Christmas Eve Benediction

Tonight in this community,
we have shared stories, sung carols,
opened our hearts to the beauty of music.
Tonight we have turned to one another,
lighting each other’s candles in the dark.
Tonight we have dared to hear a message of hope
spoken once again against the challenge of the world.
It is time now to depart,
to go forward, to our lives and to the world.
May joy be your companion,
whether you are with others or alone.
May love be your strength,
and may the gift of community dwell in your heart,
for here, in this place, you will be welcome always,
whenever you choose, whenever you need.