Pastor Deb had the honor of giving the invocation and benediction for the the Mercer County Democratic Central Committee Picnic at the Community building in Rockford, Ohio. THE INVOCATION PRAYER
Good Day,
Before we begin the Mercer County Democratic Central Committee Picnic, let us take a moment to thank God for all we have been given, and for bringing such a fine group of dedicated and enthusiastic people together.
I am proud to be among you.
We ask for our Gracious and loving God, to let your Spirit be with us today. Hear our prayers, and increase in us the will to be followers of your Son Jesus. Help us to draw on the resources of our faith as we use the opportunities of our democracy to shape a society more respectful of the life, dignity, and rights of the human person, especially the poor and vulnerable. Lord, we thank you for the blessings of this day and for this time together as a community family. We thank you for this wonderful meal and for this time that we can share it. Help us to remember those who have so much less than we do.
Bless us as a small town in rural Ohio. Help us to grow in love and care for each other. We ask you to comfort and give strength and peace to those who are struggling in any way. We ask this through Jesus Christ, your Son, who lives and reigns with you in the unity of the Holy Spirit, one God forever and ever. Amen.
THE BENEDICTION PRAYER
Let us pray in our hearts for a united community. Though we may seem divided by differences race, color, creed, and class still, as children of the one God we are able in our souls to feel community unity. May we work for the creation of a united community in which every nation in the world will be a useful part, guided by God through human care. In our hearts we can learn to be free from hate and selfishness. Let us pray for harmony among the nations, among the state of Ohio, among our cities, towns and villages, and among our families, that they march hand in hand through the gate of a fair new society. Go in Peace. Amen
