The Collect
We give you thanks, O Lord of glory, for the example of the first martyr Stephen, who looked up to heaven and prayed for his persecutors to your Son Jesus Christ, who stands at your right hand; where he lives and reigns with you and the Holy Spirit, one God, in glory everlasting. Amen.
The Psalms
28, 30
The Readings (from the Daily Office of Morning Prayer)
II Chronicles 24:17-22 + Acts 6:1-7
And they chose Stephen, a man full of faith and the Holy Spirit . . .
~Acts 6:5
Christmas Day is followed by three Holy Days in succession: St. Stephen, St. John, and the Holy Innocents. Each day will be posted here with a song to serve as an invitation to reflection on the day's prayers and readings.
Today's song, "Good King Wenceslas" is an appropriate carol for this feast of Stephen, who, in addition to being the first martyr, was also one of the first deacons. As clergy, deacons have a particular ministry to the poor, and a calling to consistently and boldly hold the needs of the world before the eyes of the church.
Closing Prayer
Lord Jesus, who for us in this holy season became poor: may we always work to lighten the sufferings of those in need, and hold nothing so dear, even our lives, as the love we hold for you.
Amen.
No comments:
Post a Comment