Each time you cross your threshold, say a prayer of gratitude for 3 things inside your home and 3 things out in the world.

from The Right Reverend Richard Bott, Moderator of the United Church of Canada

Creator,

as I prepare to go into the world,

help me to see the sacrament

in the wearing of this cloth –

let it be “an outward sign

of an inward grace” –

a tangible and visible way

of living love for my neighbours,

as I love myself.

Christ,

since my lips will be covered,

uncover my heart,

that people would see my smile

in the crinkles around my eyes.

Since my voice may be muffled,

help me to speak clearly,

not only with my words,

but with my actions.

Holy Spirit,

as the elastic touches my ears,

remind me to listen carefully –

and full of care –

to all those I meet.

May this simple piece of cloth

be shield and banner,

and each breath that it holds,

be filled with your love.

In your Name and in that love, I pray.

May it be so.

May it be so.

First, pray for yourself: "May I be happy. May I be healthy. May I be free from fear. May I live in peace." You can change the adjectives; keep them compassionate. 

Next, pray the same phrases for those you love: "May you be happy. May you be healthy. May you be free from fear. May you live in peace." Then pray in a sequence of expansion for your friends, your neighbors - you may want to walk as you pray! - people you don't know, then those you have difficulty with, and ultimately for all of creation.

This prayer or meditation comes to us from Buddhist circles, but has been used by people of all faiths to expand their hearts. It is also called a Loving-Kindness Meditation or an Agape Prayer. You can learn more about this traditional Buddhist practice by googling "metta meditation." Some resources we found are:

tricycle.org/magazine/metta-practice

www.pnwumc.org/news/the-practice-of-lovingkindness-meditation