Today, say a simple Advent prayer service together. It doesn't need to be lengthy. In fact, with very young children, shorter is better so they can really pay attention.

A typical prayer service includes scripture, petitions, and traditional prayer. You can make up your own or use the simple prayer service below.

A Family Advent Prayer Service

In Isaiah chapter 9 we hear

 For a son has been born for us, a son has been given to us, and dominion has been laid on his shoulders; and this is the name he has been given, Wonder-Counselor, Mighty-God, Eternal-Father, Prince-of-Peace

Lord Jesus, we ask you to prepare us during this holy Advent season as we get ready for your arrival.  We look forward to the peace and joy you bring into our world. Help us to keep focused on your love and grace during this season.

With this in mind, we ask that you hear our petitions. Please reply "Come into our hearts Lord Jesus" to each petition.

(Each family member offers one or more petitions. Each petition is concluded with "Lord hear our prayer" to which everyone responds "Come into our hearts Lord Jesus".)

Let us conclude our prayer service with a Hail Mary:

Hail Mary,
full of grace,
the Lord is with thee;
blessed art thou amongst women,
and blessed is the fruit of thy womb, Jesus.
Holy Mary, Mother of God,
pray for us sinners,
now and at the hour of our death.
Amen.

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