Hey, Bill: Tell Us Something Cool Late October 2024
Last Sunday, October 27, Amy and I were pleased to serve in the liturgy, as we are always pleased to do when the occasion arises. During the time of gratitude before the beginning of our corporate prayers, we gave thanks for the life shared by Sandy and Bob, and Terry and Harry. 59 years for the Taylors; 49 for T & H.
Amy prayed a prayer that we have used before for such blessings. After the service, I was asked about it and said that it was of local composition. It was fashioned over 20 years ago, intended to provide a form of thanksgiving to be used for both married couples and other couples who shared a common life but for assorted reasons chose not to marry or were not permitted to do so by law.
++++
A Thanksgiving for a Common Life
Most Bountiful God, you have taught us to give thanks for all the blessings of this life, of which none is more dear than the love of those who share a common life, true sources of strength and joy, comfort, and fulfillment:
Receive our thanks for the life shared by [N. and N. and] all those who, in their relationship, seek your grace;
Grant them the full measure of that grace, such that their lives may be signs to us of the good you will for all creation—rich and mild and beautiful;
This prayer we make in the Name of your son, Blessed Jesus, our dearest and most gracious companion. Amen.
++++
So, we prayed last Sunday. If there is language here that you find useful, please borrow, or adapt it, making it your own. We are glad to share it, and to give it away.
Benedicite!
wsa