Within our homes and community we find violence and abuse. Children cower in fear. Women submit as nobodies. Men cry out in silence. Children struggle to understand.
Men wonder who they are supposed to be.
Futures are lost. Confronted by the painful reality of our world, we proclaim who we are, children of God. Lord Jesus Christ, you have enlightened us with your endless love, your peace, and your forgiveness. Receive and bless these gifts, for we offer them and our lives in your name to be used to proclaim your love, peace and forgiveness to all people, beginning right here and right now. The peace of the risen Christ be always with you.