Today’s prayer for General Council comes from Rev. Chris Miller. To view the archive of all prayers being offered in the lead up to GC43 click here.

“Some struggle, O Lord, with hope
for our United Church Because they wonder
about the centre,
the foundation, the roots.
Structure is important but we wonder
if our church leaders perceive why some
believe the cart is in the wrong place.

So today we affirm our hope in you, O Lord,
You who declare to us:
I AM the light of the world.

Some struggle, O God, with what is reliable?
With what is secure? Within our United Church!
Because we believe there is neither reliability
nor security in people, institutions or governments.

So today we affirm our trust in you, O Lord,
You Who declare to us:
I AM the way, the truth, and the life.

Some struggle, O Lord, with fear and worry
that our leaders do not feel
the deep faith issues within our church
that require no other heart than that of Jesus our Lord.

So today we affirm our faith in you, O Lord,
You Who announce to us:
I AM the resurrection and the life.

You alone, O Lord, are our ultimate hope.
You alone are our intimate love.
You alone are our foundational strength.

Thus, we come to you, our life-giving God,
with faith, with hope, and with love
for this United Church of ours.
Infuse her leaders, especially at GC43,
with Holy Spirit wisdom to discern
the real issues before this church,
which belongs to You and for which You died.
Ignite her leaders, especially at GC43,
with Holy Spirit courage to act
for the love of Jesus the Lord
who lives and reigns with you and the Holy Spirit,
one God, for ever and ever. Amen.”