Saint of the Day
St. John Neumann
John Neumann (1811–1860) was born in Bohemia and came to the United States as an immigrant priest in 1836, walking much of his early ministry on foot through the forests of western New York. He became a Redemptorist and later the fourth Bishop of Philadelphia, where he established over one hundred Catholic schools and standardized Catholic education in America. He was canonized in 1977 and remains the only male bishop of the United States to have been declared a saint.
Scripture Reading
John 1:29
The next day John saw Jesus coming toward him and said, "Look, the Lamb of God, who takes away the sin of the world!"
Reflection
John the Baptist's first words upon seeing Jesus are a declaration that reframes the whole sacrificial system of Israel. Every lamb ever offered at the temple pointed to this moment: the Lamb who would carry not one family's sin but the sin of the entire world. The Christmas child and the Lamb of sacrifice are the same person. His coming was always headed toward the cross — and through the cross, to the empty tomb.
Prayer for Today
God, our Creator, we offer this humble prayer on Christmas Day. We come to worship with a song of thanks in our heartsa song of redemption, a song of hope and renewal. We pray for joy in our hearts, hope in our God, love to forgive, and peace upon the
earth. We ask for the salvation of all our family members and friends, and we pray your blessings on all people. May there be bread for the hungry, love for the unlovable, healing for the sick, protection for our children,
and wisdom for our youth. We pray for the forgiveness of sinners and abundant life in Christ. Holy Spirit, fill our hearts with your love and power. In the name of Jesus Christ we pray. Amen.
earth. We ask for the salvation of all our family members and friends, and we pray your blessings on all people. May there be bread for the hungry, love for the unlovable, healing for the sick, protection for our children,
and wisdom for our youth. We pray for the forgiveness of sinners and abundant life in Christ. Holy Spirit, fill our hearts with your love and power. In the name of Jesus Christ we pray. Amen.
Amen.