Dear Saints in Santa Fe, and other far-off places,

Greetings in the name of Jesus Christ, who often prayed when life became overwhelming.

Christmas Prayer 2023–

Wonderful Counselor, Mighty and Everlasting God, Prince of Peace:
Come to us now,
in Joseph dreams and Mary songs,
in the generosity of strangers and on angel wings.

Remind us again of your story of Christ’s birth, and your love for all humanity.

You were there when Power and War stalked the earth,
chasing people from their homes.
We pray for the lost, the unhoused, the fleeing.

You were there in shepherds’ fields,
stables and mangers.
We pray for those who live on the margins.

You were there where babies are seldom born,
and hope scantly heard, in the darkness of night.
We pray for those who know so little joy or light.

You were there when angels sang of peace.
Sing to Gaza and Israel.
Sing to Ukraine and Russia.
Sing songs of peace throughout the world.
We pray for those who live in fear, who suffer, who know deep loss.

You are here, now, in these days, in our story,
Resembling the one we tell this night.
Comfort us when home is a memory, not a place.
Gather us from the far fields.
Teach us songs of peace so we know them by heart.
And carry the tune for us until we can sing them ourselves,
about a new world being born,
a new people being formed,
a new hope to light this darkened world.
May it be so.  May it be so.  May it be so.

Wishing you a time of hope, peace, joy, and love,

Harry