Spiritually rich, easy to use prayers and responses for the community at worship

Responsive Prayer for Epiphany

Leader: Today, O God, we remember the wise men who came to see the Christ Child at his birth.

People: We remember their gifts and wonder what we ourselves can give.

Leader: We think of our time, our talents, and our money.

People: But there must be something special each of us can bring.

Leader: Perhaps a life of renewed devotion or a special act for someone who needs us.

People: Whisper in my heart, O God, the unique gift that is mine to offer.

Leader: Help me focus on that gift and present it now as a promise to you.

People: Then help me fulfill that promise in the days ahead and know the joy of serving you.

All: For you are the Lord of all life, and we worship you by sharing ourselves in the most creative ways we can imagine. Through Christ our Lord. Amen

You will turn to this helpful anthology of original prayers and responses for many worship services throughout the year. The prayers are organized in three sections. Prayers for Holy Days and Seasons includes, for example, Advent, Christmas, Ash Wednesday, and Lent. Prayers for Civic Holidays includes such events as Valentine's Day, Mothers Day, and Fourth of July. Prayers for Special Days in the Church Year includes prayers for baptism, Bible presentation to children, sending out mission teams, stewardship, graduation, and so on. All the prayers may be reproduced for congregational use. Suggested scripture readings for each special day are also provided.

Once again, John Killinger has wordsmithed a masterful collection of prayers. I have already incorporated some of these spirit-filled prayers in Wilshire's worship. This particular collection is one of the best of all the collections I have seen. It is a collection all pastors should have at their fingertips. --Rev. Donald B. Colhour, Senior Minister, Wilshire Christian Church (Disciples of Christ), Los Angeles, California

Killinger's rich pastoral experience in a variety of congregations is evident in these prayers. Reading them opens our eyes to the needs and concerns of all who look to us for spiritual guidance.

--Blair Gilmer Meeks, author of Season of Ash and Fire: Prayers and Liturgies for Lent and Easter and Season of Light and Hope: Prayers and Liturgies for Advent and Christmas.

John Killinger, who taught Preaching, Worship, and Literature at Vanderbilt Divinity School for fifteen years, has pastored large churches in Virginia and California. He is the author of several books, including Lost in Wonder, Love, and Praise and Enter Every Trembling Heart.