Dearest Lord, once again, we discover ourselves in turmoil as a result of our human attempts to determine good and evil. In a wilderness of opinion, help us to look to and serve only you.

In Christ we pray.

Dearest Lord, we rejoice in your gift of abundant grace through Jesus Christ. Help us to use this grace for your purpose, in humble service to our brothers and sisters around the world.

In Christ we pray.

Dearest Lord, we recognize and praise your creation — the infinite universe and our small planet, Earth, magnificent in both beauty and abundance. Help us to love and care for the Earth as the mother she is.

In Christ we pray.

Presider:  We begin the Lenten season in reflection on what it means to love you with all our hearts, minds and souls and to love our neighbors as ourselves. Guide us past the pitfalls human perspective; help us be true to you alone.  Amen.