We affirm our connections with each other and to the God within, between and beyond – in all beauty, possibility, nature, mystery and intimacy. We join together on another late summer day, lazy, sweet and still feeling long enough to seduce us into thinking this may go on for a long time….yet we know the seasons shift so that even grass, flowers and weeds grow less vigorously with diminishing sun. And, for those who have noticed the onset of hardy mums already…may the alarm or chagrin of this change and the onset of another academic year not be too abrupt. May we even welcome the natural rhythm and cycle of changes as we regroup into new schedules, commitments and plans.

We pause now in the stream of life and on this day to breath deeply, to relax…to let go and take on. To be as empty as we can so that we would be as filled as we can be. In silence and prayer, let stillness be an encouragement and an invitation to choose wellness and health for yourself and those near you. (Silence)

On a day focusing on prayer, we would pray and meditate in all forms and styles, with all sentiments, fullness, emptiness and care. Would we be so mindful of the plights and passions this day, that we be united in new connections and intimacies – in the exchange of thoughts, intentions, energy, will, hopes, prayers, sexes and souls – with those near and far. With friends, lovers, family….with neighbors local and global. With colleagues, customers, adversaries – with those involved with crises, war, violence, conflicts. Even now, we dwell in acute awareness of our fellow journey-mates in hopes of bringing about a smidgeon more peace and goodwill upon the face of this earth, an ounce more of healing and reconciliation, a step closer to further gentling and greening of this planet.

Recognizing distinctions and diversity, we affirm a unity of all beings and all creation. How can we be separate except in our own illusion-filled minds? May our individual and collective intent, our communal energy and heart-felt prayers be as salvation, hope and healing for us all; may our thoughts and hopes be as food for anyone hungry, a song for anyone needing a new melody, encouragement to anyone who is down or lonely. We remember Ken Lyons, one lost but much loved, dear son of Alice Perkons….and all others facing the heights and depths of what it means to be human. Our prayers are as finely crafted fibers forming a beautiful and pervasive web of care, connection and goodwill to all around the globe. May we never underestimate the power of intention and prayer in the daily – in our hopes, our sighs, our screams, laughter, tears, gratitude, our silence, stillness and meditation.

Indeed, creation begins with a thought and prayer, an idea of hope – a possibility – which then sets into motion new and life-giving words. From words come actions and gestures expressed unconditionally - which then create patterns and habits that invite deepening humanity and an ever maturing community that would be a light in this world.

We celebrate the place and power of prayer in all its forms, expressions and understandings. We affirm that prayer would change how we see the world and people and that is not used in some selfish, trivial manner. And how we see and pray the world and respond to the richness and raw realities would be our gift to each other and to this very planet which groans under such burdens…and yet which emerges into infinite beauty and possibility. So be it. Amen.

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