THE WORD
PAULINE PRAYER OF THE CHURCH: Readings for today Christ, born of the Father before the ages, splendour of his glory, image of his being, your words holds all creation in being, we ask you to give new life to our world through your Gospel. Christ, you were born into the world at the fullness of time to save mankind and to give freedom to every creature, we ask you to extend the liberty of our sonship in you to all people. Christ, consubstantial Son of the Father, begotten before the dawn of day, and born in Bethlehem in fulfilment of the Scriptures, we ask you to make your Church a notable example of poverty and simplicity. Christ, God and man, Lord of David and Son of David, fulfilment of all prophesies, we pray that Israel may recognise you as its Messiah.