Birth of Christ, Anonymous 18th century
O sweet Child of Bethlehem,
grant that we may share with all our hearts
in this profound mystery of Christmas.
Put into our hearts this peace
for which we sometimes seek so desperately
and which you alone can give us.
Help us to know one another better,
and to live as children of the same Father.
Reveal to us also your beauty, holiness and purity.
Awaken in our hearts love and gratitude
for your infinity goodness.
Join us all together in your love.
And give us your heavenly peace.
Amen.
Pope John XXIII, 1881-1963
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Suddenly a great company of the heavenly host appeared with the angel,
praising God and saying,
“Glory to God in the highest heaven,
and on earth peace to those on whom his favor rests.”
When the angels had left them and gone into heaven,
the shepherds said to one another,
“Let’s go to Bethlehem and see this thing that has happened,
which the Lord has told us about.”
So they hurried off and found Mary and Joseph, and the baby,
who was lying in the manger.
When they had seen him,
they spread the word concerning what had been told them about this child,
and all who heard it were amazed at what the shepherds said to them.
prayer & verse 
