Prayer

God with us,

We often perceive your presence in the most ordinary things. In the smell of the breeze with the change of the weather, in the sky, as the clouds go on shifting above us, and in the sound of the rain when we are cozy inside. But beyond such peaceful encounters, you also call us to find you in ways that are frankly more challenging. In service and sacrifice, in loving each neighbor with selfless attention, in making space for every interaction to become a sacred encounter, especially with those we would otherwise disregard or overlook or have no natural reason to befriend. Here especially, give us the courage and the vision to find you in the people we meet, for you are here always. Your presence is closest to those most in need. Amen.

Prayer

All Merciful God,

As we enter this season of Lent, help us prepare ourselves by taking time to turn inward, examining our hearts with earnest attention and genuine sincerity. Lead us in this. Help us acknowledge our weaknesses and bring them to you, believing that you will be faithful to heal us and bind us and show us your mercy. May we have courage this day to acknowledge our wrongs, and through the grace of your healing, move on in healthy directions. As we begin this journey towards Easter, we pray for strength and devotion to stay by your side. Amen.

Prayer

Liberating God,

We celebrate this month with joy and gratitude for the contributions of women yesterday, today, and tomorrow. Give us wisdom to learn from past mistakes and to build a better future together, a future in which all women are recognized for their unique gifts and talents and empowered to use them. As a people united by our common humanity, we commit to upholding the dignity of women for the sake of their fullest flourishing in the mission and calling you have given to each. Amen.

Prayer

Healing God,

Today we lift up all those affected by rare conditions and diseases. For them and their families, we ask you to protect and preserve them in mind, body, and spirit. And if they are ever tempted to feel isolated or alone in their suffering, may we in this ministry stand up and stand out as a community of healing, eager to accompany them in every way. With your heart of compassion, may we extend your embrace to all who are vulnerable, inviting them to share in life-giving play, laughter, and joy. Amen.

Prayer

Word of Life,

The ministry of your son, Jesus, reveals the depths to which you will go to affirm and redeem this human life we have been given. We know a more blessed future awaits us, yet our hope is alive here and now, anchored in the blessings you have already poured out. For the sake of the here and now, lead us to unite our gifts and our talents so that, as one ministry called by your name, we might extend your good news and affirm life together, in big and small ways. Use us today, to redeem the real world in which we live, work, and play. For our neighbors, friends, family, and communities, we pray. Amen.

Prayer

God of Possibility,

We so often take our freedom for granted. We feel ourselves bound by circumstances beyond our control and start to feel trapped by them. When such feelings befall us, open our eyes to see the horizons of possibility all around. May we dwell again in possibility, looking to you and welcoming your liberating spirit. Empower us again to walk in freedom and love, joyful for the mere sense of living. Amen.

Prayer

God our defender,

You call us to affirm every person’s inestimable value, for we are each made in your image and called into being by your own design. Inspired by your call, help us affirm human dignity in all that we say and do. Even when that means defending it against the attacks of those who would threaten, intimidate, and demean someone else. Whether assaults or displays of harassment are directed against our own associates, or our patients, or their families, or wherever we serve in the community, give us courage as a ministry to say “no” to bullying in all of its forms. Amen.