For those who use the lectionary, Year A brings us to Matthew 2 and the slaughter of the innocents. This is a difficult pericope and one that you might be tempted to skip over in lieu of Epiphany’s light. But there are important theological reasons to remember this part of the Christmas story and include it in your worship services. If you are struggling with how to do it, here are a few practical helps.
Joyce Borger
Rev. Joyce Borger is a program manager at the Calvin Institute of Christian Worship. She curates and develops practical worship planning resources and manages the ReformedWorship.org website. She served as associate editor of the print journal Reformed Worship from 2003-2006 and senior editor from 2006-2025. She has edited seven musical collections, including Lift Up Your Hearts: Psalms, Hymns, and Spiritual Songs (Faith Alive Christian Resources, 2013) and Psalms for All Seasons (Faith Alive Christian Resources, 2011). In addition she has taught worship courses at Kuyper College and is an ordained minister in the Reformed Church in America.
Last Updated: November 20, 2025
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