O God, Creator of all life, bless the unsung lives of countless Christian women in every century who were your hands and feet, who kept alive your compassionate presence by feeding the hungry, nursing the sick, clothing the naked, comforting the sad, praying and petitioning, strengthening those in prison, teaching the stories, sewing and singing, weeping and rejoicing. Grant us the wisdom to discern our ministries in this day as our foremothers found theirs; lead us in new and timeless forms of discipleship; and let us joyfully find our place in this procession of praise, offering our varied gifts and voices together with them and Mary, the Mother of our Savior Jesus Christ.  Amen.