Here we are, gathered together in this sacred hour,
within the sheltering walls of this blessed place. We give thanks for the abundance of joy, grace and possibility, while holding within us the sorrows present.

Within these walls is where we bring our losses, shedding tears in the presence of our holy community.
Here, is where we bring our aching hearts, and have them tenderly received.

Here, is where we bring our joys, and know they will be unconditionally celebrated. We take time to deeply listen to each other, to offer each other the healing balm of care and love. Here, is where we experience our faith in community.

Beyond Sundays, there are so many things pulling us this way and that, clamoring for our attention. Beyond our community, at the grocery store, on the bus, at our workplace, we may not see those in pain. We might forget that our attention multiplies the joy of another, and helps ease disappointment.

May the care and love we show each other here on Sundays be what we offer to those beyond our walls between Sundays.

May we lean into our faith when we feel distracted, trusting in our faith, letting it guide us toward love, guide us toward hope, guide us into being in relationship with those who are struggling. This is our faith manifesting in the world.

Though this past week we may have overlooked those who are weeping, we are grateful that life lets us be cleansed over and over again. We are grateful we can start anew. Amen.