Tuesday, January 17, 2017

January 15, 2017 "GATHERING STRENGTH"

AFFIRMATION OF FAITH FOR EPIPHANY
We believe in God, the creator of all things, the giver of life and breath.
We believe in Jesus Christ, born Emmanuel, “God with us.”
He was baptized by John, and anointed the most beloved Son of God.
Jesus sought to heal humanity by taking our brokenness upon himself.
Suffering for us, he was crucified, died and was buried.
God raised him from the dead for our sake and for the sake of the whole world.
We believe he will come again, one day.
We believe in the Holy Spirit, who is poured out upon us, refreshing our lives.
We believe in the church, the Body of Christ in the world.
The Spirit leads us ever onward, into a new day, and always toward the kingdom of God.
This Spirit is our soul companion, and counselor of truth, speaking to us of the power of faith,
the ever presence of God and the promise of eternal life.
Thanks be to God! Amen.
CONGREGATIONAL PRAYER
Gracious God, for millennia all of Israel focused their attention upon you, calling out to you for rescue, praising your name when you intervened to save them, from enemies, oppressors and even themselves. When they wailed, crying out, emitting great groans of despair, you heard the sounds of their mourning. You responded with strength and goodwill. And yet, the cries of the frightened, despairing, mournful people have not abated in our nation, or the world. Do they call upon you to intervene, to offer counsel, comfort, or soul repair? Do they even know you? If not, how can they ask you for what they need? On this Human Relations Sunday, dearest Lord,give us the audacity to claim you, and proclaim you as the savior of the world, who promises to intervene on behalf of all who call upon your name. In the name of the Christ we pray. Amen.


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