Liturgy

In the sun which banishes the shadows,
in the birds who chorale us awake:
it was you, Creation’s Joy,
leading us into this new day.

In the touch, healing long-grasped grudges,
in the laughter of children which nudges us into hope:
it is you, Emmanuel, God with us,
who walks each step of the way with us.

In the compassion melting icy hearts,
in the peace, silencing our boastful voices:
it will be you, Holy Spirit,
who guides us into the kingdom.

Creator, Emmanuel, Holy Spirit,
we give thanks for who you are.

We pray in the name of the Father,
of the Son
and of the Holy Spirit.
Amen.

Community Confession

In prayer, let us confess to God as a community.

God our Father,
in your love, you welcome us as your children,
with your mercy you hear our prayers.
Hear us, your children,
as we come before you in worship.

Jesus, our risen Savior,
in our weakness, you call us,
in our confusion, you teach us,
in our troubles, you offer us peace.

Speak to us, your children,
as we come to hear your word.

Spirit, Living One,
in the beginning, you breathed life,
in chaos and darkness, you brought hope,
in many tongues, you spread good news.

Transform us, your people,
as we open our minds and hearts to you.

God, Loving Father, Son and Spirit,
we know we come with doubts, fears and in ignorance.
We know we have failed you in many ways.

Trusting in your love, we turn again to you.
As we open our hearts to your mercy and forgiveness,
grant us your peace.

Accept our prayers,
accept our worship,
accept us as we are,
and change us through your love,

We pray to you, our God in community, holy in One.
Amen.

Reflection

How do we tend to respond to powerlessness in our lives?
What are the areas of our lives that are driven by our consuming nature?
How are we motivated to serve and act based only on personal gain?

Benediction

As we go from this place, may we take with us
your word and your Spirit that our faith offers us.
 
Here, we learn of and sing praises for your gift of life. 
We declare that we will live as vessels receiving God’s radiant light. 

From our eyes, may your light shine brightly
so that in the darkness we may see the needs of others.
 
Through our ears, may we hear beyond the noise of self-interest
to the calls for help from those in need.
 
May our hearts beat with compassion,
our arms be strong in reaching out
to lift up those who stumble.

We are sent in faith,
knowing you are peace,
you are justice,
you are grace.

Go in the name of the Father,
of the Son,
and of the Holy Spirit.
Amen.

Go in peace and live the church.
See you throughout the week.

[Photo by Carmen Marchena @ Flickr]