a letter from john

A Letter from John

A few weeks ago, I heard the choir chant Psalm 145. They sang out, The eyes of all wait upon thee, O Lord; and thou givest them their meat in due season. What are you waiting for this season? If I am honest, I am waiting mostly for COVID to end and the world to return to normal. I am done with social distancing, withholding of hugs and handshakes, and not being able to visit family in Canada. But the Psalmist reminds us that instead of waiting for things to return to normal, all of creation instead waits upon the Lord. Birds and insects, beasts and creeping things wait upon the Lord. How much more should we wait upon him? And to be sure, the world has never been “normal”, at least not since the Fall of mankind, where a good world was tossed to dust and ashes through human sin. And ever since then we have waited for “normal” by running the gamut from building our personal towers of Babel to building our lives upon the Rock. This Advent, I invite you to build your faith upon Christ. Immerse yourself daily in a pattern of prayer, Bible, and song.

And to this end, we hope that this Advent and Christmas devotional helps you. Here’s how to use it:

• Set up the Advent or Christmas wreath with the appropriate candles. Ĕ Advent: purple, purple, rose/pink, and purple. Ĕ Christmas: replace all Advent candles with white candles. Ĕ White Christ Candle in the center throughout Advent and Christmas.

• Light the appropriate candle(s); Invite your household through the call and response. • Read the Bible passage; Pray the Lord’s Prayer and collects; Sing the hymn.

COVID or no COVID, everything will be made new only when Christ returns. And Advent is not just about preparing for celebrating Christ’s first coming at Christmas; rather, we prepare for his second coming in justice and glory by celebrating his first coming in meekness and humility. And one day, our “O come, O Come Emmanuel” will turn to “Joy to the World!” and so, as we wait upon the Lord, I pray you have a blessed Advent, and a prayerful Christmastide.

In Christ alone,

Rev. John D. Sundara Assistant Rector for Christian Formation

A Letter from Ashley

Dear Families,

Welcome to a new liturgical year in the church calendar. The seasons of Advent and Christmas are upon us. Advent begins the new liturgical year and is a time of expectant waiting and preparation of Christ’s infant birth and His second coming. Advent is the four weeks preceding Christmas. Then we move into Christmastide which is twelve days and begins at sunset on Christmas Eve. This time is marked by joyful celebration and rejoicing for God’s great sacrifice. Our waiting has been answered in Jesus.

How do we prepare for something of that magnitude? This book was created with the purpose of guiding you and your family through Advent and the twelve days of Christmas. If you have followed along with our past two Faith & Family Kits, then this might feel familiar to you. Here is how you and your family can utilize it.

• Set up the Advent or Christmas wreath with the appropriate candles. Ĕ Advent: purple, purple, rose/pink, and purple. Ĕ Christmas: replace all Advent candles with white candles. Ĕ White Christ Candle in the center throughout Advent and Christmas.

• Light the appropriate candle(s); Invite your household through the call and response. • Read the Bible passage; Pray the Lord’s Prayer and collects; Sing the hymn.

I wish you all hope, peace, joy, & love. May these seasons bring a deepening in your faith.

In Christ,

Ashley Hensel Director of Children & Family Ministry Church of the Incarnation

First Sunday in AdventWeek of November 29 – December 5

As the first candle of Advent is lit, the following is said:Leader: Our king and savior draweth nigh. All: O come, let us adore him

Gospel ReadingA reading from the Gospel According to St. Matthew 25:1 -13

“When Jesus and his disciples drew near to Jerusalem and came to Bethphage, to the Mount of Olives, then Jesus sent two disciples, saying to them, “Go into the village opposite you, and immediately you will find an ass tied, and a colt with her; untie them and bring them to me. If any one says anything to you, you shall say, ‘The Lord has need of them,’ and he will send them immediately.” This took place to fulfil what was spoken by the prophet, saying, “Tell the daughter of Zion, Behold, your king is coming to you, humble, and mounted on an ass, and on a colt, the foal of an ass.” The disciples went and did as Jesus had directed them; they brought the ass and the colt, and put their garments on them, and he sat thereon. Most of the crowd spread their garments on the road, and others cut branches from the trees and spread them on the road. And the crowds that went before him and that followed him shouted, “Hosanna to the Son of David! Blessed is he who comes in the name of the Lord! Hosanna in the highest!” And when he entered Jerusalem, all the city was stirred, saying, “Who is this?” And the crowds said, “This is the prophet Jesus from Nazareth of Galilee.” And Jesus entered the temple of God and drove out all who sold and bought in the temple, and he overturned the tables of the money-changers and the seats of those who sold pigeons. He said to them, “It is written, ‘My house shall be called a house of prayer’; but you make it a den of robbers.”

Monday 1 Thess. 1:1-10 Wait for God’s Son from heaven, Jesus, who delivers us from the wrath to come.

Tuesday 1 Thess. 2:1-12 Lead a life worthy of God, who calls you into his own kingdom and glory.

Wednesday 1 Thess. 2:13-20 We are the Church’s glory, hope, joy and crown of boasting before our Lord Jesus’ coming.

Thursday 1 Thess. 3:1-13 We pray that God may establish your hearts unblamable in holiness before our God and Father, at the coming of our Lord Jesus with all his saints.

Friday 1 Thess. 4:1-12 We exhort you to love each other more and more.

Saturday 1 Thess. 4:13-18 Comfort one another with these words.

CollectAlmighty God, give us grace that we may cast away the works of darkness, and put upon us the armor of light, now in the time of this mortal life, in which thy 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 quick and the dead, we may rise to the life immortal, through the same Jesus Christ thy Son, our Lord, who liveth and reigneth with thee in the unity of the Holy Ghost, ever one God, world without end. Amen.

The Lord’s PrayerOur 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, and the power, and the glory, for ever and ever. Amen.

Lo, he comes with clouds descending (Hymnal, 58).

1 Lo! he comes with clouds descending,once for our salvation slain;thousand, thousand saints attendingswell the triumph of his train:Alleluia! Alleluia! Alleluia!Christ the Lord returns to reign.

2 Every eye shall now behold him,robed in dreadful majesty;those who set at nought and sold him,pierced, and nailed him to the tree,deeply wailing, deeply wailing,deeply wailing,shall the true Messiah see.

3 Those dear tokens of his passionstill his dazzling body bears,cause of endless exultationto his ransomed worshipers;with what rapture, with what rapture,with what rapture,gaze we on those glorious scars!

4 Yea, amen! let all adore thee,high on thine eternal throne;Savior, take the power and glory;claim the kingdom for thine own:Alleluia! Alleluia! Alleluia!Thou shalt reign, and thou alone.

Second Sunday in AdventWeek of December 6 – December 12

As the first and second candles of Advent are lit, the following is said:Leader: Our king and savior draweth nigh. All: O come, let us adore him

Gospel ReadingA reading from the Gospel According to St. Luke 21:25 -33

Jesus said, “There will be signs in sun and moon and stars, and upon the earth distress of nations in perplexity at the roaring of the sea and the waves, men fainting with fear and with foreboding of what is coming on the world; for the powers of the heavens will be shaken. And then they will see the Son of man coming in a cloud with power and great glory. Now when these things begin to take place, look up and raise your heads, because your redemption is drawing near.” And he told them a parable: “Look at the fig tree, and all the trees; as soon as they come out in leaf, you see for yourselves and know that the summer is already near. So also, when you see these things taking place, you know that the kingdom of God is near. Truly, I say to you, this generation will not pass away till all has taken place. Heaven and earth will pass away, but my words will not pass away.”

Monday 1 Thess. 5:1-11 Let us not sleep, as others do, but let us keep awake and be sober.

Tuesday 1 Thess. 5:12-28 Be at peace among yourselves, be patient with them all.

Wednesday 2 Thess. 1:1-12 We always pray for you, that our God may make you worthy of his call.

Thursday 2 Thess. 2:1-12 Do not be quickly shaken in mind.Friday 2 Thess. 2:13-3:5 The Lord is faithful; he will strengthen

you and guard you from evil.Saturday 2 Thess. 3:6-18 Do not be weary in well-doing.

CollectsBlessed Lord, who hast caused all holy Scriptures to be written for our learning: Grant that we may in such wise hear them, read, mark, learn, and inwardly digest them; that, by patience and comfort of thy holy Word, we may embrace and ever hold fast the blessed hope of everlasting life, which thou hast given us in our Savior Jesus Christ; who liveth and reigneth with thee and the Holy Spirit, one God, for ever and ever. Amen.

Almighty God, give us grace that we may cast away the works of darkness, and put upon us the armor of light, now in the time of this mortal life, in which thy 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 quick and the dead, we may rise to the life immortal, through the same Jesus Christ thy Son our Lord. Amen.


Come thou long expected Jesus (Hymnal, 66)

1 Come, thou long expected Jesusborn to set Thy people free;from our fears and sins release us,let us find our rest in Thee.

2 Israel’s strength and consolation,hope of all the earth thou art;dear desire of every nation,joy of every longing heart.

3 Born thy people to deliver,born a child, and yet a King,born to reign in us forever,now thy gracious kingdom bring.

4 By thine own eternal Spiritrule in all our hearts alone;by Thine all sufficient merit,raise us to thy glorious throne.

Third Sunday in AdventWeek of December 13 – December 19

As the first three candles of Advent are lit, the following is said:Leader: Our king and savior draweth nigh. All: O come, let us adore him

Gospel ReadingA reading from the Gospel According to St. Matthew 11:2-10

Now when John heard in prison about the deeds of the Christ, he sent word by his disciples and said to him, “Are you he who is to come, or shall we look for another?” And Jesus answered them, “Go and tell John what you hear and see: the blind receive their sight and the lame walk, lepers are cleansed and the deaf hear, and the dead are raised up, and the poor have good news preached to them. And blessed is he who takes no offense at me.” As they went away, Jesus began to speak to the crowds concerning John: “What did you go out into the wilderness to behold? A reed shaken by the wind? Why then did you go out? To see a man clothed in soft raiment? Behold, those who wear soft raiment are in kings’ houses. Why then did you go out? To see a prophet? Yes, I tell you, and more than a prophet. This is he of whom it is written, ‘Behold, I send my messenger before thy face, who shall prepare thy way before thee.’”

Monday 2 Pet. 1:1-11 Be zealous to confirm your call and election, for if you do this you will never fall.

Tuesday 2 Pet. 1:12-21 Lead a life worthy of God, who calls you into his own kingdom and glory.

Wednesday 2 Pet. 2:1-10a; 3:8-13 But we wait for new heavens and a new earth in which righteousness dwells.

Thursday 2 Pet. 2:10b-16; 3:8-13

But we wait for new heavens and a new earth in which righteousness dwells.

Friday 2 Pet. 2:17-22; 3:8-13 But we wait for new heavens and a new earth in which righteousness dwells.

Saturday Jude 17-25 Wait for the mercy of our Lord Jesus Christ unto eternal life.

CollectsO Lord Jesus Christ, who at thy first coming didst send thy messenger to prepare thy way before thee; Grant that the ministers and stewards of thy mysteries may likewise so prepare and make ready thy way, by turning the hearts of the disobedient to the wisdom of the just, that at thy second coming to judge the world we may be found an acceptable people in thy sight, who livest and reignest with the Father, in the unity of the Holy Ghost, ever one God, world without end. Amen.



O come, O come, Emmanuel (Hymnal, 56)

1 O come, O come, Emmanuel,and ransom captive Israelthat mourns in lonely exile hereuntil the Son of God appear.

Refrain:Rejoice! Rejoice! Emmanuelshall come to thee, O Israel.

Dec 17 2 O come, thou Wisdom from on high,who orderest all things mightily; to us the path of knowledge showand teach us in her ways to go. Refrain

Dec 18 3 O come, O come, thou Lord of might,who to thy tribes on Sinai’s heightin ancient times didst give the lawin cloud and majesty and awe. Refrain

Dec 19 4 O come, thou Branch of Jesse’s tree,free them from Satan’s tyrannythat trust thy mighty power to save,and give them victory o’er the grave. Refrain

Fourth Sunday in AdventDecember 20, 2020

As the four candles of Advent are lit, the following is said:Leader: Our king and savior draweth nigh. All: O come, let us adore him

Gospel ReadingA reading from the Gospel According to St. John 1:19-28

This is the testimony of John, when the Jews sent priests and Levites from Jerusalem to ask him, “Who are you?” He confessed, he did not deny, but confessed, “I am not the Christ.” And they asked him, “What then? Are you Elijah?” He said, “I am not.” “Are you the prophet?” And he answered, “No.” They said to him then, “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 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, “Then why are you baptizing, if you are neither the Christ, nor Elijah, nor the prophet?” John answered them, “I baptize with water; but among you stands one whom you do not know, even he who comes after me, the thong of whose sandal I am not worthy to untie.” This took place in Bethany beyond the Jordan, where John was baptizing.

CollectsO Lord, raise up, we pray thee, thy power, and come among us, and with great might succor us; that whereas, through our sins and wickedness, we are sore let and hindered in running the race that is set before us, thy bountiful grace and mercy may speedily help and deliver us; through Jesus Christ thy Son our Lord, who liveth and reigneth with thee, in the unity of the Holy Ghost, ever on God, world without end. Amen.









Dec 20 5 O come, thou Key of David, comeand open wide our heavenly home. Make safe the way that leads on high, and close the path to misery. Refrain

Feast of St. Thomas, ApostleMonday in the Fourth week of Advent

December 21, 2020

As the four candles of Advent are lit, the following is said: Leader: The Lord is glorious in his saints. All: O come, let us adore him.

Gospel ReadingA reading from the Gospel According to St. John 20:24-29

Now Thomas, one of the twelve, called the Twin, was not with them when Jesus came. So the other disciples told him, “We have seen the Lord.” But he said to them, “Unless I see in his hands the print of the nails, and place my finger in the mark of the nails, and place my hand in his side, I will not believe.”

Eight days later, his disciples were again in the house, and Thomas was with them. The doors were shut, but Jesus came and stood among them, and said, “Peace be with you.” Then he said to Thomas, “Put your finger here, and see my hands; and put out your hand, and place it in my side; do not be faithless, but believing.” Thomas answered him, “My Lord and my God!” Jesus said to him, “Have you believed because you have seen me? Blessed are those who have not seen and yet believe.”

CollectEverliving God, who didst strengthen thine apostle Thomas with firm and certain faith in thy Son’s resurrection: Grant us so perfectly and without doubt to believe in Jesus Christ, our Lord and our God, that our faith may never be found wanting in thy sight; through him who liveth and reigneth with thee and the Holy Spirit, one God, now and for ever. Amen.









Dec 21 6 O come, thou Dayspring from on high,and cheer us by thy drawing nigh Disperse the gloomy clouds of night and death’s dark shadow put to flight. Refrain

Tuesday in Fourth Week of AdventDecember 22, 2020

AAs the four candles of Advent are lit, the following is said: Leader: Our king and savior draweth nigh. All: O come, let us adore him.

Reading A reading from the Revelation to St. John 20:11 -21:8

Then I saw a great white throne and him who sat upon it; from his presence earth and sky fled away, and no place was found for them. And I saw the dead, great and small, standing before the throne, and books were opened. Also another book was opened, which is the book of life. And the dead were judged by what was written in the books, by what they had done. And the sea gave up the dead in it, Death and Hades gave up the dead in them, and all were judged by what they had done. Then Death and Hades were thrown into the lake of fire. This is the second death, the lake of fire; and if any one’s name was not found written in the book of life, he was thrown into the lake of fire.

Then I saw a new heaven and a new earth; for the first heaven and the first earth had passed away, and the sea was no more. And I saw the holy city, new Jerusalem, coming down out of heaven from God, prepared as a bride adorned for her husband; and I heard a loud voice from the throne saying, “Behold, the dwelling of God is with men. He will dwell with them, and they shall be his people, and God himself will be with them; he will wipe away every tear from their eyes, and death shall be no more, neither shall there be mourning nor crying nor pain any more, for the former things have passed away.”

And he who sat upon the throne said, “Behold, I make all things new.” Also he said, “Write this, for these words are trustworthy and true.” And he said to me, “It is done! I am the Alpha and the Omega, the beginning and the end. To the thirsty I will give from the fountain of the water of life without payment. He who conquers shall have this heritage, and I will be his God and he shall be my son. But as for the cowardly, the faithless, the polluted, as for murderers, fornicators, sorcerers, idolaters, and all liars, their lot shall be in the lake that burns with fire and sulphur, which is the second death.”












Dec 22 7 O come, Desire of Nations,bind in one the hearts of all mankind,Bid thou our sad divisions cease,And be thyself our King of peace. Refrain

Wednesday in Fourth Week of AdventDecember 23, 2020

As the four candles of Advent are lit, the following is said: Leader: Our king and savior draweth nigh. All: O come, let us adore him.

ReadingA reading from the Revelation to St. John 21:9-21

Then came one of the seven angels who had the seven bowls full of the seven last plagues, and spoke to me, saying, “Come, I will show you the Bride, the wife of the Lamb.” And in the Spirit he carried me away to a great, high mountain, and showed me the holy city Jerusalem coming down out of heaven from God, having the glory of God, its radiance like a most rare jewel, like a jasper, clear as crystal. It had a great, high wall, with twelve gates, and at the gates twelve angels, and on the gates the names of the twelve tribes of the sons of Israel were inscribed; on the east three gates, on the north three gates, on the south three gates, and on the west three gates. And the wall of the city had twelve foundations, and on them the twelve names of the twelve apostles of the Lamb.

And he who talked to me had a measuring rod of gold to measure the city and its gates and walls. The city lies foursquare, its length the same as its breadth; and he measured the city with his rod, twelve thousand stadia; its length and breadth and height are equal. He also measured its wall, a hundred and forty-four cubits by a man’s measure, that is, an angel’s. The wall was built of jasper, while the city was pure gold, clear as glass. The foundations of the wall of the city were adorned with every jewel; the first was jasper, the second sapphire, the third agate, the fourth emerald, the fifth onyx, the sixth carnelian, the seventh chrysolite, the eighth beryl, the ninth topaz, the tenth chrysoprase, the eleventh jacinth, the twelfth amethyst. And the twelve gates were twelve pearls, each of the gates made of a single pearl, and the street of the city was pure gold, transparent as glass.












Dec 22 7 O come, Desire of Nations,bind in one the hearts of all mankind,Bid thou our sad divisions cease,And be thyself our King of peace. Refrain

Dec 23 8 O come, O come, Emmanuel,and ransom captive Israelthat mourns in lonely exile hereuntil the Son of God appear. Refrain

The Nativity of Our Lord Jesus Christ, Christmas Eve

December 24, 2020

As the four candles of advent are lit, and the Christ candle, the following is said: Leader: Our king and savior draweth nigh. All: O come, let us adore him.

Gospel ReadingA reading from the Gospel according to St. Luke 2:1-14

And it came to pass in those days, that there went out a decree from Caesar Augustus that all the world should be taxed. (And this taxing was first made when Cyrenius was governor of Syria.) And all went to be taxed, every one into his own city. And Joseph also went up from Galilee, out of the city of Nazareth, into Judaea, unto the city of David, which is called Bethlehem; (because he was of the house and lineage of David:) To be taxed with Mary his espoused wife, being great with child. And so it was, that, while they were there, the days were accomplished that she should be delivered. And she brought forth her firstborn son, and wrapped him in swaddling clothes, and laid him in a manger; because there was no room for them in the inn. And there were in the same country shepherds abiding in the field, keeping watch over their flock by night. And, lo, the angel of the Lord came upon them, and the glory of the Lord shone round about them: and they were sore afraid. And the angel said unto them, Fear not: for, behold, I bring you good tidings of great joy, which shall be to all people. For unto you is born this day in the city of David a Savior, which is Christ the Lord. And this shall be a sign unto you; Ye shall find the babe wrapped in swaddling clothes, 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, and on earth peace, good will toward men.

CollectO God, who makest us glad with the yearly remembrance of the birth of thine only Son Jesus Christ; Grant that as we joyfully receive him for our Redeemer, so we may with sure confidence behold him when he shall come to be our Judge, who liveth and reigneth with thee, in the unity of the Holy Ghost, ever one God, world without end. Amen.


Silent Night (Hymnal, 111)

1 Silent night, holy night!All is calm, all is bright‘Round yon virgin mother and child.Holy Infant so tender and mild,Sleep in heavenly peace,Sleep in heavenly peace.

2 Silent night, holy night!Shepherds quake at the sight;Glories stream from heaven afar;Heav’nly hosts sing “alleluia!Christ, the Savior, is born!Christ, the Savior, is born!”3 Silent night, holy night!Son of God, love’s pure lightRadiant beams from thy holy face,With the dawn of redeeming grace,Jesus, Lord, at thy birth,Jesus, Lord, at thy birth.

The Nativity of Our Lord Jesus Christ, Christmas Day

December 25, 2020

As the four candles of Christmas and the Christ candle are lit, the following is said: Leader: Alleluia! Unto us a child is born. All: O come, let us adore him. Alleluia!

Gospel ReadingA reading from the Gospel according to St. John 1:1-14

In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God. The same was in the beginning with God. All things were made by him; and without him was not any thing made that was made. In him was life; and the life was the light of men. And the light shineth in darkness; and the darkness comprehended it not. There was a man sent from God, whose name was John. The same came for a witness, to bear witness of the Light, that all men through him might believe. He was not that Light, but was sent to bear witness of that Light. That was the true Light, which lighteth every man that cometh into the world. He was in the world, and the world was made by him, and the world knew him not. He came unto his own, and his own received him not. But as many as received him, to them gave he power to become the sons of God, even to them that believe on his name: Which were born, not of blood, nor of the will of the flesh, nor of the will of man, but of God. And the Word was made flesh, and dwelt among us, (and we beheld his glory, the glory as of the only begotten of the Father,) full of grace and truth.

CollectAlmighty God, who hast given us thy only-begotten Son to take our nature upon him, and as at this time to be born of a pure virgin; Grant that we, being regenerate, and made thy children by adoption and grace, may daily be renewed by thy Holy Spirit; through the same thy Son our Lord Jesus Christ, who liveth and reigneth with thee, in the unity of the same Holy Spirit, ever one God, world without end. Amen.


O Come, All Ye Faithful (Hymnal, 83)

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

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

2 God from God,Light from Light eternal,lo! he abhors not the Virgin’s womb;only-begotten Son of the Father; Refrain

3 Sing, choirs of angels,sing in exultation;sing, all ye citizens of heaven above;glory to God, glory in the highest; Refrain

4 See how the shepherds,summoned to his cradle,leaving their flocks, draw nigh to gaze;we too will thither bend our joyful footsteps; Refrain

5 Child, for us sinnerspoor and in the manger,we would embrace thee, with love and awe;who would not love thee, loving us so dearly? Refrain

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

Feast of St. Stephen,Deacon and Martyr

Second Day of ChristmasDecember 26, 2020

As the four candles of Christmas and the Christ candle are lit, the following is said: Leader: The Lord is glorious in his saints. All: O come, let us adore him.

ReadingA reading from the Acts of the Apostles 6:8-7:2a,51c-60

And Stephen, full of grace and power, did great wonders and signs among the people. Then some of those who belonged to the synagogue of the Freedmen (as it was called), and of the Cyre’nians, and of the Alexandrians, and of those from Cili’cia and Asia, arose and disputed with Stephen. But they could not withstand the wisdom and the Spirit with which he spoke. Then they secretly instigated men, who said, “We have heard him speak blasphemous words against Moses and God.” And they stirred up the people and the elders and the scribes, and they came upon him and seized him and brought him before the council, and set up false witnesses who said, “This man never ceases to speak words against this holy place and the law; for we have heard him say that this Jesus of Nazareth will destroy this place, and will change the customs which Moses delivered to us.” And gazing at him, all who sat in the council saw that his face was like the face of an angel.

And the high priest said, “Is this so?” And Stephen said: “Brethren and fathers, hear me. you always resist the Holy Spirit. As your fathers did, so do you. Which of the prophets did not your fathers persecute? And they killed those who announced beforehand the coming of the Righteous One, whom you have now betrayed and murdered, you who received the law as delivered by angels and did not keep it.”

Now when they heard these things they were enraged, and they ground their teeth against him. But he, full of the Holy Spirit, gazed into heaven and saw the glory of God, and Jesus standing at the right hand of God; and he said, “Behold, I see the heavens opened, and the Son of man standing at the right hand of God.” But they cried out with a loud voice and stopped their ears and rushed together upon him. Then they cast him out of the city and stoned him; and the witnesses laid down their garments at the feet of a young man named Saul. And as they were stoning Stephen, he prayed, “Lord Jesus, receive my spirit.” And he knelt down and cried with a loud voice, “Lord, do not hold this sin against them.” And when he had said this, he fell asleep.

CollectWe give the thanks, O Lord of glory, for the example of the first martyr Stephen, who looked up to heaven and prayed for his persecutors to thy Son Jesus Christ, who standeth at thy right hand; where he liveth and reigneth with thee and the Holy Spirit, one God, in glory everlasting. Amen.


Once in royal David’s city (Hymnal, 102)

1. Once in royal David’s citystood a lowly cattle shed,where a mother laid her babyin a manger for his bed:Mary was that mother mild,Jesus Christ her little child.

2. He came down to earth from heaven,who is God and Lord of all,and his shelter was a stable,and his cradle was a stall; with the poor, the scorned, the lowlylived on earth our Savior holy.

3. We, like Mary, rest confoundedThat a stable should displayHeaven’s Word, the world’s creator,Cradled there on Christmas Day, Yet this child, our Lord and brother,brought us love for one another.

4. For he is our lifelong pattern;daily, when on earth he grew;he was tempted, scorned, rejected,tears and smiles like us he knew.Thus he feels for all our sadness,and he shares in all our gladness.

5. And our eyes at last shall see him,through his own redeeming love;for that child who seemed so helplessis our Lord in heaven above;and he leads his children onto the place where he is gone.

6. Not in that poor lowly stable,with the oxen standing round,we shall see him; but in heaven,where his saints his throne surround:Christ, revealed to faithful eye,set a God’s right hand on high.

The First Sundayafter Christmas Day

December 27, 2020

The four candles of Christmas and the Christ candle are lit, the following is said: Leader: Alleluia! Unto us a child is born. All: O come, let us adore him. Alleluia!

Gospel ReadingA reading from the Gospel according to St. Matthew 1:18-25

Now the birth of Jesus Christ took place in this way. When his mother Mary had been betrothed to Joseph, before they came together she was found to be with child of the Holy Spirit; and her husband Joseph, being a just man and unwilling to put her to shame, resolved to divorce her quietly. But as he considered this, behold, an angel of the Lord appeared to him in a dream, saying, “Joseph, son of David, do not fear to take Mary your wife, for that which is conceived in her is of the Holy Spirit; she will bear a son, and you shall call his name Jesus, for he will save his people from their sins.” All this took place to fulfil what the Lord had spoken by the prophet: “Behold, a virgin shall conceive and bear a son, and his name shall be called Emmanuel” (which means, God with us). When Joseph woke from sleep, he did as the angel of the Lord commanded him; he took his wife, but knew her not until she had borne a son; and he called his name Jesus.



Joy to the World (Hymnal, 100)

1. Joy to the world! the Lord is come:let earth receive her King;let every heart prepare him room,and heaven and nature sing,and heaven and nature sing,and heaven, and heaven and nature sing.

2. Joy to the world! the Savior reigns;let us our songs employ,while fields and floods, rocks, hills, and plains,repeat the sounding joy,repeat the sounding joy,repeat, repeat the sounding joy.

3. No more let sins and sorrows grow,nor thorns infest the ground;he comes to make his blessings flowfar as the curse is found,far as the curse is found,far as, far as the curse is found.

4. He rules the world with truth and grace,and makes the nations provethe glories of his righteousnessand wonders of his love,and wonders of his love,and wonders, wonders of his love.

Feast of St. John,Apostle and Evangelist

The Fourth Day of ChristmasDecember 28, 2020


Gospel ReadingA reading from the Gospel according to St. John 21:19b-24

Jesus said to Peter, “Follow me.” Peter turned and saw following them the disciple whom Jesus loved, who had lain close to his breast at the supper and had said, “Lord, who is it that is going to betray you?” When Peter saw him, he said to Jesus, “Lord, what about this man?” Jesus said to him, “If it is my will that he remain until I come, what is that to you? Follow me!” The saying spread abroad among the brethren that this disciple was not to die; yet Jesus did not say to him that he was not to die, but, “If it is my will that he remain until I come, what is that to you?” This is the disciple who is bearing witness to these things, and who has written these things; and we know that his testimony is true.

CollectShed upon thy Church, we beseech thee, O Lord, the brightness of thy light; that we, being illumined by the teaching of thine apostle and evangelist John, may so walk in the light of thy truth, that at length we may attain to the fullness of life everlasting; through Jesus Christ our Lord, who liveth and reigneth with thee and the Holy Spirit, one God, for ever and ever. Amen.









Feast of The Holy InnocentsThe Fifth Day of Christmas

December 29, 2020



Now when they had departed, behold, an angel of the Lord appeared to Joseph in a dream and said, “Rise, take the child and his mother, and flee to Egypt, and remain there till I tell you; for Herod is about to search for the child, to destroy him.” And he rose and took the child and his mother by night, and departed to Egypt, and remained there until the death of Herod. This was to fulfil what the Lord had spoken by the prophet, “Out of Egypt have I called my son.”

Then Herod, when he saw that he had been tricked by the wise men, was in a furious rage, and he sent and killed all the male children in Bethlehem and in all that region who were two years old or under, according to the time which he had ascertained from the wise men. Then was fulfilled what was spoken by the prophet Jeremiah:“A voice was heard in Ramah, wailing and loud lamentation, Rachel weeping for her children; she refused to be consoled, because they were no more.”

CollectWe remember today, O God, the slaughter of the holy innocents of Bethlehem by the order of King Herod. Receive, we beseech thee, into the arms of thy mercy all innocent victims; and by thy great might frustrate the designs of evil tyrants and establish thy rule of justice, love, and peace; through Jesus Christ our Lord, who liveth and reigneth with thee, in the unity of the Holy Spirit, one God, for ever and ever. Amen.









The Sixth Day of ChristmasDecember 30, 2020

As the four candles of Christmas and the Christ candle are lit, the following is said:Leader: Alleluia! Unto us a child is born. All: O come, let us adore him. Alleluia!

ReadingA reading from the prophet Isaiah 25:1-9

O Lord, thou art my God;I will exalt thee, I will praise thy name;for thou hast done wonderful things, plans formed of old, faithful and sure.For thou hast made the city a heap, the fortified city a ruin;the palace of aliens is a city no more, it will never be rebuilt.Therefore strong peoples will glorify thee; cities of ruthless nations will fear thee.For thou hast been a stronghold to the poor, a stronghold to the needy in his distress, a shelter from the storm and a shade from the heat;for the blast of the ruthless is like a storm against a wall, like heat in a dry place.Thou dost subdue the noise of the aliens; as heat by the shade of a cloud, so the song of the ruthless is stilled.

On this mountain the Lord of hosts will make for all peoples a feast of fat things, a feast of wine on the lees, of fat things full of marrow, of wine on the lees well refined. And he will destroy on this mountain the covering that is cast over all peoples, the veil that is spread over all nations. He will swallow up death for ever, and the Lord God will wipe away tears from all faces, and the reproach of his people he will take away from all the earth; for the Lord has spoken. It will be said on that day, “Lo, this is our God; we have waited for him, that he might save us. This is the Lord; we have waited for him; let us be glad and rejoice in his salvation.”



Angels from the realms of glory (Hymnal, 93)

1. Angels, from the realms of glory,wing your flight o’er all the earth; ye, who sang creation’s story,now proclaim Messiah’s birth:come and worship, come and worshipworship Christ, the new-born King.

2. Shepherds in the field abiding,watching o’er your flocks by night,God with man is now residing,yonder shines the infant Light: come and worship, come and worshipworship Christ, the new-born King.

3. Sages, leave your contemplations;brighter visions beam afar;seek the great Desire of nations;ye have seen his natal star:come and worship, come and worshipworship Christ, the new-born King.

4. Saints before the altar bending,watching long in hope and fear,suddenly the Lord, descending,in his temple shall appear:come and worship, come and worshipworship Christ, the new-born King.

The Seventh Day of ChristmasDecember 31, 2020


ReadingA reading from St. Paul’s second letter to the Corinthians 5:16-6:2

From now on, therefore, we regard no one from a human point of view; even though we once regarded Christ from a human point of view, we regard him thus no longer. Therefore, if any one is in Christ, he is a new creation; the old has passed away, behold, the new has come. All this is from God, who through Christ reconciled us to himself and gave us the ministry of reconciliation; that is, in Christ God was reconciling the world to himself, not counting their trespasses against them, and entrusting to us the message of reconciliation. So we are ambassadors for Christ, God making his appeal through us. We beseech you on behalf of Christ, be reconciled to God. For our sake he made him to be sin who knew no sin, so that in him we might become the righteousness of God. Working together with him, then, we entreat you not to accept the grace of God in vain. For he says, “At the acceptable time I have listened to you, and helped you on the day of salvation.” Behold, now is the acceptable time; behold, now is the day of salvation.



Angels we have heard on high (Hymnal, 96)

Angels we have heard on high,Singing sweetly through the night,And the mountains in replyEchoing their brave delight.

RefrainGloria in excelsis Deo.Gloria in excelsis Deo.

Shepherds, why this jubilee?Why these songs of happy cheer?What great brightness did you see?What glad tiding did you hear? Refrain

Come to Bethlehem and seeHim whose birth the angels sing;Come, adore on bended kneeChrist, the Lord, the new-born King. Refrain

See him in a manger laidWhom the angels praise above;Mary, Joseph, lend your aid,While we raise our hearts in love. Refrain

Feast of The Holy NameThe Eighth Day of Christmas

January 1, 2021

As the four candles of Christmas and the Christ candle are lit, the following is said: Leader: The Word was made flesh and dwelt among us. All: O come, let us adore him.

Gospel ReadingA reading from the Gospel according to St. Luke 2:15-21

When the angels went away from them into heaven, the shepherds said to one another, “Let us go over to Bethlehem and see this thing that has happened, which the Lord has made known to us.” And they went with haste, and found Mary and Joseph, and the babe lying in a manger. And when they saw it they made known the saying which had been told them concerning this child; and all who heard it wondered at what the shepherds told them. But Mary kept all these things, pondering them in her heart. And the shepherds returned, glorifying and praising God for all they had heard and seen, as it had been told them. And at the end of eight days, when he was circumcised, he was called Jesus, the name given by the angel before he was conceived in the womb.

CollectsO God, who didst ordain that thine only-begotten Son should be the Savior of the world, and didst command that his Name should be called Jesus: mercifully grant, that we who worship his holy Name on earth, may at length behold him face to face in heaven, where he liveth and reigneth with thee, in the unity of the Holy Ghost, ever one God, world without end. Amen.

O Eternal Lord God, who hast brought thy servants to the beginning of another year: Pardon, we humbly beseech thee, our transgressions in the past, and graciously abide with us all the days of our life; through thy Son Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen.


To the name of our salvation (Hymnal, 249)

1. To the Name of our salvationlaud and honor let us pay,which for many a generationhid in God’s foreknowledge lay;but with holy exultationwe may sing aloud today.

2. Jesus is the Name we treasure;Name beyond what words can tell;Name of gladness, Name of pleasure,ear and heart delighting well;Name of sweetness, passing measure,saving us from sin and hell.

3. ‘Tis the Name that whoso preachethspeaks like music to the ear;who in prayer this Name beseechethsweetest comfort findeth near;who its perfect wisdom reacheth,heavenly joy possesseth here.

4. Therefore we, in love adoring,this most blessed Name revere,holy Jesus, thee imploringso to write it in us herethat hereafter, heavenward soaring,we may sing with angels there.

Ninth Day of ChristmasJanuary 2, 2021


ReadingA reading from the epistle to the Hebrews 11:1-12

Now faith is the assurance of things hoped for, the conviction of things not seen. For by it the men of old received divine approval. By faith we understand that the world was created by the word of God, so that what is seen was made out of things which do not appear. By faith Abel offered to God a more acceptable sacrifice than Cain, through which he received approval as righteous, God bearing witness by accepting his gifts; he died, but through his faith he is still speaking. By faith Enoch was taken up so that he should not see death; and he was not found, because God had taken him. Now before he was taken he was attested as having pleased God. And without faith it is impossible to please him. For whoever would draw near to God must believe that he exists and that he rewards those who seek him. By faith Noah, being warned by God concerning events as yet unseen, took heed and constructed an ark for the saving of his household; by this he condemned the world and became an heir of the righteousness which comes by faith. By faith Abraham obeyed when he was called to go out to a place which he was to receive as an inheritance; and he went out, not knowing where he was to go. By faith he sojourned in the land of promise, as in a foreign land, living in tents with Isaac and Jacob, heirs with him of the same promise. For he looked forward to the city which has foundations, whose builder and maker is God. By faith Sarah herself received power to conceive, even when she was past the age, since she considered him faithful who had promised. Therefore from one man, and him as good as dead, were born descendants as many as the stars of heaven and as the innumerable grains of sand by the seashore.



While shepherds watched their flocks by night (Hymnal, 94)

1. While shepherds watched their flocks by night, all seated on the ground, the angel of the Lord came down, and glory shone around.

2. “Fear not,” said he, for mighty dreadhad seized their troubled mind; “Glad tidings of great joy I bring to you and all mankind.

3. “To you, in David’s town, this dayis born of David’s line a Savior, who is Christ the Lord; and this shall be the sign:

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

5. Thus spake the seraph, and forthwith appeared a shining throngof angels praising God, who thusaddressed their joyful song:

6. “All glory be to God on high and on earth be peace; good will henceforth from heaven to me begin and never cease.”

The Second Sunday After Christmas Day

January 3, 2021


Gospel ReadingA reading from the Gospel according to St. Matthew 2:13-15, 19-23

Now when the wise men had departed, behold, an angel of the Lord appeared to Joseph in a dream and said, “Rise, take the child and his mother, and flee to Egypt, and remain there till I tell you; for Herod is about to search for the child, to destroy him.” And he rose and took the child and his mother by night, and departed to Egypt, and remained there until the death of Herod. This was to fulfil what the Lord had spoken by the prophet, “Out of Egypt have I called my son.” But when Herod died, behold, an angel of the Lord appeared in a dream to Joseph in Egypt, saying, “Rise, take the child and his mother, and go to the land of Israel, for those who sought the child’s life are dead.” And he rose and took the child and his mother, and went to the land of Israel. But when he heard that Archelaus reigned over Judea in place of his father Herod, he was afraid to go there, and being warned in a dream he withdrew to the district of Galilee. And he went and dwelt in a city called Nazareth, that what was spoken by the prophets might be fulfilled, “He shall be called a Nazarene.”

CollectAlmighty God, who hast poured upon us the new light of thine incarnate Word; Grant that the same light enkindled in our hearts may shine forth in our lives; through Jesus Christ thy Son our Lord, who liveth and reigneth with thee in the unity of the Holy Ghost, ever one God, world without end. Amen.


Hark! The herald angels sing (Hymnal, 87)

1. Hark! the herald angels singglory to the newborn King!Peace on earth and mercy mild,God and sinners reconciled!Joyful, all ye nations, rise,join the triumph of the skies;with the angelic hosts proclaimChrist is born in Bethlehem!

RefrainHark! the herald angels sing,glory to the newborn King!

2. Christ, by highest heaven adored;Christ, the everlasting Lord;Late in time behold him come,offspring of the virgin’s womb.Veiled in flesh the Godhead see;hail the incarnate Deity.Pleased as man with us to dwell;Jesus, our Immanuel! Refrain

3. Mild he lays his glory by,born that we no more may die,born to raise us from the earth,born to give us second birth.Risen with healing in his wings,Light and life to all he brings,hail, the Sun of Righteousness!hail, the heaven-born Prince of Peace! Refrain

The Eleventh Day of ChristmasJanuary 4, 2021


ReadingA reading from the epistle to the Hebrews 11:23-31

By faith Moses, when he was born, was hid for three months by his parents, because they saw that the child was beautiful; and they were not afraid of the king’s edict. By faith Moses, when he was grown up, refused to be called the son of Pharaoh’s daughter, choosing rather to share ill-treatment with the people of God than to enjoy the fleeting pleasures of sin. He considered abuse suffered for the Christ greater wealth than the treasures of Egypt, for he looked to the reward. By faith he left Egypt, not being afraid of the anger of the king; for he endured as seeing him who is invisible. By faith he kept the Passover and sprinkled the blood, so that the Destroyer of the first-born might not touch them. By faith the people crossed the Red Sea as if on dry land; but the Egyptians, when they attempted to do the same, were drowned. By faith the walls of Jericho fell down after they had been encircled for seven days. By faith Rahab the harlot did not perish with those who were disobedient, because she had given friendly welcome to the spies.



The first Nowell (Hymnal, 109)1. The first Nowell the angel did saywas to certain poor shepherds in fields as they lay;in fields where they lay, keeping their sheep, on a cold winter’s night that was so deep.

RefrainNowell, Nowell, Nowell, Nowell,born is the King of Israel.

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

3. And by the light of that same starthree wise men came from country far;to seek for a king was their intent,and to follow the star wherever it went. Refrain

4. This star drew nigh to the northwest,o’er Bethlehem it took its rest,and there it did both stop and stay right over the place where Jesus lay. Refrain

5. Then entered in those wise men threefull reverently upon their knee,and offered there in his presence,their gold, and myrrh, and frankincense. Refrain

6. Then let us all with one accordsing praises to our heavenly Lord;that hath made Heaven and earth of nought, and with His blood our life hath bought. Refrain

The Twelfth Day of ChristmasJanuary 5, 2021


ReadingA reading from the epistle to the Hebrews 11:32-12:2

And what more shall I say? For time would fail me to tell of Gideon, Barak, Samson, Jephthah, of David and Samuel and the prophets— who through faith conquered kingdoms, enforced justice, received promises, stopped the mouths of lions, quenched raging fire, escaped the edge of the sword, won strength out of weakness, became mighty in war, put foreign armies to flight. Women received their dead by resurrection. Some were tortured, refusing to accept release, that they might rise again to a better life. Others suffered mocking and scourging, and even chains and imprisonment. They were stoned, they were sawn in two, they were killed with the sword; they went about in skins of sheep and goats, destitute, afflicted, ill-treated— of whom the world was not worthy—wandering over deserts and mountains, and in dens and caves of the earth. And all these, though well attested by their faith, did not receive what was promised, since God had foreseen something better for us, that apart from us they should not be made perfect. Therefore, since we are surrounded by so great a cloud of witnesses, let us also lay aside every weight, and sin which clings so closely, and let us run with perseverance the race that is set before us, looking to Jesus the pioneer and perfecter of our faith, who for the joy that was set before him endured the cross, despising the shame, and is seated at the right hand of the throne of God.



What child is this (Hymnal, 115)

1. What child is this, who, laid to rest,on Mary’s lap is sleeping?Whom angels greet with anthems sweet,while shepherds watch are keeping?

RefrainThis, this is Christ the King,whom shepherds guard and angels sing;haste, haste to bring him laud,the babe, the son of Mary.

2. Why lies he in such mean estatewhere ox and ass are feeding?Good Christians, fear: for sinners herethe silent Word is pleading. Refrain

3. So bring him incense, gold, and myrrh,come, peasant, king, to own him;the King of kings salvation brings,let loving hearts enthrone him. Refrain

The Eve of the EpiphanyTwelfth Night of Christmas

January 5, 2021

As the four candles of Christmas and the Christ candle are lit, the following is said: Leader: The Lord hath manifested forth his glory. All: O come, let us adore him.


Now when Jesus was born in Bethlehem of Judea in the days of Herod the king, behold, wise men from the East came to Jerusalem, saying, “Where is he who has been born king of the Jews? For we have seen his star in the East, and have come to worship him.” When Herod the king heard this, he was troubled, and all Jerusalem with him; and assembling all the chief priests and scribes of the people, he inquired of them where the Christ was to be born. They told him, “In Bethlehem of Judea; for so it is written by the prophet: ‘And you, O Bethlehem, in the land of Judah, are by no means least among the rulers of Judah; for from you shall come a ruler who will govern my people Israel.’” Then Herod summoned the wise men secretly and ascertained from them what time the star appeared; and he sent them to Bethlehem, saying, “Go and search diligently for the child, and when you have found him bring me word, that I too may come and worship him.” When they had heard the king they went their way; and lo, the star which they had seen in the East went before them, till it came to rest over the place where the child was. When they saw the star, they rejoiced exceedingly with great joy; and going into the house they saw the child with Mary his mother, and they fell down and worshiped him. Then, opening their treasures, they offered him gifts, gold and frankincense and myrrh. And being warned in a dream not to return to Herod, they departed to their own country by another way.

CollectO God, who by the leading of a star didst manifest thy only-begotten Son to the Gentiles: Mercifully grant that we who know thee now by faith, may after this life have the fruition of thy glorious Godhead; through the same thy Son Jesus Christ our Lord, who liveth and reigneth with thee, in the unity of the Holy Ghost, ever one God, world without end. Amen.


We three kings (Hymnal, 128)

1. We three kings of Orient are, bearing gifts we traverse afar,field and fountain, moor and mountain,following yonder star.

RefrainO star of wonder, star of night,star with royal beauty bright; westward leading, still proceeding, guide us to thy perfect light!

2. Born a King on Bethlehem’s plain,gold I bring to crown him again,King for ever, ceasing neverover us all to reign. Refrain

3. Frankincense to offer have I:incense owns a Deity nigh;prayer and praising, gladly raising,worship him, God Most High. Refrain

4. Myrrh is mine; its bitter perfumebreathes a life of gathering gloom;sorrowing, sighing, bleeding, dying,sealed in the stone-cold tomb. Refrain

5. Glorious now behold him arise,King and God and Sacrifice;heaven sings alleluia:alleluia the earth replies. Refrain

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