December 25th, 2004, The Nativity of the Lord, Christmas, Vigil Mass.

A reading from the book of the prophet Isaiah.

For Zion's sake, I will not be silent. For Jerusalem's sake, I will not be quiet,

until her vindication shines forth like the dawn, and her victory like a burning torch. Nations shall behold your vindication shines forth like the dawn and her victory like a burning torch.

Nation shall behold your vindication and all the kings your glory. You shall be called by a new name,

pronounced by the mouth of the Lord. You shall be a glorious crown in the hand of the Lord,

a royal diadem held by your God. No more shall people

call you forsaken, or your land desolate, but you shall be called mighty light, and your land

espoused. For the Lord delights in you and makes your land his spouse.

As a young man marries a virgin, your builder shall marry you.

And as a bridegroom rejoices in his bride, so shall your God rejoice in you.

The Word of the Lord. Forever I will sing the goodness of the Lord.

I have made a covenant with my chosen one, I have sworn to David my servant.

Forever will I confirm your posterity and establish your throne for all generations.

Forever I will sing the goodness of the Lord.

Blessed the people who know the joyful shout,

in the light of your countenance, O Lord, they walk.

At your name they rejoice all the day,

And through your justice they are exalted.

Forever I will sing the goodness of the Lord.

He shall save me, you are my father, my the rock my saviour forever I will maintain my kindness toward him and my covenant with him stands firm. Forever I will sing the goodness of the Lord.

A reading from the Acts of the Apostles.

...