Bless these stones...

On Sunday, we blessed and dedicated our remodeled space. We processed outside during the last hymn so we could have a view of our new roofs, ramp, and siding. The logistics of signing while walking was a bit tricky, however. We used a modified version of the General Order of Blessing from the ELW Occasional Services book, including the 1 Corinthians text that was used when one of our original buildings was dedicated in 1984. Of course, we happened to do this on the Sunday when the assigned Gospel reading talked about the destruction of the Jerusalem temple, when not one stone is left upon another.

Here’s the text of our rite:

P Friends in Christ: Today we give thanks to God and we seek God's blessing as we gather to dedicate the results of this building remodel project to the praise and glory of God:

C C New roofs shelter us with grace.
Rock siding is a sign of beauty.
A new ramp and refurbished restrooms help us be more welcoming and accessible.
A remodeled youth building is a recommitment to Christian education and youth ministry.
Thanks be to God!

A A reading from 1 Corinthians:
For we are God’s servants, working together; you are God’s field, God’s building. According to the grace of God given to me, like a skilled master builder I laid a foundation, and someone else is building on it. Each builder must choose with care how to build on it. For no one can lay any foundation other than the one that has been laid; that foundation is Jesus Christ (1 Corinthians 3:9-11).

P Let us pray. We give you thanks, O God, creator of the universe, for your abundant gifts. By your holy wisdom all things have been made to reflect your glory, for the sustenance of life, and for the use and delight of your living creatures. Send your blessing upon us and upon this remodeled space, which we set apart today to your praise and honor. May warmth and welcome fill this place. May it be a home for the community and a haven for the stranger; a safe place for laughter, for tears, and for wonder; and a center for acts of service and deeds of love; through Jesus Christ, our Savior and Lord, who lives and reigns with you and the Holy Spirit, one God, now and forever. Amen.


P Almighty God bless us, and direct our days and our deeds in peace. Amen.

A Go in peace. The Lord is near. C Thanks be to God.