The Christmas season begins with the traditional service of nine lessons and carols

First Lesson: Genesis 3: 8–15; 17–19 (NRSV)

God tells Adam that he has lost the life of Paradise and that his offspring will bruise the serpent’s head.

Second Lesson: Genesis 22: 15–18 (NRSV)

God promises Abraham that in his offspring shall all the nations of the earth be blessed.

Third Lesson: Isaiah 9: 2; 6–7 (NRSV)

The prophet foretells the coming of the Saviour.

Fourth Lesson: Isaiah 11: 1–3a; 4a; 6–9 (NRSV)

The peace that Christ will bring is foreshown.

Fifth Lesson: Luke 1: 26–35; 38 (NRSV)

The angel Gabriel salutes the Blessed Virgin Mary.

Sixth Lesson: Luke 2: 1; 3–7 (NRSV)

St Luke tells of the birth of Jesus.

Seventh Lesson: Luke 2: 8–16 (NRSV)

The shepherds go to the manger.

Eighth Lesson: Matthew 2: 1–12 (NRSV)

The wise men are led by the star to Jesus.

Ninth Lesson: John 1: 1–14 (NRSV)

St John unfolds the great mystery of the Incarnation.