Reader 1:  The third week of Advent we remember the gift of Joy we have in Christ. We remember the joy that Mary felt when the angel Gabriel told her that a special child would be born to her - a child who would save and deliver all people. Joy is the gift we all receive from the unconditional love Christ has for us. 

Reader 2:  God wants us all to have joy. The angel who announced to the shepherd that Jesus had been born told them: "Do not be afraid. I am bringing you good news of great joy for all people - for you is born this day, in the City of David, a Savior, who is the Messiah, the Lord." As we light this candle, we remember that Christ came to bring true and everlasting joy to all people. As we light this candle, we are reminded that Christ came to save all people. 

(Reader lights the first two purple candles and the pink candle on the Advent Wreath.) 

Family members share how they have experienced joy today. 

Reader 3:  Let us pray - Loving God, we thank you for the joy you bring us. Help us prepare our hearts for the Lord's coming by helping us see that Christ came for every person we meet wherever we go. We ask this in the name of the one born in Bethlehem, Jesus our Lord. 

All:  Amen.