Liturgy

Christ Jesus,
we come into your presence
from many different places.

We come with songs of joy
and shouts of gratitude.
We come carrying heavy burdens
and sighs of suffering.

As you welcome us into your house,
lift our burdens
and receive our praise.

Bind us together,
that we may be at peace with one another
and be strengthened to go forth
in service to the world.

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.

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 care for 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 community.
Hear us, Lord; for your mercy is great.

We thank you, Lord, for all the blessings of this life.
Yet, despite our efforts, we are sinful beings,
Prone to selfishness…self-preservation.

Have mercy upon us, 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

How have we experienced resurrection in our lives?
What are the gifts and resources God has given us that we can commit to use for his kingdom?

Benediction

Christ has no body now on earth but ours,
no hands but ours,
no feet but ours.
We are the eyes through which Christ’s compassion
cares for the people of the world;

we are the feet with which Christ is to go about doing good;
we are the hands through which Christ now
brings a blessing.

We promise this day to keep awake,
to live each moment to the full,
to look with eyes of compassion,
and to act with kindness.

In the name of the Father, the Son
and the Holy Spirit. Amen.

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

[Photo by Rosario Oddo @ Flickr]