Loving God, in this New Year, we deeply pray that your loving spirit will guide us as we seek justice in the world:  safety for those who suffer violence of body and spirit, food for the hungry, shelter for the homeless, health care for the sick, human rights for the oppressed, equality and freedom for all people, no matter their gender, race, age, faith, ability, income, or sexual orientation.

Lord, hear our prayer.

Loving God, we pray that our worldwide church will lead by example and inspiration in the cause of justice, including justice for the planet earth, our precious home.

Lord, hear our prayer.

Loving God, we pray that our nation will be a light to other nations in the cause of justice, a city on the hill of peace, equality, freedom, dignity, and care for all people and the earth.

Lord, hear our prayer.

Loving God, we know that justice begins at home, in our own social order, on this small island in the Salish Sea. Let us recognize and care for our Orcas Island neighbors with loving kindness, refraining from judgment about them.

Lord, hear our prayer.

Loving God, we know that we are responsible for justice for those without voices. Let us care for the fragile marine, air, forest, and field environments of the earth and all species who dwell within and upon them, with tender recognition for their beauty and dignity.

Lord, hear our prayer

Loving God, be with us in our homes, as we daily interact with our families.  Let us look upon and act toward our parents and sisters and brothers and children, our husbands and wives, in a spirit of loving kindness and compassionate understanding.

 Lord, hear our prayer.

Celebrant:  We give thanks and pray that each of us may continue to live out our baptism in a spirit of joy.