The Temple Rites: Primary Texts

The Thanksgiving

O Wondrous Earth, Sustainer of Life, Mother of all Mankind!

We humbly thank Thee for all the blessings Thou hast bestowed upon us; for the rich dark soil with which we are nourished; for the hard grey rock upon which we build; for the garments of green with which we are surrounded; for the constancy with which we are cherished; for the body that is provided for us; and for Thy everlasting presence.

We seek to unite ourselves with Your Being; with Your Spirit that is clothed in the form of earth, of stone, of plants, and of trees.

We seek communion with the host of spirits that serve You; that honour You and tend Your Garden with loving care.

We seek to share in that infinite Love that You bestow upon all Your children.

O Wondrous Earth, blessed art Thou in Thy manifestation.

The Reprise

O Kind and Gentle Earth, Mother of all Being and all Form, Body of the Universe. All things that are, grow in You and from You. Even in the wilderness You bring forth Life; the life of the Wilderness itself! You clothe our spirits with Your form; You provide a home for us, and enable us to enjoy the beauty of Creation.

May we always be thankful for Your Being, and never forget the Divine Miracle of Nature.

O Wondrous Earth, blessed art Thou in Thy manifestation.