Nondenominational Ceremony invocation

We are gathered here this day with attention to a common goal—to contribute to the quality of life in our county by providing leisure activities reflecting the interest and values of our citizens and visitors. It is right and fitting to express our appreciation for this opportunity where we can reinforce our community principles of openness and engagement for all people.

In a world where many have no community, we are thankful for the support of family, friends, neighbors and acquaintances yet made. We give thanks for this opportunity to gather together to celebrate the aspirations and accomplishments of our community. We seek the patience of one another and the stamina to make a difference in our community. We ask that those upon whom we have bestowed the public trust and the men and women laboring on our behalf be blessed as they transform the plan for the ______________ into a concrete reality.

In recognition of the various values, beliefs, and faith traditions represented here today I invite us to share in a moment of silent reflection to express gratitude in our own personally meaningful way.

<moment of silence>

ending option 1:

May the spirit of light enter into this endeavor and bless it with all that is good and pure. Let those who will work and play here be surrounded with love and joy. As we go forth from this day, may our gratitude unite us in the desire of using all that we are and all that we have for the common good so that reasons to be thankful will fill every life. May our gratitude grow into peace for each, and freedom to live, work, play and serve throughout all our days.

Ending option 2:

May all that is noble and true enter into this endeavor and may it be blessed with all that is good and pure. Let those who will work and play here be surrounded with love and joy. As we go forth from this day, may our gratitude unite us in the desire of using all that we are and all that we have for the common good so that reasons to be thankful will fill every life. May our gratitude grow into peace for each, and freedom to live, work, play and serve throughout all our days.

For a groundbreaking, since it's the start of construction, I'd also ask for safety for all construction workers and offer thanks for the their skills, and also give thanks for the ground, for understanding from the animals that will be displaced, any trees or other plants that might be forced to give their lives by being uprooted (and/or used in construction), and also offer hope that it be a place of healthy employment and caring service for all who will labor there.


Also, since it's a senior center, I think you should add some things that specifically relate to seniors - a place of friendship and healing for those whose spouses have died, a place where the infirm will be taken care of with love and respect, a sanctuary of respite for the tired and weary and those for whom the world outside the walls moves too fast, and so on.