21st Century Africana Worship Resources for World Communion Sunday

Invitation
Brothers and Sisters, Christ has prepared the feast. At this table we join with people from around the world, including people from Darfur, Port-au-Prince, D.C., Harlem, and Rio. Christ invites to his Table everyone who loves him, those who earnestly repent of their sin and seek to live in peace with one another.

Call to Confession
Saints, it is time to 'fess up. As good as we have tried to be, all of us have messed up this week; and we need God's forgiveness once again. Commandments have been broken right and left. We've lied. We've allowed jobs, money, and people to exist as gods in place of God. The list could go on. Together, let us confess our sins before our loving God.

Prayer of Corporate Confession (Unison):
God, we confess that although we knew better, we have sinned. We have not loved you or our neighbors the way we should. We have not always honored you with our time. We've coveted other peoples' stuff. And sometimes we have called you out of your name. Lord, forgive us. We apologize for the pain we've caused you. Forgive us of our sins and help us live in ways that give you joy. In Jesus' name, Amen.

Words of Assurance:
Leader to people:
Brothers and sisters, there is good news today! God is faithful and just and has forgiven each of us for all of our mess. The thing you were embarrassed about ?? God has forgiven you. The thing no one else knows about ?? God has forgiven it! You have been given the graceful gift of another chance. Hallelujah! In the name of Jesus Christ, you are forgiven. Thank you God!

People to leader:
In the name of Jesus Christ, you are forgiven!

Leader and people:
Glory to God! Thank you Jesus! Amen.

Optional Sentences for use with A Service of Word and Table II, The Great Thanksgiving, pages 13-14 of The United Methodist Hymnal
Statements appropriate to the season or the occasion may be inserted where the asterisk (*) appears in the communion prayer.

*You sent your prophets to show your people the way.
When we disregarded them, you sent your son to save us from us.
You made the ultimate sacrifice for our reconciliation and redemption.

About the Author:The Rev. Lillian C. Smith is a former Discipleship Ministries staff member.