Religious Education
The Christmas Crèche
Saint Francis of Assisi is credited with creating the first nativity scene
on the Christmas Eve of 1223.
It is said that whilst on a pilgrimage to the Holy Land, he was deeply inspired by a visit
to the historical / traditional place of Christ’s birth, where he was struck by its poverty, humility and simplicity.
Saint Francis’ new religious order, the Franciscans, was based on these very same virtues.
This first nativity scene was a living one, with humans and animals cast in the Biblical roles.
The Pope of the day, Pope Honorius III, gave his blessing to the ‘exhibit’, and it became hugely popular, spreading throughout Christendom.
Within a hundred years, every church in Italy was expected to have a nativity scene
at Christmas time.
A Christmas Prayer at meal time
Dear Heavenly Father,
love brought Jesus to the earth, and love brings us to this Christmas table. Today as we share this holiday feast, may we also share with one another a joyful heart and a warm smile. May our Christmas dinner be filled with kindness. And may the memories of today warm our hearts for years to come.
Amen.
Christmas Prayer for Children
Dear God,
Thank you for all the fun and excitement of Christmas. Thankyou for the amazing nativity story, that tells us about the birth of Jesus. Thank you for sending us your Son, a gift from you into this world. As we look at the lights on the tree, remind us of the light Jesus brought to this Earth. When we sing songs and carols, remind us of the hope Jesus showed everyone. And as we open the gifts and presents, remind us that Jesus was the best gift ever. Help us to share special times with family and friends this Christmas, And to share the light, hope and gift of Jesus to the world. Amen.
Read more at: https://www.lords-prayer-words.com/times/christmas_prayer.html
A Short Christmas Blessing
May the blessing of joy abide within you;
May the blessing of peace rest upon you;
May the blessing of love flow out through you;
May all the blessings of the Lord be yours at Christmas and in the new year.
A Christmas Prayer for Peace
Dear Lord,
On this Christmas Day, we come to You with hearts full of hope and gratitude. The birth of Jesus brought joy, love, and peace to the world. On this day we ask that the memory of his birth restore peace throughout the lands.
Help those who disagree to find common ground. Help those who are fighting to see eye to eye and find their shared humanity. May the joy of Christmas melt away their suffering and conflict.
Lord, please watch over all women and children, the elderly and infirm and all who are vulnerable. Please keep them safe from harm today and always. Fill our hearts with love, understanding, and a desire to come together. Let the happiness of today spread far and wide, turning disagreements into understanding and sadness into comfort.
May Your message of love and peace be felt everywhere, not just today, but
every day.
Amen.
Wishing everyone a safe, happy and holy Christmas and holiday time. May the Hope, Peace, Joy and Love of the Advent Candles be with us at this special time of the year.
All the best for the new year ahead.
Michael Dwyer (Religious Education Leader)