: Because injustice and despair threaten to overwhelm us, we pray for hope.
Reader Two: Because so many swords have not yet been remade into ploughshares, we pray for peace.
Reader One: Because grief and loss weigh so heavily, we pray for joy.
Reader Two: Because hatred is still so strong and hurts people all over the world, we pray for love.
The candles of hope, peace, joy, and love are lit.
Reader One: God has come to us as a child, to dwell with us, and to walk with us.
The Christ candle at the centre of the wreath is lit.
Reader Two: May the light and the fire of these candles burn away whatever would prevent the God of hope, peace, joy, and love from being born among us.
Reader One: Friends, be not afraid, even now — even now — the light of Christ is illuminating the world, on earth as it is in heaven! Alleluia!
Hymn:
All Creation Sings #35 Hope is a Star
Hope is a star that shines in the night,
Leading us on till the morning is bright.
When God is a child
there's joy in our song.
The last shall be first
and the weak shall be strong,
and none shall be afraid.
Peace is a ribbon that circles the earth,
Giving a promise of safety and worth.
When God is a child
there's joy in our song.
The last shall be first
and the weak shall be strong,
and none shall be afraid.
Joy is a song that welcomes the dawn,
Telling the world that the Savior is born.
When God is a child
there's joy in our song.
The last shall be first
and the weak shall be strong,
and none shall be afraid.
Love is a flame that burns in our heart.
Jesus has come and will never depart.
When God is a child
there's joy in our song.
The last shall be first
and the weak shall be strong,
and none shall be afraid.
Opening Prayer
Tender and precious God, from ancient times the promise of your saving grace has sustained your people. With Mary and Joseph, teach us to treasure in our hearts the birth of Jesus, and with shepherds and angels, lead us to rejoice with songs of praise. Amen.
Time for All Ages
Carol:
#126 Away in a Manger
Away in a manger,
no crib for his 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 you, Lord Jesus —
look down from on high
and stay by my side
until morning is nigh.
Be near me, Lord Jesus;
I ask you to stay
close by me forever
and love me, I pray.
Bless all the dear children
in your tender care,
and fit us for heaven
to live with you there.
The Gospel
Luke 2:1-20
In those days a decree went out from Caesar 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 in the guest room.
Now in that same 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, and 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, just as it had been told them.
The word of the Lord.
Thanks be to God.
At the conclusion of the Gospel, we pray together:
God of all ages, God here among us, we thank you for the love you have made known in the birth of Jesus. Be born in us with that same love and light, that our song may blend with all the choirs of heaven and earth, to the glory of your holy name. Amen.
Carol:
#121 O Little Town of Bethlehem (Tune: Forest Green)
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 all on earth.
How silently, how silently,
the wondrous Gift is given
as love imparts to human hearts
the blessings of God's 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 today.
We hear the Christmas angels
the great glad tidings tell;
O come to us, abide with us,
our Lord Emmanuel.
The Prayers of the People
On this holy night, we offer our prayers, trusting in God’s abounding love to transform the world.
The Lord's Prayer
Let us gather our prayers in the words that Jesus taught us.
Our Father, who art in heaven, hallowed be thy name, thy kingdom come, thy will be done, on earth as it is in heaven. Give us this day our daily bread. And forgive us our trespasses, as we forgive those who trespass against us. And lead us not into temptation, but deliver us from evil. For thine is the kingdom, the power, and the glory, for ever and ever. Amen.
Offertory Hymn: #154, Joy to the World
During the hymn, the offering of the church is brought forward. Your gifts support the ongoing work of this parish, so that people may find hope, purpose, guidance, and joy in a community striving to follow the Way of Christ. Thank you!
Joy to the world! The Lord is come:
let earth receive the 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 glad 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 wrongs and sorrows grow,
nor thorns infest the ground;
he comes to make his blessings flow
far as our sin is found,
far as our sin is found,
far as, far as our sin 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, wonders of his love.
Thanksgiving Over the Offering
Together let us pray,
Good and loving God, we rejoice in the birth of Jesus, who came among the poor to bring the riches of your grace. As you have blessed us with your gifts, let them be a blessing for others. With the trees of the field, with all earth and heaven, we shout for joy at the coming of your Son, Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen.
Anthem:
Lo, How a Rose E'er Blooming (arr. Mark Hayes)
Meg Finlay, Soloist
Blessing
Carol:
#119 Silent Night
lights are turned out and candles are lit as we sing
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.
Dismissal
Go out with joy to share the good news:
Christ the Saviour is born! Alleluia!
Thanks be to God! Alleluia, alleluia!
Candles are extinguished.
We thank the participants in tonight’s service:
Greeters: Ian & Debbie MacDonald
Advent Wreath Candle Lighting: Camille Herbin & Harrison Czapalay
Readers: Harrison Czapalay & Dale Hennigar
Prayers of the People: MaryEllen Finlay
Livestreamer: Cameron Finlay
Counters: Mary & Murray Phillips
Thank you to members of our Sanctuary Guild and all who
prepared the church for Christmas and assisted with worship.
Music used for our digital service under permission of OneLicense #738879-A
Greeters: Ian & Debbie MacDonald
Advent Wreath Candle Lighting: Camille Herbin & Harrison Czapalay
Readers: Harrison Czapalay & Dale Hennigar
Prayers of the People: MaryEllen Finlay
Livestreamer: Cameron Finlay
Counters: Mary & Murray Phillips
Thank you to members of our Sanctuary Guild and all who
prepared the church for Christmas and assisted with worship.
Music used for our digital service under permission of OneLicense #738879-A
Flowers on the Altar and in the Church for Christmas 2025 and Epiphany
are offered to the glory of God in loving memory of family and friends
are offered to the glory of God in loving memory of family and friends
Rector: The Rev’d Nicole Uzans (902-956-4892), [email protected]
Wardens: Cameron Finlay (902-385-4605) & Karen Padovani (902-365-2235),
[email protected]
Director of Music & Organist: Dr. Michelle Boyd, [email protected]
We are grateful to live & worship in Mi’kma’ki,
the traditional and unceded lands and waters of the Mi’kmaq.
Wardens: Cameron Finlay (902-385-4605) & Karen Padovani (902-365-2235),
[email protected]
Director of Music & Organist: Dr. Michelle Boyd, [email protected]
We are grateful to live & worship in Mi’kma’ki,
the traditional and unceded lands and waters of the Mi’kmaq.
