[Today was Scout Sunday. For the past several years, we have hosted Scout Troupe #71. They participated in our 10:30 worship by serving as greeters, ushers, and leading parts of the service. Today was also the 2nd of two Sundays in which we offered prayers for the special UMC General Conference that is taking place Feb. 23-26 in St. Louis, MO regarding the denomination’s stances on issues related to human sexuality. For the sermon, click here.]
Loving God, we shall overcome because you created each one of us in your image.
We shall overcome because because your Holy Spirit empowers us.
We shall overcome because nothing shall ever separate us from your love in Christ Jesus our Lord.
We shall overcome because you love us unconditionally.
We shall overcome because you give us the amazing gift of peace.
We shall overcome because we are an Easter people.
Loving God, as overcomers may we work for justice where there is injustice, inclusion where there is exclusion, tolerance where there is intolerance, love where there is no love.
It is in this Spirit that we pray for the special General Conference of the United Methodist Church that is taking place in St. Louis, even as we worship you this morning. We pray for the 864 delegates from all around the world who are deciding on matters of human sexuality.
O God, baptize the United Methodist Church afresh in the life-giving spirit of Jesus.
And baptize us afresh as we seek to be the people you have called us to be, a people who are loving, generous, joyful, peacemaking, and welcoming.
We pray this in the name of Jesus, the one who overcame death on the cross, who rose again, who empowers us to be overcomers, and who taught us to pray together,
“Our Father, who art in heaven…”
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