A Reading from the Holy Gospel according to Matthew (3:1-6) John the Baptist started preaching in the desert of Judea. He said, "Turn back to God! The kingdom of heaven will soon be here." John was the one the prophet Isaiah was talking about, when he said, "In the desert someone is shouting, 'Get the road ready for the Lord! Make a straight path for him.' " John wore clothes made of camel's hair. He had a leather strap around his waist and ate grasshoppers and wild honey. From Jerusalem and all Judea and from the Jordan River Valley crowds of people went to John. They told how sorry they were for their sins, and he baptised them in the river. The Gospel of the Lord. Praise to you, Lord Jesus Christ. Rejoicing in the generous love of God, let us pray for the needs of the world. For generosity in sharing our gifts with others: (pause) We pray as one. Gracious God, hear our prayer. For love and joy in the world this Christmas: (pause) We pray as one. Gracious God, hear our prayer. For blessings upon our loved ones: (pause) We pray as one. Gracious God, hear our prayer. For deep gratitude for all that we receive: (pause) We pray as one. Gracious God, hear our prayer. For the prayers in our hearts today: (pause while students offer their prayers aloud) We pray as one. Gracious God, hear our prayer. WE RESPOND WE GATHER WE GO FORTH Friday Week 1 Advent WE LISTEN As the school year draws to a close, let us give thanks for the blessings we have received. (pause) Father, we thank you for all the good things you have given us this year, but especially for the gift of your Son, Jesus. Through Christ our Lord. Amen. May the light of Christ dwell in our hearts. Amen. May God bless us in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Spirit. Amen. 5 December 2025 223
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