As General Convention (the tri-ennial convention of the Episcopal Church) begins this morning, I thought it appropriate to lift up the people involved.
God of Hope and Wonder,
Your love for us knows no bounds. You are with us when we fall and when we are lifted up. You give us grace when we deserve it and when we don’t.
We pray today for your Church, its people, and its mission; remembering especially those participating in General Convention in Anaheim, California: Bishops and Deputies, support staffs, the youth presence, and exhibitors.
We pray for this and every nation of the world, granting wisdom and compassion to their leaders.
We pray for the welfare of the world; every person, animal, plant, or organism that dwells within it.
We pray for those who suffer or are in any trouble. Be with them. Give them voice and comfort and give us the eyes to see them and ears to hear them.
A Song of Pilgrimage*
Ecclesiasticus 51:13-16, 20b-22
Before I ventured forth,
even while I was very young,
I sought wisdom openly in my prayer.
In the forecourts of the temple I asked for her,
and I will seek her to the end.
From first blossom to early fruit,
she has been the delight of my heart.
My foot has kept firmly to the true path,
diligently from my youth have I pursued her;
I inclined my ear a little and received her;
I found for myself much wisdom and became adept in her.
To the one who give me wisdom will I give glory,
for I have resolved to live according to her way.
From the beginning I gained courage from her,
therefore I will not be forsaken.
In my inmost being I have been stirred to seek her,
therefore have I gained a good possession.
As my reward the Almighty has given me the gift of language,
and with it will I offer praise to God.
Amen.
*from Enriching Our Worship 1
Leave a Reply