Here’s an act
of confession for the first Sunday in October (World Communion Sunday). It was written by Thom Shuman.
Call to Reconciliation
We marginalize peace, yet it is
the horizon towards which we journey.
We are divided from others,
not so much by belief, but by fear.
On this day of unity around
God's Table
with our sisters and brothers throughout
the world,
let us confess how we have
not lived as God's beloved children.
Please join me as we pray,
saying,
Unison Prayer of Confession
We have not been your people, Preparer of Peace. When
we could see our brother Jesus in others, we turn away from those who are
unlike us, who scare us. When we could offer peace to those around us,
we break our promises, we hoard grudges in our hearts, we pander to
prejudice. When we could speak of hope, we fling words that shatter
another's heart. When we could live as one with all people, we try to push
them as far away from us as possible.
Redeem us, Lover of Peace, and pour out your grace upon
us. May the warmth of your tenderness melt our frozen souls, may the balm of
your words mend any broken hearts we have damaged, may we be as
trusting and vulnerable as a little child, as we follow Jesus Christ, our
Lord, our Brother, into your kingdom of joy.
Silence is kept
Assurance of Pardon
The forgiveness of God be upon you;
the peace of Christ rest upon you;
the grace of the Holy Spirit be the gift which is placed in your
life,
this day and forever.
From this day to the end of eternity,
From this day to the end of eternity,
we are God's children:
citizens of God's kingdom,
brothers and sisters of the Prince of Peace.
Thanks be to God. Amen.
~ written
by Thom Shuman, and posted on Lectionary
Liturgies. Visit that site for many
other excellent worship resources. http://lectionaryliturgies.blogspot.ca/
