Lord, be with us in the seasons of the new year: 

As there are births and deaths; 

As we plant and harvest, 

As there is breaking down and building up; 

As we weep, laugh, mourn and dance, 

As there is gathering and releasing, tearing and mending, 

As there is peace and war; 

Lord, teach our hearts through repentance and love; 

Lord, guide our actions in courage, faith and grace; 

Lord, walk with us through your Holy Spirit and through the prayers and presence of each other. 

(Inspired by Ecclesiastes 3:1-8)