Blessed are you, O Lord our God, ruler of the universe.You call all nations to walk in your light and to seek your ways of justice and peace,for the night is past, and the dawn of your coming is near.Bless us as we light the first candle of this wreath.Rouse us from sleep,that we may be ready to greet our Lord when he comesand welcome him into our hearts and homes,for he is our light and our salvation.

Blessed be God forever.

Amen.