Hymn suggestions for Christmas Eve

While we do not publish liturgies or resources specific to Christmas Eve, any of the three sets of readings and hymn suggestions published for Christmas Day may be used on the evening of Christmas Eve.

Also see the Advent and Christmas worship resource for 2024-25, Hush the Noise, which is based around the Christmas carol It came upon the midnight clear (StF 205).

Additional resources may be found published by the United Methodist Church (Discipleship Ministries) and on the Church of Scotland website, including this prayer from the ALTERnatavity archives:

God of all people
as we wait again for the coming of Christmas Day
let us take time to be still,
and pause from the busyness of the season.

We remember a poor family travelling to Bethlehem, because they had to.
Of the search to find somewhere, anywhere, for Mary to give birth.
Of the joy at the safe arrival of Jesus, despite the insanitary conditions.
Of the visitors who came to pay their respects at the birth of God incarnate.

But we also remember the fear and anxiety that stalked Herod,
that made the Wise Men know that all was not well,
that put in place the decree to slaughter the young boys
that forced the Holy Family to flee.

God of all the years, tonight as we wait for Christmas,
we remember those who are still waiting,
for justice, for peace, for release.
Waiting to be seen, recognised and included.

And we remember the work of your Son,
to bring good news and proclaim a different way to live.
As we go into our Christmas celebrations,
let us do likewise.
Amen