Academy Opening Prayer

God of generous love, God of amazing forgiveness, God of abundant grace,  Here we are, Lord. We are gathered in this place for the next 48 hours.

We gather as the community you have created us to be.

We gather as your sheep, with your as our shepherd.

We gather as imperfect beings, seeking to grow into your image.

Bless our time together with your presence. Open our eyes so that we may see how you are working among us. Open our hearts to have patience with each other, and with ourselves.

We pray for those among us who will be leading the presentations – thank you for the time they have invested for us, and for the gifts you have given to them. Bring them joy in the work they do.

We pray for the concerns on our hearts, that you will receive them and exchange them for peace.

We pray for the churches that are our families, may they work for your kingdom.

We ask, dear Lord, that this time will bring us closer to you and that through us, the world may be changed.

All this we boldly ask in your son’s name, Amen.