Friday, July 25, 2008

Opening Ceremonies Prayer

This is a copy of the benediction I was privileged to offer at the close of the Opening Ceremony, at the 2008 Transplant Games in the DL Convention Center, Downtown Pittsburgh, PA:

Most Gracious and Merciful God,
Tonight, we give You thanks for the privilege to participate in the United States Transplant Games. We are thankful for the great city of Pittsburgh, that has welcomed the community and family of transplant. We ask for Your presence with us as we celebrate and honor the gift of life. May each athlete receive strength and courage, and may those who applaud their efforts experience an indescribable joy. And, Father, please bestow Your perfect peace and comfort to the donor families who have come to grieve and remember their loved ones. It is to the donor families that I pray receive the greatest blessing, for their sorrow is deeper than any joy that I, as a recipient, have been given as a result of their selfless decision to donate life. May all that happens over the next four days bring You honor and glory, and shine a bright light on the miracle and success of organ transplantation. In Jesus’ name, Amen.

1 comment:

Emily said...

Wonderful...I wish I could have heard it in person. :)

Welcome to heart2swim

Thank you for visiting my blog! You will find the latest on the development of TI in the Triangle area, as well as well as my own personal jouney from a heart transplant to competitive swimming. TI Swimming is more than simply a business, it is my passion! I hope you enjoy the posts and pics, and freely add your comments.

I currently coordinate the Adult Swim programming at Rex Wellness Center in Wakefield, and private and group lessons are available to members and non-members. Easy Freestyle Workshops are co-sponsored by the FS series,
www.fsseries.com, and are offered in Raleigh and Charlotte. You can reach me at bbarndt@gmail.com or 919-757-1230.