Benedictions are often viewed as the closing prayer of a worship service, but they are intended to be more than that. The elements of the words suggest that it means “to speak a blessing.” I think of it as one of the roles of a pastor in a worship service to deliver a final blessing on the congregation before we go on our separate ways. At time, I might use one of the many blessings found in scripture. These long shared benedictions have a special strength tying us to the longer tradition. Through those words the great leaders of the faith reach out yet again to bless us. At other times, I compose a blessing to fit the theme and focus of the sermon and worship service. At other times the benediction is a spontaneous expression of the momentary inspiration that the service has inspired. On occasion it may be a more contemporary blessing written by a present Christian leader. Whatever the source the benediction it offers the opportunity to bless the members of the congregation both individually and corporately. It is a great privilege to be the one offering this blessing to our brothers and sisters.