Christmas Eve/Day
December 24/25
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Click on Scripture Lessons below
for
study links and resources for each individual pericope:
Isaiah 9:2-7 /
Isaiah
62:6-12 / Isaiah
52:7-10
Roman Catholic reading for Midnight Mass:
Isaiah
9:1-6
(see also study page for
Isaiah
9:1-4)Roman Catholic reading for Mass at Dawn: Isaiah
62: 11-12
Roman Catholic reading for Mass during the day:
Isaiah
52:7-10
United Methodist reading for Christmas Eve:
Isaiah
9:2-7
United Methodist reading for Christmas Day:
Isaiah
52:7-10
Psalm 96 /
Psalm
97 / Psalm 98
Roman Catholic reading for Midnight Mass:
Psalm
96:1-13
Roman Catholic reading for Mass at Dawn:
Psalm
97:1-12
Roman Catholic reading for Mass during the day:
Psalm
98:1-6
United Methodist reading for Christmas Eve:
Psalm
96
United Methodist reading for Christmas Day:
Psalm
98
Titus 2:11-14 /
Titus
3:4-7 / Hebrews
1:1-4, (5-12)
Roman Catholic reading for Midnight Mass:
Titus
2:11-14
Roman Catholic reading for Mass at Dawn:
Titus
3:4-7
Roman Catholic reading for Mass during the day:
Hebrews
1:1-6
United Methodist reading for Christmas Eve:
Titus
2:11-14
United Methodist reading for Christmas Day:
Hebrews
1:1-4, (5-12)
Luke
2:1-14, (15-20) /
Luke
2:(1-7), 8-20 / John
1:1-14
Roman Catholic reading for Midnight Mass:
Luke
2:1-14
Roman Catholic reading for Mass at Dawn:
Luke
2: 15-20
Roman Catholic reading for Mass during the day:
John
1:1-18 or John 1:1-5,
9-14
United Methodist reading for Christmas Eve:
Luke
2:1-14, (15-20)
United Methodist reading for Christmas Day:
John
1:1-14
Reading and Studying the Text This Week
- Texts:
- Illustrated lectionary readings at
Vanderbilt Divinity
Library:
- Year A: Proper I - Proper II - Proper III
- Year B: Proper I - Proper II - Proper III
- Year C: Proper I - Proper II - Proper III
- Roman Catholic Lectionary Readings (NCCB/USCC) from the New American Bible.
- Lectionary readings from the Episcopal Lectionary: Christmas 1 BCP, Christmas 2 BCP, Christmas 3 BCP / Christmas 1 RCL, Christmas 2 RCL, Christmas 3 RCL.
- The Roman Catholic Lectionary for Mass (1998 USA Edition). At Felix Just S.J.'s The Roman Catholic Lectionary For Mass - a site featuring comprehensive tables of editions of the Roman Catholic Lectionary.
- Illustrated lectionary readings at
Vanderbilt Divinity
Library:
- Images and Movies:
- Images Linked at The Text This Week's Art Concordance, with the following themes:
- A movie that take place on a Christmas Eve is Midnight Clear, set in a modern day American town, is about a group of people from very different backgrounds but all of them are very lonely, and a couple are even desperate. This is not to be mistaken for A Midnight Clear, also a good film set in WW 2 Germany in which a squad of German and one of American G.I.s seek shelter in a cabin occupied by a woman and her son. Ed McNulty, Visual Parables.
- Movies Linked at The Text This Week's Movie Concordance, with the following themes:
- Special Day Resources, Christmas
-
Commentary, Exegesis & Sermon Preparation (see also listings at individual scripture pages, linked in listings at top of page):
- Facebook Page: The Text This Week, lectionary discussion & suggested articles on Facebook.
- Annotated list of "starting place" articles at ATLAS for this week's texts (includes direct links).
- Preaching This Week at WorkingPreacher.org, Luther Seminary:
- Christmas Eve / Christmas Day, 2017.
- Christmas Eve / Christmas Day, 2016.
- Christmas Eve / Christmas Day, 2015.
- Christmas Eve / Christmas Day, 2014.
- Christmas Eve / Christmas Day, 2013.
- Christmas Eve / Christmas Day, 2012.
- Christmas Eve / Christmas Day, 2011.
- Christmas Eve / Christmas Day, 2010.
- Christmas Eve / Christmas Day, 2009.
- Christmas Eve and Christmas Day, 2008.
- The African American Lectionary:
- The Center for Excellence in Preaching, resources from Calvin Theological Seminary: Comments & Observations, Textual Points, Illustration Ideas.
- Faith in Process, David Grant Smith, 2017.
- Christmas Eve, Christmas Day, Sermon Seeds, Kathryn Matthews, UCC, 2017.
- Living a Holy Adventure, Bruce Epperly, The Adventurous Word, 2017.
- Preaching Helps and Worship Resources, Rev. Dawn Chesser, Taylor Burton-Edwards, Dean McIntyre, Prayers, Lectionary Hymns, United Methodist Church General Board of Discipleship, 2016.
- Disclosing New Worlds, Christmas Eve/Day, commentary and reflections, Lawrence Moore, 2014.
- Chris Haslam, Anglican Diocese of Montreal:
- Girardian Reflections on the Lectionary, Christmas, by Paul Nuechterlein & Friends.
- Readings, Analysis of Texts and Preaching Paths, Dennis Bratcher, Christian Resource Institute. (Church of the Nazarene.)
- This Week at PreachingIllustrations.com.
- Social Justice Lectionary, Bruce Sweet.
- Lectionary at Lunch: MP3, Windows Media, and Real Audio files of lectures by professors at Concordia Seminary, St Louis, MO (LCMS).
- Recommended articles from ATLAS, an online collection of religion and theology journals, are linked below. ATLAS Access options are available for academic institutions, alumni of selected theological schools, and clergy/church offices. Annotated list of "starting place" articles at ATLAS for this week's texts (includes direct links).
- Lectionary Reflections, Discussions & Weblogs:
- Textweek Blog and Facebook Page: The Text This Week, lectionary discussion & suggested articles on Facebook.
- Sermon Brainwave: December 24, December 25, Lectionary podcast featuring Profs. Rolf Jacobson, Karoline Lewis, and Matt Skinner, discussing the week's passages in light of current events. At Luther Seminary's WorkingPreacher.org. 2017.
- "Walking to Bethlehem," Janet H Hunt, Dancing with the Word, 2017.
- living by the Word,Martha Spong, 2017.
- Sacredise: Christmas Eve, Christmas Day, 2017.
- "Living Christmas," Marshall Jolly, "The Frustrating Child," Ryan Young, Modern Metanoia, 2017.
- Preaching Tip of the Week, Bob Eldan, preachingtip, 2017.
- Lynn Miller, Building or Growing, celebrating our creative and living God by generating art and architecture resources for congregations and individuals. Art and Faith Matters facebook page contains additional resources.
- Richard Bryant, Food for Thought, 2017.
- Radical Discipleship.Net, "The Wild Lectionary," curated by Laurel Dykstra.
- RevGalBlogPals, commentary and discussion, 2017. Saturday Night Preachers Party.
- Earthkeeper's Preaching, 2017.
- Theology of Work, 2017.
- "Draughting Theology," Steve Pankey, 2017. Daily reflections and study for Sunday.
- Homily Week, 2017.
- The Reflectionary, images, reflections, activities, Fay Rowland, 2017.
- Sunday Scripture Podcast, Joe Cate and friends, 2017.
- Reading in Church & Other Distractions Podcast, iTunes, Google Play, YouTube, 2017
- LectioCast - Homebrewed Christianity, 2017.
- "What I'm Thinking," Eric Anderson, You Tube, RSS, Playlist, 2017.
- "Crackers & Grape Juice," 2017.
- Pray As You Can, Reflections, commentary, prayer, poems, etc., Kym Harris, Diocese of Rockhampton, 2017.
- Lectio Divina Podcast, Todd Spencer, 2017.
- HuffPost Religion, religion news and contemporary news in religious perspective. Always worth a read...
- Unfolding Light, Daily Reflections leading toward Sunday readings, Steve Garnaas-Holmes, 2017.
- Break Open the Word, Michael T. Hiller, 2017.
- Lectionary Poetry, Scott Barton, 2017.
- One Little Word, David J. Risendal, 2017
- Hitchhiker's Guide to the Bible, Andy Doyle, Episcopal Diocese of Texas, 2017.
- The River of Life, Loddon Mallee UCA Presbytery Blog, 2017.
- Sunday's Child, Daily Lectionary and Reflections on Scripture and World, Una Malachica, 2017.
- Weekly Reflections on the Christian Faith (lectionary texts), conversations between Mark Smith and David Owen, England Public School Chaplains. 2017
- Kairos CoMotion Lectionary Dialogue, Wesley White, 2017.
- Living the Lectionary, Daily RCL reflections, Pr. Phil Heinze, Fort Worth, TX, 2017.
- The Preacher's Exchange - First Impressions and Homilias Domincales / Homilias Breves. Jude Siciliano, O.P., 2017.
- SacraConversazione, discussion of the texts in terms of traditions of interpreters, from a postmodern perspective, 2017.
- COSLC Grace
- Lectionary Scripture Notes, Dr. Norman Beck, 2017.
- "The Divine Exchange," David Lose, ...in the Meantime, 2016.
- "The Meaning of Christmas," Karoline Lewis, Dear Working Preacher, 2016.
- "There's Nothing about Mary," "Twas the Night Before Birthing", Emily S. Kahm, Modern Metanoia, 2016.
- "Re-Telling the Story," Janet H. Hunt, Dancing with the Word, 2016.
- Christmas Eve, Christmas Day, Living by the Word, Cleophus J. LaRue, 2016.
- "Doxology against Dogma," Glenn Monson, Law & Gospel Everywhere, 2016.
- Christmas Eve, Christmas Day, Sacredise, 2016.
- "Midnight Clear," Melissa Bane Sevier, Contemplative Viewfinder, 2016.
- "Outside," Lynn Miller, Art & Faith Matters, celebrating our creative and living God by generating art and architecture resources for congregations and individuals. Art and Faith Matters facebook page contains additional resources.
- "The Right Word," Michael Simone, America: The National Catholic Reporter, 2016.
- At the Edge of the Enclosure, Suzanne Guthrie, several pages for the Nativity season.
- "A Child Is Born," Robert Cornwall, Ponderings on a Faith Journey, 2016.
- "Keeping the Peace," Andrew Prior, One Man's Web, 2016.
- peaceonjustice, Barbara Born, 2016.
- Lectionary Ruminations, John Edward Harris, Summit to Shore, 2016.
- Reflections and Resources, Fay Rowland, The Reflectionary, 2016.
- "The Need for Christmas Preaching," Karoline Lewis, Dear Working Preacher, 2015.
- "Keep It Simple," David Lose, ...in the Meantime, 2015.
- "Christmas Eve: Light Has Shined," Jan Richardson, 2015.
- The Truett Pulpit, Joshua Carney, 2015.
- "Christmas Eve: Light Has Shined," Jan Richardson, The Advent Door, 2015.
- Christmas Eve, Christmas Day, Sacredise, 2015.
- Defying Gravity and Other Thoughts for Christmas, Janet H. Hunt, Dancing with the Word, 2015.
- "Comfort Ye, My People," David F. Sellery, 2015.
- "Hot Cross Buns at Christmas?," Andrew Prior, 2015. Podcast.
- The Preacher's Study, Frank Logue, The Associated Parishes for Liturgy and Mission, 2015.
- Angels and Animals: Voices in Our Wilderness, Nancy Rockwell, The Bite in the Apple, 2015.
- The Nativity, Suzanne Guthrie, At the Edge of the Enclosure, 2015.
- "Shepherds Joy!" Thomas Beam, 2015.
- "To Make Our Love Braver," lectionary poetry, Scott Barton, 2015.
- "A Good Day to be Born," Karoline Lewis, Dear Working Preacher, 2014.
- "The Christmas Sermon I Need to Hear," David Lose, ...in the meantime... 2014.
- "Christmas at the Orphanage," Bob Stuhlmann, Stories from a Priestly Life, 2014.
- "Pondering Christmas Griefs," Andrew Prior, One Man's Web, 2014.
- "If I want to send a message..." Christopher Burkett, Preacher Rhetorica, 2014.
- What Christmas Eve Is For, Janet H. Hunt, Dancing with the Word, 2014.
- Care for Creation Commentary, Dennis Ormseth, 2014.
- "Why an Incarnation?" curated responses by Tony Jones, #progGOD, An Open-Source Theological Conversation, 2013.
- "Hope Springs Eternal!" John C Holbert, Opening the Old Testament, 2013.
- "You Shall Be Led forth with Peace," "You Shall go Out with Joy," Peter Lockhard, a different heresy, 2013.
- "The Nativity," "Word Made Flesh," Suzanne Guthrie, At The Edge of the Enclosure, 2013.
- "The Holy Child," Nancy Rockwell, The Bite in the Apple, 2013.
- "Christmas in the Barn," Janet H. Hunt, Dancing with the Word, 2013.
- Draughting Theology, Steve Pankey, 2013.
- The Miracle of Christmas, David Sellery, 2013.
- Christian Leadership Center Commentary, Christmas Eve, Christmas Day, Richard O Johnson, 2013.
- Christmas Reunion, Janet H. Hunt, 2013.
- Lectionary Notes, Christmas Eve, Christmas Day, Beth Quick, 2013.
- The Worship Closet, Amy Loving, 2013.
- "Christmas in the Northeast Kingdom," Bob Stuhlmann, Stories from a Priestly Life, 2013.
- Why an Incarnation? various bloggers at Patheos, 2012.
- Liberal Lectionary Resources, Christmas Eve/Day, Nancy Kraft, 2012.
- "Christmas Eve," Nancy Rockwell, Bite in the Apple, 2012.
- Christmas Eve A / Christmas Day A 1 / Christmas Day A 2, Sacredise, John VanDeLaar, 2013.
- "A Christmas Message," the Rev. Dr. Janet H. Hunt, Dancing with the Word, 2012.
- "Stolen Baby Jesus," the Rev. Dr. Janet H. Hunt, Dancing with the Word, 2012.
- Christian Leadership Center Commentary: Christmas Eve / Christmas Day, 2012.
- "Christmas Eve," Robert Stuhlmann, Stories from a Priestly Life, 2012.
- Care for Creation Reflections, Dennis Ormseth, Lutherans Restoring Creation, 2012.
- "(Always) Entering Bethlehem (Again)," Larry Patten, 2012.
- "Something More," David Lose, Dear Working Preacher, 2011.
- "'The Most Tremendous Tale of All,'" The Journey with Jesus: Notes to Myself, Daniel B. Clendenin, Journey with Jesus Foundation, 2011.
- "The 'Real' War on Christmas?" Eric Barreto, ON Scripture, Odyssey Network, 2011.
- Lectionary Blogging, John Petty, Progressive Involvement, 2011.
- "The Eve of the Nativity of Our Lord Jesus Christ," Rick Morley, 2011.
- "Waiting Requires Trust," Enuma Okoro, "Bearing the 'Wait' of the World," Sojourners, 2011.
- "Particles in the Cosmic Crib," Peter Woods, I Am Listening, 2011.
- "The Gift that Keeps on Giving," Sharron R. Blezard, Stewardship of Life, ELCA, 2011.
- "Three Christmas Gifts," Gretchen E. Ziegenhals, Faith and Leadership, 2011.
- "Bring It!" Alyce M. McKenzie, Edgy Exegesis, Patheos, 2011.
- "What Child Is This?" John C. Holbert, Patheos, 2011.
- "The Logic of the Incarnation," Debra Dean Murphy, The Ekklesia Project, 2011.
- How the Light Comes, Jan Richardson, The Advent Door, 2011. Use of images.
- "K-Mart Angels," Melissa Bane Sevier, Contemplative Viewfinder, 2011.
- "The Accommodations of Joseph and Mary in Bethlehem: kataluma in Luke 2.7," Stephen C. Carlson, New Testament Studies, 2010. (pdf)
- "The Manger and the Inn," Kenneth Bailey, PhD, Associates for Biblical Research, 2008.
- "Cradle the Child," Larry Patten, 2011.
- "Why the Incarnation Matters," Patheos Bloggers, 2010.
- "Level With Me," Alyce McKenzie, Patheos, 2010.
- "Whose Birthday Is It?" David Lose, Dear Working Preacher, 2010.
- "The Joy - and Ambiguity - of Christmas," Bruce G. Epperly, Patheos, 2010.
- "The Grace of God Has Appeared," Paul Bellan-Boyer, City Called Heaven, 2010.
- Dylan's Lectionary Blog, Christmas Day A, B, C, 2008. Sarah Dylan Breuer.
- "How Silently, How Silently, The Wondrous Gift Is Given," The Journey with Jesus: Notes to Myself, Daniel B. Clendenin, Journey with Jesus Foundation, 2008.
- "Living in the Shadow of the Manger," Margaret Eletta Guider, O.S.F., (other resources at) "Children," Christian Reflection, The Center for Christian Ethics at Baylor University, 2003.
- Desperate Preacher's Site: sermons, discussions, liturgical material and other resources.
- Sermons (see also listings at individual scripture pages, linked
in listings at top of page)
- "A Time to Dance," by Jim Somerville. A Sermon for Every Sunday: video sermons from America's best preachers for every Sunday of the Liturgical Year.
- Wrecking Church, Anjel Scarborough, People of the Incarnation, Susan Butterworth, Sermons That Work, 2015.
- First Thoughts about Christmas Sermons, Frank Logue, Associated Parishes for Liturgy and Mission, 2013.
- "Making Room," the Rev. Canon Frank S. Logue, Sermons that Work, Episcopal Digital Network, 2013.
- "Did You Find What You Were Loooking For?" the Rev Anjel Scarborough, Sermons that Work, Episcopal Digital Network, 2013.
- DÃa de Navidad (A,B,C) – 2013, POR LA RVDA. MERCEDES JULIÃ�N, Sermones que Iluminan.
- "Emmanuel - a Christmas article," "The Innkeeper," Frederick Buechner.
- Christmas Day Homily, Christopher Burkett, PreacherRhetorica, 2012.
- "The Face in the Sky," Frederick Buechner.
- Nochebuena (Año C) por el Rev. IsaÃas A. RodrÃguez, DÃa de Navidad (Año C) por el Rvdo. IsaÃas A. RodrÃguez, Sermones que Iluminan, 2012.
- "Look to the Child," Rev. John Philip Newell, Day 1, 2011.
- "Please Pass the Maple Syrup," Linda Fabian Pepe, Theological Stew, 2011.
- Göttinger Predigten im Internet: Every Sunday Sermons based on the RCL by a team of Lutheran theologians/ pastors, 2011.
- "Luminarias," the Rev. Dr. Scott Black Johnston, Day 1, 2006.
- "Sermon for Christmas Day," Bishop Steven Charleston, Day 1, 2005.
- Christmas Sermons, Pastor Edward F. Marquart, Grace Lutheran Church, Seattle, Washington.
- Group Studies & Discussion/Reflection Questions:
- Sing with Joy, Weekly Seeds, UCC, 2016.
- "When Grace Appears," pdf study guide, Robert B. Kruschwitz, (other resources at) "Christmas and Epiphany Library," Christian Reflection, The Center for Christian Ethics at Baylor University, 2011. Focus article: "When Grace Appears," William D. Shiell.
- "Christmas and the Clash of Civilizations," pdf study guide, Robert B. Kruschwitz, (other resources at) "Christmas and Epiphany Library," Christian Reflection, The Center for Christian Ethics at Baylor University, 2011. Focus article: "Christmas and the Clash of Civilizations," Donald Heinz.
- "The Birth of Christmas" pdf study guide, Robert B. Kruschwitz, (other resources at) "Christmas and Epiphany Library," Christian Reflection, The Center for Christian Ethics at Baylor University, 2011. Focus article: "The Birth of Christmas," Joseph F. Kelly.
- "Beyond Candy Cane Lane," study guide for adults, Robert B. Kruschwitz, (other resources at) "Consumerism," Christian Reflection, The Center for Christian Ethics at Baylor University, 2003.
- A list of links to on-line Bibles and general Bible study resources.
- A list of links to scholarly and preaching discussion groups and their homepages.
- A list of links to other lectionary-based preaching and worship resources.
OnLine Worship and Liturgy Resources
- The Text This Week's Christmas Resources Page.
- Complete Liturgies and General Worship Planning Resources:
- Preaching Helps and Worship Resources, Rev. Dawn Chesser, Taylor Burton-Edwards, Dean McIntyre, Prayers, Lectionary Hymns, United Methodist Church General Board of Discipleship, 2014.
- Ruach Words, fresh language for worship, 2016.
- Life in Liturgy, Christmas Eve/Day, 2017.
- Sacredise: Christmas Eve, Christmas Day, 2017.
- Christmas Eve, Christmas Day, Sacredise, 2016.
- Area 52, Engage Worship, 2015.
- Lectionary Liturgies, Christmas Eve, Christmas Day, 2016. Thom Shuman.
- Taking Worship Home, Breen Sipes, Tri-Saints Lutheran Parish, 2015.
- The African American Lectionary:
- Preaching Helps and Worship Resources, Rev. Dawn Chesser, Taylor Burton-Edwards, Dean McIntyre, Prayers, Lectionary Hymns, United Methodist Church General Board of Discipleship, 2014.
- Worship Resources, Rev. Mindi, 2016.
- LCA Worship Planning Page, Christmas Eve/Dahy, 2016 "Everything lay-readers need to prepare worship"
- Mustard Seeds, Blue Christmas C, Christmas Eve C, Christmas Day C, 2015. Blue Christmas B, Christmas Eve B, Christmas Day B, 2014. Blue Christmas A, Christmas Eve A, Christmas Day A, 2016. A lectionary-based ideas resource for leaders of contemporary worship, Ann Scull, Gippsland, Australia.
- A Sung Communion Liturgy for Christmas Eve, Beth Quick, 2013.
- Interactive Christmas Service Eve Service: The ABC's of Christmas, Intergenerationa, Robb McCoyl, The Fat Pastor, 2013.
- The Worship Closet, Creative Worship Ideas, 2011.
- Alternative Worship Ideas for Christmas Day, Year B, The Worship Closet, 2011.
- Worship Service (with optional Christmas drama) by Robert B. Kruschwitz, Christian Reflection, The Center for Christian
Ethics at Baylor University, 2011.
- Worship Resources by Lisa Frenz, Mt. Carmel Lutheran Church, Portland, OR. (Assorted services, including candlelight and choral services.)
- Christmas Liturgy, Rev. Bosco Peters, New Zealand. Adapting Christmas to the Southern Hemisphere.
- Worship
and Liturgy Resources, by Rev David Beswick, Uniting Church in Australia:
- Year A
- Christmas Eve service of Lessons and Carols
- Christmas Day family service
- Year B
- Christmas Eve service of Lessons and Carols
- Christmas Day
- Year C
- Christmas Eve early evening carols with children
- Christmas Eucharist lessons and carols for late evening
- Christmas Day
- Year A
- Liturgies for Christmas (Lessons and Carols on Christmas Eve, The Christ Mass on Christmas Eve, The Christ Mass on Christmas Day, ideas for Christmas Liturgies), Rev. Thomas L. Weitzel, Evangelical Lutheran Church in America.
- Prayers, Prefaces, Litanies, etc:
- Laughing Bird Liturgical Resources, Nativity, by Nathan Nettleton, South Yarra Community Baptist Church, Melbourne, Australia. Prayers, blessings, Eucharistic prefaces and scripture paraphrases.
- Resources: Based on the Revised Common Lectionary: Midnight Eucharist, Christmas Day, Prayers, Collects and Litanies by Bruce Prewer, Uniting Church in Australia.
- Introductions to lectionary readings for readers, Christmas Set I, Christmas Set II, Christmas Set III. Chris Haslam, Diocese of Montreal.
- The Billabong, Christmas Eve, Christmas Day, by Rev Jeff Shrowder, Uniting Church in Australia: Hymn suggestions and paraphrases of lectionary Psalms.
- Lector's Notes: Christmas Vigil, Midnight Mass, Mass at Dawn, Mass During the Day, Gregory Warnusz, Saint Jerome Parish, Bellefontaine Neighbors, MO. Notes and commentary for those reading this week's lectionary texts to the congregation.
- "A Prayer or meditation for use on Christmas Eve," "A Prayer for Use on Christmas Morning or the First Sunday after Christmas," Elli Elliott.
- The Timeless Psalms: Psalm 96, Psalm 97, Psalm 98, Joan Stott, prayers and meditations based on lectionary Psalms, 2015.
- Thematic, Intercessory and Scripture Prayers for the
RCL, Vanderbilt Divinity Library:
Year A: Proper 1, Proper 2, Proper 3.
Year B: Proper 1, Proper 2, Proper 3.
Year C: Proper 1, Proper 2, Proper 3.
- Words for Worship, Amy Loving, 2012.
- Call to Worship, Mary Jane Konings, 2013.
- The Worship Closet, Amy Loving, 2013
- Preaching Helps and Worship Resources, Rev. Dawn Chesser, Taylor Burton-Edwards, Dean McIntyre, Prayers, Lectionary Hymns, United Methodist Church General Board of Discipleship, 2014.
- The Timeless Psalms: Psalm 96, Psalm 97, Psalm 98, Joan Stott, prayers and meditations based on lectionary Psalms, 2016.
- Reflections on collect prayers, Christmas Eve, Christmas Midnight, Christmas Day, Bosco Peters, Liturgy: Worship that Works - Spirituality that Connects.
- At the Edge of the Enclosure, Suzanne Guthrie, several pages for the Nativity season.
- Confession RCL, Christmas Eve Set 1, 2015.
- A Prayer for Christmas Eve, Andrew King, 2015.
- Reclaim Weekly Worship Prayers.
- Liturgical Resources, (Ir)revBrent, 2016
- Engage Worship, 2016.
- World in Prayer, the Episcopal Church of St. John the Baptist, Lodi, California. Prayers. Prayers and litanies based on each week's world news.
- Graphics, Multimedia, and Bulletin Materials:
- Art in the Christian Tradition: Year A, Year B, Year C, Jean and Alexander Heard, Vanderbilt Divinity Library. Creative Commons Attribution Noncommercial ShareAlike 3.0 License.
- HermanoLeón Clipart, Christmas. Free clipart, backgrounds, slides, etc.
- Clip Art, Christmas, Fr. Richard Lonsdale, Resources for Catholic Educators.
- Christmas Eve and Christmas Day at Cerezo Barredo's weekly gospel illustration. Follows Latin American Roman Catholic gospel reading, though most gospels texts/themes are found in the index. Liberation emphasis.
- Images for this week's readings, Year B, Pitts Theology Library Digital Image Archive.
- Mustard Seeds, Blue Christmas C, Christmas Eve C, Christmas Day C, 2015. Blue Christmas B, Christmas Eve B, Christmas Day B, 2014. Blue Christmas A, Christmas Eve A, Christmas Day A, 2013. A lectionary-based ideas resource for leaders of contemporary worship, Ann Scull, Gippsland, Australia.
- Bulletin Covers, www.scholia.net. Our Redeemer Lutheran Church, Emmett, Idaho. Scroll down for Year A index.
- Kids Tell the Christmas Story, Episcopal Cafe, 2010.
- Illustration Images, Leah Chang, suntreeriver design, 2011.
- "The Nativity in Art," pdf study guide, Robert B. Kruschwitz, (other resources at) "Christmas and Epiphany Library," Christian Reflection, The Center for Christian Ethics at Baylor University, 2011. Focus articles: "The Magi's Adoration," by Heidi J. Hornik, on Gentile da Fabriano's, Adoration of the Magi, "The Shepherds' Adoration," by Heidi J. Hornik and Mikeal C. Parsons, on Domenico Ghirlandaio's Adoration of the Shepherds and Hugo van der Goes' Adoration of the Shepherds.
- "What Christmas Brings," you tube video, Julian, Fiona, Vianne and Keiran, 2011.
- Hymnsight, Ralph Milton. Projection-ready image backgrounds to accompany seasonal hymn lyrics.
- Agnus Day, Lectionary cartoon by James Wetzstein.
- The Boy, a stunning film from the Reformed Church in Hungary, 2013.
- A movie that take place on a Christmas Eve is Midnight Clear, set in a modern day American town, is about a group of people from very different backgrounds but all of them are very lonely, and a couple are even desperate. This is not to be mistaken for A Midnight Clear, also a good film set in WW 2 Germany in which a squad of German and one of American G.I.s seek shelter in a cabin occupied by a woman and her son. Ed McNulty, Visual Parables.
- Church Galleries sample - free powerpoint download for this week's lectionary scripture(s).
- The Bairn in the Barn, Inclusive Christ, 2016.
-
Hymns and Music:
- Original Hymns, Settings, and Songs:
- “All of You Who Walked in Darkness,� an original hymn by Carolyn Winfrey Gillette based on the traditional Christmas Eve reading from Isaiah, celebrating that “the people who walked in darkness have seen a great light.� This hymn was commissioned by The Presbyterian Outlook magazine for new Advent hymns to Christmas carol tunes. Tune: MENDELSSOHN (“Hark! The Herald Angels Sing�)
- “When Mary Hugged Her Newborn Son,” an original hymn by Carolyn Winfrey Gillette, celebrates Mary, the Shepherds and the Wise Men and asks "God, make us faithful, humble, wise, To know that Jesus changes lives.". This hymn was commissioned by The Presbyterian Outlook Tune: TALLIS' CANON (8.8.8.8) (All Praise to Thee, My God, This Night).
- “O God, Your Grace Has Now Appeared,” an original hymn by Carolyn Winfrey Gillette, based on the Christmas stories calls for us to find “Your grace that calls us to respond —To live as we've been blessed. This hymn was commissioned by The Presbyterian Outlook Tune: WINCHESTER OLD 8.6.8.6 (“While Shepherds Watch Their Flocks”).
- "In a Feedbox, In a Stable,” an original hymn by Carolyn Winfrey Gillette, based on the Christmas stories and God being in a suffering world today, published in Princeton Seminary’s inSpire magazine. Tune: BEECHER 8.7.8.7 D (“Love Divine, All Loves Excelling”).
- "What a World of Sound,” an original hymn by Carolyn Winfrey Gillette, based on the Christmas stories, recognizing it might not been a “Silent Night.” Tune: HYMN TO JOY 8.7.8.7 D (“Joyful, Joyful, We Adore Thee”).
- “Fear Not!" the Angel Said,” an original hymn by Carolyn Winfrey Gillette, based on the Christmas stories reminds us that we do not need to be afraid for God is with us, posted on the Church World Service web site. Tune: TERRA BEATA 6.6.8.6 D (“This is My Father's World”).
- "Goat Herds," "The Light," "Indescribable Gift," Brenton Prigge, NewHymn, weekly new, relevant hymn set to traditional tunes. Specially written for use in the Southern Hemisphere.
- Hymns of the Spirit Three, Christmas Eve/Day, Richard E. Hurst, Universalist National Memorial Church.
- Hymn/Song/Choral Piece Lists:
- Hymn and Song Suggestions, Blue Christmas/Longest Night, 2011, annotated suggestions from Natalie Sims, Singing from the Lectionary.
- You Call That Church Music? alternative music planning blog for church musicians following the RCL (with videos), Ann Strickland, 2013. 2012 - Pt II.
- "Choral Music for Christmas" pdf, Mark J. Suderman, (other resources at) "Christmas and Epiphany Library," Christian Reflection, The Center for Christian Ethics at Baylor University, 2011.
- Big List of Christmas Carols, 2010, annotated suggestions from Natalie Sims, Singing from the Lectionary.
- Lectionary Hymns, Christmas Eve / Christmas Day, UMC GBOD.
- Shepherd Sounds, Nativity of Our Lord Jesus Christ. Background information for hymns and choral music following the lectionary from the Episcopal Church of the Good Shepherd, Austin, Texas, by Eric Mellenbruch and David Zersen.
- Hymn Suggestions for the Sunday Lectionary (with lyrics and sound files) from the Oremus Hymnal. (Click "Hymn Suggestions for the Sunday Lectionary.")
- Lectionary Hymns, Vigil of Christmas, Solemnity of Christmas, National Association of Pastoral Musicians.
- Hymn selections (United Methodist) and more from Hymnsite.com.
- Choral Anthem Project, Vigil of the Nativity, Midnight Mass, Solemnity of the Nativity - Dawn, Solemnity of the Nativity - Day, National Association of Pastoral Musicians.
- The Billabong, by Rev Jeff Shrowder, Uniting Church in Australia: Hymn suggestions and paraphrases of lectionary Psalms.
- Liturgical Planning and Music Suggestions, CanticaNova Publications.
- O Antiphons, Rev. Bosco Peters, Liturgy.
- Hymnsight, Ralph Milton. Projection-ready image backgrounds to accompany seasonal hymn lyrics.
- Together to Celebrate, Christmas David MacGregor, Uniting Church in Australia. Contemporary Christian Music resources.
- Original Hymns, Settings, and Songs:
- Children's Bulletins (see also listings at individual
scripture pages, linked in listings at top of page):
- Weekly Household Devotions, Faith Formation Journeys, 2017.
- CatholicMom.com: Coloring Page, Mass Worksheet, Crossword Puzzle, and Word Search based on weekly gospel text.
- Coloring Pages/Puzzles. Charles Kirkpatrick, Object Lessons & Children's Sermons, Coloring Pages, Puzzles. Sermons4Kids.com. (Scroll to bottom of page.)
- Christmas Spiral Puzzle, Christmas Word Jumble, Charles Kirkpatrick, sermons4kids.com.
- The Christmas Story Crossword Puzzle, downloadable and interactive online, based on the NRSV Christmas stories from Matthew and Luke. Bruce Gillette, Limestone Presbyterian Church, Wilmington, DE.
- Lectionary Puzzles: Christmas Proper I, Christmas Proper II, Christmas Proper III. Word search puzzles in RTF or plain text, by Reg McMillan, St.Stephen's Presbyterian Church, Peterborough, Ontario.
- For Children:
- Storypath, 2017.
- Dollar Store Childrens Sermons, John Stevens, 2017.
- Puzzle Pages, Fay Rowland, The Reflectionary, 2016
- Cabbage Christingle, the Reflectionary, Fay Rowland, 2016.
- Dollar Store Children Sermons, John Stevens, 2016.
- Highlighting the Chrismon Tree 2014, Fran Woodruff, On the Chancel Steps.
- Worshiping with Children, Christmas Eve/Day, Including children in the congregation's worship, using the Revised Common Lectionary, Carolyn C. Brown, 2013. Why Children Need to Get To Church on Christmas Eve/Christmas Day.
- Birthday Button, Gift Box, LED Lights, John Stevens, Dollar Store Children's Sermon, 2015.
- "Gathering Advent 2013," Fran Woodruff, On The Chancel Steps, 2013.
- Stories about Christmas Celebrations and Themes, Carolyn C. Brown, Worshiping with Children, 2010.
- Interactive Christmas Service Eve Service: The ABC's of Christmas, Intergenerationa Robb McCoyl, The Fat Pastor, 2013.
- Gathering, from the United Church of Canada. Includes sermon seeds, liturgical ideas, "with children," hymn suggestions, choral suggestions etc, 2013. .rtf file at this link. (Terms of Use)
- Children's Sermon, Faith Formation Journeys, 2016.
- "'Birds of Bethlehem' by Tomie DePaola," Rev. Kathleen Sheets, Presbydesterian.
- "Sermon of the Week," / "Mensajes para ninos," Sermons 4 Kids, Charles Kirkpatrick, Object Lessons & Children's Sermons, Coloring Pages, Puzzles. Sermons4Kids.com.
- On the Chancel Steps, children's resources by Frances Woodruff, 2012.
- Christmas Childrens Sermons, the Rev. Edward Markquart, Sermons from Seattle.
- "Reflecting the Light," and "Jesus and the Three R's," Charles Kirkpatrick, Sermons4kids.com.
- "Jesus Is the Living Word of God," Sunday School Lessons: Family Bible Study, art projects, music, stories, etc.
- "The Neglected Gift," Charles Kirkpatrick, Sermons4kids.com.
- "By His Own Mighty Word He Holds the Universe Together," Sunday School Lessons: Family Bible Study, art projects, music, stories, etc.
- Drama:
- NaTVT4U - The Christmas Story in TXTSPK (script), the Reflectionary, Fay Rowland, 2016.
- "A Spontaneous Nativity," Rev. Mindi, Rev-o-lution, 2013.
- The Story of Christmas, Annal's Version. An Improvisational Pageant. Christmas Shopping for the King, Children's Christmas Play. Lisa Frenz, Mt Carmel Lutheran Church, Portland, Oregon.
- Dramatic Reading, John 1/Genesis 1, Theresa Coleman, reverend mommy's randon thoughts.
- "The Innkeeper's Wife," Nina Wallestad, Dramatic License. Conditions of Use.
- "Lamb of God," Nina Wallestad, Dramatic License. Conditions of Use.
- "The Writer," John McNeil, dramatix.
- "Credo," John McNeil, dramatix.
- "Signs and Wonders," An Interactive Christmas Eve based on Luke 2:1-20, Jim Hatherly.
- A list of links to other lectionary-based preaching and worship resources.