Fourth Sunday of Advent - His name will be Emmanuel - God with us

Matthew’s gospel tells us what Joseph did when faced with a major problem.  Take a few minutes to consider Joseph and admire the courage of this just man in doing God’s will, whatever the cost. Christmas is not a celebration of the powerful and the mighty; it is a feast of the poor, and of those who know their need for God. If we are to approach the festival that is almost here, perhaps we can engage with the gospel story and do whatever it is we are meant to do, in terms of restoring other people’s dignity.

‘All this took place to fulfil what had been spoken by the Lord through the prophet: Look, the virgin is with child and will give birth to a son, and they shall call his name Emmanuel, which means God-is-with-us.’ Mt 1:22-23

Readings

Is 7:10-14: The virgin will conceive...

Ps 23:1-6: R. Let the Lord enter; He is king of glory.

Rom 1:1-7: Jesus Christ, a descendent of David, the Son of God.

Alleluia, alleluia! A virgin will give birth to a son; his name will be Emmanuel: God is with us. Alleluia!

Mt 1: 18-24: Jesus was born of Mary, the betrothed of Joseph, a son of David.

Homily Studio podcast

Listen to the Homily Studio for a conversation on this weeks’ scripture readings. The podcast is available at this link from Monday 12 December.

Suggestions for Prayers of Intercession

We pray for:

The Church as she journeys towards the Synod of Bishops 2021-2024: that our walking together as authentic companions in Christ will bear fruit in new ways of being at the service of one another.

E te Ariki, Whakarongo mai rā kia a mātou.

Peace in Ukraine: E te Atua hear our prayers for our brothers and sisters suffering during this harsh winter in Ukraine. We ask for peace for those who need peace, reconciliation for those who need reconciliation and comfort for all who don't know what tomorrow will bring.

E te Ariki, Whakarongo mai rā kia a mātou.

The O Antiphons

The O Antiphons, as they are commonly called, are the chants of ancient origin sung or recited at the beginning and end of the Magnificat during the service of Evening Prayer on each of the days leading up to Christmas Day, from 17-23 December. 

For a detailed explanation click HERE

The Jesse Tree – the genealogy of Jesus

For a Jesse Tree Penitential Rite leading to the Liturgy of the Word click HERE

'Journey to Bethlehem' by Joseph Brickey.