God of compassion,
There are times when it
seems impossible to give thanks,
for the loss is too recent
and the pain is too great.
But in this, we have hope,
That even in the darkest valley,
we are not alone, for you are there
And our hope is not in vain,
for we see your presence in
the church, the body of Christ,
which walks beside us.
Give us the grace and love
to maintain this community,
so that our hope may be proclaimed,
again, and again, and again,
until that day when Christ himself
will wipe every tear from every eye.
Amen