Lector: Dearest Lord, we were not with you when you laid the foundation of the earth, when the morning stars sang.  We depend on you for knowledge and wisdom.  Help us to discern your purpose in the world, that we may live out your highest hopes for our earthly lives.  Dearest Lord, we pray.

Dearest Lord, let us remember your words of wisdom to the leaders of your church, that they deal gently with the ignorant and the wayward since they themselves are subject to weakness. Let us not mistake judgement for love. Dearest Lord, we pray.

Dearest Lord, these same words apply to the conduct of the leaders of your church, that they deal gently with the ignorant and the wayward since they themselves are subject to weakness. Let us not mistake judgement for love. Dearest Lord, we pray.

Dearest Lord, these same words apply to the conduct of the leaders of nations. Law best serves your purpose when it lifts rather than destroys.  Let us not mistake judgement for love. Dearest Lord, we pray.

Dearest Lord, Again and again you remind us that whoever wishes to be great must be a servant to all.  Help us to discern the needs of our neighbors — especially those without home or health, sustenance or security — and to bend to their care.   Dearest Lord, we pray.

Dearest Lord, you asked us to be caretakers of the garden as well, to love the glorious creation that is our home. Help us to preserve the beauty and vitality of the seas and skies and earth upon which all life and its future depend.   Dearest Lord, we pray.  

Dearest Lord, like Job, we are ba?ed by su?ering. Help us to discern its meaning and purpose in our lives.  Be present in the healing of those who su?er in mind, body, and soul, including those we now name:

Dearest Lord, we pray.  

Presider: Dear Lord, we seek you in the whirlwind as well as the gentle dawn. In your mystery, show us the way.   Amen.