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Benediction of The Cross (Sourced from The Work of the People)

May the cross, a symbol of both suffering and transformation,
be a guide in your journey towards
the depths of self-discovery.
As the cross stands tall, bearing witness to the weight of the world's struggles,
may you too find strength in confronting your own challenges,
recognizing that within them lies the potential for profound growth.
In the shadow of the cross, may you discover
the courage to face the complexities of your own Being,
embracing the paradoxes that make you uniquely human.
May the wounds of the cross become windows through which
the light of understanding streams into the depths of your soul,
revealing the sacred interconnectedness of your experiences.
As the power and mystery of the cross intersects with the wisdom that is being revealed to you,
may you navigate the tensions of doubt and faith,
finding in your struggles the raw material for a resilient and authentic spirituality.
May you recognize the transformative power inherent
in embracing the depth of your own suffering,
allowing it to become a source of hope and renewal.
May the benediction of the cross be a reminder that
even in the darkest moments, there is the potential for resurrection—
a rebirth into a more authentic, compassionate, and integrated self.
May you carry the wisdom of the cross with you on your journey,
allowing it to illuminate your path and infuse
your existence with meaning and purpose.
Amen.

Service Art

Image 1:Early morning view down the Colorado River from the Silver Bridge on Bright Angel Trail. NPS Photo by Erin Whittaker.

Image 2: Interior of the church light, Tadao Andō, 1941-vanderbilt