Opening Prayer: John 17


Here’s an opening prayer of invocation inspired by Jesus' prayer in John 17. It was written by Rev. Susan A. Blain.

A Prayer of Invocation
(based on John 17)

Mysterious God,
You reveal yourself in Jesus, your Beloved Child
who gives us a glimpse your glory
and invites us to share in the unity of all that is Holy:
the holiness that is You, your creation,  your people,
united in the Spirit that breaks through all boundaries of fear and injustice.

Meet us here today, O Unity, and teach us to be one:
One in love for each other
One in understanding with all who find in Jesus the Way to You
One in peace with all who find other paths to your Truth.
We ask all this in the name of Jesus, whose fervent prayer was ever:
“May they all be one.”

~ from One in Love and Mission, written by Rev. Susan A. Blain (adapted).  Posted on the United Church of Christ’s Worship Ways archive. http://www.ucc.org/worship/worship-ways/