CONGREGATIONAL PRAYER
Wondrous and Loving God from the beginning of all things you have sought us in the dark places, whether places of doubt, or hiding. You have longed to be our God, to be the very Spirit of life and possibility that moves in and through us. We confess our penchant for being “laws unto ourselves” — independent thinkers — able to solve our own problems and withstand all sorts of inclement conditions. But it is when we find ourselves on our knees, weighted down by the trials of this life, that we long to be profoundly aware of your presence. Because you promised to be with us — no matter what— lending us your strength to ease our burdens; we can move ever closer to your kingdom come on earth. Amen.
PREPARING FOR THE OFFERING
King David King Solomon King of Israel King Richard King Midas King Henry II King of the Jews King Henry VIII King Charles 1 King of Glory King George King Creole Christ the King Martin Luther King Billie Jean King Redeemer King B.B. King Carole King Stephen King King of Kings Larry King Rodney King Prince of Peace King Jesus? It feels awkward for some us to call the Prince of Peace — King Jesus, but when we talk about him King is part of his name — before it and after it. In all things he is the King of our hearts and we are not ashamed to confess it openly. Let us confess it in our giving, as well.
UNISON OFFERTORY PRAYER
Dearest Lord, bless the gifts we bring. We set them before you with hopeful spirits and open hands. We pray that the true gospel of your kingdom come on earth will find its way into the hearts of those in need, not only of the necessities of life, but who are in need of something, of someone, to believe in. May our giving bring them hope and new life in Jesus. Amen.
Wednesday, November 28, 2012
Monday, November 19, 2012
November 18, 2012 "LIVING IN THANKSGIVING MODE"
CONGREGATIONAL PRAYER
Gracious and Everliving God, from whom all blessings flow, thank you for this morning, for the faithful company of our brothers and sisters in Christ, and for the freedom to sing praises to your name. We confess our excitement about the Thanksgiving holiday, when we feast in the company of family and friends. Help us to be aware that everyday offers an opportunity to live in Thanksgiving mode. Everyday the sun rises we have the chance to focus our hearts upon you and our thoughts on the bounties of your creation. Let the Spirit of gratitude live in us; let it shine through our eyes. For all of those who are traveling, on pilgrimages to visit family or friends, we pray that they will not be delayed. May your message of hope and all things possible arrive with them. Comfort those whose hearts are hurting and who are in need of your special attention and consolation as the holiday season unfolds. All this we pray in the name of the Christ. Amen.
UNISON OFFERTORY PRAYER
Lord, Bless the gifts we set before you. We offer these gifts with a spirit of thanksgiving not obligation. With your blessing, we are assured that what we give helps to revitalize ministries and congregations. Let them breathe new life into our ministry and work, as well. Empower your church, to be your message, living proof of your graciousness and love for all the world. Amen.
Gracious and Everliving God, from whom all blessings flow, thank you for this morning, for the faithful company of our brothers and sisters in Christ, and for the freedom to sing praises to your name. We confess our excitement about the Thanksgiving holiday, when we feast in the company of family and friends. Help us to be aware that everyday offers an opportunity to live in Thanksgiving mode. Everyday the sun rises we have the chance to focus our hearts upon you and our thoughts on the bounties of your creation. Let the Spirit of gratitude live in us; let it shine through our eyes. For all of those who are traveling, on pilgrimages to visit family or friends, we pray that they will not be delayed. May your message of hope and all things possible arrive with them. Comfort those whose hearts are hurting and who are in need of your special attention and consolation as the holiday season unfolds. All this we pray in the name of the Christ. Amen.
UNISON OFFERTORY PRAYER
Lord, Bless the gifts we set before you. We offer these gifts with a spirit of thanksgiving not obligation. With your blessing, we are assured that what we give helps to revitalize ministries and congregations. Let them breathe new life into our ministry and work, as well. Empower your church, to be your message, living proof of your graciousness and love for all the world. Amen.
November 11, 2012 "OH! IT'S LEASED LAND"
CONGREGATIONAL PRAYER
Dear Lord, Mighty Sovereign of the Universe, you have given this earth and all its creatures into our care. And since we don’t own the creation, we are aware that we must keep it in good order for you and the future of all. We confess that humans have done irreparable harm to the earth. Even if we believe that we, personally, have done no harm to the planet, we must confess that we have permitted others to do so, turning a blind eye as your rivers and streams were polluted and your land intoxicated. Give us the courage to be true stewards. Let us not trade in our covenant for indifference allowing latter day Titans to make expedient decisions based on their own greed. May your agenda be our agenda. Speak to our hearts and our consciences, O Lord. Guide us by your awesome vision; imbue us with your imagination. In the name of the Christ we pray. Amen.
UNISON OFFERTORY PRAYER
Most Loving God, bless these offerings, to your use. Help us understand the difference between giving cheerfully and letting go of some of what we have. Keep us mindful of our good fortune and teach us to be wise with all that you have given into our care. In the name of the Christ we pray. Amen.
Dear Lord, Mighty Sovereign of the Universe, you have given this earth and all its creatures into our care. And since we don’t own the creation, we are aware that we must keep it in good order for you and the future of all. We confess that humans have done irreparable harm to the earth. Even if we believe that we, personally, have done no harm to the planet, we must confess that we have permitted others to do so, turning a blind eye as your rivers and streams were polluted and your land intoxicated. Give us the courage to be true stewards. Let us not trade in our covenant for indifference allowing latter day Titans to make expedient decisions based on their own greed. May your agenda be our agenda. Speak to our hearts and our consciences, O Lord. Guide us by your awesome vision; imbue us with your imagination. In the name of the Christ we pray. Amen.
UNISON OFFERTORY PRAYER
Most Loving God, bless these offerings, to your use. Help us understand the difference between giving cheerfully and letting go of some of what we have. Keep us mindful of our good fortune and teach us to be wise with all that you have given into our care. In the name of the Christ we pray. Amen.
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