Faith & Worship

The Revised Common Lectionary (RCL) offers a three-year cycle with four readings for every Sunday in the Church Year.

These readings are:
A Lesson from the Hebrew Scriptures (or Acts during the Season of Easter)
A Psalm
A Lesson from the Epistles or Acts
A Lesson from the Gospels

The following prayers follow a traditional form using the pattern of ACT (Adoration, Confession and Thanksgiving).

There is also an opening prayer which can be used at the beginning of a service.

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Proper 11 (16th Sunday in Ordinary Time)

Sunday between July 17 and July 23 inclusive

Amos 8:1-12; Psalm 52; Colossians 1:15-28; Luke 10:38-42

OPENING PRAYER

Eternal Father, be the love that dwells between us.
Healing Christ, be the peace that dwells between us.
Gracious Spirit, be the joy that dwells between us
in our times of worship and in our daily lives.
Amen

ADORATION

Creator God,
from the moment your spirit
hovered over the waters of this earth
we were part of a vision
held lovingly within your heart.
From the moment you spoke
and separated darkness from light
you created space
where we might one day walk.
From the moment your joy
spilled out into green and living thing
your beauty was revealed
for us to taste and see.
Creator God,
for this world,
beauty and majesty,
passion and artistry,
a green and pleasant place,
we praise your mighty name.


CONFESSION

Remind us always of the path
we have chosen,
in whose footsteps we follow
and the service we offer.
When we are distracted
by the busyness of today,
tempted to stray,
who to obey,
forgive us.
Remind us always of your Word
and draw us close,
where the concerns of this world
fade into the hope that is to come.

THANKSGIVING

We remember all who speak of you
through their word and lives;
your saints on earth
to whom we owe our knowledge
of your saving Grace.
Wherever the seed of your love is sown
may it grow, flourish and blossom.

We remember all who pray for us
through good times and bad;
your prayer warriors
who look at the bigger picture
with patience and hope.
Wherever the seed of your love is sown
may it grow, flourish and blossom.

We remember all who serve you
in their everyday lives;
your loving saints
who are your touch and comfort
wherever there is need.
Wherever the seed of your love is sown
may it grow, flourish and blossom.

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