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SAMPLE PRAYER FROM WEEK 1: Journey to Hope
God of Hope, some days it feels like the end of the world is upon us, like there is no clear path forward. But that is when you remind us that the end of one thing also means opportunities and new beginnings. When we look toward the future, we want to see possibilities, but we struggle in the shadows of fear. Help us to put on your spiritual binoculars, so that when we look to the horizon, we see a vision that inspires us to continue on our journey- a journey that leads us closer and closer to your Realm of justice and love. Travel with us, Holy One, through these days of Advent. Inspire us with your true Hope, today and every day. Amen.
SAMPLE COMMUNION PRAYER:
One: Holy God, your Spirit of Creation and Redemption is, and has always been, with us. You have cast the stars into the heavens to guide our way and brought life forth from the shadowy deep. Even though you are always traveling with us, it can feel as if we are isolated and alone, as if all the lights have gone out. We forget your presence, we stumble, and we lose our way. Again and again, you have sought us and waited patiently on the road for us. You have sent guides along the journey- from prophets to angels to John the Baptist, calling for the path to be straight. To all who are finding our way, you speak comfort and joy.
To guide us to you in faith, you sent your son, Jesus, to illumine our hearts and to lighten our burdens, accepting within himself all that human experience can bring: weakness, vulnerability, joy, suffering, and hope. As we find our way to him, we acknowledge his own journey through the waters of Mary’s womb, to the torture of the cross, past the stone of the tomb.
We remember when Jesus ate with his friends, he took bread and after blessing it, broke it, said “Take, eat, this is my body given to you. Do this in remembrance of me.”
Then he took a cup and giving thanks, passed it to his friends saying: “This is the cup of the new covenant, which is poured out for you and many. Drink this in remembrance of me.”
Holy God, pour out your Spirit on these gifts of bread and cup. Swirl around us making us into one body in your love. Remind us that we are never alone on the road when we make sure to leave no one behind. Amen.
At this celebration, all of our winding paths intersect. Around this table, we are united in Jesus, our Emmanuel.
John Bartkowiak –
We used this series at our church for last Advent. It was comforting to hear about fellow travelers from the biblical passages struggling to find the right path. With the upheaval of the pandemic or just any time of change or uncertainty, this series is an excellent choice to lead us to God’s presence as God continues to light the way for us to Hope, Peace, Joy and Love.
adminamber –
Thanks for the review! We are glad that your congregation found the series meaningful.
Laura Sauder –
Our congregation used this series for Advent 2022 and everyone really enjoyed the theme. The children’s messages in particular were a big hit! As a worship leader I appreciated the prayers and liturgies. Well crafted, inclusive, justice-minded, and accessible language.
Admin –
Thank you so much for this review! We are glad that the series blessed your congregation this Advent season.