Jesus, Saviour, we gather here knowing that you are with us,
God our Creator, thank you for giving us life on this earth.
We gather here around (name),
so thankful for their special particular life.
You created them in their mother’s womb,
you saw them take their first breath,
your love has surrounded them every single day of their lives.
You’ve been with them through hardship and joy,
through sickness and health, through times of plenty and times of want.
You know that they love deeply, and are deeply loved.
And now this beautiful earthly life,
with all its experiences and relationships is coming to an end.
Saying good-bye is breaking our hearts!
We trust that you will give (name) courage as they take this step,
and you will give those gathered round strength to support.
Holy Spirit, fill all of us here with your peace
for we know nothing can separate us from your love.
Thank you that death is a door,
and that you are the mystery behind it.
We trust that you will walk with (name) through the threshold of death,
and welcome them into your eternal peace.
And now we pray together the prayer that you taught us to pray:
Our Father…. [the Lord’s Prayer] [omit this part if people gathered don’t know it]
And now, (name), may God bless you and keep you,
may the very face of God shine upon,
may the Spirit of God embrace you, and give you peace,
eternal peace.
Amen.
*Medical Assistance in Dying
I am a Mennonite pastor currently teaching theology at Conrad Grebel University College in Waterloo, Ontario. I’ve served congregations in Ontario and most recently, Alberta.