Beloved mystery: We begin our prayer in gratitude for our Emmanuel church and our leaders, Berto and Hugh, our Provisional Bishop, Melissa, and our Presiding Bishop, Michael. We ask special blessings for them in their ongoing efforts to fulfill the teachings of Our Savior, Jesus Christ, and in the guidance and
inspiration they bring to so many.
Do not let these words fall to the ground, unheeded.
Let the heavens be ripped apart as we honor the drive toward greater social justice and racial equality so vividly represented by the holy martyr, the Reverend Dr. Martin Luther King, whose legacy and mission we celebrate with special attention today in this church, and tomorrow throughout the land. Help us to heed
his cry, as Samuel heard the Lord so long ago.
Do not let these words fall to the ground, unheeded.
And we pray for all those in power at local, national, and global levels. May they serve their constituencies with wisdom and compassion as they fully assume their true roles as planetary stewards and peacemakers.
Do not let these words fall to the ground, unheeded.
And for those beset by winds and turbulence throughout the nations, we pray for calm days ahead, restored utilities, and most of all, for hope and trust in your divine purposes. May we all be more alert to ways in which we can better help one another while lessening environmental stresses on the planet.
Do not let these words fall to the ground, unheeded.
Let us pray for and, as we are able, make haste to help the shut-ins and incarcerated, the destitute, the addicted, the disabled, and the materially or spiritually impoverished people in our midst. Help
us to recognize and honor your sacred presence in the hearts and souls of every living being—including those attracted to mindless violence.
Do not let these words fall to the ground, unheeded.
We pray for our troubled world and, with deepest gratitude, for all those who are intentional peacemakers, especially individuals who serve with prayer, as well as with diplomatic and humanitarian
efforts of every kind. May they be steadfast in focus, and pure of heart.
Do not let these words fall to the ground, unheeded.

And we pray for all those with needs known to us privately (pause:
mention silently or aloud) and those on our Parish Prayer List (please
read slowly) … and those for whom no one prays; may they be comforted by your Holy Spirit. Lord, we petition your love and grace in the new year.
Do not let these words fall to the ground, unheeded.
And Beloved Mystery, for those no longer among us in their bodily form, and for their loved ones, we do deeply pray for their comfort and solace. For you are with them, whether they recognize it or not.
Do not let these words fall to the ground, unheeded. Amen.