The image of Ruth and Naomi invites us to consider the tender relationships where we find safety and nourishment to face the journey ahead. What a blessing when such relationships come our way. Let us give thanks :

God, who is tenderly present to us, We come as those who, in Jesus Christ, are open to you in this time and place.
We are the people who heal each other,
Who grow strong together,
Who name the truth as we perceive it,
Who know what it means to grow as we journey together.
We are a community who move towards a common dream
recognizing new moments of faith experience
in each other gathered here, and in others who journey along with us.
Go as the loved children of God into the world.
Live in love with one another
that the world may believe
the Christ has come.
Amen