A Daily Offering - Fragrant Prayers in the Celtic Tradition

A Fragrant Offering
Daily Prayers in the celtic tradition
John Birch
Contents
Introduction 2
Sunday - The gift of a world 5
Monday - A community of faith 15
Tuesday - Journeying together 25
Wednesday - From desert places 35
Thursday - Led to a pleasant land 45
Friday - The resurrection life 55
Saturday - The call to follow 65
Traditional Celtic Festivals 75
Samhain 79
Published by Thanksgiving Press Imbolc 83
©2013 John Birch Beltane 87
www.faithandworship.com
Lughnasadh 91
Permission is given to reproduce copies of these prayers for individual Winter Solstice 95
church usage. They should not be republished in any other way or References 99
offered for sale without the express permission of the author.
Introduction
“Evening, morning and noon I cry out in distress, and he hears my voice.”
(Psalm 55:17)
The earliest pattern we have of regular Christian daily prayer, other than that in
the New Testament comes from the Didache (or Teaching of the Twelve Apostles)
“Keep watch in your heart; and with watchfulness which was probably written at the end of the first century. It states that the
say in your mind with awe and trembling: Lord’s Prayer should be said three times a day, but does not say at which times.
‘Lord Jesus Christ, have mercy upon me.’” During the early development of the Christian Church, a pattern of praying at the
Philimon (Egyptian monk, ?6 or 7c.) third, sixth and ninth hour of the day became established (with arguments from
Scripture). Origen, in the third century recommended another session or prayer in
the evening.
This was the pattern used (with variation) both by desert monks and their
followers, and the ordinary urban or rural Christians. One spiritual argument for
a threefold prayer cycle was that the Holy Spirit descended on the apostle at the
third hour (9 a.m.), Peter had his famous vision that led him to the acceptance of
Gentiles into the Church at the sixth hour (noon), and he was going with John
to the temple at the ninth hour when he met the paralyzed man at the gate to the
temple. The angel also appeared to the centurion Cornelius at the ninth hour (3
p.m.)
It is likely that some rural communities followed the natural rhythm of the day,
praying morning, noon and evening (their lives determined by the movements of
the sun), whilst others in the towns kept more strictly to the third, sixth and ninth In the morning prayers I have included confession and on alternate days a sharing
hours. of the peace - a more modern version of the ancient ‘kiss of peace’ practiced by the
early church, though feel free to share a hug as well as a hand!
Christians viewed their commitment to prayer as a daily sacrifice which was a
spiritual fulfillment of the Old Testament sacrifices. Where the Lord’s Prayer is used, I have included the version found in Matthew’s
Gospel, you may wish to use the one you are familiar with.
By the fourth century the Church was praying together more often than
individually, led by Bishops, Priests and Deacons. Along with the prayers are found For the midday prayers I have adapted the ancient practice of lectio divina, which
psalms and hymns, with Psalms 148-150 often associated with morning prayers is a slow, contemplative prayerful reading of a portion of Scripture, allowing it
each day and Psalm 141 in the evening. to speak directly to our hearts and lives. This method of praying is particularly
loved by the Benedictine tradition of monasticism. St. Benedict encourages us to
We have to remember that very few Christians would have access to the printed hear Scripture’s words with “the ear of our hearts” and hear that “gentle whisper”
Word of God, and therefore the psalms were learned and meditated upon, as that Elijah heard on the mountain. Fr. Luke Dysinger, O.S.B.*, whose notes on
within them it was considered lay much of the truth of the Scriptures and prophesy the subject I have followed and adapted, describes lectio divina as “reverential
concerning Christ. Particularly devout monks learned the entire canon of psalms listening; listening both in a spirit of silence and of awe.”
and even recited them all within a 24 hour period.
The pattern followed is that of Reading (or listening), Meditation, Prayer and
St Basil says of the psalms that they “prophesy what is to come, recall history, Contemplation. I have allowed for both individual and group participation in this
legislate for life, give practical advice and are a treasury of good teaching.” method of praying. For this study I have used Psalms as our guide through the
week, but feel free to use whichever Scripture passage seems appropriate – perhaps
The form of liturgy used in public worship by this time focused mainly on prayer work through part of a Gospel or use appointed readings for the day.
and intercession, with little emphasis on confession of sins. However, in the deserts
of Egypt and Syria the monastic movements that were growing up had a strong Because the early church was involved in mission and evangelism within a pagan
penitential emphasis, and it is likely that bishops who spent time within these culture, I have also added some of the familiar Celtic/Pagan festivals to this
communities took back to their churches this same penitential approach to prayer collection, particularly where the church has not already Christianized these with
for all Christians. suitable liturgies. Most of these involve the natural world, the cycle of seasons and
the all-important sowing and harvesting of crops. As such, they are within our
Basil of Caesarea in his Longer Rules advises confession not only for what has been appreciation of God’s world and worthy of our praise!
done, but also for what has not been done.
On a practical note, the prayers are formatted such that each day’s set (morning,
midday and evening) can be printed separately on double-sided A4 paper, for
The Pattern of Prayer in this Book economy of use. For this purpose, blank pages have been included after each day’s
prayers.
I have tried to keep to a simple mix of prayer and scripture similar to the pattern
used in the very earliest Christian communities, using familiar themes relating to
the journey of humankind’s relationship with their God.
Throughout the liturgies are opportunities for sharing the reading of both prayer
and scripture (if that is helpful).
*http://www.valyermo.com/ld-art.html
4 4
Sunday Morning – The gift of a world They tell of the power of your awesome works –
and I will proclaim your great deeds.
(* Indicates optional change of reader. They celebrate your abundant goodness
Bold text to be read by all) and joyfully sing of your righteousness.
We meet in the name of Father, I will exalt you, my God the King;
Son and Holy Spirit I will praise your name for ever and ever.
within this precious time and place.
We meet as would a family, Glory to the Father,
bound as one together and to the Son,
in love, within this sacred space. and to the Holy Spirit,
Three in One. Amen
God of peace and unity
be in our arriving and departing.
*God of love and family In the light of God’s glory our hearts lie exposed,
be in our meeting and welcoming. revealing the sin within.
*God of truth and mercy
be in our reading and understanding. For that which we ought to have done,
*God of hope and prophesy to bring a blessing
be in our hearing and following. or word in due season,
forgive us, gracious Lord.
For that which we have already done,
Psalm 145 (vs. 1-7) which has caused a wound
(As you read and listen, use the pauses or moved someone to anger,
to let the words speak to your hearts) forgive us, gracious Lord.
May these be lives that are devoted
I will exalt you, my God the King; to serving you, and all
I will praise your name for ever and ever. whom you would lead us to.
*Every day I will praise you If we, in humility, will confess our sins
and extol your name forever and ever. in the quietness of our hearts or in the company of the faithful,
Great is the Lord and most worthy of praise; God’s love and mercy bring forgiveness.
his greatness no one can fathom.
One generation commends your works to another;
they tell of your mighty acts. Let us share the peace of Christ Jesus with those around us.
(PAUSE) ‘Peace I leave with you,’ said Jesus. ‘My peace I give you.’
‘Again Jesus said, “Peace be with you!”’
*They speak of the glorious splendor of your majesty –
and I will meditate on your wonderful works. (Pause while the peace is shared)
5 6
Give thanks to the Lord, for he is good; May this be a day of hope,
His love endures forever of expectation,
relishing each moment
as a gift from you.
Genesis 1 (vs. 27-30) May this be a day of freedom,
So God created mankind in his own image, in the image of God he created them; of breaking free,
male and female he created them. God blessed them and said to them, “Be fruitful loosening the chains that
and increase in number; fill the earth and subdue it. Rule over the fish in the sea still surround us.
and the birds in the sky and over every living creature that moves on the ground.” May this be a day of peace,
(PAUSE) of wholeness,
knowing that our lives
Then God said, “I give you every seed-bearing plant on the face of the whole earth are in your hands.
and every tree that has fruit with seed in it. They will be yours for food. And to all May this be a day of joy,
the beasts of the earth and all the birds in the sky and all the creatures that move of blessing,
along the ground – everything that has the breath of life in it – I give every green living in your kingdom
plant for food.” And it was so. as a child of God. Amen
For the wonder of Creation, Now the majesty of God

which is such a precious gift bring our hearts to rejoicing,
We will sing your praise the Spirit’s breath
For the image of the divine fill our souls to overflowing,
imprinted in our hearts and the grace of God
We will sing your praise lead our hands to serving,
For the joy of community this day and all days. Amen.
and the blessing that it gives
We will sing your praise
Matthew 6:9-13
Our Father in heaven,
hallowed be your name,
your kingdom come,
your will be done,
on earth as it is in heaven.
Give us today our daily bread.
And forgive us our debts,
as we also have forgiven our debtors.
And lead us not into temptation,
but deliver us from the evil one. Amen
7 8
Sunday Midday – Lectio Divina
(Individual or small group) MEDITATIO – MEDITATION (2-3 min)
As Mary ‘pondered in her heart’ what she heard and saw of Jesus, so we repeat
This is slight variation on an ancient technique of contemplative prayer, which the words silently and let them sink into our hearts, interact with our day, our
helps us to connect our hearts with the Word of God. It has been kept alive thoughts and concerns… God’s word becomes our word for today.
particularly within the Benedictine monastic tradition. It requires that we allow for
quietness in the bustle of the day, to listen for the ‘gentle whisper’ of God. These (Group – allow time for those who wish to share the word, image or phrase that
studies use the Psalms, but any suitable passage (preferably not too long) may be has touched their heart.)
used.
ORATIO - PRAYER
LECTIO – READING As we turn to prayer, so God invites us to respond to the word or phrase that has
spoken to us. In the quietness or aloud we bring to Him those words, images or
Read twice, slowly and attentively, listening for that ‘gentle whisper’ that is God’s people that God has placed on our hearts, and how we might put those words
word or phrase for today, using this or an alternative reading. into action.
(Group – allow time to pray for the person on your right.)
Blessed are those whose help is the God of Jacob,

whose hope is in the Lord their God.
He is the Maker of heaven and earth,
the sea, and everything in them – CONTEMPLATIO – CONTEMPLATION
he remains faithful for ever.
He upholds the cause of the oppressed We spend a minute or two in silence, enjoying the experience of God’s presence
and gives food to the hungry. and love embracing us
The Lord sets prisoners free,
the Lord gives sight to the blind,
the Lord lifts up those who are bowed down,
the Lord loves the righteous.
The Lord watches over the foreigner Glory to the Father,
and sustains the fatherless and the widow, and to the Son,
but he frustrates the ways of the wicked.
and to the Holy Spirit,
(Psalm 146:5-9)
Three in One. Amen
9 10
Sunday Evening *In the heavens God has pitched a tent for the sun.
It is like a bridegroom coming out of his chamber,
(* Indicates optional change of reader. like a champion rejoicing to run his course. It rises
Bold text to be read by all) at one end of the heavens and makes its circuit
to the other; nothing is deprived of its warmth.
Lord of all we see, The heavens declare the glory of God;

Lord of all we hear, the skies proclaim the work of his hands.
Lord of all we sense,
Lord of all we are, Glory to the Father,
to you we bring and to the Son,
this offering of prayer. and to the Holy Spirit,
Three in One. Amen
In the quiet of this moment,

this precious moment. 2 Corinthians 6:16b-18
Hear our prayer As God has said: “I will live with them and walk among them, and I will be their
*In the presence of your Spirit, God, and they will be my people.”
your precious Spirit. “Therefore, come out from them and be separate, says the Lord. Touch no unclean
Hear our prayer thing, and I will receive you.”
*In the company of this people, “I will be a Father to you, and you will be my sons and daughters, says the Lord
this precious people. Almighty.”
Hear our prayer
John 1:9-13
*The true light that gives light to everyone was coming into the world. He was
Psalm 19:1-6 in the world, and though the world was made through him, the world did not
(As you read and listen, use the pauses recognize him. He came to that which was his own, but his own did not receive
to let the words speak to your hearts) him. Yet to all who did receive him, to those who believed in his name, he gave
the right to become children of God – children born not of natural descent, nor of
The heavens declare the glory of God; human decision or a husband’s will, but born of God.
the skies proclaim the work of his hands.
Day after day they pour forth speech; For the privilege of prayer,
night after night they reveal knowledge. our hearts reaching out,
They have no speech, they use no words; touching the divine.
no sound is heard from them. Word of Life, speak to us.
Yet their voice goes out into all the earth, *For the privilege of service,
their words to the ends of the world. our lives reaching out,
(PAUSE) letting your light shine.
Word of Life, speak through us.
11 12
Matthew 6:9-13
your kingdom come,
your will be done,
but deliver us from the evil one. Amen.
For those who have no faith

Embrace them, Lord, we pray
For those who have no hope
For those struggling to cope
For those who are alone
Embrace them, Lord, we pray,
using these arms “You have made us for yourself,
and these voices and our heart is restless till it finds its rest in you.”
if that should be your will. Amen (Augustine of Hippo, 354-430)
As one day draws to a close

and heralds in dawn’s fresh light,
may the blessing our hearts have received
be the blessing our hearts proclaim
at the moment that we wake.
Now may the God of love
keep us safe in his arms,
the God of peace
bring to us sweet rest,
and the God of joy
let us wake refreshed.
13 14
Monday Morning – A community of faith *For all the gods of the nations are idols,
but the Lord made the heavens.
(* Indicates optional change of reader. Splendor and majesty are before him;
Bold text to be read by all) strength and glory are in his sanctuary
Sing to the Lord a new song;

May the unity of the Godhead, sing to the Lord, all the earth.
Father, Son and Spirit
be at the center of our meeting Glory to the Father,
and bind these hearts as one. and to the Son,
Three in One. Amen
Bless the Lord, O my soul
And all that is within us,
bless the Lord, For Truth that speaks to hearts
bless the Lord! Lord, show us your mercy
*For grace beyond imagining
Lord, show us your mercy
For this community of faith *For forgiveness from our sin
Surround us in your love Lord, show us your mercy
For those unable to be here
Surround them in your love
For all who turn to you in prayer You have given us each other,
Surround them in your love that through this community of faith
others might be drawn to you.
Forgive us when, through lack of love
Psalm 96:1-6 these lives do not reflect your grace
(As you read and listen, use the pauses and our words bring anything but peace.
to let the words speak to your hearts) May this place bring a blessing
to all who enter, and this people
Sing to the Lord a new song; become the face of Christ
sing to the Lord, all the earth. that they shall see today.
*Sing to the Lord, praise his name; Lord, in your mercy

proclaim his salvation day after day. Hear our prayer
Declare his glory among the nations,
his marvelous deeds among all peoples. If we confess our sins, he is faithful and just and will forgive us our sins
For great is the Lord and most worthy of praise; and purify us from all unrighteousness.
he is to be feared above all gods.
(PAUSE)
15 16
Exodus 33:12-17 God who calls us
Moses said to the Lord, “You have been telling me, ‘Lead these people,’ but you from wilderness places
have not let me know whom you will send with me. You have said, ‘I know you into sacred spaces and green pastures
by name and you have found favor with me.’ If you are pleased with me, teach me that you have prepared for us
your ways so I may know you and continue to find favor with you. Remember that To you belongs our praise
this nation is your people.”
(PAUSE) *God who calls us
into difficult places
*The Lord replied, “My Presence will go with you, and I will give you rest.” and to darker spaces where our trust
Then Moses said to him, “If your Presence does not go with us, do not send us is in the strength that you provide
up from here. How will anyone know that you are pleased with me and with your To you belongs our praise
people unless you go with us?
What else will distinguish me and your people from all the other people on the *God who calls us, leads us,
face of the earth?” guides and shields us,
And the Lord said to Moses, “I will do the very thing you have asked, because I am To you belongs our praise
pleased with you and I know you by name.”
Now may God’s blessing go with us,

*For your people, wherever they might gather God’s love surround us,
Be the one who stands beside God’s footsteps guide us
*For your people, wherever they might journey and God’s strength supply us
Be the one who is our guide throughout the day ahead.
*For your people, wherever they might suffer
Be the one who keeps us safe
*For your people, wherever they might struggle
Be the one who gives us strength
Matthew 6:9-13
your kingdom come,
your will be done,
17 18
Monday Midday – Lectio Divina
This is slight variation on an ancient technique of contemplative prayer, which helps As Mary ‘pondered in her heart’ what she heard and saw of Jesus, so we repeat
us to connect our hearts with the Word of God. It has been kept alive particularly the words silently and let them sink into our hearts, interact with our day, our
within the Benedictine monastic tradition. It requires that we allow for quietness in thoughts and concerns… God’s word becomes our word for today.
the bustle of the day, to listen for the ‘gentle whisper’ of God. These studies use the
Psalms, but any suitable passage (preferably not too long) may be used. (Group – allow time for those who wish to share the word, image or phrase that
has touched their heart.)
ORATIO - PRAYER
LECTIO – READING
As we turn to prayer, so God invites us to respond to the word or phrase that has
Read twice, slowly and attentively, listening for that ‘gentle whisper’ that is God’s spoken to us. In the quietness or aloud we bring to Him those words, images or
word or phrase for today, using this or an alternative reading. people that God has placed on our hearts, and how we might put those words into
action.
(Group – allow time to pray for the person on your right.)

The Lord reigns for ever;
he has established his throne for judgment.
He rules the world in righteousness
and judges the peoples with equity.
The Lord is a refuge for the oppressed,
CONTEMPLATIO – CONTEMPLATION
a stronghold in times of trouble.
Those who know your name trust in you,
We spend a minute or two in silence, enjoying the experience of God’s presence
for you, Lord, have never forsaken those who seek you.
and love embracing us.
(Psalm 9:7-10)
Glory to the Father,

and to the Son,
Three in One. Amen
19 20
Monday Evening *Enter his gates with thanksgiving
and his courts with praise;
(* Indicates optional change of reader. give thanks to him and praise his name.
Bold text to be read by all) For the Lord is good and his love endures forever;
his faithfulness continues through all generations.
In the name of the Father, *Shout for joy to the Lord, all the earth.
Son and Holy Spirit, Worship the Lord with gladness
Three in One,
our spirits are joined Glory to the Father,
in unity with the worldwide and to the Son,
community of faith. and to the Holy Spirit,
Three in One. Amen
God, who in love creates us

Come, fill our lives anew 1 John 5:1-2
God, who in love enfolds us Everyone who believes that Jesus is the Christ is born of God, and everyone
Come, fill our lives anew who loves the father loves his child as well. This is how we know that we love the
God, who in love sustains us children of God: by loving God and carrying out his commands.
Come, fill our lives anew
God, who in love directs us
Come, fill our lives anew John 6:35-39
God, who in love renews us *Then Jesus declared, “I am the bread of life. Whoever comes to me will never go
Come, fill our lives anew hungry, and whoever believes in me will never be thirsty. But as I told you, you
have seen me and still you do not believe. All those the Father gives me will come
to me, and whoever comes to me I will never drive away. For I have come down
Psalm 100 from heaven not to do my will but to do the will of him who sent me. And this is
(As you read and listen, use the pauses the will of him who sent me, that I shall lose none of all those he has given me, but
to let the words speak to your hearts) raise them up at the last day.”
Shout for joy to the Lord, all the earth.

Worship the Lord with gladness Where there is hunger
for the Gospel to be received
*Come before him with joyful songs. Lord, have mercy.
Know that the Lord is God. *Where there is a thirst
It is he who made us, and we are his; for righteousness to be revealed
we are his people, the sheep of his pasture. Lord, have mercy.
(PAUSE) *Where there is hurting
and no one asks the question why
Lord, have mercy.
21 22
*Where there is blindness
to the suffering of this world
Lord, have mercy.
Matthew 6:9-13
your kingdom come,
your will be done,
For this day of possibilities;

the roads that we have walked,
glances and greetings exchanged,
conversations and silences,
decisions made or deferred, “They converse as those would who know that God hears.”
successes and failures, (Tertullian, c.150-212)
prayers whispered or left unsaid,
blessings given or received;
for this day of possibilities
and the one that is to come
we give to you our thanks.
Now may the God of love surround us,

the God of love protect us,
the God of love bring us safe
through this night, and all nights,
the God of love bring us awake
once more to dawn’s fresh light.
23 24
Tuesday Morning – Journeying together wild animals and all cattle,
small creatures and flying birds,
(* Indicates optional change of reader. kings of the earth and all nations,
Bold text to be read by all) you princes and all rulers on earth,
young men and women,
In the unity of Father, old men and children.
Son and Holy Spirit Let them praise the name of the Lord,
these hearts are joined as one (PAUSE)
You who are in our beginning *for his name alone is exalted;
and our ending, his splendor is above the earth and the heavens.
and the journeying between, And he has raised up for his people a horn,
be with us in this time of refreshment, the praise of all his faithful servants,
an oasis in the day, of Israel, the people close to his heart.
and feed us with your word.
Praise the Lord from the heavens
*You who are at our departing Praise him in the heights above
and arriving,
and everything that is seen, Glory to the Father,
be with us as, eyes open, we marvel and to the Son,
at all that you have made, and to the Holy Spirit,
and fill our hearts with praise. Three in One. Amen
Psalm 148:7-14 For Truth that speaks to hearts

(As you read and listen, use the pauses Lord, show us your mercy
to let the words speak to your hearts) *For grace beyond imagining
Lord, show us your mercy
Praise the Lord from the heavens *For forgiveness from our sin
Praise him in the heights above Lord, show us your mercy
*Praise the Lord from the earth, Lord, you call us to be different
you great sea creatures and all ocean depths, as we journey through this day,
lightning and hail, snow and clouds, to be a guide to those who wander,
stormy winds that do his bidding, offer help and seek the lost.
(PAUSE) Forgive us when we fail to become
the people we should be.
*you mountains and all hills,
fruit trees and all cedars,
25 26
*Lord, you call us to be different Matthew 6:9-13
in the ebb and flow of life, Our Father in heaven,
to see the good in all your children, hallowed be your name,
demonstrate your love and grace. your kingdom come,
Forgive us when we fail to become your will be done,
the people we should be. on earth as it is in heaven.
*Lord, you call! And forgive us our debts,
Equip and strengthen as we also have forgiven our debtors.
your people for the task, And lead us not into temptation,
that within our daily journeying but deliver us from the evil one. Amen.
we might bless the lives we meet.
Amen
God of morning and rising sun,
The God of Love is merciful and will forgive those with breaking dawn the beauty
who in humility confess their sins. of your creativity
is revealed for all to see.
Let us share the peace of Christ Jesus with those around us. And we shall sing your praise.
‘Peace I leave with you,’ said Jesus. ‘My peace I give you.’
‘Again Jesus said, “Peace be with you!”’ *God of noontime and gentle rain,
you bring to us refreshment
(Pause while the peace is shared) on our daily journeying,
and the strength to persevere.
Give thanks to the Lord, for he is good; And we shall sing your praise.
His love endures forever
*God of evening and setting sun,
you send us out in faith
Isaiah 40:28-31 and bring us safely home again,
*Do you not know? Have you not heard? The LORD is the everlasting God, such is your love and grace.
the Creator of the ends of the earth. He will not grow tired or weary, and his And we shall sing your praise.
understanding no one can fathom.
(PAUSE)
Now may the hand of God go with us
*He gives strength to the weary and increases the power of the weak. Even youths on our journeying today,
grow tired and weary, and young men stumble and fall; but those who hope in the the love of God surround us
LORD will renew their strength. They will soar on wings like eagles; they will run as we venture on our way,
and not grow weary, they will walk and not be faint. the Spirit of God be present
in everything we say
and God’s blessing be the gift
that we freely give away.
27 28
Tuesday Midday – Lectio Divina
This is slight variation on an ancient technique of contemplative prayer, which As Mary ‘pondered in her heart’ what she heard and saw of Jesus, so we repeat
helps us to connect our hearts with the Word of God. It has been kept alive the words silently and let them sink into our hearts, interact with our day, our
particularly within the Benedictine monastic tradition. It requires that we allow for thoughts and concerns… God’s word becomes our word for today.
quietness in the bustle of the day, to listen for the ‘gentle whisper’ of God. These
studies use the Psalms, but any suitable passage (preferably not too long) may be (Group – allow time for those who wish to share the word, image or phrase that
used. has touched their heart.)
LECTIO – READING ORATIO - PRAYER
Read twice, slowly and attentively, listening for that ‘gentle whisper’ that is God’s As we turn to prayer, so God invites us to respond to the word or phrase that has
word or phrase for today, using this or an alternative reading. spoken to us. In the quietness or aloud we bring to Him those words, images or
people that God has placed on our hearts, and how we might put those words into
action.
The earth is the Lord’s, and everything in it, (Group – allow time to pray for the person on your right.)
the world, and all who live in it;
for he founded it on the seas
and established it on the waters.
Who may ascend the mountain of the Lord?
Who may stand in his holy place? CONTEMPLATIO – CONTEMPLATION
The one who has clean hands and a pure heart,
who does not trust in an idol We spend a minute or two in silence, enjoying the experience of God’s presence
or swear by a false god. and love embracing us.
They will receive blessing from the Lord
and vindication from God their Saviour.
Such is the generation of those who seek him,
who seek your face, God of Jacob.
(Psalm 24:1-6) Glory to the Father,
and to the Son,
Three in One. Amen
29 30
Tuesday Evening too lofty for me to attain.
Where can I go from your Spirit?
(* Indicates optional change of reader. Where can I flee from your presence?
Bold text to be read by all) If I go up to the heavens, you are there;
if I make my bed in the depths, you are there.
In the presence of Father,
Son and Holy Spirit, You have searched me, Lord,
Blesséd Trinity, and you know me.
we meet with gratitude,
in quietness and reflection Glory to the Father,
at the closing of this day. and to the Son,
Bless the road that we have traveled Three in One. Amen
and those we met along the way.
Hear us Lord, we pray
Acts 16:6-12
Bless the glances we exchanged, *Paul and his companions traveled throughout the region of Phrygia and Galatia,
the prayers and words we shared today. having been kept by the Holy Spirit from preaching the word in the province of
Hear us Lord, we pray Asia. When they came to the border of Mysia, they tried to enter Bithynia, but the
Spirit of Jesus would not allow them to.
(PAUSE)
Psalm 139:1-8
(As you read and listen, use the pauses *So they passed by Mysia and went down to Troas. During the night Paul had
to let the words speak to your hearts) a vision of a man of Macedonia standing and begging him, “Come over to
Macedonia and help us.” After Paul had seen the vision, we got ready at once to
You have searched me, Lord, leave for Macedonia, concluding that God had called us to preach the gospel to
and you know me. them.
You know when I sit and when I rise;

you perceive my thoughts from afar. Matthew 15:29-30
You discern my going out and my lying down; *Jesus left there and went along the Sea of Galilee. Then he went up on a
you are familiar with all my ways. mountainside and sat down. Great crowds came to him, bringing the lame, the
Before a word is on my tongue blind, the crippled, the mute and many others, and laid them at his feet; and he
you, Lord, know it completely. healed them.
(PAUSE)
For each step that we might take
*You hem me in behind and before, Be our guide, O Lord of life.
and you lay your hand upon me. For each load that we might bear
Such knowledge is too wonderful for me, Be our strength, O Lord of life.
31 32
For each mountain we might face Let our eyes be your eyes,
Be our power, O Lord of life. sharing compassion, warmth and love.
For each river that might impede Let our hands be your hands
Be our safety, O Lord of life. bringing healing with their touch.
For each place where we might rest Let our ears be your ears
Be our peace, O Lord of life. listening where there is need.
For each sunrise and sunset Let our words be your words
Be our joy, O Lord of life. bringing comfort joy and peace
Matthew 6:9-13 God of the morning,

Our Father in heaven, be with us as we rise,
hallowed be your name, God of the noontime,
your kingdom come, be with us in our walk,
your will be done, God of the evening,
on earth as it is in heaven. be with us as we rest.
For those whose spiritual journey

is really only just beginning.
Bless them, Lord, we pray.
*For all whose journey of faith

is beset by doubt and uncertainty
*For those whose daily journey

is hindered by pain or suffering
*For those who spend their journey

helping others struggling on the road
33 34
Wednesday Morning – from desert places Psalm 62:1,5-8,11-12a
(As you read and listen, use the pauses
(* Indicates optional change of reader. to let the words speak to your hearts)
Bold text to be read by all)
Truly my soul finds rest in God;
my salvation comes from him.
We meet in the name
of our Creator, Yes, my soul, find rest in God;
Saviour, and Sustainer. my hope comes from him.
We meet as one Truly he is my rock and my salvation;
with the Three in One, he is my fortress, I shall not be shaken.
Father, Son and Spirit. My salvation and my honor depend on God;
he is my mighty rock, my refuge.
The Lord is here! Trust in him at all times, you people;
We rest in his embrace. pour out your hearts to him,
The Lord is here! for God is our refuge.
And in our hearts forever! (PAUSE)
*One thing God has spoken,

God of grace and mercy, two things I have heard:
present both in desert places ‘Power belongs to you, God,
and green pastures, and with you, Lord, is unfailing love’
who knows the shadows
in which we wander Truly my soul finds rest in God;
and longs for us to walk in light, my salvation comes from him.
whose arms embrace all those
who in despair cry out. Glory to the Father,
To you alone belongs our praise! and to the Son,
*God of grace and mercy, Three in One. Amen
who knows the people we could be
yet loves us as we are. In the light of God’s glory our hearts lie exposed,
To you alone belongs our praise! revealing the sin within.
*God of grace and mercy, Gracious God, who reaches out

who understands our frailty to those who stumble,
and hears us when we call. embraces the humble,
To you alone belongs our praise! seeks the lost,
forgive us when we lose our way.
Take us in your arms
35 36
and bring us home again, to buy a pearl of great price.
that we might daily know your presence Such is your love for us.
and in our lives reflect your grace. Amen
*You are the farmer
Scripture tells us that for those who confess their sins, who sows in fertile soil,
the Lord our God is merciful and forgiving. anticipating harvest.
Such is your love for us.
Isaiah 49:13-16a *You are the outsider

Shout for joy, you heavens; who does not cross the road
rejoice, you earth; but stops to help a stranger.
burst into song, you mountains! Such is your love for us.
For the Lord comforts his people
and will have compassion on his afflicted ones.
Matthew 6:9-13
But Zion said, “The Lord has forsaken me, Our Father in heaven,
the Lord has forgotten me.” hallowed be your name,
your kingdom come,
*“Can a mother forget the baby at her breast your will be done,
and have no compassion on the child she has borne? on earth as it is in heaven.
Though she may forget, I will not forget you! Give us today our daily bread.
See, I have engraved you on the palms of my hands...” And forgive us our debts,
(PAUSE) as we also have forgiven our debtors.
Speak to our hearts, Lord,
that our hearts might speak of you.
Speak to our minds, Lord, May the God of grace
that our words might speak of you. lift you from where you are
Speak to our souls, Lord and raise you onto higher ground.
that our lives might shine for you. May the God of peace
still the anguish of your soul
and bring you to a quiet place.
You are the shepherd May the God of love
who walks the extra mile who warms our fragile hearts
to find the sheep that is lost. be the strength you find today.
Such is your love for us.
*You are the merchant

who sold all that he had
37 38
Wednesday Midday - Lectio Divina
action.
One thing I ask from the Lord, (Group – allow time to pray for the person on your right.)
this only do I seek:
that I may dwell in the house of the Lord
all the days of my life,
to gaze on the beauty of the Lord
and to seek him in his temple. CONTEMPLATIO – CONTEMPLATION
For in the day of trouble
he will keep me safe in his dwelling; We spend a minute or two in silence, enjoying the experience of God’s presence
he will hide me in the shelter of his sacred tent and love embracing us.
and set me high upon a rock…
Hear my voice when I call, Lord;
be merciful to me and answer me.
My heart says of you, ‘Seek his face!’
Your face, Lord, I will seek. Glory to the Father,
(Psalm 27:4,5,7,8) and to the Son,
Three in One. Amen
39 40
Wednesday Evening *I waited patiently for the Lord;
he turned to me and heard my cry.
(* Indicates optional change of reader.
Bold text to be read by all) Glory to the Father,
and to the Son,
In the quiet of evening Three in One. Amen
may our God be with us,
his Spirit fill us
and the unity of the Godhead Ephesians 3:16-18
be the bond between us. I pray that out of his glorious riches he may strengthen you with power through
his Spirit in your inner being, so that Christ may dwell in your hearts through
faith. And I pray that you, being rooted and established in love, may have power,
The Lord God is here together with all the Lord’s holy people, to grasp how wide and long and high and
His presence with us deep is the love of Christ
Let our hearts be warmed (PAUSE)
His grace within us
Let our spirits soar Matthew 11:28-30
His love inspire us *Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest. Take
my yoke upon you and learn from me, for I am gentle and humble in heart, and
you will find rest for your souls. For my yoke is easy and my burden is light.
Psalm 40:1-3
to let the words speak to your hearts) God, who graciously brings us
through troubled times
I waited patiently for the Lord; and desert places
he turned to me and heard my cry. Embrace us with your love
*He lifted me out of the slimy pit, *God, whose Spirit fills us,
out of the mud and mire; who lifts the weak
he set my feet on a rock to higher places
and gave me a firm place to stand. Embrace us with your love
(PAUSE)
*God, who patiently leads us
*He put a new song in my mouth, through well-known and
a hymn of praise to our God. challenging places
Many will see and fear the Lord Embrace us with your love
and put their trust in him.
41 42
Matthew 6:9-13
Our Father in heaven, May we never walk
hallowed be your name, in solitude or fear,
your kingdom come, but the fellowship
your will be done, of the Spirit
on earth as it is in heaven. warm our hearts,
Give us today our daily bread. the love of the Saviour
And forgive us our debts, bring us joy
as we also have forgiven our debtors. and the shelter
And lead us not into temptation, of the Father’s arms
but deliver us from the evil one. Amen forever keep us safe.
For a world gifted to us that it might be shared in love

Gracious Lord, we lift up your name
*For all who hunger through lack of food or prejudice
Gracious Lord, have mercy
*For all who thirst through lack of water or injustice
*For all who suffer through illness or infirmity
*For all who wander for lack of home or stability
For a world gifted to us that it might be shared in love
Gracious Lord, we lift up your name
“At the end of the prayers we embrace each other with a kiss.”
(Justin Martyr c.100-165)
As this day draws to a close
we bring to your feet
those whose lives touched ours
just for a moment.
For smiles exchanged,
hasty greetings,
brief encounters
with people we may not know
but who are precious in your sight.
Bless these moments,
and may all such encounters
scatter a seed of your love
into the fertile earth of each day.
43 44
Thursday Morning – Led to a pleasant land He leads me beside quiet waters,
he refreshes my soul.
(* Indicates optional change of reader. He guides me along the right paths
Bold text to be read by all) for his name’s sake.
(PAUSE)
In the name of Father, *Even though I walk

Son and Holy Spirit, through the darkest valley,
we meet within the unity I will fear no evil,
of the Three in One, for you are with me;
Blesséd Trinity. your rod and your staff,
they comfort me.
God in our waking
Bless the day that lies ahead. The Lord is my shepherd, I lack nothing.
God in our walking He makes me lie down in green pastures.
Bless the streets through which we tread.
God in our meeting Glory to the Father,
Bless all those to whom we’re led. and to the Son,
God in our speaking and to the Holy Spirit,
Bless the words that will be said. Three in One. Amen
God in our resting
Bless the time we lie in bed.
For Truth that speaks to hearts
Be thou our vision, Lord Lord, show us your mercy
this and every day, *For grace beyond imagining
the center of our lives Lord, show us your mercy
and the focus of our thoughts. *For forgiveness from our sin
Be thou our wisdom, Lord Lord, show us your mercy
this and every day,
the author of our words
and the impulse of our hearts. God of mercy,
in you alone is the forgiveness
that we long for,
Psalm 23:1-4 in you alone is the peace
(As you read and listen, use the pauses that calms our soul.
to let the words speak to your hearts) Forgive the incompleteness of our faith
and the imperfection in our lives.
The Lord is my shepherd, I lack nothing. God of mercy,
He makes me lie down in green pastures bless these hearts anew,
45 46
that we might reveal After the earthquake came a fire, but the Lord was not in the fire. And after the fire
the breadth of your grace came a gentle whisper. When Elijah heard it, he pulled his cloak over his face and
and the glory of your love, went out and stood at the mouth of the cave.
through the service of these lives. (PAUSE)
If we confess our sins, he is faithful and just,

will forgive us our sins In our journeying with you
and purify us from all unrighteousness. be our guide, O Lord, we pray.
Open our ears
Give thanks to the Lord, for he is good to the unexpected,
His love endures forever to the gentle whisper
that follows earthquake and fire.
Let us share the peace of Christ Jesus with those around us. In our journeying with you
‘Peace I leave with you,’ said Jesus. ‘My peace I give you.’ open our eyes
‘Again Jesus said, “Peace be with you!”’ to the destination,
and the greener pasture
(Pause while the peace is shared) that you have prepared for us.
In our journeying with you,
be our guide, O Lord, we pray.
Matthew 6:9-13
hallowed be your name, God who loves us
your kingdom come, Blesséd be your name
your will be done, God who calls us
on earth as it is in heaven. Blesséd be your name
Give us today our daily bread. God who leads us
And forgive us our debts, Blesséd be your name
as we also have forgiven our debtors. God who sends us
And lead us not into temptation, Blesséd be your name
Now may the God who leads us

1 Kings 19 (part of vs. 9-13) from darkness to light
And the word of the Lord came to him: “What are you doing here, Elijah? ...Go out illuminate our footsteps,
and stand on the mountain... for the Lord is about to pass by.” lengthen our stride
Then a great and powerful wind tore the mountains apart ... but the Lord was not and strengthen our resolve,
in the wind. After the wind there was an earthquake, but the Lord was not in the that we might walk the path
earthquake. prepared for us,
(PAUSE) and faithfully serve our Lord and King.
47 48
Thursday Midday – Lectio Divina
action.
‘I sought the Lord, and he answered me;
he delivered me from all my fears. (Group – allow time to pray for the person on your right.)
Those who look to him are radiant;
their faces are never covered with shame.
This poor man called, and the Lord heard him;
he saved him out of all his troubles…
Taste and see that the Lord is good;
blessed is the one who takes refuge in him. CONTEMPLATIO – CONTEMPLATION
Fear the Lord, you his holy people,
for those who fear him lack nothing. We spend a minute or two in silence, enjoying the experience of God’s presence
The lions may grow weak and hungry, and love embracing us
but those who seek the Lord lack no good thing.’
(Psalm 34:4-6, 8-10)

and to the Son,
Three in One. Amen
49 50
Thursday Evening Your love, Lord, reaches to the heavens,
your faithfulness to the skies.
(* Indicates optional change of reader.
Bold text to be read by all) Glory to the Father,
and to the Son,
We meet in the unity Three in One. Amen
of Father, Son
and Holy Spirit,
glorious Trinity. Acts 17:25-27
And (God) is not served by human hands, as if he needed anything. Rather, he
himself gives everyone life and breath and everything else. From one man he made
To the One here with us in our meeting all the nations, that they should inhabit the whole earth; and he marked out their
We lift our hearts in praise appointed times in history and the boundaries of their lands. God did this so that
To the One whose love is all-embracing they would seek him and perhaps reach out for him and find him, though he is not
We lift our hearts in praise far from any one of us.
To the One whose grace is so amazing (PAUSE)
We lift our hearts in praise
To the One who guides our daily traveling Mark 6:39-44
We lift our hearts in praise Then Jesus told them to make all the people sit down in groups on the green grass.
So they sat down in groups of hundreds and fifties. Taking the five loaves and the
two fish and looking up to heaven, he gave thanks and broke the loaves. Then he
Psalm 36:5-9 gave them to his disciples to distribute to the people. He also divided the two fish
(As you read and listen, use the pauses among them all. They all ate and were satisfied, and the disciples picked up twelve
to let the words speak to your hearts) basket-fulls of broken pieces of bread and fish. The number of the men who had
eaten was five thousand.
Your love, Lord, reaches to the heavens,
God who brings us from desolate places
Your righteousness is like the highest mountains, and into his presence.
your justice like the great deep. Accept the gratitude of these hearts.
You, Lord, preserve both people and animals.
How priceless is your unfailing love, O God! *God who lifts us from despairing places
(PAUSE) and grants to us release.
People take refuge in the shadow of your wings. Accept the gratitude of these hearts.
They feast on the abundance of your house;
you give them drink from your river of delights. *God who leads us to sacred places
For with you is the fountain of life; where we can rest in peace.
in your light we see light. Accept the gratitude of these hearts.
(PAUSE)
51 52
Matthew 6:9-13
your kingdom come,
your will be done,
For all who have been led into exile

Lord, have mercy
For all who have been led into slavery
Lord, have mercy
For all who have been led into poverty
Lord, have mercy
For all who have been led into conflict
Lord, have mercy
For all who have been prevented from being
the people they were created to be.
Lord, have mercy “He would never come and knock at our door unless he wanted to come in,
and if he does not always come in, that is our fault.”
(Ambrose, Bishop of Milan and Church Father, 340-397)
You have fed us with your word,
embraced us with your love
and brought us safely
to the end of this, your day.
For the opportunities
that tomorrow will bring,
walk closely with us, we pray.
May your gentle whisper
be the word we follow,
your hand be the hand we hold
and your footsteps be the marks
in which we place our feet.
53 54
Friday Morning – The resurrection life Psalm 107:1-9
(* Indicates optional change of reader. to let the words speak to your hearts)
Give thanks to the Lord, for he is good;
his love endures for ever.
In the name of the loving Father
we greet each other. Let the redeemed of the Lord tell their story –
In the name of the risen Son those he redeemed from the hand of the foe,
we serve each other. those he gathered from the lands,
In the name of the divine Spirit from east and west, from north and south.
we bless each other. Some wandered in desert wastelands,
In the name of the Three in One finding no way to a city where they could settle.
we are united together. They were hungry and thirsty, and their lives ebbed away.
Then they cried out to the Lord in their trouble,
Gracious God, and he delivered them from their distress.
who brought us out of darkness (PAUSE)
into this sacred place,
and through sacrifice *He led them by a straight way
has shown to us such grace. to a city where they could settle.
To you belongs our praise. Let them give thanks to the Lord for his unfailing love
and his wonderful deeds for mankind,
*Gracious God, for he satisfies the thirsty and fills the hungry with good things.
whose love is beyond imagining,
whose grace extends to all, Give thanks to the Lord, for he is good;
accept the praises of your people his love endures for ever.
wherever they might be,
as joined in spirit Glory to the Father,
with angels above and to the Son,
we share their glorious song. and to the Holy Spirit,
Holy, holy, holy Three in One. Amen
is the Lord God Almighty,
who was, and is, and is to come!
For all we have said or done
To him who sits on the throne and to the Lamb that has proved unfruitful
be praise and honor and glory and power, and caused you pain,
for ever and ever, Amen. God of mercy,
Forgive us.
55 56
*For all we have left undone And forgive us our debts,
that would have blessed someone as we also have forgiven our debtors.
who was in need, And lead us not into temptation,
God of mercy, but deliver us from the evil one. Amen
Forgive us.
Be assured, our God is merciful and forgives those It is a wonderful truth

who humbly turn to him in repentance. that you have already walked
the path that we now follow
Give thanks to the Lord, for he is good known hardship, temptation and suffering
His love endures forever and yet grace love to all.
And with that knowledge deep in our hearts
we can follow you in confidence,
Isaiah 35:1,2,5,6 and when difficulties arise
The desert and the parched land will be glad; listen for your footfall.
the wilderness will rejoice and blossom.
Like the crocus, it will burst into bloom;
it will rejoice greatly and shout for joy. Let it be known
The glory of Lebanon will be given to it, throughout the world
the splendor of Carmel and Sharon; We serve a risen Lord.
they will see the glory of the Lord, *Let it be seen
the splendor of our God. throughout the world
(PAUSE) We serve a risen Lord.
*Let it be felt
*Then will the eyes of the blind be opened throughout the world
and the ears of the deaf unstopped. We serve a risen Lord.
Then will the lame leap like a deer,
and the mute tongue shout for joy.
Water will gush forth in the wilderness In the words that we shall speak
and streams in the desert. may the Spirit of Truth be with us.
In the actions of our hands
may the Spirit of Love be with us.
Matthew 6:9-13 In the places we shall go
Our Father in heaven, may the Spirit of Peace be with us.
your kingdom come,
your will be done,
57 58
Friday Midday – Lectio Divina

action.
Your love, Lord, reaches to the heavens, (Group – allow time to pray for the person on your right.)
Your righteousness is like the highest mountains,
your justice like the great deep.
You, Lord, preserve both people and animals.
How priceless is your unfailing love, O God!
People take refuge in the shadow of your wings.
They feast in the abundance of your house;
you give them drink from your river of delights.
For with you is the fountain of life;
and love embracing us
in your light we see light.
(Psalm 36:5-9)

and to the Son,
Three in One. Amen
59 60
Friday Evening *The Lord watches over you –
the Lord is your shade at your right hand;
(* Indicates optional change of reader. the sun will not harm you by day,
Bold text to be read by all) nor the moon by night.
(PAUSE)
God is with us as we meet,
his voice discerned *The Lord will keep you from all harm –
through Scripture’s Word he will watch over your life;
and in our prayer. the Lord will watch over your coming and going
God is with us as we meet, both now and for evermore.
his presence felt
as hearts are warmed I lift up my eyes to the mountains –
and love is shared. where does my help come from?
God is with us as we meet My help comes from the Lord,
the Maker of heaven and earth.
Lord, open these eyes Glory to the Father,

That we might see this world’s beauty. and to the Son,
Lord, open these ears and to the Holy Spirit,
That we might discern your calling. Three in One. Amen
Lord, open these hearts
That we might be led to service.
Lord, open these mouths 1 Corinthians 1:26,27
That we might proclaim your Word. Brothers and sisters, think of what you were when you were called. Not many of
you were wise by human standards; not many were influential; not many were of
noble birth. But God chose the foolish things of the world to shame the wise; God
Psalm 121 chose the weak things of the world to shame the strong.
(As you read and listen, use the pauses (PAUSE)
to let the words speak to your hearts)
John 13:12-17
I lift up my eyes to the mountains – When he had finished washing their feet, he put on his clothes and returned to his
where does my help come from? place. ‘Do you understand what I have done for you?’ he asked them. ‘You call me
My help comes from the Lord, “Teacher” and “Lord”, and rightly so, for that is what I am. Now that I, your Lord
the Maker of heaven and earth. and Teacher, have washed your feet, you also should wash one another’s feet. I have
set you an example that you should do as I have done for you.’
*He will not let your foot slip –
he who watches over you will not slumber;
indeed, he who watches over Israel Gracious God
will neither slumber nor sleep. who fills our lives with love
(PAUSE) Be the love that dwells between us.
61 62
Gracious God
who fills our lives with peace
Be the peace that dwells between us.
Gracious God
who fills our lives with joy
Be the joy that dwells between us
Matthew 6:9-13
your kingdom come,
your will be done,
For a world that lives

but has yet to experience life in all its fullness. “Set off on the path of prayer with confidence,
Precious Lord, have mercy. then swiftly and speedily will you reach the place of peace,
For a world that loves, which is your stronghold against the place of fear.”
but has yet to meet with the source of all love. (Evagrius of Pontus, Spiritual writer, c.305-400)
Precious Lord, have mercy.
For a world that seeks,
but forever stumbles in its searching.
Precious Lord, have mercy.
May God’s love be the love

that surrounds us today.
May God’s peace be the peace
that we share on our way.
May God’s grace be the grace
that our actions display.
May God’s truth be the truth
in the words that we say.
63 64
Saturday Morning - The call to follow let us exalt his name together.
I sought the Lord, and he answered me;
(* Indicates optional change of reader. he delivered me from all my fears.
Bold text to be read by all) (PAUSE)
The God who calls us *Those who look to him are radiant;
is with us as we meet. their faces are never covered with shame.
The God who guides us This poor man called, and the Lord heard him;
reveals to us the route. he saved him out of all his troubles.
The God who feeds us The angel of the Lord encamps around those who fear him,
supplies us with his truth. and he delivers them.
The God who loves us (PAUSE)
inspires us as we speak.
*Taste and see that the Lord is good;
blessed is the one who takes refuge in him.
For the world in which we walk, Fear the Lord, you his holy people,
Creator God, we give our thanks. for those who fear him lack nothing.
For footsteps to follow, The lions may grow weak and hungry,
Living God, we give our thanks. but those who seek the Lord lack no good thing.
For people encountered,
Loving God, we give our thanks. I will extol the Lord at all times;
For blessings offered, his praise will always be on my lips.
Caring God, we give our thanks.
For blessings received, Glory to the Father,
Gracious God, we give our thanks. and to the Son,
For the world in which we walk, and to the Holy Spirit,
Creator God, we give our thanks. Three in One. Amen
Psalm 34:1-10 Lead us to a mountaintop

(As you read and listen, use the pauses within our daily lives,
to let the words speak to your hearts) a sacred space
where life takes on
I will extol the Lord at all times; a different pace,
his praise will always be on my lips. for we are too busy, Lord,
and fail to hear your call.
I will glory in the Lord; *Lead us to a mountaintop
let the afflicted hear and rejoice. within our daily lives,
Glorify the Lord with me: a quiet place
where we can rest
65 66
in your embrace, Send us out into the world, Lord
for we are too busy, Lord To speak your words of truth
and need to hear your call. Send us out into the world, Lord
To proclaim your love and grace
If we, in humility, will confess our sins Send us out into the world, Lord
in the quietness of our hearts or in the company of the faithful, To bring comfort to the weak
God’s love and mercy bring forgiveness. Send us out into the world, Lord
To be your hands and feet.
Give thanks to the Lord, for he is good;
His love endures forever
We shall not fear this day
Let us share the peace of Christ Jesus with those around us. for you are with us
‘Peace I leave with you,’ said Jesus. ‘My peace I give you.’ wherever we might go,
‘Again Jesus said, “Peace be with you!”’ your light to shine ahead,
your footsteps to lead the way.
(Pause while the peace is shared) We shall not fear this day
for your word will be our guide,
your strength sustain us,
Matthew 6:9-13 and your love revive us
Our Father in heaven, this day and all days.
hallowed be your name, We shall not fear this day
your kingdom come, for you are with us
your will be done, wherever we might go.
And forgive us our debts, So may the God we follow
as we also have forgiven our debtors. be the voice that calls us,
And lead us not into temptation, the feet that guide us,
but deliver us from the evil one. Amen the love that inspires us,
the strength that sustains us
and the embrace
1 Samuel 3:8-10 that welcome us home.
A third time the Lord called, ‘Samuel!’ And Samuel got up and went to Eli and
said, ‘Here I am; you called me.’
Then Eli realized that the Lord was calling the boy. So Eli told Samuel, ‘Go and
lie down, and if he calls you, say, “Speak, Lord, for your servant is listening.”’ So
Samuel went and lay down in his place.
The Lord came and stood there, calling as at the other times, ‘Samuel! Samuel!’
Then Samuel said, ‘Speak, for your servant is listening.’
67 68
Saturday Midday – Lectio Divina
LECTIO – READING
ORATIO - PRAYER
Read twice, slowly and attentively, listening for that ‘gentle whisper’ that is God’s
word or phrase for today, using this or an alternative reading. As we turn to prayer, so God invites us to respond to the word or phrase that has
spoken to us. In the quietness or aloud we bring to Him those words, images or
action.
How good and pleasant it is
when God’s people live together in unity! (Group – allow time to pray for the person on your right.)
It is like precious oil poured on the head,
running down on the beard,
running down on Aaron’s beard,
down on the collar of his robe.
It is as if the dew of Hermon
were falling on Mount Zion.
For there the Lord bestows his blessing,
even life for evermore.
and love embracing us person on our right.
(Psalm 133)

and to the Son,
Three in One. Amen
69 70
Saturday Evening though its waters roar and foam
and the mountains quake with their surging.
(* Indicates optional change of reader. (PAUSE)
Come and see what the Lord has done,
the desolations he has brought on the earth.
We meet together He makes wars cease
in the name of God the Father, to the ends of the earth.
God the Son He breaks the bow and shatters the spear;
and God the Holy Spirit, he burns the shields with fire.
our lives united He says, ‘Be still, and know that I am God;
in the Three in One. I will be exalted among the nations,
I will be exalted in the earth.’
For your love which breathed this world into being,
and daily sustains it God is our refuge and strength,
We give you thanks an ever-present help in trouble.
For your love which granted mankind
free will and choice Glory to the Father,
We give you thanks and to the Son,
For your love which never fails as we do, and to the Holy Spirit,
but stretches to eternity Three in One. Amen
We give you thanks
For your love which rose triumphant from the grave
and lives within us Luke 2:28-32
We give you thanks Simeon took (Jesus) in his arms and praised God, saying:
For your love which encircles us as we meet ‘Sovereign Lord, as you have promised you may now dismiss your servant in peace.
together in your presence For my eyes have seen your salvation, which you have prepared in the sight of all
We give you thanks nations: a light for revelation to the Gentiles, and the glory of your people Israel
(PAUSE)
Psalm 46:1-3, 8-10 Hebrews 8:10

(As you read and listen, use the pauses This is the covenant I will establish with the people of Israel after that time,
to let the words speak to your hearts) declares the Lord. I will put my laws in their minds and write them on their hearts.
I will be their God, and they will be my people.
God is our refuge and strength,
an ever-present help in trouble.
Fill us with your Spirit
Therefore we will not fear, though the earth give way That our faith might be enriched
and the mountains fall into the heart of the sea, Fill us with your Spirit
That our lives might be empowered
71 72
That our witness might be emboldened
That your name might be glorified
Matthew 6:9-13
your kingdom come,
your will be done,
but deliver us from the evil one.
Wherever your love pours out from hearts

God of love, may lives be blessed.
Wherever your hands are seen in ours “Be solitary, be silent, and be at peace.”
Servant God, may lives be blessed. (Arsenius, Desert father, c.360-440)
Wherever your peace is sown like seeds
God of peace, may lives be blessed.
Wherever your grace sets prisoners free
God of grace, may lives be blessed.
Wherever your joy shines out in praise
God of joy, may lives be blessed.
Now may the grace of God,

Father, Son and Spirit,
uphold us through this night,
and bring us refreshed
to the joys and challenge
of another day. Amen
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Traditional Celtic Festivals Church’s candles were blessed) or the Feast of the Purification of the Virgin, which
falls on or around 1 February .
The feast day of Saint Brighid falls on 1 February,

in Ireland. There, some of the old customs have
Samhain (1st November) survived. On Imbolc Eve, Brighid was said to visit
virtuous households and bless the inhabitants as
The festival of Samhain (pronounced ‘sow’inn’ and the word for November in some they slept. As Brighid represented the light half of
Gaelic languages) is a celebration of the end of the harvest season in Gaelic culture, the year, and the power that will bring people from
and is sometimes regarded as the Celtic New Year. the dark season of winter into spring, her presence
was very important at this time of year.
Samhain has been celebrated in Britain for centuries and has its origin in Pagan
Celtic traditions. It was the time of year when the veils between this world and Brighid’s crosses (pictured left) were made at
the Otherworld were believed to be at their thinnest: when the spirits of the dead Imbolc. A Brighid’s cross consists of rushes woven
could most readily mingle again with the living. Later, when the festival was into a shape similar to a swastika, with a square in
adopted by Christians, it was celebrated as All Hallows’ Eve, followed by All Saints the middle and four arms protruding from each
Day, though it still retained elements of remembering and honoring the dead. corner. They were often hung over doors, windows and stables to welcome Brighid
and protect the buildings from fire and lightning.
A visual aid - an apple - might be placed centrally to the gathered group. The apple
tree had significance to the pagan Celts which we can also appreciate at this time.
It comes into blossom in the spring (the Celts saw this as a symbol of love and
fertility) and throughout the year the fruit continues to develop and ripen. Because
Beltane - 1st May
many varieties keep over a long period of time when stored this was symbolic
Beltane (Old Irish Bealtaine – pronounced Bee-Al-tin-aye) is mentioned in some
of love’s presence, even long past the time of peak ripeness. The apple, of course,
of the earliest Irish literature and it is associated with important events in Irish
should it fall to the ground contains the seeds from which life begins again.
mythology. It marked the beginning of the pastoral summer season when the herds
of livestock were driven out to the summer pastures and mountain grazing lands.
Rituals were performed to protect the cattle, crops and people, and to encourage
Imbolc - 1st or 2nd February growth. Most commonly it is held on 30 April - 1 May, or halfway between the
spring equinox and the summer solstice
Imbolc most commonly is celebrated on February 1st or 2nd, since this is the
cross-quarter day on the solar calendar, halfway between the Winter Solstice and Special bonfires were kindled, and their flames, smoke and ashes were deemed to
the Spring Equinox in the northern hemisphere. Among agrarian peoples, Imbolc have protective powers. The people and their cattle would walk around the bonfire,
has been traditionally associated with the onset of lactation of ewes, soon to give or between two bonfires, and sometimes leap over flames or embers. All household
birth to the spring lambs. The holiday was a festival of the hearth and home, and a fires would be doused and then re-lit from the Beltane bonfire.
celebration of the lengthening days.
Another common aspect of the festival which survived up until the early 20th
The Christian Church sought to introduce an alternative festival with the Feast of century in Ireland was the hanging of May Boughs on the doors and windows of
the Presentation of Jesus at the Temple, also known as Candlemas (when all the houses and the erection of May Bushes in farmyards.
75 76
Lughnasadh - 1st August and whatever animals they could catch. The people would be troubled as the life-
giving sun sank lower in the sky each noon. They feared that it would eventually
Lughnasadh (pronounced Loo-nuh-sa) marked the beginning of the harvest disappear and leave them in permanent darkness and extreme cold. After the
season, the ripening of first fruits, and was traditionally a time of community winter solstice, they would have reason to celebrate as they saw the sun rising and
gatherings, market festivals, horse races and reunions with distant family and strengthening once more.
friends. On mainland Europe and in Ireland many people continue to celebrate the
holiday with bonfires and dancing. Although many months of cold weather remained before spring, they took heart
that the return of the warm season was inevitable. The concept of birth and or
The Christian church has established the ritual of blessing the fields on this day death/rebirth became associated with the winter solstice.
and in some English-speaking countries in the Northern Hemisphere the first day (Source, www.religioustolerance.org/winter_solstice.htm)
of August is Lammas Day (loaf-mass day), the festival of the first wheat harvest of
the year. On this day it was customary to bring to church a loaf made from the new
crop.
In many parts of England, tenants were bound to present freshly harvested

wheat to their landlords on or before the first day of August. In the Anglo-Saxon
Chronicle, where it is referred to regularly, it is called “the feast of first fruits”. The
blessing of new fruits was performed annually in both the Eastern and Western
Churches on the first, or the sixth, of August.
Lughnasadh customs persisted widely until the 20th century, with the event being
variously named ‘Garland Sunday’, ‘Bilberry Sunday’, ‘Mountain Sunday’ and
‘Crom Dubh Sunday’. The custom of climbing hills and mountains at Lughnasadh
has survived in some areas, although it has been re-cast as a Christian pilgrimage.
Winter Solstice -22nd December

Though the winter solstice lasts only an instant in time, the term is also colloquially used
as midwinter or contrastingly the first day of winter, to refer to the day on which it occurs.
More evident to those in high latitudes, this occurs on the shortest day, and longest night,
and the sun’s daily maximum position in the sky is the lowest.
The seasonal significance of the winter solstice is in the reversal of the gradual
lengthening of nights and shortening of days. Depending on the shift of the
Gregorian calendar, the winter solstice occurs on December 21 or 22 each year in
the Northern Hemisphere, and June 20 or 21 in the Southern Hemisphere.
In prehistoric times, winter was a very difficult time for people in the northern
latitudes. The growing season had ended and the tribe had to live off stored food
77 78
A Liturgy for Samhain By faith
we gaze up to the heavens
(* Indicates optional change of reader. and know
Bold text to be read by all) within its vastness
that this is your creation,
planned and effected within eternity
Let’s just spend a moment or two in quietness.
*By faith
The day is yours, and yours also the night; you established the sun and moon. we pluck an ear of corn
It was you who set all the boundaries of the earth; you made both summer and and know
winter. (Psalm 74:16-17) within its symmetry
lies the chemistry of life,
the potential of creation within our hand
*In the fading of the summer sun,
the shortening of days, cooling breeze, *By faith
swallows’ flight and moonlight rays we listen for your voice
We see the Creator’s hand and know
the whisper that we hear
*In the browning of leaves once green, breathed a world into existence
morning mists, autumn chill, yet listens to a prayer within our heart
fruit that falls, frost’s first kiss
We see the Creator’s hand *By faith
we strive to do your will
and know
Creator God, forgive our moments of ingratitude, the door that we approach
the spiritual blindness that prevents us may lead us to shadows,
from appreciating the wonder that is this world, where our role is to become your light
the endless cycle of nature,
of life and death and rebirth. *By faith
Forgive us for taking without giving, we cling to your word
reaping without sowing. and know
Open our eyes to see the strength that we receive
our lips to praise, has its source within the love
our hands to share, that is at the center of all things
and may our feet tread lightly
on the road that we must travel.
For summer’s passing
and harvest home
(Here a song, chant or hymn might be sung) We thank you
*For autumn’s splendor
79 80
and winter’s chill may their enduring spirit live on,
We thank you enriching and empowering our lives,
*For seed that has fallen, their love linger,
the promise of spring their presence be near
We thank you until we meet once more.
For your embracing love;
a Father’s love,
St. Francis of Assisi wrote these wise words: a Mother’s love,
“Remember that when you leave this earth, a love that sees our failings
you can take nothing that you have received and forgives us.
…but only what you have given” A love that sees our joys
and embraces us.
A love that knows no end
Psalm 92:12-14 or beginning.
*The righteous will flourish like a palm tree, A love that could die for us.
they will grow like a cedar of Lebanon; We bless you.
planted in the house of the Lord, We bless you
they will flourish in the courts of our God.
They will still bear fruit in old age,
they will stay fresh and green. (Here a song, chant or hymn might be sung)

and to the Son, Together we say
and to the Holy Spirit, We bless you
Three in One. Amen God of seed time and harvest,
and we bless each other,
that the beauty of this world,
For fruitfulness and the love that created it,
We thank you might be expressed though our lives
For a generous spirit and be a blessing to others,
We thank you now and always
For wisdom and faith Amen
We thank you
For old age and new birth
We thank you
For those who have gone before us,

seeds planted in your rich pasture
with the hope of life eternal,
81 82
A Liturgy for Imbolc forgetting that your grace
and love are for the benefit of all.
(* Indicates optional change of reader. Forgive our selfishness,
Bold text to be read by all) enlarge our vision,
and enable us to become
the people we could be,
Springtime! faithful servants
The promise of new life of our heavenly King
*Springtime!
The potential for growth (Here a song, chant or hymn might be sung)
*Springtime!
The hope of harvests to come Psalm 8
Lord, our Lord,
how majestic is your name in all the earth!
Jeremiah 5:24
“Let us fear the Lord our God, You have set your glory in the heavens.
who gives autumn and spring rains in season, Through the praise of children and infants
who assures us of the regular weeks of harvest.” you have established a stronghold against your enemies,
to silence the foe and the avenger.
In the lengthening of days, *When I consider your heavens, the work of your fingers,
new life emerging the moon and the stars, which you have set in place,
from winter’s frozen ground what is mankind that you are mindful of them,
We see the Creator’s hand human beings that you care for them?
In the sight of a tiny lamb, *You have made them a little lower than the angels
joyfully bounding and crowned them with glory and honor.
across hillside farm You made them rulers over the works of your hands;
We see the Creator’s hand you put everything under their feet: all flocks and herds,
and the animals of the wild, the birds in the sky,
and the fish in the sea, all that swim the paths of the seas.
Creator God,
you gifted this world Lord, our Lord,
and made us stewards of it, how majestic is your name in all the earth!
gave us family from many lands
and ask us to care for them, Glory to the Father,
put your word upon our heart and to the Son,
and ask that we share it. and to the Holy Spirit,
But we have thought only of ourselves Three in One. Amen
and the blessings of our lives,
83 84
A sleeping world emerges to new possibilities, wind’s whisper,
weakening winter’s icy grip, soaring bird,
and birdsong and bleating lamb snowdrop’s petal,
announce to all the promise gentle rain,
that in due season sunlight’s warmth.
creation bursts into life. This is your garden, Creator God,
Leaves that fell in autumn a thing of beauty
lie upon the ground beyond understanding,
soon to feed the earth, gifted to us in love.
and in nature’s wondrous cycle
of death and rebirth
within the tree is a stirring of new growth (A time of intercession might be appropriate at this point, either silent or aloud,
praying for areas of the world where humankind is not in harmony with creation,
For the cycle of life pollution threatens health and livelihoods, rain forests are being decimated, and
which brings death and rebirth where there is hunger or poverty)
We rejoice in the promise of spring
*For lengthening days Together we say

and sunlight’s warmth upon the soil We bless you
We rejoice in the promise of spring God of seed time and harvest,
and we bless each other,
*For a snowdrop’s beauty that the beauty of this world,
reflecting its Creator’s artistry and the love that created it,
We rejoice in the promise of spring might be expressed though our lives
and be a blessing to others,
*For new born lambs, now and always
their joy and exuberance Amen
For all of creation

and the majesty of its Creator
This is your garden, Creator God,

a thing of beauty
beyond understanding,
a poem that is being written
not in words
but in colors,
85 86
A Liturgy for Beltane and draw others to your feet.
We ask this through your dear Son Jesus Christ.
(* Indicates optional change of reader. Amen
(Here a song, chant or hymn might be sung)

Let’s just spend a moment or two in quietness. Consider winter’s chill when all was
still, with seed and plant lying dormant. Then the rising sun and warming air of
spring, green shoots emerging, leaves unfurling, blossom displaying its praise to The warmth of the sun’s embrace,
the Creator. the gentle breeze swept in by incoming tide,
(PAUSE) the rhythm of seasons,
of new birth,
death and recreation.
God of winter’s cold, of clear sky, frozen rivers All these speak so clearly of your love,
We praise your Holy Name your power,
God of spring’s warmth, April showers, waking life and your beauty.
We praise your Holy Name All are expressions of your creativity
God of summer sun, warming earth, sprouting seed and more importantly of yourself.
We praise your Holy Name As an artist might share his personality
God of summer pasture and mountain stream within each brush-stroke,
We praise your Holy Name so within the myriad colors of a butterfly’s wing
God of root and shoot, of harvest to come you share the exuberance of your love.
We praise your Holy Name That we can glimpse you within creation
is a beautiful thought,
but also tells us that you desire to be seen,
We are drawn to your feet in worship, to be found and known.
your creation facing its creator, Open our eyes, Lord,
hearts laid bare by your light, as we walk through this world,
humbly asking for your mercy. feel the wind and sunshine,
We come to you as a people in need see the majesty of creation unfolding before our eyes.
of assurance and forgiveness. Help us to see you.
We come to you as a people in need
of healing and wholeness.
We come dependent upon your love. Psalm 65:9-13
Draw us close. The whole earth is filled with awe at your wonders;
Enfold us in your arms. where morning dawns, where evening fades,
Fill us with your Spirit you call forth songs of joy.
that we might reflect your light
within this dark world, *You care for the land and water it;
speak your Word with boldness you enrich it abundantly.
87 88
The streams of God are filled with water *God of hope,
to provide the people with corn, of new growth,
for so you have ordained it. and harvest
Renew our hearts and minds
*You drench its furrows and level its ridges;
you soften it with showers and bless its crops.
You crown the year with your bounty, Together we say
and your carts overflow with abundance. We bless you
God of seed time and harvest,
*The grasslands of the wilderness overflow; and we bless each other,
the hills are clothed with gladness. that the beauty of this world,
The meadows are covered with flocks and the love that created it,
and the valleys are mantled with corn; might be expressed though our lives
they shout for joy and sing. and be a blessing to others,
now and always
The whole earth is filled with awe at your wonders; Amen
where morning dawns, where evening fades,
you call forth songs of joy.

and to the Son,
Three in One. Amen
(A time of intercession might be appropriate at this point, either silent or aloud,

praying for areas of the world where life is a struggle. For those whose lives lack hope,
who cannot see the beauty in the world because they live in poverty, who fear for
another failed harvest and hunger to follow)
God of renewal,
of life and death,
rebirth
*God of promise,
of all beginnings,
and endings
89 90
A Liturgy for Lughnasadh we bring our thanks
for seeds that have grown,
(* Indicates optional change of reader. harvests gathered,
Bold text to be read by all) storehouses filled,
mouths fed.
And, as your good earth rests
The earth is the Lord’s through winter’s cold embrace,
And all that is upon it we look forward to its re-awakening
Created and creative things when kissed by spring’s first touch.
Fruit and fruitfulness
Springtime and Summer
Seed-time and harvest Psalm 67
May the peoples praise you, God;
For the promise of harvest may all the peoples praise you.
contained within a seed
we thank you. May God be gracious to us and bless us
For the oak tree and make his face shine on us
within an acorn, so that your ways may be known on earth,
the bread your salvation among all nations.
within a grain, May the peoples praise you, God;
the apple may all the peoples praise you.
within a pip.
The mystery of nature *May the nations be glad and sing for joy,
gift wrapped for you rule the peoples with equity
for us to sow, and guide the nations of the earth.
we thank you. May the peoples praise you, God;
may all the peoples praise you.
Gen 8:22
As long as the earth endures, seed-time and harvest, cold and heat, *The land yields its harvest;
summer and winter, day and night will never cease. God, our God, blesses us.
(PAUSE) May God bless us still,
so that all the ends of the earth will fear him.
We see signs of summer’s passing in golden leaves,
shortening days, misty mornings, autumn glow. May the peoples praise you, God;
We sense its passing in rain that dampens, may all the peoples praise you.
winds that chill, Harvest’s bounty placed on show.
Creator God, who brings forth and to the Son,
both green shoot and hoar frost, and to the Holy Spirit,
sunrise and sunset, Three in One. Amen
91 92
(Here a song, chant or hymn might be sung) and the promise of spring
We thank you
For creativity in its many forms
we give you thanks.
For the skill of weaver, Together we say
potter, artist, sculptor, We bless you
needle worker, God of seed time and harvest,
all who take that which you have given and we bless each other,
and make with it something of beauty. that the beauty of this world,
and the love that created it,
For fruitfulness in its many forms might be expressed though our lives
we give you thanks. and be a blessing to others,
For selfless love, now and always
grace, wisdom, knowledge, Amen
sacrifice,
all who take that which you have given
and make with it something of beauty
Leviticus 23:16,22
Celebrate the Festival of Harvest with the firstfruits of the crops you sow in your
field. ‘Celebrate the Festival of Ingathering at the end of the year, when you gather
in your crops from the field...
When you reap the harvest of your land, do not reap to the very edges of your
field or gather the gleanings of your harvest. Leave them for the poor and for the
foreigner residing among you. I am the Lord your God.
(A time of intercession might be appropriate at this point, either silent or aloud,

praying for areas of the world where harvests are uncertain because of drought or
warfare, but also praying for fruitfulness wherever it might be shown - lives dedicated
to serving others, for artists and craft workers who take the natural things of this
world and make something beautiful from them)
For summer’s passing

and harvest home
We thank you
For seed that has fallen
93 94
Liturgy for Winter Solstice This is the God we serve,
a God who sees within us the potential of Spring.
(* Indicates optional change of reader. Alleluia
Here a song, chant or hymn might be sung
(Place a small table at the center of the group, and upon it place a small candle or tea
light for each person present, a few fallen leaves and some seeds) There is a winter in all of our lives,
a chill and darkness that makes us yearn
for days that have gone
Seeds sown in spring have grown, fruited and provided for our needs. Trees that or put our hope in days yet to be.
provided shelter for wildlife have now shed their leaves, which in due course will
decay and provide nutrients for the coming year. Plants in our gardens which are *Father God, you created seasons for a purpose.
seemingly dead lie dormant within the ground, ready to emerge and bring us joy Spring is full of expectation
in the spring to come. buds breaking
frosts abating and an awakening
Together we say of creation before the first days of summer.
You are worthy, our Lord and God,
to receive glory and honor and power, *Now the sun gives warmth
for you created all things, and comfort to our lives
and by your will they were created and have their being reviving aching joints
bringing color, new life
This is the God we serve, and crops to fruiting.
a God of love, of healing and power.
Alleluia *Autumn gives nature space
This is the God we serve, to lean back, relax and enjoy the fruits of its labor
a God who loves us with a Father’s love. mellow colors in sky and landscape
Alleluia as the earth prepares to rest.
This is the God we serve,
a God who laughs as we laugh, *Then winter, cold and bare as nature takes stock,
Alleluia rests, unwinds, sleeps until the time is right.
a God who suffers as we suffer. An endless cycle
Alleluia and yet a perfect model.
a God who brings light into dark places. *We need a winter in our lives.
Alleluia A time of rest, a time to stand still.
This is the God we serve, A time to reacquaint ourselves
a God who brings warmth into hearts that are chilled. with the faith in which we live and breathe.
Alleluia It is only then that we can draw strength
from the one in whom we are rooted,
95 96
take time to grow and rise through the darkness As a part of nature’s wondrous cycle
into the warm glow of your springtime, of new birth, growth, fruitfulness and death
to blossom and flourish, we rejoice in the creation of new life,
bring color and vitality into this world, for parenthood, the passing on of knowledge,
your garden. understanding and the wisdom of years.
We are grateful for those who have gone before,
Thank you Father passing on to us our spiritual heritage.
for the seasons of our lives May our lives blossom as the apple tree in spring.
May we become fruitful in thought and deed
(The candles, if present can be lit at this time) and may the seed of love that falls to the ground
linger beyond our time upon this earth.
Let us spend a moment or two looking at these symbols. The leaves which once God of winter, springtime
were green now withered, fallen to the ground. They are still a part of God’s plan, summer and autumn,
containing within them food for new growth. The seed, seemingly without life and God of Light
yet within it holding the potential for great beauty or fruitfulness. The flickering God of Warmth
light which illuminates even the darkest of days. God of Love
(PAUSE) God of Potential
God of Hope
With all of our strengths and weaknesses, who in the darkest days
hopes and fears, enters our lives
we come to you now, as you entered this world,
our Creator God. bringing love
Fill us, renew us, healing and wholeness
take us, use us We praise your glorious name!
as your lights in a world of darkness,
empowered through your Spirit,
your Spirit of love, Together we say
your Spirit of peace, We bless you
your Spirit of hope God of seed time and harvest,
in a world that lives but has yet to experience life in all its fullness, and we bless each other,
a world that loves, but has yet to meet with the source of all love, that the beauty of this world,
a world that forever seeks, but stumbles in its searching. and the love that created it,
might be expressed though our lives
and be a blessing to others,
(Here a song, chant or hymn might be sung) now and always
Amen
As we think of those leaves, and the passing of winter through to the hope of a
springtime when life will emerge from the frozen earth, we remember that we also
are a part of that cycle of death and rebirth, that the seeds we sow in this life will
fall to the ground with the potential to grow and be fruitful.
97 98
References
*http://www.valyermo.com/ld-art.html - The author (Fr. Luke Dysinger, O.S.B.)
considers this article to be in the Public Domain. This article may therefore be
downloaded, reproduced and distributed without special permission from the
author. It was first published in the Spring, 1990 (vol.1, no.1) edition of Valyermo
Benedictine.
Bradshaw Paul F., Reconstructing Early Christian Worship, SPCK, 2009
Adam, David, The Rhythm of Life, Triangle, 1996
Birch, John, Footfall (Prayers for the Journey), Moorleys.
Celtic Daily Prayer, Collins, 2005
Information on Celtic festivals is taken mainly and unashamedly from Wikipedia
Holy Bible, New International Version® Anglicized, NIV® Copyright © 1979, 1984,
2011 by <a href=”http://www.biblica.com/”>Biblica, Inc.®</a> Used by permission.
All rights reserved worldwide.
All images are either ©John Birch or free of copyright to the best of the author’s
knowledge. “Dear cell, what happy hours I have spent in you,
with the wind whistling through the loose stones
and the sea spray clinging to my hair!”
Columba, Irish monk and missionary (?521-597)
The author
John Birch is a Methodist Local Preacher based in South Wales, and as well as self-
publishing books of prayers and Bible studies, writes for IBRF daily study notes,
and has had prayers published in a range of denominational publications. A book
of prayers for the three year Lectionary cycle of readings is to be published by BRF
in the UK during 2014.
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A Daily Offering - Fragrant Prayers in the Celtic Tradition

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A Daily Offering - Fragrant Prayers in the Celtic Tradition

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A Fragrant Offering

Daily Prayers in the celtic tradition

For the wonder of Creation, Now the majesty of God

(Group – allow time to pray for the person on your right.)

Blessed are those whose help is the God of Jacob,

Lord of all we see, The heavens declare the glory of God;

In the quiet of this moment,

For those who have no faith

As one day draws to a close

Sing to the Lord a new song;

*Sing to the Lord, praise his name; Lord, in your mercy

Now may God’s blessing go with us,

(Group – allow time to pray for the person on your right.)

Glory to the Father,

God, who in love creates us

Shout for joy to the Lord, all the earth.

For this day of possibilities;

Now may the God of love surround us,

Psalm 148:7-14 For Truth that speaks to hearts

LECTIO – READING ORATIO - PRAYER

You know when I sit and when I rise;

Matthew 6:9-13 God of the morning,

For those whose spiritual journey

*For all whose journey of faith

*For those whose daily journey

*For those who spend their journey

*One thing God has spoken,

*God of grace and mercy, Gracious God, who reaches out

Isaiah 49:13-16a *You are the outsider

*You are the merchant

LECTIO – READING ORATIO - PRAYER

For a world gifted to us that it might be shared in love

In the name of Father, *Even though I walk

If we confess our sins, he is faithful and just,

Now may the God who leads us

LECTIO – READING ORATIO - PRAYER

Glory to the Father,

For all who have been led into exile

Be assured, our God is merciful and forgives those It is a wonderful truth

LECTIO – READING ORATIO - PRAYER

Glory to the Father,

Lord, open these eyes Glory to the Father,

For a world that lives

May God’s love be the love

Psalm 34:1-10 Lead us to a mountaintop

Glory to the Father,

Psalm 46:1-3, 8-10 Hebrews 8:10

Wherever your love pours out from hearts

Now may the grace of God,

The feast day of Saint Brighid falls on 1 February,

In many parts of England, tenants were bound to present freshly harvested

Winter Solstice -22nd December

Glory to the Father,

For those who have gone before us,

*For lengthening days Together we say

For all of creation

This is your garden, Creator God,

(Here a song, chant or hymn might be sung)

Glory to the Father,

(A time of intercession might be appropriate at this point, either silent or aloud,