U.S. Memorial Day 2011

Memorial Day Service

U.S. Embassy Beijing

May 27, 2011

INTERFAITH U.S. MEMORIAL DAY LITANY
(adapted from the 1974 U.S. Forces Book of Worship)

Let us each give thanks to God Almighty for the land of our birth with all its chartered liberties. For the richness and wonder of our country’s story, its heritage of law and liberty, the varied peoples it has drawn together as one people, and its striving to better live its values:

O God,

R. We give you thanks. 

For the leaders of our nation, states, and communities, and all who labor and have labored for justice, prosperity, and the common good:

O God,

R. We give you thanks. 

For those who in all times and places have been true and brave in fulfilling their duty serving their nation, and those who in daily common ways have lived upright lives and served those about them:

O God,

R. We give you thanks. 

For those who have gone before, and through whose service and sacrifice you have brought about blessings for us in our day:

O God,

R. We give you thanks. 

Almighty and most merciful God, we remember these your servants with gratitude. We see in their courage and strength encouragement for us to be courageous and strong. We see in their sacrifices a model for us to follow. Look upon all your servants—them and us—with loving kindness. Give us strength and courage to love and serve, to work hard for the common good, for justice, prosperity, and peace. All this we ask in your name. 

Amen