Sarah Champlin
Minister of Youth, Young Adults, and Mission
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It is right, and a good and joyful thing,
always and everywhere to give thanks to you,
Almighty God,
Maker of heaven and earth,
Who set the stars in the sky and the deep roots of the Earth,
Who made the vast expanse of the universe and the intimate spaces within our hearts.
We gather around this table on World Communion Sunday, celebrating the worldwide family of faith.
Across continents and cultures, from every corner of this Earth, we join hands and hearts, sharing the sacred meal that transcends borders and breaks down barriers. Today we remember the life of Jesus, who walked upon this Earth, tending to the sick, comforting the grieving, and standing against injustice. As we prepare to partake in this sacred meal, we hold in our hearts the reality of a changing world and the urgency of the hour.
Lord, we ask that you cover the world in your mercy and peace, particularly those around the world whose lives, homes, and livelihoods have been irrevocably changed due to natural disasters. We pray especially for those affected by flooding in the city of New York, where the rising waters bear testament to our global challenge. Awaken in us Lord, a renewed commitment to care for your good gift of creation, the Earth, our shared home.
We lift up those grappling with illness, whether in body, spirit, or mind. In the breaking of the bread, may they find solace, healing, and the warmth of a global community wrapping them in love and prayers.
As the cup is shared, we lift up those in the throes of grief. Comfort them Lord. Let them feel your presence and rest in your love that never ends.
For those confronting the horrors of violence, be their shield and their refuge. Empower us as a community to stand firm against hate and to advocate for justice. Let this communion stand as a testament to our shared commitment to turn our swords into plowshares and sow seeds of peace in all corners of the world.
Jesus you taught us the depths of love and the call to shared responsibility. Transform us and ignite in us a desire to rebuild, to comfort, to protect, and to be stewards of the world you have entrusted to our care. On this World Communion Sunday, Jesus remind us of the sacred bond that ties us all together. Unite us as one body, inspired and guided by your Spirit, to be bearers of hope for a world desperately in need.
Holy and Transformative God, all praise and honor and glory are yours, now and forever. Let us join our voices in the prayer that Jesus taught us: Our Father…. Amen.