A Psalm Before We Begin*

A prayer for the new year, or as your
chapter begins a new project.


O Divine One, from whose hands
 comes the work of creation, 
so artfully designed,

our chapter prays that this work
we are about to do may be done 
in companionship with you.

May the work that we will soon begin add 
to the light of your presence

because it is done with great love.

May the work that our chapter begins 
speak like a prophet of old

of your dream of beauty and unity.

May the work that we will soon begin
 bring the joy of doing it for its own sake,

in our poverty over ownership over it.

May our openness to failure or success, 
and our invitation to others to share in it,

aid in its bearing fruit for the world.

May our chapter be aware that through 
this work we draw near you.

O Beloved, we come to you with ready hands.

* Inspired by Fr. Edward Hayes’s 
“Psalm Before Beginning Work” 

in his Prayers for a Planetary Pilgrim.