On this day which falls five days before the day on which traditionally a particular kind of love is celebrated and exalted, we gather in praise of a God who loves all of us with a love which never fails, and who engenders many kinds of love in us for one another. We gather in the hope that love will truly make the world go round, and that we may be made partners in that great and noble endeavor. Now let us, with loving confidence, worship God.
Pastoral Prayer
We come to Thee on this day, O God, thanking Thee for Thy love for us. By it are we given life, and through it we come to learn to love one another in many different ways. We thank Thee for the love of parents and children, of sisters and brothers, and of friends. We thank Thee also for the love of men and women, for lovers, for the deep arousal and affection which results in the lifelong commitment of those who fall in love. Bless those who, having once experienced erotic love, seek to nurture and nourish it over the passing of time, so that the spark which once inexplicably ignited may be backed and banked and sheltered, sustaining them in their love for many years to come. Bless also the families which result from erotic love, so that all may live together in both industry and harmony.
We pray for all the people for whom this winter has long since ceased to be a wonderland, and who now perceive it as an unending meteorological burden and curse. Living in a world which Thou hast created, we confess that sometimes we are mystified by why certain things happen, or why forces over which we have absolutely no control seem to conspire against us. Grant us equanimity of both thought and feeling as we confront whatever challenges come our way. Help us to see that Thy will for none of us is for sorrow or grief, even though sorrow and grief come to all of us. Enable us to travel through life with greater confidence, deeper assurance, and higher trust.
By a more profound awareness of Thy presence we pray Thy blessing on people who have been given very bad news about their health, and who are faced with the prospect of a death they thought would be far into the future. Give peace and comfort to those who live with constant pain, and who have no choice but to endure. Grant patience and understanding to caregivers, who often go un-thanked and unappreciated for their services. Give joy to children, purpose to youth, confidence to young adults, hope to the middle-aged, and serenity to the elderly. These things we ask in Jesus’ name, now praying as he instructed us, saying, Our Father….