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Advent & Christmas 2006

To find out about times of services for Advent and Christmas,
please see Times of Services.

An angel of the Lord appeared to them (the shepherds living out in the fields), and the glory of the Lord shone around them, and they were terrified. But the angel said to them

"Do not be afraid. I bring you good news of great joy that will be for all the people. Today in the town of David a Saviour has been born to you; he is Christ the Lord."

A Saviour has been born! The prophets had taught the people of Israel to expect a saviour. Many expected him to deliver them from Roman oppression, other wanted to be cured of disease.

Jesus the Saviour was much more than a political leader or a healer, "he will save his people from their sins". The birth of Jesus Christ means God has intervened decisively in human history. This birth has been prophesied, and people of all nations recognise Christ’s divinity and worship Him.

Since the 4th century, Christmas has been celebrated on 25 December, but the exact date of Jesus' birth is not known. The word Christmas comes from the old English 'Cristes Maesse' which means mass of Christ. In carols, Christmas is often called Noël, taken from the French word for "birthday", which also gives "Nativity".

We have begun a time of Advent, a season of expectation and hope that is a spiritual preparation for Christmas. At Westminster Cathedral, Advent and Christmas are marked by many events. Please consult our special Christmas Events Calendar for the most updated information.

The Administrator & Cathedral Chaplains
wish you all
a Blessed Christmas and a Happy New Year!

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