Bethlehem Candle

The second candle, also purple, represents faith and love. It is called the “Bethlehem Candle” as a reminder of Mary and Joseph’s journey to Bethlehem.

Family Night

Goodness, Beauty and Truth Tour

This time of year, there are so many fantastic sights to see! On Friday night this week, pour some hot chocolate GOODNESS into your favorite insulated tumblers and take the family on a journey to look at the BEAUTY of the Christmas sights & lights!

Take this a step further and include several churches as you embark upon your journey. Stop in the church, light a candle and say a prayer. Notice the parish's Advent wreath and Advent decorations. Talk about the journey Joseph and Mary endured as they headed to Bethlehem. What interesting things did they see? What may have the weather been like for them? Imagine what they had to eat and drink. How long did they travel before they stopped to rest? Did they enjoy the beautiful sunrises and sunsets as they traveled? Did they try to count the stars and recall the story of Abraham and Sarah?

Then, on the Friday night after Christmas, take the same tour and stop in the same churches to light another candle and say another prayer, but this time pray in front of the parish's manger scene. Notice how they all depict the same TRUTH but in beautifully unique ways!

Scripture for Reflection

Micah 5:1-4

1 But you, Bethlehem-Ephrathah least among the clans of Judah, From you shall come forth for me one who is to be ruler in Israel; Whose origin is from of old, from ancient times. 2 Therefore the Lord will give them up, until the time when she who is to give birth has borne,Then the rest of his kindred shall return to the children of Israel. 3 He shall take his place as shepherd by the strength of the Lord, by the majestic name of the Lord, his God; And they shall dwell securely, for now his greatness shall reach to the ends of the earth: 4 he shall be peace.

Family Prayer for a Journey

God our Creator,

You graced Joseph with the strength, wisdom and knowledge to follow your lead. You graced Mary with the strength, wisdom and knowledge to trust Joseph. Please protect us on the journey we are about to take. Support us with Your strength and grace when we are weary. Help us to be mindful of Your presence and love in times of stress and guide us to make our time together meaningful and memorable. Give us the grace to follow you and trust in you. May the Father and the Son and the Holy Spirit be glorified is all places through the Immaculate Virgin Mary. Amen.

excerpts from: https://www.guideposts.org/faith-and-prayer/prayer-stories/pray-effectively/5-prayers-for-safe-travel

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