Leader: Every endeavor begins with a first step, and encounters darkness and difficulty along the way.

Response: We know the darkness of ignorance, of fear, and of tyranny.

Leader: Yet we know the dawning of the light, the beginnings of hope, and the renewal of life.

Response: Blessed be the eternal power which inspires us [to kindle these lights/this light]. Blessed be the source of light and of life. Amen.