A Vigil in Memory of George Floyd and All Victims of Racism
Gather outside in front of the church with the ringing of the church bell(s), if available.
Welcome: Thank you as we gather to remember George Floyd and all the victims of racism, and also pray to overcome the pandemic of racism as it infects us, our community, the nation, and the world.
Invocation: In the name of God our creator, who made us in God’s own image and called us good.
In the name of God the Son, who forgives us our sins when we stray afar, and calls us to repent.
In the name of God the Holy Spirit, who redeems us, and empowers us to work for justice and equality for all.
Prayers: “O God, who by the glorious resurrection of your Son Jesus Christ destroyed death, and brought life and immortality to light: Grant that your servant George [and all victims of racism], being raised with him, may know the strength of his presence, and rejoice in his eternal glory; who with you and the Holy Spirit lives and reign, one God, for ever and ever. Amen.”
“Grant, O God, that your holy and life-giving Spirit may so move every human heart, that barriers which divide us may crumble, suspicions disappear, and
hatreds cease; that our divisions being healed, we may live in justice and peace; through Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen.”
or
“O God, you made us in your own image and redeemed us through Jesus your Son: Look with compassion on the whole human family: take away the arrogance and hatred which infect or hearts; break down the walls that separate us; unite us in bonds of love; and work through our struggle and confusion to accomplish your purpose on earth; that, in your good time, all nations and races may serve you in harmony around your heavenly throne; through Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen.”
Scripture Readings: (By participants with silence in between each)
1 John 1:8 – “If we say we have no sin, we deceive ourselves, and the truth is not in us.” (Silence followed by ringing of a bell)
Acts 3:19 – “Repent therefore, and turn again, that or sins may be blotted out.” (Silence followed by a bell)
James 5:16 – “Confess your sins to one another and pray for one another, that you may be healed.” (Silence followed by a bell)
1 John 1:19 – “If we confess our sins, he is faithful and just and will forgive us our sins and purify us from all unrighteousness.” (Silence followed by a bell)
Micah 6:8 – “What does the Lord require of you but to do justice, and to love kindness and to walk humbly with God?” (Silence followed by a bell)
John 13:34 – “A new command I give you: love one another. As I have loved you, so you must love one another.” (Silence followed by a bell)
Silent Prayer: Observe 8min. and 46 sec. of silence in memory of George Floyd’s unjust death.
(Kneeling as possible)
Lighting of candles: (Prayers and concerns may be said out loud or silently by individuals as they one at a time pick up and light a candle from one large candle already lighted, then place their candle in the sand).
A hymn or song may be sung or played before the dismissal.
Dismissal: Go forth and carry out the Good News of justice, equality, and peace in the world. (People may then leave in silence as they are ready)
Notes: Remind participants to wear masks and bring their own chair if needed. A PA system might be helpful. This service could be used once or repeated over several weeks as helpful.
Offered by the Revs. Stephen and Patricia Tanzer Askew.
