Prayer

Incarnate God,

Today, we celebrate the solemnity of the Most Holy Body and Blood of Christ. May our celebration keep us mindful of the gift of your son’s presence with and among us through the Eucharist. Inspired by the power of his sacrificial love, may we dedicate our lives to giving of ourselves to others in memory of Jesus. May Christ’s presence in the Eucharist nourish us and fortify us that we might contribute to spreading the good news of God’s love for, and presence with, all people. We ask this through our Lord Jesus Christ, your son, who lives and reigns with you and the Holy Spirit, God, forever and ever. Amen.

Prayer

Creator God,

You create each of us with unique gifts and talents. Open our hearts and minds to your wisdom that we might discern the gifts you have given us. Plant within us the desire to share our gifts with others. Fill us with your love that we might use our gifts to make better the life of this world. We pray in God’s name. Amen.

Prayer

Loving Lord,

In extraordinary times, heroism can become so commonplace that we can take it for granted. And in all times, goodness can be so extraordinary that we can forget to recognize and acknowledge it. Fill us with your love that we might lead lives shaped by a spirit of gratitude. Help us to always be thankful for the positive difference others make in our lives. May their goodness inspire goodness in us, strengthening us to be people of compassion and kindness. Amen.

Prayer

God of courage,

So many people throughout history have sacrificed their lives for a cause. Today, we remember the sacrifice of Charles Lwanga and his companions who were murdered because of their faith and dedication to your son, Jesus. Encourage us through the gift of your Holy Spirit that we, too, might have the courage of our convictions. Fill us with the light of your love that our lives may bear witness to your compassion and grace. We pray in the name of our ever-living Lord. Amen.

Prayer

Gracious God,

Our culture often places great emphasis on our physical appearance. Diets, workout programs, gym memberships all encourage us to expend a great deal of time and energy on our appearance and physical health. But we are often less encouraged to spend time and energy developing our inner lives. Open our hearts and minds to your wisdom that we might understand the importance of the spiritual life. Inspire us through your Holy Spirit to devote ourselves to developing a rich inner life and a deeper relationship with you. We make this prayer in the name of the God who is the source of our being. Amen.

Prayer

Merciful God,

Enkindle within us the flame of your love. Stir in our hearts a readiness to respond to your call to serve our sisters and brothers, especially people who are poor and vulnerable. Possess us that all we say and do might reflect your great love for all. We pray in God’s name. Amen.

Prayer

God of peace and freedom,

Today we remember in a spirit of thanksgiving all the women and men who have given their lives in the defense of our nation and the values it cherishes. May their sacrifice inspire us to devote our lives to the cause for which they gave the ‘last full measure of devotion.’ Bless us with the courage to sacrifice in our own way for the life of our nation and the spread of peace and freedom in our country and throughout the world. We pray in the hope that they now share in your resurrection and life. Amen.