Blessing of a Christmas Tree

Lord our God, we praise you for the light of creation;

the sun, the moon, and the stars of the night.

We praise you for the light of Israel:

the Law, the prophets

and the wisdom of the Scriptures.

We praise you for Jesus Christ, your Son;

he is Emmanuel, God-with-us, the Prince of Peace,

who fills us with the wonder of your love.

Lord, God, let your blessing come upon us, as we light this tree.

May the light and cheer it gives

be a sign of the joy that fills our hearts.

May all who delight in this tree

come to the knowledge and joy of salvation.

We ask this through Christ our Lord. Amen.

Prayer from the Basilica of the National Shrine

of the Immaculate Conception, Washington, DC