I've replaced the prayer that was posted here by a statement of faith that may be part of our worship on Sunday. It covers the same theme as the prayer but is an action and strikes me it is a better thing to do since it is symbolically doing something rather than being passive. We have a baptism on Sunday so the font is in the middle of the sanctuary
This is a statement of faith but includes a simple action of pouring water into the baptismal bowl and letting it overflow. This is the water that symbolises welcome, a sanctuary. Perhaps this is an aspirational statement in that it recognises what the best in our faith calls us to do, and knowing the reality in some instances, is very difficult, yet that is not to deny what is valuable and compassionate in our faith journey. So a simple statement and action for us that possibly speaks to the best of who we believe we can be.
(Each speaker pours water into
the font bowl letting it overflow a little)
For the hungry who need a place
shaped by bread and justice,
I make a place of welcome
For the hurt who need a place
shaped by safety and patience
I make a place of welcome
For the terrorised who need a
place shaped by light and hope
I make a place of welcome
For the displacee who needs a
place shaped by memory and home
I make a place of welcome
For the silenced who need a place
shaped by voices and time
I make a place of welcome
For the culprit who needs a place
shaped by humanity and compassion
I make a place of welcome
For the sick who needs a place
shaped by healing and care
I make a place of welcome
For the follower who needs a
place shaped by dreams and promise
I make a place of welcome
For a faith that is shaped the
love of God
let us all make a place of
welcome
(Invite people to come forward if they wish to pour some water as a symbol of welcome, even as it may be aspirational)
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