ICF - Professions of Faith

Sunday 4th January 2026 - 2nd Sunday after Christmas

Jeremiah 31:7-14; Ephesians 1:3-6,15-19a; Matthew 2:13-15,19-23; Psalm 84
(Alternatives: Luke 2:41-52; Matthew 2:1-12)

The reading from Jeremiah foretells the restoration of an exiled people, brought together in a renewed community. It is an echo of God's heart for a broken people, and might lead a congregation to reflect on and pray for those individuals and agencies involved in community reconstruction in our own world. This might be on an international scale, working to rebuild after war and conflict, or at a local level in community regeneration. The returned exiles come together in celebration with food, wine and dancing. This might serve as a reminder that human celebration has its place in the purposes of God, and we can appreciate the work of those in the hospitality and event planning sector who make such occasions possible.

A common strand through today's readings is that of journey and travel. This provides an opportunity to reflect on the hazards, challenges and purposes of travel and to pray for those who face them, along with those who provide protection and response to those in difficulty, and those who facilitate safe and expedient travel.

The Gospel readings from Matthew, particularly raise the reality of the Holy Family becoming refugees through violence and threat perpetrated by the abusers of earthly power. This provides an obvious opportunity to pray for refugees, asylum seekers and those who provide support services for them.