For Those Who Mourn

It has been a difficult few weeks at ECBC. We have lost several much loved congregants. We mourn their passing. We stand with the families of these beloved members in their time of grief. Offered here are biblical messages of comfort and hope that are the at the strong foundation of our faith, followed by a prayer.

"The eternal God is your dwelling place, and underneath are the everlasting arms." (Deuteronomy 33:27)

"The home of God is among mortals. God will dwell with them and they will be God's people. God will wipe every tear from their eyes. Death will be no more; mourning and crying and pain will be no more, for the first things have passed away." (Revelation 21:3-4)

Let us pray:
Eternal Spirit, before whom the generations rise and pass away, even in the presence of death our first words to you are in praise for your unnumbered mercies. For the memory of loved ones now departed, we praise you. For their victories of character over trial, of courage over difficulty, of faith over sorrow, we give you thanks, and for all those who have done justly, loved mercy, and walked humbly with their God, we sing joyfully to you. Grant us now this same joyful thanksgiving as we remember our friends, and give to us that sure knowledge that you have won the victory over death in the resurrection of Jesus Christ. Amen.