Holy Darkness
OPENING PRAYER
Source of all peace, we come together in the gathering darkness of this holy night in your name. We open our hearts and minds in your presence and allow your peace to fill us. We pray that we become vessels of that peace, to be poured forth in our homes, our communities, and our world. Amen.
READING
A Blessing of Darkness and Light
Blessed is the dark, in which our dreams stir and are revealed.
Blessed is the dark of earth, where seeds come to life.
Blessed are the depths of the ocean where no light shimmers: the womb of all earthly life.
Blessed is the light into which we awake,
the light that sparkles on the waters:
that calls the tree forth from the seed,
and calls the shadow forth from the tree.
Blessed are we as we move through darkness and through light.
PETITIONS
Reader: As our world darkens and grows cold we pray for our sisters and brothers who are without shelter; may they find peace and comfort in roof, walls and food, and may we find them as we search for ways pour forth your compassion.
All: Light in darkness, hear us.
Reader: For the creatures of our forests, marshlands and fields, as cold and darkness descend; may they live safely through the harsh months to come.
All: Light in darkness, hear us.
Reader: For our own hearts; may your peace be light and warmth for us, even in these shortening days.
All: Light in darkness, hear us.
Reader: At this time we invite you to add our own petitions. (Pause)
Reader: For these we pray.
All: Source of all peace, hear us.
CLOSING PRAYER
We praise you for darkness which calls us to rest. We praise you for the cold which calls us to reach out to those in need. We praise you for the soft, white, cold snow which awakens our senses to beauty and reminds us of the coming light. Oh Spirit of Seasons, Bringer of Peace, we praise you tonight and always.
All: Amen.
Closing Song: Holy Darkness, John Michael Talbot
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