Sunday 18th December 2022 – Surprise Visitors
Kirsty has put together some resources themed around the Christmas Story rather than the bible readings specified in the Lectionary for each Sunday. A printer friendly version is available at http://www.stranorlar.raphoe.anglican.org/wp-content/uploads/2022/12/ChristmasStory_18thDec.pdf
Read: Luke 2:8-20
The night Jesus was born was a normal night for some shepherds who were watching their sheep in the fields near Bethlehem. Suddenly an angel of God appeared to them, and their night was no longer normal! At first, they were terrified, but the angel explained the something amazing had happened – an incredibly special baby had been born in Bethlehem. The Messiah was born and was lying in a manger.
More angels appeared and together they praised God saying, ‘Glory to God in the highest, and peace to those on earth.’
The Shepherds were amazed at what they had seen and heard – the left their sheep and headed to Bethlehem to see it for themselves. After they had seen Jesus, they were so excited – they told everyone they met about the very special baby.
Watch:
What were the shepherds doing? Who came to visit them? Why were they afraid? What did the
angel tell them? Why did they go to Bethlehem? What did they do after they saw the Baby Jesus?
Do: Colouring page – https://ministry-to-children.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/12/Angels-and- Shepherds-2.pdf
Craft – https://www.craftsonsea.co.uk/nativity-scene-craft/
Decoder – https://sermons4kids.com/birth_of_jesus_decoder.htm?fromSermonId=357
Pray:
Heavenly Father, through this season of Advent, we prepare for our Christmas celebrations of the birth of your Son Jesus Christ.
In all the busy times help us to see the importance of your love for us. Show us new ways to share the message of your love for all people. We pray this in the name of Jesus, whose coming we eagerly await. Amen. (Taken from Praying Together)
Father in heaven watch over our loved ones.
Keep them by your side.
May they be safe and peaceful, in you may they abide.
Give wisdom to the doctors and nurses too we pray,
renew their strength and bless them for the work they do each day. Send healing and restoration and let them feel your love.
May your Holy Spirit give them rest as gentle as a dove. Amen (Taken from Praying Together)
Share: The Shepherds couldn’t wait to tell everyone about the birth of the very special baby – can you send someone a Christmas Card to tell them why we celebrate Christmas?