In the midst of frenzied shopping and

In the midst of frenzied shopping

and end-of-year weariness,

we spread out a purple cloth,(a purple cloth is spread over the communion table)

read again the ancient stories,(a Bible is placed on the table)

and light a candle in the darkness,(a candle or an Advent wreath is placed and lit)

to celebrate a visitation.

Gathered here we declare our intention to live

as if the greatest gift in the world

were about to be placed into our hands(a wrapped parcel is laid on the table),

and as if the Giver has understood

our deepest needs, our…