We remember today the words of our savior, Jesus Christ: “Greater love has no man than this, that he lay down his life for his friends.”
Almighty and eternal God, from whose love we cannot be parted even by death, hear our prayers and thanksgivings for your servant John.
For although we no longer feel the touch of your faithful departed, fulfill in them, we pray, the purposes of your love and bring us, with them, to your eternal joy.
Eternal God, you alone spread out the heavens and rule the raging seas. Take into your most protection our country’s Navy and all who sail under her flag. Preserve them from the dangers of the deep and from the violence of the enemy, that they may be a safeguard unto the United States, and a security for those who sail upon the seas in peaceful and lawful missions. In their service to you, O Lord, may our sailors serve their country.
All this we ask in the name of Jesus Christ, the Prince of Peace who lives and reigns with you and the Holy Spirit, one God, forever and ever. Amen.
Adapted from the Book of Common Prayer