Creator God, we acknowledge that all land
and all people belong to you, as the Scriptures teach us:
“the earth is the LORD’s and all it contains,
the world and all who live in it” (Psalm 24:1).
We also acknowledge the rightful place of Indigenous peoples
in lands throughout the world, as the Scriptures teach us:
“you determined the times set for them and
the exact places where they should live” (Acts 17:26).
We also acknowledge that we have not
always received the land with gratitude, nor
have we treated the people of the land with respect.
Therefore, we ask you, Creator, to help us be honest
about the damage and pain we have caused.
Where we have treated the land
with ingratitude, carelessness, and contempt,
forgive us, Lord, and help us
to become the wise stewards of the land
that you have called us to be.
Where we have treated Indigenous peoples
with disrespect, domination and cruelty,
forgive us, Lord, and help us
not only to seek wholeness in those relationships
but also to begin building strong partnerships
that will ensure peace and goodwill
for generations to come.
Amen.
_1544130727_500x500.png)
