Today is a sad day at the Mustard Seed House. Our friends, family and fellow communitarians Anneke and Peter Geel are embarking in a new journey today which is taking them away (only physically) from us.
They have been a great influence in shaping the life and rhythms of the Mustard Seed House. We will miss the deep conversations, the sarcastic humor, the strong sense of togetherness and love from them.
Last night was our last community dinner with the Geel. We said our “see you later” and commission them to keep planting mustard seeds of hope where ever the Spirit might lead them.
Prayer of Sending for Anneke and Peter
(Ricci)
“whom shall I send?
and who will go for us?”
Then said I,
Here am I, Send me.”
“I will go, Lord, if you lead me:
I will hold your people in my heart.”
We pray for Anneke and Peter,
with thanksgiving for their gift of friendship and faithfulness.
(Tom & Christine)
and grant them peace in your day.
In your mercy Lord,
Keep them away from sin
and protect them from all anxiety
as they wait in joyful hope
for the coming of our Savior
Jesus Christ,
Let your Kingdom come, Lord, in them.
(Eliacin & Ricci)
Christ to enfold you,
to surround you and guard you
this day and everyday.
We will journey with you.
We will keep before us, your love and faith,
We send you with the love and guidance of
God, your Creator
God, your Redeemer
God, your Sustainer
to do justice,
to love mercy
and to walk humbly with your God.
(Catie gives mustard seeds to Anneke & Peter)
We send you off with these mustard seeds, as members of our family and community,
for you to plant them, as hopeful signs of God’s in-breaking Kingdom
where ever the Spirit leads you.
(Eliacin) The Lord bless you, and keep you;
(Ricci) The Lord make His face shine on you,
(Tom) And be gracious to you;
(Christine) The Lord lift up His countenance on you,
(Catie & Gabriel) And give you peace.’
Amen
