Many of you have used liturgy from the UWorship resource over the years, and have asked for an updated resource. We are excited to share that the PMA Office of Christian Formation has again partnered with us to provide a new and updated UWorship resource that will be coming out in September! Below is a sample of just one of the litanies included in the resource. It is organized in four sections — Ordinary Time, Academic/Liturgical Year, The Human Experience, and Worship We Wish We Didn’t Need — and also has an appendix full of resources and links to other sources.
A special thanks goes to writers and editors Rev. Rachel Penmore, Rev. Allison Wehrung, John Golden, and Rev. Nathan Wheeler.
Litany for a New Semester (based on Psalm 23:1-6)
As we start a new semester
Full of uncertainties, unknowns, and already infused with stress
God our good shepherd
We have everything we need.
As we walk through quads, get lost looking for class
Oversleep and run late
You lead us to rest in grassy meadows and restful waters.
We declare majors, take on minors, balance class credits
Internships, jobs, bills, things we feel prepared for
And things we have no idea how to handle
You guide us, and accompany us in all things.
When things fall apart, when we encounter sickness, a failed exam, unexpected news, overwhelming assignments
When things are beyond words or understanding
When we walk through the valley, when things feel lost
We are not afraid because you are with us.
You never leave us alone, and there is no amount of stress that can separate us from you
You lead us and guide us.
You make us feel secure.
We give thanks for the community that we have found
The friends we bring with us and the ones we are currently building
The safe places to land, and the encouraging words that come unexpectedly but lift us up
You revive our spirits
Our cups brim with blessings.
This new beginning, this new semester is full of possibility
There is life to be lived and love to be found
We give thanks for the privilege to be here, the gift to learn
And the challenge to ask questions and grow
Your beauty and love chase after me
Every day of my life.
We are not alone, we have everything we need to start this new semester
We are beloved, made in your image
Children of God
We are at home in the house of God forever. Amen.