Lord and Creator of all, especially of our human family,
You are our God and Father,
Ruler of your children,
Lord of life and death,
guide and benefactor of our souls.

You fashion and transform all things in due time through your creative Word, In your wisdom and providence receive those who have gone ahead of us in the journey from this life. They have reached the place of rest before us, walking the same road we do.

Receive us too when our time comes,  guiding us through the years, as long as it good for us. Prepare us to love and hope in you, to be untroubled, not shrinking back on the day of death, like those who love this world too much. Instead, may we set out eagerly for that everlasting and blessed life which is in Christ Jesus.

You ask so little of us and give so much. Hoping in you and loving you, let us endure everything and give thanks for everything that befalls us, since everything can bring us to salvation.

To you be glory for ever and ever. Amen”

Saint Gregory Nazianzen, Bishop.