



Now we come to praise and thank you for winter.
Amid the dark and cloudy days, help us to see your hidden gifts:
the opportunity to slow down
the invitation to go deeper
the enjoyment in a cup of hot tea, coffee, or chocolate
the wonder of a snowfall
your presence in each drop of freezing rain
the possibility of a blizzard to bring an unexpected day of rest
the warmth of a fireplace or heat lamp
the coziness of a soft blanket
the promise of new life under barren trees and fields
the joys of Christmas and Valentine’s Day
the celebration of Lent followed by the festival of Easter,
For all of these gifts, recognized and accepted,
We offer you our grateful hearts.
Amen.