GATHERING SONG

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We celebrate St. Nicholas as an example of a holy person who was very generous. We pray that we, too, can be giving and generous to others. Let us pray.

Lord God, bless this time of our prayer. Open our minds and hearts to be givers of ourselves. Teach us to be generous to all those around us.
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Amen.
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READING

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A reading from the Acts of the Apostles.
(The reader reads from Acts 20:3335.)
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The word of the Lord.
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Thanks be to God.
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RESPONSE

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Generosity leads to happiness. God can open our hearts for such giving. We ask God to help us become generous. We present to God our commitment to live as generous givers in this community.

(All place their promises of service in a basket.)
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Let us pray. For the strength to give generously to others,
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Teach us your ways, O Lord.
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For the patience to listen to the needs of others,
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Teach us your ways, O Lord.
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For full and generous hearts,
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Teach us your ways, O Lord.
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For the courage to give and not want anything in return,
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Teach us your ways, O Lord.
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For open ears to hear the needs of those around us.
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Teach us your ways, O Lord.
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For hearts that are open and loving,
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Teach us your ways, O Lord.
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CLOSING PRAYER

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Loving and giving God, St. Nicholas is the great example of giving to others without wanting anything in return. Give us the grace to give like that not only during the Christmas season, but always. Make us strong so that we may love others according to your will.
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Amen.
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CLOSING SONG
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