These confessional prayers were created to accompany the Epiphany sermon series “Rise Up” The bolded words are spoken by the congregation. You are welcome to use or adapt these liturgies for worship, with credit. When printing these liturgies, please use the following credit line: “Prayer by Rev. Carol Holbrook Prickett.”
Week 1: “Rise Up”
Holy God, forgive us
when we are hesitant and fearful
when we hide from your call
when we don’t recognize your power
when we dim our own light.
Transform us, encourage us, and help us to shine again.
In the name of Christ, light of the world, we pray.
Amen. (moment of silent reflection)
Week 2: “Rise Up: Jesus”
Merciful God, we confess
that we have stuck to old ways,
even when they hurt.
That we have been fearful of change,
even when it is needed.
That we have ignored our neighbors,
even though they are your children.
That we have thought we could not follow your call,
even though you prepare us for it.
Cleanse us inside and out, Holy Spirit,
and raise us up to be Christ-like in this world.
Amen. (moment of silent reflection)
Week 3: “Rise Up: Samuel”
Merciful God, we confess that it is hard to pick your voice out from all the voices that crowd our days. We are bombarded with noise from without and from within. It is all too easy to dismiss your voice even when it comes to us. Cut through our confusion, God, and give us focus to hear you when you call, and once we hear, to rise up and follow. Amen. (moment of silent reflection)
Week 4: “Rise Up: Jonah“
Merciful God, we confess that there are days
we just don’t want to be your people.
We don’t want to love our neighbors.
We don’t want to give up our time.
We don’t want to put in the effort.
We don’t want to answer your call.
Be patient with us, Lord.
We’ll come around,
with your spirit to breathe new life into us,
and your love to surround us,
and your grace to forgive us.
We pray in the name of Jesus Christ, Savior and friend.
Amen. (moment of silent reflection)
Week 5: “Rise Up: Peter’s Mother-in-Law”
God of healing and wholeness, we bring our brokenness, our sinfulness, our fears and frustration, and lay them at your feet. As we long to answer your call, help us to sort out what is ours to do and what is yours to give to someone else. Remind us that we are enough as we are, and heal us of jealousy and self-doubt. We pray in the name of your son, broken and perfect. Amen. (moment of silent reflection)
Week 6: “Rise Up: James”
Blinding God, we confess
that we like the mountaintop
when you dazzle us
when your voice is loud
when things seem clear.
Yet you call us into the valley,
where life is dull and crowded.
Teach us not to lose sight of your radiance
in our everyday lives,
but to believe that all creation
is transfigured by your love.
Amen. (moment of silent reflection)
Deep Well Worship 