Again and Again, God: An Opening Prayer

Again and again, God, we come to this time and place with a song! 

Each day you give us a chance to begin anew: to drink deeply of your Spirit, to boldly follow in the Way of Jesus, and to dare to seek justice as we seek relationship with our neighbours and you. 

Again and again, God, you call us out of our old lives and into your new day. 

And so, as we celebrate the 101st anniversary of The United Church of Canada, help us to reflect back with clarity upon all that deserves to be celebrated, all that deserves to be lamented, and all that deserves to be let go. 

The church is not perfect, God, but we are yours, and we trust that you are with us every day. 

This day, and always, help us to be good grain that is planted and tended by your love, so that in the year to come, the United Church may flourish in this time and place. Amen.

adapted from The United Church of Canada Centennial Service 2024