Prayer

God of Peace,

We pray today for all political leaders, rulers of nations who, rightly or wrongly, possess power to make sweeping decisions affecting the lives of so many others. For leaders who use violence and intimidation to further their political aspirations, we pray that you might fill their hearts with a spirit of repentance. Inspire political leaders to exercise the real power of leadership: the power of humility, that we may share common ground and work for the good of the whole human family. Amen.

Prayer

God our refuge,

We are grieved and concerned about the crisis in eastern Europe. It brings us beyond confusion to think that, even today, leaders of nations are reckless enough to claim territories and peoples by force. Help us who are removed from direct conflict be diligent in offering sincere intercession. May we be united in spirit with the vulnerable and the victims, lifting them up in our hearts, trusting that you will provide and protect. On this first Sunday of Lent, we rend our hearts for the sins of our world, the wrongdoing near and far, the pathways of death that still divide us from you and each other. Lead us to place our trust in you, our refuge and fortress, as we hope for Easter’s glorious light. Amen.

Prayer

Redeeming God,

Thank you for those who make it their business to advocate for the protection, security, and well-being of so many across our society. We thank you especially this week for the passion and dedication of social workers, those ministers of health in the broadest sense: ensuring safe homes and neighborhoods, basic provisions and securities, and every dimension of flourishing. We acknowledge them and ask you to empower them daily with your life-giving spirit. Amen.

Prayer

Hope of the Nations,

We are glad to join our voices with women and men around the world today, leading us in prayer and thanksgiving. Inspired by the words from your prophet, we trust ourselves again to your promise of a hope-filled future. Your grace is sufficient for all our weakness, but it has still not been easy these past few years. Hopes and plans have been dashed and our deepest longings have been deferred. We ask you this day to renew us again, as one people united in prayer. Revive our shared sense of hope for what lies ahead.

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.