Prayer 1631: at the close of EYE17

The Missouri delegation (minus one) after the closing Eucharist of EYE17,
on the stage in front of an Episcopal flag that flew at Standing Rock.

Lord God, who creates and sustains the world,
we rise and center ourselves in You in gratitude.
We praise your ongoing creation, Lord,
in the world and in ourselves,
amazed by your love in our lives.

Thank you for your abundant grace
in drawing us together in community,
bound together through love of God.
Let us continue on the pilgrim road
walking gently upon the earth
and alongside each other in peace.

Send us out, Merciful One,
afire with the Holy Spirit,
to proclaim your truth with joy,
living into your dream of peace for us.

Let us now depart filled with Christ's light
carried forward by manifold mercies
safely to arrive at home.
Extend the awning of your compassion
over all whose hope is in You,
especially those we now name.

Amen.

Prayer 1630: Witnessing the power of peace

Last night we had a candlelight Vespers service and vigil on the grounds of the Oklahoma City National Memorial.

Holy One, abide with us
and within our hearts
as we seek You and praise your saving power.

Lord, on holy ground we have witnessed
how You work in the hearts
of healers and helpers
to work your peace in the world.
Make us instruments of that peace,
that we can sow healing and hope
in a world too often divided and hurting.
Empower us through your Spirit
to joyfully work for reconciliation, 
in the name of Christ, our Savior.

Bless and keep us, we humbly pray,
and draw us to You, O God, in all we do.
Lord Jesus, soothe the suffering whose cry is to You,
and grant your peace to all whom we now name.

Amen.

Prayer 1629: On Oklahoma Day

The contingent from the Diocese of Missouri at EYE17.

Almighty God,
you have brought us safely through the night
and we rise to give you thanks.

Turn our pilgrim feet toward the path of peace,
and draw us together in unity with all creation.
Turn our pilgrim hearts to sing your grace
and embody your truth and love in the world.

Help us to see with new eyes
the wonder of your creation
in the world and each other.

Extend the shade of your right hand
over all who are bowed down by mourning or loss,
we humbly pray.
Shield and comfort those
who are in danger, sorrow or pain,
and grant them your peace beyond measure.
Lord Christ, we turn to You in hope,
and ask your blessing upon all for whom we pray.

Amen.

Prayer 1628: Opening Day of EYE17

Presiding Bishop Michael Curry preaches at the Opening Eucharist
of the Episcopal Youth Even 2017, held in Edmond, OK.

Blessed are You, O God of All Creation!
Let us join our voices in one song of praise and thanksgiving!

Holy Spirit, You give life to all that grows:
let our hearts be drawn to You on the Path to Peace.

Unite us with each other with one pupose:
to do justice, and love mercy,
and walk humbly beside You always.

Preserve us from sin, we humbly pray,
and help to reconcile and forgive as we hope to be forgiven.

Grant your peace to all who call upon You, Lord Christ,
and especially on those for whom we pray.

Amen.

Prayer 1627

We travel to the Episcopal Youth Event today!

Arise, shine! May we travel a pilgrim's road today!
All-loving One, gather your children to You,
within a mother's tender embrace hold us fast.
We turn to You, O God,
as we seek to be peace-makers,
walking in love with you and each other.
Keep watch over those who are weary,
or for those who suffer in any way.

Still our souls to rest in You,
Our Creator, Our Guide, Our Shield.
Merciful One, reconcile us to You and one another;
and bless and keep those for whom we pray.

Amen.

Prayer 1626: the Fifth Sunday after Pentecost

Today I return to preside at my home parish, Holy Communion in University City, which has raised me up and supported me through the long journey toward ordination. Thanks be to God for this community of the faithful!

Draw near, beloveds, to worship God in the assembly,
to offer God our thanks and praise with one voice.

O God, gather us, your children,
under the shadow of your wing;
keep us as the apple of your eye.

Watch over all who seek your Way, Lord Jesus,
walking in fellowship, wisdom, and grace.
Come, Holy Spirit,
lead us in Paths of Peace
that we may walk in justice and friendship with all.

May we grow in holiness and love,
bound together in mutual respect and kindness.
At day's end, may we rest in your care,
having borne your truth into the world in joy.

Merciful One, reconcile us to You
and one another;
and bless and keep those for whom we pray.

Amen.