Great and Holy Mystery.  We began our prayer with thanksgiving for the kindness and inclusiveness of our community.  We bless and thank Berto and Hugh, our Bishop Sean, and our Presiding Bishop Philip, and spiritual leaders throughout the world whose outreach and example continue to guide and inspire us. 

Let us cherish our journey together as we walk God’s Holy Way.

Oh Great and Holy Mystery.  As we light the third candle of Advent our hearts grow tender with the flame of hope it generates. We pray that governments of states, nations, and all those in authority recognize and implement the possibilities for new beginnings, for widespread peace, and for better understanding. 

We call upon you, Oh God, as your rising star draws near.

Oh Great and Holy Mystery, May our eyes be opened to those in need of food, companionship, and assistance. We pray for parents who struggle to meet the needs of their children as well as their own, for the lonely and all who seek better shelter and comfort. We pray for those who suffer from addictions and thank all those who sustain the good work of the AA groups on this island and elsewhere.

Let us cherish our journey together as we walk God’s Holy Way.

Oh Great and Holy Mystery, we ask special blessings for the Orcas Island Community Foundation (OICF) whose work does much to facilitate the missions of many non-profits here on Orcas Island. May all these organizations continue to do your work in supporting the care and best interests of our our natural surroundings and one another.

In good works the desert of loneliness shall rejoice and new flowers shall bloom.

Oh Great and Holy Mystery, your spirit enlivens every tree, every thing from unseen microbes to magnificent whales.  Bless them all and help your people to be better stewards of your creation.

May land and sea be safe, and no one go astray.

We pray with full heart for those on our Parish Prayer list: … and for those for whom no one prays, those for whom no one prays and special intentions not mentioned here (….take time for this).

Strengthen the weak hands and make firm the feeble knees.

Oh Great and Holy Mystery.  In you, outside of time, all possibilities exist.. Bring comfort to those mourning the loss of dear ones (especially…a moment of silence), and deepen our faith and trust that we all  may become aware of our eternal life together in your great heart. May everlasting joy be upon them, and sorrow and sighing flee away. AMEN