Prayers for Use in Advent

These prayers come from the Rev. Jennifer Phillips, former Rector of St. Augustine's in Kingston, and a noted liturgist and crafter of prayers.  They are best used when lighting the Advent wreath in your home each night, to mark the passing of the month-long season leading us to Christmas. The Church Office has copies of another liturgy, if you'd like additional help praying your way through this holy season.

Week I.Come, O Holy One, as the morning light after a wakeful night! Keep us mindful that at any moment you may ask of us an accounting of our lives; help us to love you and love one another in all we do, and so clothe us with your light that we may bring others to love you also,
through Jesus our Savior. Amen.

Week II. Come, O Holy One, as the water of life and refiner's fire! Strengthen us with courage for your work of justice that in all the creation and among every people your peace may be established
and your joy abound, through Jesus our Deliverer. Amen.

Week III. Come, O Holy One, breaker of chains and renewer of life! Open our eyes to your presence in all the earth. Stir us to proclaim gladly the signs of your love: the liberation of those oppressed, the healing of those frail and broken, springs of water in all the parched places, and Jesus Christ risen and alive, through whom we pray. Amen.

IV. Come, O Holy One, as the beloved child, Emmanuel! Soften our hearts and open our arms for your coming that we may make this a place worthy and warm, kindly and safe for all your
children, in the name of Jesus. Amen.