Prayer before the Crib at home

The history of the crib dates back over 800 years, St Francis of Assisi was the first to introduce the crib as a devotional. If you don’t have a crib, perhaps you could buy one. If you are creative you could try making one.

On Christmas morning, those who are in the house, gather before the Crib to welcome the Baby Jesus into to your home.

Begin by making the Sign of the Cross

Place the Baby Jesus

Pray the Prayer Before the Crib

Prayer before the Crib – God, our Father, we praise and thank You for sending us Your Son Jesus, as a small baby; so that we might understand how much You love us. Help us to live our daily lives knowing that we share in Jesus’ light and life. Forgive us for our shortcomings and draw us closer to You daily. Holy Mary, who said ‘Yes’ that we might have life, pray for us all. Amen.

Light a candle, preferably a Red one as red is the colour of Christmas. It is an Irish tradition of lighting a candle as a sign of welcome. We welcome the Baby Jesus into our home.

Pray the Hail Mary and other intentions

Finish by making the sign of the Cross.