Holy Spirit, open our eyes, our ears, and our hearts, that we may grow closer to you through joy and through suffering. Be with us in the fullness of your power as new members are added to your household, as we grow in grace through the years, when we are joined in marriage, when we turn to you in sickness or special need, and, at the last, when we are committed into the Father’s hands. Through Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen.
(Photo: With Kathy last night after our 23rd anniversary dinner in Pasadena. Hey, liturgists: Anyone know where this prayer comes from? It’s the last in a long list of collects at liturgies.net that I use a lot. I don’t think I’ve seen it anywhere else.)