Almighty God, Our Shield and Our Guide,
we rise to give you praise,
and lay our thanksgivings and prayers at your feet.
Breathe upon us, Breath of God:
renew our hearts and spirits
that we may turn aside from evil and willfull ignorance,
from unkindness, casual cruelties, and malice,
and remember You created us in light, O Creator,
and call us to love, honor, wisdom, and service.
As children of God, whose peace surpasses all understanding,
may we fight tyranny and oppression wherever it takes root,
both at home and abroad,
even in our own hearts.
May the memories of those
who have fought overseas or at home
against violence, genocide, enslavement, and terror
be treasured and honored by us,
that we too may fight for the common good,
for the brotherhood of all humanity,
honoring the human dignity of all persons.
May we memorialize their sacrifice and honor their service
by building a society rooted in true peace and plenty,
in equality, generosity and hope,
a fitting monument of justice that will endure
long after statues have crumbled,
parades have ended,
and flags have faded.
By their sacrifice, may we be consecrated and dedicated
to remember our call to defend the vulnerable,
the impoverished, the marginalized, and the weak,
which is your commandment, O God, from time immemorial.
May we remember that freedom can never be built
on pain, suffering, or oppression
in any form:
may we, too, be willing to give up our comfort
for the sake of those who need our help.
Strengthen us, O Mighty Defender, O Prince of Peace,
to stand against those at home or abroad
who espouse violence, hatred, inequality, or tyranny.
Lord, you know the inmost secrets of our hearts:
comfort those who mourn, and those who remember.
O Gracioue Spirit,
illumine our hearts with your truth, glory, and beauty,
and lift up those we now name.
Amen.
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