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A simple form of evening prayer and candle lighting *
At St Mary's we would like to invite you to join us in a short time of prayer every day at 7pm. It involves lighting a candle and placing it in the window and then saying the following prayers as individuals or as households. You can join with others in these prayers on our Facebook page.
The Lord almighty grant us a quiet night and a perfect end. Amen.
Our help is in the name of the Lord
who made heaven and earth.
A period of silence for reflection on the past day may follow.
O God, make speed to save us.
O Lord, make haste to help us.
Glory to the Father and to the Son
and to the Holy Spirit;
as it was in the beginning is now
and shall be for ever. Amen.
The reading for the day (see below)**
The candle is lit and the following prayer is said
Heavenly Father, accept this burning candle as a sign of faith and love.
Like this candle, bring light into our world
Even as this candle is lit may we know your presence
and be consumed in the warmth of your love.
In your mercy, Lord hear our prayer.
In peace we will lie down and sleep;
for you alone, Lord, make us dwell in safety.
Abide with us, Lord Jesus
for the night is at hand and the day is now past.
As the night watch looks for the morning
so do we look for you, O Christ.
The Lord bless us and watch over us;
the Lord make his face shine upon us and be gracious to us;
the Lord look kindly on us and give us peace. Amen.
Bible Readings for this week
These short readings are those read, day by day, in our prayers (they are borrowed from Taizé). The Bible reference given indicates a slightly longer passage. Please use whichever you prefer.
Mon, 6 December
Your will is a song for me. In the night I remember your name, O God.
Psalms 119:49-56
Tue, 7 December
As John was completing his work, he said: Who do you think I am? I am not that one. No, but one is coming after me, whose sandals I am not worthy to untie.
Acts 13:23-25
Wed, 8 December
The angel said to Mary: Do not be afraid, Mary, you have found favour with God. You will conceive in your womb and give birth to a son, and you are to call him Jesus.
Luke 1:26-38
Thu, 9 December
God brought me out into a spacious place; he rescued me because he loves me.
Psalms 18
Fri, 10 December
Forgive your neighbour any wrongs done to you, and when you pray your sins will be forgiven.
Sirach 28:2-7
Sat, 11 December
Isaiah said: God’s Spirit will be upon the Messiah. He will not judge by appearances, but will judge the weak with justice and give fair sentence for the humble in the land.
Isaiah 11:1-10
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We will have Christmas Parties on Tues 21st December in the Parish Hall, for all our children to enjoy, with a bouncy castle and party food.
