Christmas (in old English, Cristes maesse) is celebrated on Dec. 24 and Dec. 25, commemorating the Incarnation of the Word of God in the birth of Jesus Christ; it is also called The Nativity of Our Lord Jesus Christ.

Christmas Day is one of the seven principal feasts. The Christmas season lasts twelve days, from Christmas Day until Jan. 5, the day before the Epiphany. The season includes Christmas Day, the First Sunday after Christmas Day, the Holy Name of Our Lord Jesus Christ, and may include the Second Sunday after Christmas Day. In many parishes, the main liturgical celebrations of Christmas take place on Christmas Eve.

Collect

Almighty God, you have given your only-begotten Son to take our nature upon him, and to be born of a pure virgin: Grant that we, who have been born again and made your children by adoption and grace, may daily be renewed by your Holy Spirit; through our Lord Jesus Christ, to whom with you and the same Spirit be honor and glory, now and for ever. Amen.

Appointed Readings

• Isaiah 9:2-7
• Titus 2:11-14
• Luke 2:1-14(15-20)
• Psalm 96

Worship Services for Christmas Eve

Christmas Eve – Eucharist and Carols 4pm, Christmas Eve – Sung Eucharist of the Nativity 10pm

About the image
“The Nativity with the Prophets Isaiah and Ezekiel” by Duccio di Buoninsegna circa 1482 – 1485.
From the National Gallery of Art.

Resources

Service Bulletin for today’s 4pm Eucharist
Service Bulletin for today’s 10pm Eucharist