Opening Prayers/Prayers of Adoration on Reformation Sunday

Lord, you whose Son did pray that all your children might be one, we come with repentance for the sin of useless division and for the secret vice of pride. We beg forgiveness for harsh judgment, for prejudice nourished as a virtue, for self-will, for scorn of others, whose experience before you is as valid as our own. For all narrow minded attitudes, for all denial of the worth of other views, for all exclusiveness which has kept out men of good will, receive our forgiveness and heal us of the sin which keeps us apart. Teach us what it means to keep the unity of the Spirit in the bond of peace. 

Open our eyes to the insight of others. Help us to appreciate those of other lands and of other races, who, differing from us in much, are yet one with us in faith. For problems beyond our minds to solve, grant us patience. For tasks too great for our weak hands, give us faith. For all tedious steps in discovering your way and your will for your church, endow us with necessary grace; through Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen. 

George Stewart, A Face to the Sky, adapted, Language Modernized by Stuart Strachan Jr.

Opening Prayer for Reformation Sunday

Heavenly Father, thank you for a spiritual home

For the legacy of those who have gone before us and welcomed us

Lord Jesus, thank you for your church

For the legacy of your word and witness across the world

Holy Spirit, thank you for renewing your church in every age

Unify us and renew us

We long to be true to you and your ways

Reform us now

Make us courageous and steadfast and persevering

in sharing your grace and Good News

in living your merciful, transforming love

in the building of your kingdom on earth as it is in heaven

Inspire us and defend us and send us out again, Holy One

For the honor and glory of your name alone, Amen

Reformation Day is celebrated annually on October 31. Some congregations choose to acknowledge this day on the Sunday closest to October 31.

Opening Prayer for Reformation Sunday © 2017 Lisa Ann Moss Degrenia, www.revlisad.com