by: Karen Pezza Leith
Lord God, Creator and Parent,
In your marvelous universe
You provide your children with all that is good.
In this time, and in this place,
You have provided more than we need,
Challenging us to be transformed.
Grant us vision to see the possibilities that make a difference,
Grant us hearts of gratitude
that we might appreciate your goodness,
that we might see one another as your family.
Lord Jesus Christ, friend, teacher, Savior,
You broke into our humanity
That we might see the path of love.
In this time, and in this place,
You are truly with us if we just open our hearts,
Prodding and encouraging us.
Grant us the courage to live your Way.
Grant us hearts filled with compassion
that we might accept the challenge of discipleship,
that we might be your presence in our world.
Lord God, Spirit of love and life,
You inspire us in so many ways,
Guiding ever so gently.
In this time, and in this place,
Your life-giving breath is ever needed.
The fire of your love is ever desired.
Grant us the wisdom to use what we have been given for good.
Grant us hearts willing to be vulnerable
that others may live with dignity,
that your kingdom be our reality.
Creator, Redeemer, Life-Giver abide in us in love. Amen.
by: Terrance M. Toohig
In the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Spirit,
Heavenly Father, we give You thanks for this opportunity to gather here in Your name.
As we depart to go our separate ways, we pray that You send forth Your Spirit to guide us in our work.
Help us Lord, to always remember, that it is You who has called us to be Church.
Keep us faithful to our purpose.
Assist us to be mindful, not only to your Word, but to it's message.
Aid us in remembering, that Church is not a place, but a people.
We pray that You keep us all united in Your name.
We ask this through Jesus Christ, Your Son. Amen