Christmas Eve Candle Liturgy

Lighting the Christ Candle on Christmas Eve

Reader One: We have watched, we have waited

in hope. (light the first candle)

for peace. (light the second candle)

in joy! (light the pink candle)

with love! (light the fourth candle)

Now our redemption draws near! (light the center candle)

Reader Two: Hear the Word of the Lord from Isaiah 9:2-7

The people who walked in darkness

have seen a great light;

those who lived in a land of deep darkness

on them light has shined.

You have multiplied a nation,

you have increased its joy;

they rejoice before you as with joy at the harvest,

as people exult when dividing plunder.

for the yoke of their burden,

and the bar across their shoulders,

the rod of the oppressor,

you have broken as on the day of Midian.

For all the boots of the trampling warriors

and all the garments rolled in blood

shall be burned as fuel for the fire.

For a child has been born for us, a son is given to us;

authority rests upon his shoulders; and he is named

Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God,

Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace.

His authority shall grow continually,

and there shall be endless peace

for the throne of David and his kingdom.

He will establish and uphold it

with justice and with righteousness

from this time onward and forevermore.

The zeal of the Lord of hosts will do this.

Reader One: Glory to God in the highest!

All: Alleluia! Amen!!