Happy Birthday, Jesus!

Prayer Celebration Directions

GATHERING SONG
GATHERING PRAYER
Leader		Christmas is a celebration of God's love. God the Father loves us so much he sent his own Son to show this love. We celebrate Jesus' birthday as the best gift ever!
All		In the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Spirit, Amen.
READING (based on Luke 2:4-7)
Leader		Listen to a reading from the Gospel of Luke in the Bible. Joseph took Mary, his wife, to the town of Bethlehem. While they were there, it was time for Mary to have her baby. Jesus was born! Mary wrapped him in swaddling clothes and laid him in a manger.
All		Happy birthday, Jesus!
CLOSING PRAYER
Leader		We share gifts with others at Christmas to remember Jesus' birthday. Sometimes our gifts are loving actions like setting or clearing the table, picking up toys, or giving someone a hug. (Have children come up one at a time to place a straw in the crib or box you have on the prayer table. Each should state what loving action he or she will perform during the coming week.)
All		We love you Jesus. You are our special gift. Amen.
CLOSING SONG