The Balloon Prayer

From the back page of the Order of Service today:

As you leave the Church, please take a helium balloon from the sides-people in the porch. Hang onto the balloon! When we are all assembled outside, we will all say a prayer together lead by the clergy. We will let go of the balloons when we say the final AMEN, which will be symbolic of Herb's ascending spirit!

In the churchyard:

O Lord our Maker,
you have breathed life into us through your Holy Spirit,
as we give thanks for your beloved servant Herb,
so set our hearts on the heavenly places,
and as we release these balloons,
may they symbolise our spirit's yearnings for you,
and, like your Son, go up with a great shout:
ALL AS LOUD AS POSSIBLE: AMEN

It worked, at least a hundred yellow, white and gold balloons and one heart shaped balloon released by Sheila left us.