Oh great Mystery, help us to listen deeply as we revisit the stories of the great ones who led the way so many thousands of years ago. Their deeds live on and teach us anew as we walk again on ancient pathways to greater wisdom, and deeper understanding.
We look to you now with praise, with gratitude, and with petitions that all the created world may grow in love of you and embrace your divine purpose.
Your salvation will be forever, your deliverance never ended.
We have much to be grateful for: Our priests, Berto and Hugh, our community, our beautiful island. We are so blessed. We offer fervent prayers that our our faith community, its leaders, and spiritual leaders everywhere may continue to shine light on the path for the benefit of all of life.
Your salvation will be forever, your deliverance never ended.
We open our hearts to those facing the consequences of wars, fires, and other climatological disasters throughout the world. May the mystery of your holy love restore those innocent victims who have lost homes and livelihood in Greece, Maui, and many other places. Bring comfort in the wilderness of loss, bring healing to the damaged earth and your suffering people.
Your salvation will be forever, your deliverance never ended.
We pray for success in the education of our dear children. May your divine purpose express itself in their learning in myriad ways. Special prayers go to all who teach and care for children, and for all those facing their first year studying away from home. And we pray that all children—regardless of race, gender preference, cultural or other difference—feel welcome and special, and that each student’s educational needs be met with love and creativity.
Your salvation will be forever, your deliverance never ended.
We thank all those who contributed their talents and resources to the Wednesday noon concerts and to all the uplifting activities that have brought joy to islanders and visitors alike during this summer. Help us to live in ongoing harmony and care for all of life here in our island home in the Salish Sea.
Your salvation will be forever, your deliverance never ended.
We bow our heads in prayer for the particular needs of those known privately to us (pause, mention silently or aloud). And we ask prayers for those on our parish prayer list (insert)
Your salvation will be forever, your deliverance never ended.
And we offer fervent prayers for all who have recently died, and those who mourn them (pause; mention by name) With Isaiah, we lift our eyes to the heavens knowing that worldly concerns will one day vanish like smoke.
Your salvation will be forever, your deliverance never ended. AMEN.