Birthday Blessings

Priest: On the first weekend of every month, I would like to acknowledge those who are celebrating their birthdays within that month.  The Book of Blessings (323) says that it is always appropriate to give thanks to God especially on the occasion of a birthday.  The purpose of celebrating a birthday is to acknowledge and give thanks to God as the author and source of life. 

Priest: Blessed be the name of the Lord.

All: Now and for ever.

A reading from the letter of St. Paul to the Philippians:

I give thanks to my God at every remembrance of you, praying always with joy in my every prayer for all of you, because of your partnership for the gospel from the first day until now. I am confident of this, that the one who began a good work in you will continue to complete it until the day of Christ Jesus. It is right that I should think this way about all of you, because I hold you in my heart, you who are all partners with me in grace, both in my imprisonment and in the defense and confirmation of the gospel. For God is my witness, how I long for all of you with the affection of Christ Jesus. And this is my prayer: that your love may increase ever more and more in knowledge and every kind of perception, to discern what is of value, so that you may be pure and blameless for the day of Christ, filled with the fruit of righteousness that comes through Jesus Christ for the glory and praise of God.  The Word of the Lord.  All: Thanks be to God! 

Priest: Heavenly Father, Creator of Heaven and Earth.  You created all the people of the world, and You know each of us by name.  We offer you grateful praise for the gift of life.  We thank you for all who are celebrating their birthdays this month.  Hear the prayers of your servants, who recall their birthday, and rejoice in Your gifts of life, love, family and friends.  Bless them with your presence, and surround them with Your love and friendship.  May they grow in wisdom, knowledge and grace.  May they enjoy many happy years, all of them pleasing unto you.  We ask this through Christ our Lord.

R. Amen.