Christmas

During the Christmas season from December 24th until the Sunday after Epiphany, we reflect upon the mystery of love that is made visible in the birth and early childhood of Christ.

Sunday Readings and Backgrounds

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Solemnity of the Blessed Virgin Mary, the Mother of God

Reading I : Numbers 6:22-27

They will call down my name on the sons of Israel and I will bless them.

God invites the Israelites to ask for a blessing at any time and for any reason.
There are three parts to this blessing.
God’s blessing is permanent and forever effective.

Reading II : Galatians 4:4-7

When his appointed time came, God sent his Son, born of a woman.

We are sons and daughters of God.
We are not slaves under the law, but adopted heirs.
God sent the Spirit of his Son into our hearts.

Gospel : Luke 2:16-21

The shepherds found Mary and Joseph, and the infant lying in the crib... When the eighth day came they gave him the name of Jesus.

The shepherds hurried to Bethlehem to find the Holy Family.
The shepherds share the message that had been told to them.
When the infant was eight days old, he was given the name Jesus.