Liturgy
Lord Jesus Christ,
pierce our souls with your love that we may always long for you.
You, the bread of angels and the fulfillment of the soul’s deepest desires.
May our hearts always hunger and feed on what you provide,
so that our souls may be filled with sweetness in your presence.
May our souls thirst for you, the source of life, wisdom,
knowledge, light, and all the riches of God our Father.
May we always seek and find you, think about you, speak to you,
and do everything for the honor and glory of your name.
Be always our hope, our peace, our refuge and help
in whom our hearts are rooted, now and forever.
Amen.
– by St Bonaventure, 13th century
Congregational Prayer
In peace, we pray to you, Lord God.
For all people in their daily life and work;
For our families, friends, and neighbors,
and for those who are alone.
For this community, the nation, and the world;
For all who work for justice, freedom, and peace.
For the just and proper use of your creation;
For the victims of hunger, fear, injustice, and oppression.
For all who are in danger, sorrow, or any kind of trouble;
For those who minister to the sick, the friendless, and the needy.
For the peace and unity of the Church of God;
For all who proclaim the Gospel, and all who seek the Truth.
For the special needs and concerns of this congregation.
Hear us, Lord;
For your mercy is great.
We thank you, Lord, for all the blessings of this life.
We will exalt you, O God our King;
And praise your name forever.
Have mercy upon us, most merciful Father;
in your compassion forgive us of our sins,
known and unknown, things done and left undone,
Uphold us by your Spirit
that we may live and serve you in newness of life,
to the honor and glory of your Name;
through Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen.
Reflection
Are you still looking in the mirror?
Do you long for the fearlessness of Christ?
Are you willing to start each day this week by giving your body and life to Christ?
How can you use the weapons of Christ — faith, hope, and love — on the people in your life?
Benediction
May the word of Christ guide you.
May the light of his Spirit bless the work you do
with the love and warmth of your heart.
May people see in you the beauty of your soul reflecting the image of Christ.
May your work never weary you.
May the Holy Spirit within overflow
with the wellsprings of refreshment, inspiration and excitement
that all may know how good and gracious is our Father in heaven.
In the name of the Father, the Son and of the Holy Spirit, we pray. Amen.
Go in peace and live the church. See you throughout the week.
[Photo by Kevin Day @ Flickr]