For a child has been born for us, a son given to us;
Hear our prayer, in this Advent season, as we prepare to celebrate the birth of one who came to serve and not be served; for whom there was no room in the inn. Make room for the forgotten and the marginalized. Give now, precious Savior, shelter to all who are homeless; courage to those whose suffering is visible on the nightly news and those who suffer in silence; provide food for those who go to bed hungry and open the hands of those who have to give.
Bishop Vashti Murphy McKenzie
President and General Secretary
National Council of Churches