Living Psalms Book
Psalms in the form of words and art, reborn in the specific contexts of our world, privileging the voices of historically marginalized communities and those acting in solidarity with them.

Living Psalms 96 & 98
Christmas Eve and Day, Year B

To the tempo of my heartbeat, I sing you a new song.
From the depths of our souls, I rejoice with gladness.

The harmony which builds from our lungs
Blends with the songs of your creation.

From the beginning of time through this day,
Your salvation circulates around us.

Your glory abounds.
You shine from nation to nation.
Your works have built this world.
Your love has nurtured your children.
You are the Divine.
You are Love.
You are our God.

Divine Creator, you are great!
Your handiwork is seen in tonight’s sky
Spanning the heavens you created.
As the sun rises at dawn.
Hope fills the horizon at daybreak.

We sing to you a song of love-
A song of newness with hearts rejoicing.
A song of equity to fill all people with strength.
A song to lift us from the ditches of shame.
A song to carry us into the future.

Divine Creator, your artwork is majestic.
How fortunate we are to abide in this world so aesthetic!
The trees sing as the leaves rustle together.
The grass harmonizes as the winds brush past.
The melodious moans of the sea sing of God’s grace.

May this day which is God’s be filled with justice.
May this space which is God’s be filled with righteousness.
May God’s hope be found in the songs of creation.
May God’s love be found in the beats of our hearts.

Living Psalm  96-98 Christmas  B  was written by Michelle Torigian.

Living Psalms Book is created by UCC Witness & Worship Artists’ Group, a Network of UCC connected artists, activists and ministers bridging the worship and liturgy of the local church with witness and action in the community.  

Logo is detail from Living Psalm 80 by Sophia Beardemphl, Redwoods, CA. Recovering from significant bullying, Sophia, age nine, read Psalm 80 and thought of brokenness that needs mending. She drew this broken and mended bowl.

© Copyright 2020 Michelle Torigian.  Permission granted to reproduce or adapt this material for use in services of worship or church education.  All publishing rights reserved.