Worship Cafe

A Liturgy of Fire and Water

This liturgy is for remembrance time. As the days shorten in the Autumn it is natural for us to think of those whose own days have shortened to nothing. All Hallows and Bonfire night are both about remembering, and this is an ideal time of year to gather round a large bonfire and speak of those who have died but that we remember. For this liturgy you will need a bowl of water (perhaps with some stones in the bottom, or if it is glass, lit from underneath), some card, and some water soluble felt tips too. You will also need a cup.

Phase 1 - Play

As you arrive please take a piece of paper and create on it something or someone you want to remember. No one will see it. When you have finished place your paper in the water.

Phase 2 - Focus

We say the following liturgy. There will be a short pause between each line of the intercessions.

As we celebrate the precious people
who have gone before us,
let us offer our prayers to God
in whom no-one is forgotten.

With the family of God everlasting
Angels and Saints,
Mothers and Fathers,
Apostles, Prophets and Martyrs,
Children and Childless,
Messengers of God's Message.

We pray for this gathering
And for all who are gathered.
All cultures and peoples.

We Remember

For those who hunger and thirst,
For the poor and the persecuted,
For the suffering and the sick,
For the dead and the mourning.

We Remember

For the place where we live,
Where we toil, Where we play.
For our lovers, friends and relatives,
From now and times before.

With the family of God everlasting
Angels and Saints,
Mothers and Fathers,
Apostles, Prophets and Martyrs,
Children and Childless,
Messengers of God's Message.
We Remember

Phase 3 - Fire and Water

Since the earliest times fire and water have been used in remembering the dead. Our remembrances are now in the water. All are invited to take the cup and throw some water on the fire as a symbol of remembrance.

Phase 4 - Beyond our Sight

We stand in a circle facing the fire and say together:

God of the Womb,
You lie beyond our sight,
You have brought us life and being.

God of the Loom,
Who forms rich tapestry,
You weave our life and being.

God of the Tomb,
Who has passed through the veil,
In you all the dead are remembered. Amen