Third Sunday of Advent

Kindly find posted below the proper for liturgical use on the 3rd Sunday of Advent, 11 December 2005. May the Lord bless you and you loved ones through not only this holy season but throughout the new year of grace.

Advent Proper 3: "The Visitation of Mary and the Birth of John the Baptist"

Prayer:
Almighty Father, you blessed the barren womb of Elizabeth that she might give birth to John your prophet, and you chose the virgin Mary to be the mother of your Son. By your Spirit fill us with your grace, that we may follow the faithful examples of Elizabeth and Mary, patiently awaiting your kindness, accepting your will, and rejoicing in your abundant gifts. We ask this through your incarnate Word, Christ Jesus our Lord, who lives and reigns with you and the Holy Spirit, one God, now and forever. Amen.

Corpus of Lectionary Citations:
Torah or History:
Genesis 18:1-15
Genesis 19:1-26
Ruth 1:1-18

Psalm 72:1-7,18-19

Wisdom:
Psalm 65:9-13
Psalm 106:1-5

Prophets:
Isaiah 12:2-6
Zephaniah 3:14-17

Deuterocanonical:
Sirach (Ecclesiasticus)16:17-25

Apostolic Epistle:
Romans 12:9-13
1 Peter 2:9-10

Apostolic Account:
Acts 19:11-22
Acts 27:1-3

Gospel:
Luke 1:39-45,57-66

Proposed Readings for the Divine Liturgy:

Years A , B, and C
Genesis 18:1-15
Psalm 72:1-14,18-19
1 Peter 2:9-10
Luke 1:39-45,57-66

Post-Communion Prayer:
Gracious Father, you have gathered us together as your people, who now await the glorious return of your Son. From this eucharist send us forth to invite others into this fellowship of faith, hope, and love. We ask this through Christ our Lord. Amen.