Liturgy

Oh God, we praise you:
for the rising sun that
warms us and brings life
and growth to the cold earth;
for the morning dew that freshens
the grass and flowers of the fields;

for the gathering light by which
to work to earn our daily bread.

We bless you:
for the light of Christ that casts
out fear and gives us hope;
for the love of Christ that
gladdens our hearts
and brings us cheer;

for the strength of Christ
so we may overcome
the challenges of this new week.

And we thank you:
For those we love; for all
we will receive of your bounty;
and for your presence with us
every hour, this day and always.

We worship 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.

Lord God,
help us lead lives worthy of the calling and work
you have given each of us.

We can not do this alone,
we dare not try this alone,
so we gather as your church, oh God.

Enable us to lead lives worthy of your Son’s sacrifice,
a life filled with service and meekness.

We come to build up Christ’s body,
in humility and gentleness,
with patience and love.

Strengthen us to lead lives which reflect your calling,
that life of peace grounded in the Spirit.

We rejoice in our oneness in Christ,
and freely share the grace offered to us.

We gather as God’s family
to work and pray in the name of the Father,
of the Son
and of the Holy Spirit.
Amen.

Reflection

What is it in you that you have to do?
What is God doing this week and how can you participate?

Benediction

Gracious and loving God,
make us one in the body of Christ,
and thankful for bringing us together to remember you.

Send us into the world to do the work you invite
us to be a part of:

to find the lost and lonely, to heal broken souls,
to free prisoners, and make the powerful care.

Grant us strength to persevere in our daily work,
to proclaim your truth in all we say
and do your good news in Christ Jesus our Savior.

We 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 Christopher Jenkins @ Flickr]