Call to Worship

When we are surrounded on every side, wondering which way is up and which way is down…

Help us, God, for the glory of your name.

When we question which way to go and how to follow God’s path for us…

Help us, God, for the glory of your name.

When we find our rest in God and long for others to know the sweet peace of God’s embrace…

Help us, God, for the glory of your name.

Today, as we gather for worship, may we come ready to listen and discern God’s help that meets us right where we are.

Help us, God, to receive your help and to extend your help to our neighbors, all for the glory of your name.

Written by Dr. Lisa Hancock, Discipleship Ministries, April 2025.

Opening Prayer

Loving and Gracious God—Holy one of Israel—
tender one to all who call upon you with repentant and believing hearts:
bless us, we pray, with your presence this day.
Teach the little ones who have gathered to learn your ways,
inspire those who seek your wisdom, energize those who are exhausted,
comfort those who grieve, and strengthen those who are weak.
Indeed, O God, fill all of our hearts with your praise
and lead us in holiness and righteousness in this hour
and in the hours to come.
We ask it in Jesus' name. Amen.

Written by Rev. Richard J. Fairchild and posted on the Kir-shalom website. Re-posted on the re:Worship blog at https://re-worship.blogspot.com/2013/08/opening-prayer-bless-us-we-pray.html.

Prayer of Confession

God, do not remember against us
the iniquities of our ancestors.
Forgive us, merciful God,
for our history of violence.
Let your compassion come speedily to meet us,
for we are brought low.
With haste come to us,
for we are bent beneath the weight of war-making.
Help us, O God of our salvation,
for the glory of your name.
Rescue us, O Wind of the Spirit,
from the sea of despair.
Deliver us and forgive us our sins,
for your name's sake.
Jesus, have mercy on our nation,
for the sake of God's reign. Amen.

Written by Leo Hartshorn, in A Service of Lament (adapted slightly). Posted on the Peace and Justice Support Network of Mennonite Church USA. Re-posted on the re:Worship blog at https://re-worship.blogspot.com/2013/08/confession-litany-psalm-79-8-9.html.

Benediction

Go now, in the blessing of God who covers you, protects you, delivers you, and helps you that you might reflect God’s glory as you love and serve others. Amen.

Written by Dr. Lisa Hancock, Discipleship Ministries, April 2025.