Prayer

God of courage,
It is easy to be afraid in a world filled with so many challenges. We are reminded daily of the needs of so many, the need for employment, the need for health and well-being, the need for racial justice, the need for environmental justice. Fill us with your courage, that in the face of so many challenges we may not surrender to fear but rather rise to meet the challenges of our day with compassion and humility. We pray in your name. Amen.

Prayer

God of all,
As we continue our celebration of Women’s History Month, fill us with appreciation for the gifts and contributions of women the world over. May their courage and sacrifice inspire us all to give of ourselves in the construction of a world of justice, equality, and freedom. May the lives and example of women be a constant source of inspiration and strength. In confidence, we pray. Amen.

Prayer

Lord of life,

Your son Jesus came that we might have life and have it to the full, both now and forevermore. Hold in the palm of your hand all those who have gone before us in faith. May they enjoy the blessings of everlasting life with you and may their memory inspire us to lead lives consistent with the gift of life you have given us. May your raising of Lazarus affirm our hope that love can transform the challenges we face into opportunities for new life and joy. We make this prayer through Christ our Lord. Amen.

Prayer

God of creation,
Winter can often be a difficult time of year. Storms can immobilize us, temperatures can lock us indoors, the shortness of days can make it seem as if life is slipping away too fast. And yet, we trust in the promise of spring. New life fills the earth. Snow covered ground gives way to lush green grass. Warm temperatures liberate us from an imposed hibernation. Longer days inspire our hope. As we begin the season of spring today, fill us with love for the beauty of your creation and thanksgiving for the gift of life. With gratitude, we pray. Amen.

Prayer

Lord of Compassion, it can be too easy to be negative in our world as the problems and challenges of our age seek to overwhelm us. The temptation to despair can be very powerful. Yet, we trust in you and your goodness. We know that change often begins from within, not from events and experiences but from our response to them. Bless us with the confidence to believe we can overcome every obstacle, thrive in the face of all adversity, and shine for others even in the midst of the darkness. Amen.

Prayer

Gracious God, the words of scripture remind us that we are not created to be alone. We come to be who we are through our relationships with others. You call us to change and transform the world not by bearing its burdens alone but through cooperation and collaboration with others. Continue to inspire us that we might work together as a team as we seek to extend the compassionate ministry of Jesus in our communities and world. We pray in Jesus’ name. Amen.

Prayer

Merciful God, sometimes the mountains you call us to climb can seem so very high. But we trust, empowered by your grace and mercy, that we can scale the steepest of hills. Stir within us the continuing commitment to sacrifice for the sake of the health and well-being of others. May our steadfast dedication to safety and care create a better world for all and a healthier future for coming generations. We pray in your name. Amen.