Worship Prayers November 17

CENTERING PRAYER – St. Francis of Assisi

Almighty, eternal, just, and merciful God, grant us the desire to do only what pleases you, and the strength to do only what you command. Cleanse our souls, enlighten our minds, and inflame our hearts with your Holy Spirit, that we may follow in the footsteps of your beloved Son, Jesus Christ.

CALL TO WORSHIP

On this day we gather to give thanks to the Lord.

Surely God is our salvation; we will trust and not be afraid, for God is our strength and might.

On this day we gather to give thanks to the Lord, and call on the name of God.

We will make known God’s deeds among the nations, and proclaim God’s glory.

Come! Let us worship the Lord together.

PRAYER OF CONFESSION

God of peace, we confess we are a people of fear. We let anxiety rule our days and worry our nights. Distracted by nerves and focused on tensions, we hoard our blessings and overlook our neighbors in need.  We confess we ignore your command not to be afraid. Forgive us, O God. Calm our hearts, settle our stomachs, and renew in us the ability to find our comfort in you alone. (Silent Confession)

PRESENTATION OF OUR PLEDGE COMMITMENTS

(All are invited to come forward and place your pledges for 2020

in the large offering plate located on the communion table.)

PRAYER OF DEDICATION

Let us give praise to the Lord, who is good. God’s love is everlasting.

            Let us come to God with thanksgiving, let us complete our promises to the Lord.

We praise you God, for the many gifts of this church.

            We celebrate the wonders and signs of grace in our midst;

            we dedicate ourselves as Christ’s faithful disciples.

Make us instruments of your truth, O God, enable us to proclaim your kingdom.

            Where there is injury, let us be healers.  Where there is hatred, let us share love.

Encourage us in the tasks before us, for talking and moving and thinking together, for enacting of the gospel.

Where there is darkness, let us bring light.  Where there is sadness, let us bring joy.

Bless these gifts, gracious God, and bless all those who are served by them.

            We bring these gifts and offerings and our promise of giving in a new year

            because we hope for more in the days ahead.

We hope for a stronger church, and a more compassionate world.

            Shape us, through our giving, make us a people of true discipleship.  Amen.