Skip to main content

A Form of Commitment to Christian Service

Written by Scott Anderson on .

This form may be used when a person wishes to make or renew a
commitment to the service of Christ in the world, either in general terms,
or upon undertaking some special responsibility.

It is essential that the person seeking to make or renew a commitment
prepare in advance, in consultation with the celebrant, the Act of
Commitment, which may be in the form either of a statement of intention
or of a series of questions and answers, but which should include a
reaffirmation of baptismal promises.

Before the Offertory of the Eucharist, the person comes forward at the
invitation of the celebrant, and, standing before the congregation, makes
the Act of Commitment.

After this, the Celebrant says these or similar words

May the Holy Spirit guide and strengthen you, that in this,
and in all things, you may do God’s will in the service of the
kingdom of his Christ. Amen.

In the name of this congregation I commend you to this
work, and pledge you our prayers, encouragement, and
support.

420    Christian Service

The Celebrant then says this or some other appropriate prayer

Let us pray.

Almighty God, look with favor upon this person who has
now reaffirmed his commitment to follow Christ and to serve
in his name. Give him courage, patience, and vision; and
strengthen us all in our Christian vocation of witness to the
world, and of service to others; through Jesus Christ our
Lord. Amen.

A prayer for the special work in which the person will be engaged may
be added.

The service then continues with the exchange of the Peace and the
Offertory.

Christian Service    421