A prayer as a new year begins:

We have lived to see this New Year and this is no small matter. 

Each one of us makes a difference, whether or not we embrace our God-given power.

God of all time, help us enter the New Year quietly,

thoughtful of who we are to ourselves and to others,

mindful that our steps make an impact and our words carry power.

May we walk gently.

May we speak only after we have listened well.

Creator of all life, help us enter the New year reverently,

aware that you have endowed every creature and plant,

every person and habitat with beauty and purpose.

May we regard the world with tenderness.

May we honour rather than destroy.

Lover of all souls, help us enter the New Year joyfully,

willing to laugh and dance and dream,

remembering our many gifts with thanks

and looking forward to blessings yet to come.

May we welcome your lavish love.

May we cast off the small, vindictive god our fears have made.

May the grace and peace of Christ bless you now and in the days ahead.