Prayer

God of hosts,

It has often been said that prejudice does not survive closeness. As we gather at tables in breakrooms, as we chat with neighbors in passing, as we find ourselves waiting in lines, in all our coming and going, help us embody a genuine and authentic hospitality that lets others know we accept them, just as they are. May we open our hearts in a way that champions the dignity you have bestowed on each one of us, as creatures made in your image. Amen.

Prayer

Loving God,

As we begin this Holy Week in the Church calendar, we are humbled by the example of Jesus’ life, a life that was measured by such incredible love for humanity, going even to death for our sake. May we each be inspired to measure our own lives by the love that we share with and for our neighbors and the communities among us. In the midst of a broken and tragic world, lead us to extend the height, depth, and breadth of Christ’s incredible love for us. Amen.

Prayer

Caring God,

Even you knew the importance of taking time away. When you walked among us, you preserved your integrity by resting, praying, and showing caution in the way you spent your energy. Help us do the same. Give us a sense of freedom as well as responsibility, to be attentive to our own needs for self-care and to take action as needed. Amen.

Prayer

Transforming God,

There is a big difference between solitude and isolation. We are done with isolation! Our social lives have been so challenged throughout this pandemic, as we settled for alternative ways to be “with” and “for” each other. We rightly rejoice for being able to gather again in various ways. At the same time, help us not forget the gift of solitude—the peace of quiet moments with you. May we embrace times of solitude when they come, trusting that you are always at work, guiding us to become more truly ourselves, so we might be gift for others. Amen.

Prayer

God over all,

Your world bears the stamp of a grand design, which we have not always respected. Thinking ourselves masters over nature, we have abused the environment you gave us. In big and small ways, we have offended your hospitality, neglecting the home you gave us to tend. Now so many creatures, including us, show signs of such suffering. Our prayer today is thus one of sorrow. But it is also a prayer of hope. As creatures made in your image, we have been gifted with such remarkable inventiveness, creativity, and ingenuity. Help us to have fortitude and stamina to use these gifts wisely in new ways, making real changes to turn your world around. For the life of the world we pray, Amen.

Prayer

God of the possible,

We each know a few special souls who are so well endowed with enthusiasm. People who are ready for anything, made for action, who just do not understand disappointment and are able to surmount challenges while lifting up others. We thank you for these gifted leaders and ask you to bless them, as they strengthen and build our communities. And for all of us, too, as the people you made us, in our own various ways, bless us with the gift of enthusiasm, so that we might encourage and empower each other to pursue those dreams that otherwise seem so impossible. Amen.

Prayer

God of compassion,

Today is another day to choose to open our hearts and embrace our connections with others. We try so hard sometimes to act independent, as if we can do it all on our own. Yet we know the truth. We are made for each other. So, give us courage today, to be with and for others in the ways you have taught us. Help us share others’ burdens and show them we care. Amen.