Blessed are you, Lord,
God of all creation,
whose goodness fills our hearts with joy.
Blessed are you,
who have brought us to this day
to work in harmony & peace.
Strengthen us with your grace & wisdom.

May everything we do
begin with your inspiration
& continue with your help,
so that all our prayers & works
may begin in you
& by you be happily ended;
for you are God for ever & ever.  
 Amen

Creator,
we the children of your creation
pause & slow down
in the snowy season,
wherein even the light of day
awakens to rise late & lies down early;
we pause,
as does all creation,
to rest, renew & reflect
on your beauty around us,
to give thanks for the blessings
seen & unseen. 

Walk with us in this time,
open our hearts & minds
to see your beauty in creation,
&
slow us to humble us,
that in slowing down we might hear your voice
&
see your grace & mercy
in the greatest gift given to all,
in your Son Jesus Christ,
who is our
Light, Hope, Peace, Joy & Love.

by Archbishop Chris Harper