A reading from the book of the prophet Zechariah (2:14-15) The Lord said, "Everyone in Jerusalem, celebrate and shout! I am coming to live with you." Many nations will turn to the Lord and become his people, and he will live with all of you. Then you will know that the Lord AllPowerful has sent me. The word of the Lord. Thanks be to God. Monday The Nativity of the Blessed Virgin Mary Can you think of something that makes you so happy that you want to celebrate and shout for joy? The reading we have just heard is an ancient writing from the Old Testament in the Bible. Even many thousands of years ago, people wanted to celebrate and shout because they knew that God was with them. Let us praise God by lifting our voices to Celebrate. WE RESPOND WE GATHER WE GO FORTH WE LISTEN Today we celebrate the birthday of Mary. Let us be glad for the mother of Jesus. (pause) God, our Saviour, thank you for giving us the Virgin Mary who agreed to be the mother of your Son. Through Christ our Lord. Amen. May the love of God guide our thoughts and actions. Amen. May God bless us in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Spirit. Amen. 8 September 2025 159
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