We pause to reflect on all that is. Mindful of what comprises our thoughts, our faith, our beliefs, our understandings of God and life. Might we now be liberated and grounded in what makes sense to us, what assures us, what gives us hope, peace and confidence. We increase in awareness on the importance of breathing deeply of this moment and to consider this human community we create and share. Might each here now affirm that their voice, presence, giftedness and uniqueness are to be acclaimed – all adding to the strength, vitality, compassion and care of this group gathered. Might each of us here affirm the bonds of unity we share…from the courses of common blood running in our veins, to our shared vulnerabilities and human journey. Distinctions without divisiveness; unity without uniformity. We stand and sit as friends, family and neighbors with our disagreements, our shared convictions and our questions that lead us inward and onward toward new truths and freedom.

We anticipate new clarity for this nation and the people of these states united. May the campaigning, spending and rhetoric be mercifully done. And let us commit again in these waning election days to new and accurate information, steadfastness with truth-seeking, resistance to anything that stirs up fears, clarity of each’s convictions and values. Let it be. And whatever the outcome, we commit to collaboration, unity, peace in our thoughts and attitudes – trusting in the decency, grace and depth of human being and becoming.

We remember all those whose lives have been ripped apart by earthquakes and other disasters. May aid relief be ample and swift. We consider all people in places locally and globally – those struggling with not having enough food here, to those who do not have clean water to drink. We remember family and friends recovering, those discouraged over difficult news, those facing chemotherapy and those caring for ones battling depression, substances and anxiety. We celebrate many today who have said yes to this community and to the dynamic human journey in and around this community and ministry. What a time…and what life we would share together in love, compassion and patience. And on this time of remembering those we have loved and lost, we pause now in silence to reverence and celebrate them. Known as All Saints day and the day of the dead, this occasion would bring us into clear and intimate connection with those across the generations.

As we move through this morning, might we face this day well and with hope. From 11:00 on, as we move into new conversations and paces, let us with courage and dignity face each other, love without conditions, find ways to laugh out loud, and be about compassion in our outlook to the world and to each other. We pause now to reflect on all that is – and to now focus on all things beautiful and admirable – in honor of those to our left and right, those ahead and behind us…all life and God-bearers adding light and love to this day. In honesty and humility, may we know and call ourselves and others by our true names. Amen.

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