Wonderful Loving God,

We come to you this day

a family of families,

mindful that you did not intend that we be alone.

We ask you to pour your blessing upon

all of us who make lives together –

may our homes be places of welcome

for the stranger, and for those in need.

May your love working in us

be a balm to those who are injured,

a shelter for those who are oppressed,

a comfort to those mourn,

and a place of joy for many.

May children always be welcomed and sheltered

in our homes.  May the elderly find care in them.

And may laughter soon follow all tears.

Bless the mothers among us –

and make them steadfast in their courage and their strength.

Bless the fathers among us –

and make them tender in their love.

Bless our children –

as they grow in the knowledge of your saving mercy.

And bless those who are single –

and those who have lost their partner –

and those who remain unmarried for the sake of your reign. 

May their example of strength be an encouragement to us all,

and may they grow deeper in love for all your people.

God of all compassion,

make our families crucibles of your loving-kindness,

and bring us all, one day, to the fulfillment of your promise,

with our ancestors,

and all the families you call your own.