Liturgy On The Occasion Of A Retirement

The following liturgy may be used in small or large family celebrations or in gatherings of the larger worshiping community. Notice how the liturgy views retirement not as time to abstain from kingdom work, but as a time of a change in vocation. Adapt to local needs and customs. Gathering Leader:My dear friends, today we have gathered to celebrate the work of our dear friend [Name] and to welcome his/her deserved rest from the daily demands of his/her work. Let us rejoice in God who has given us work to do, and let us be reminded of the promise of Sabbath rest. Let us pray. Father Almighty, in six days you created the world, and on the seventh you rested. You, who are known by your works, are the Lord of life and work. We bless you for the work of [Name]. Now grant him/her rest in the activities of retirement, through Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen. The Scripture ReadingsReader 1:A reading from Genesis: "The Lord God planted a garden eastward in Eden, and there he put the man wh…