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Church of the Woods
Welcome, blessed people! Let us gather round that we may be
transformed in and through God as we immerse ourselves in the natural
world, in human community, and in divine space and time.
About our service: We begin with brief readings from Christian and other
traditions, followed by a period (typically 20-30 minutes) of
contemplation in nature. We return to share observations, reflections,
questions, news, and prayers, both silently and aloud. If you have a reading, poem, story, or
other reflection to share, we welcome it. After sharing God’s Peace, we celebrate the Great
Thanksgiving or Eucharist. All are invited.
We welcome you to take part in any or all parts of the service, as you feel called.
Gathering Welcome & moment of stillness as we settle into this place and community.
May God be with you.
And also with you.
Let us pray. The leader offers a prayer of intention for the gathering.
Singing, Readings, & Gospel
Teaching & invitation to quiet reflection in the woods As Jesus went alone into the
wilderness to encounter God, so do we. If a small token of Nature’s mysteries and beauty speaks
to you, bring it back (being gentle, please) as an offering to place at the altar.
Shared reflections, introductions, prayers & offerings from the woods
Prayer for Restoration Recognizing that we all have a part in hurts done to each other and to
the whole creation, we acknowledge our own failings, ask forgiveness, and pray for a new start:
(Together) Fount of all mercy, we acknowledge that we have strayed from your
way. We ask that you restore us when we lose the way of oneness with you and
your creation. Be with us as we wander in that lonely wilderness, strengthen us
as we return, renew us in the awareness of your ever-present love, and return us
to your ways of love, compassion, and service. By the power of the one great love, our
errors are forgiven. May you be made whole and brought anew into the peace of God. † Amen.
May the peace of God be always with you! We greet one another in the name of peace.
Offering & Setting the Table We welcome your offerings of God’s gifts from Nature and of
money to support our ministry here. !