Four graces for readers who are mindful of our many blessings.
Buddhist
The joys and pains of all beings
are present in the gift of this food.
Let us receive it in love
and gratitude…And in mindfulness of our sisters and brothers
among living beings of every kind
who are hungry or homeless,
sick or injured,
or suffering in any way.
Ecumenical
May all be fed.
May all be healed
May all be loved.
Christian (My late mother’s favorite)
For food in a world where many walk in hunger;
For faith in a world where many walk in fear;
For friends in a world where many walk alone;
We give you thanks, O Lord. Amen.
First Nations
Grandfather,
Look at our brokenness.
We know that in all creation
Only the human family
Has strayed from the Sacred Way.
We know that we are the ones
Who are divided.
And we are the ones
Who must come back together
To walk in the Sacred Way.
Grandfather,
Sacred One
Teach us love, compassion and honour
That we may heal the earth,
And heal each other.