Season of Hope - Advent 1

WAITING IN HOPE:

RECOVERING FROM HURRICANES ETA AND IOTA

For Advent 2021 we will be using Candle Lighting Liturgies from Lutheran World Relief in support of their Season of Hope project.  

ADVENT WEEK 1   |   CANDLE LIGHTING LITURGY     SUNDAY, NOVEMBER 28, 2021

God of Hope, your light shines. Your presence walks with
us. Your Spirit longs to draw us close. We are waiting. We
are alert. We are hopeful. We light candles trusting that the
smallest flame can drive out our greatest fears. We anticipate
your coming among us with peace and thankfulness. As we
await your coming, light a flame within us:
MAY WE SHINE WITH THE BRIGHTNESS OF YOUR HOPE.

God of Hope, as we light this first candle, open our eyes to
your signs and wonders. Turn our attention to the beauty
of creation and the gifts of humanity. When our hearts are
heavy, give us peace. When our world feels uncertain, ground
us in your grace. Light a flame within us:
MAY WE SHINE WITH THE BRIGHTNESS OF YOUR HOPE.

God of Hope, we remember today our sisters and brothers
in Latin America. The people who have lost so much from
Hurricanes Eta and Iota, the people who trust in your solid
ground, the people who long to find relief from the storms of
life. We pray for your presence, attention, and protection for
our neighbors. Light a flame within us:
MAY WE SHINE WITH THE BRIGHTNESS OF YOUR HOPE.

God of Hope, keep us on guard for signs of your presence and
love. Fill our hearts with strength.
GUIDE US IN THESE ADVENT DAYS UNTIL OUR SAVIOR IS
BORN AMONG US.

Turn our attention to you, the One who is our song, our hope
and our joy. We pray all this in the name of Jesus, the light
that has no end.
AMEN.