Celebration of a New Ministry

That's the formal name for this evening's service, which includes my formal installation as vicar for this region. We've been scurrying around, getting it all together-- things "left undone" have been rearing their ugly heads, as we've scrambled to catch up after last week's adventures. Lots of busy little details finally coming together, that will undoubtedly contibute to a lovely, festive evening.

At the same time, I keep coming back the scriptures appointed for the day (this being the feast of Cyprian, Bishop of Carthage); and to the following prayer, which I will offer after various symbols of my ministry in this place (Bible and prayer book, water and oil, bread and wine, stole, keys and canons) are placed in my hands. . .

O Lord my God, I am not worthy to have you come under my roof; yet you have called your servant to stand in your house, and to serve at your altar. To you and to your service I devote myself, body, soul, and spirit. Fill my memory with the record of your mighty works; enlighten my understanding with the light of your Holy Spirit; and may all the desires of my heart and will center in what you would have me do. Make me an instrument of your salvation for the people entrusted to my care, and grant that I may faithfully administer your holy Sacraments, and by my life and teaching set forth your true and living Word. Be always with me in carrying out the duties of my ministry. In prayer, quicken my devotion; in praises, heighten my love and gratitude; in preaching, give me readiness of thought and expression; and grant that, by the clearness and brightness of your holy Word, all the world may be drawn into your blessed kingdom. All this I ask for the sake of your Son our Savior Jesus Christ.

Amen. Come, Lord Jesus.