_{Lector:   Oh Exalted One, Holy Blessed Creator of all that is. May all beings come to know the strength and patience and faith that keep us steady on the way to knowing and serving you ever more fully.  May we be inspired by St. Barnabas’s example, accepting life’s joys and challenges with the certainty of the resurrection and true life yet to come.} 

_{Let us be encouraged to go forth as loving examples of Christ’s teachings.}

_{We ask blessings for all who dedicate their lives to your service and the service of your people—our priests Berto and Hugh, our bishop, Gregory and all those who govern our church. We ask special blessings for religious leaders of every faith, that all might more fully know and live in love and deepest truth.}                                                                                  

_{Let us be encouraged by the support of our Church community.}

_{We ask for special blessings for all those who seek a deeper experience of you, as we ponder the mysteries of the Holy Trinity, and we thank  you for your grace and wisdom. Let us remember that we are “but little lower than the angels” and do all we can to be worthy of this gift.}                                 

_{Let us be encouraged by the ongoing process of wisdom and learning that is part of being a faithful Christian.}

_{We fervently pray for leaders throughout the world. We name here:  Donald, our President, Jay our Governor, and leaders everywhere. May they act with wisdom and compassion for the well being of all people and the planet.}                                                                                                               

_{Let us be encouraged by the promise of resurrection and life everlasting.}

_{We also ask for prayers for those in our community who are struggling with health or other challenges, particularly}

_{At this time we may add silently or aloud the names of others for whom we wish special prayers. May all those recently departed and their families and loved ones rest in the comfort of your divine love. (silence)}

_{We thank you Beloved Creator for the great gift of your Presence in our lives, for our supportive and warm-hearted  community, for this beautiful place in which we live, for our elders, for our children, and for all of nature.  We ask for blessings and safe travels for our guests and visitors.}                                                                                                                       

_{Let us be encouraged by the certain knowledge of your ongoing love and the promise of the resurrection and life everlasting.}

_{Presider:  Oh beloved God, help us to accept life’s challenges and to recognize its beauties and gifts with open hearts. We ask that all those who suffer from addictions and abuse, from the outrages of war or natural disasters and other difficulties and challenges find their way to you and be comforted.  Strengthen us all that we not be caught in the nets of uncertainty and material distractions. Help us to move forward in greater knowledge and love of you—the one and only God—in your myriad forms, your countless names, now and forever. We thank you for your endless blessings.  Amen.}