(1) Opening
general prayer: Lord God, we are here to worship you. Let your
love guide us, and your faithfulness lead us. We come to ask for your
forgiveness, to hear your word, to gather round your table, and to bring you
thanksgiving: Receive the praise of your people. Amen (from Ps 26)
(2) Opening prayer of praise: Praise the Lord, for the
heavens declare his glory. Praise the Lord, for his law revives our souls. Let
the words of our mouths and the meditations of our hearts be acceptable in your
sight, O LORD, our rock and our redeemer. (from Ps 19)
(3) Opening prayer for cleansing: Almighty God, to whom all
hearts are open, all desires known, and from whom no secrets are hidden:
cleanse the thoughts of our hearts by the inspiration of your Holy Spirit, that
we may more perfectly love you, and worthily magnify your holy name; through
Christ our Lord. Amen. (from