Baptism.  Birth by drowning.  Our first birth called us from security, to face the life long struggle to survive.  Our second, baptism, no less vigorously, calls us to set ou on our pilgrimage with Christ, finding in him new insights to love, truth and life.  Our only certainty is God’s promise, ‘My love will hold you, do not be afraid.’

Lord hear us.  Lord graciously hear us.

As you led the Wise men to worship Jesus, so lead the Church to know you more clearly ad to do your work on earch more faithfully.  Give us deeper reverence in worship, humbly to adore the mystery of the Incarnation.

Lord hear us.  Lord graciously hear us.

Lord by the song of the angels you disclosed your birth to your own people, and by the leading of a star you revealed your glory to strangers.  Teach us to know you now and to make you known to all.

Lord hear us.  Lord graciously hear us.

The wise men were wise because they walked a thousand miles to see a child.  Such a trek seems madness to many.  But there the difference lies between those who look and those who see beyond.  In the secrets of our hearts teach us wisdom.

Lord hear us.  Lord graciously hear us.

Enable those who work in our local community, and those with whom we work, to offer their gifts and talents for the good of all.  Make us witnesses to your truth in the quiet offering of our own service.

Lord hear us.  Lord graciously hear us.

We pray for those who have died in infancy or youth, that their lives may be fulfilled in everlasting life.  We pray that those who mourn for them may be comforted in knowing them free from pain and close to you forever.

Rejoicing in the fellowship of Our Lady Mary, St Joseph, St Gregory, and all your saints, we commend ourselves and the whole creation to your unfailing love.

Merciful Father, accept these prayers for the sake of your Son, our Saviour Jesus Christ.

Amen