Dear Congregation,
As we approach Memorial Day week-end, I hope that it will be meaningful for you. Like many holidays its true meaning has been assaulted by consumerism, with adds blaring out sales pitches such as “Memorial Day Mattress Sale!” I join with Rick Broida who wrote, “Memorial Day is not about buying stuff. It’s about spending time with loved ones and remembering the men and women who gave their lives while serving in the United States Armed Forces.” And I would add, it’s about honoring them by working and praying for peace and for no more wars. I share with you this Memorial Day Prayer.
MEMORIAL DAY PRAYER
In the quiet sanctuaries of our own hearts,
let each of us name and call on the One whose power over us
is great and gently, firm and forgiving, holy and healing…
You who created us,
Who sustains us,
Who calls us to live in peace,
Hear our prayer this day.
Hear our prayer for all who have died,
Whose hearts and hopes are known to you alone…
Hear our prayer for those who put the welfare of others
Ahead of their own
And give us hearts as generous as theirs…
Hear our prayer for those who gave their lives
In the service of others,
And accept the gift of their sacrifice…
Help us to shape and make a world
where we will lay down the arms of war
and turn our swords into plowshares
For a harvest of justice and peace…
Comfort those who grieve the loss of their loved ones
And let your healing be the hope in our hearts…
Hear our prayer this day
And in your mercy answer us
In the name of all that is holy. Amen.
Author unknown
In Christ’s Peace,
Pastor Candy Thomas
Interim Pastor
Christ Congregational United Church of Christ