Prayer

God of love,

We marvel today at the unconditional love of mothers and indeed of all women who embody the spirit of maternal love, empowering others with selfless devotion and care. May the gift of motherhood flourish in our culture and society, as we all draw strength and support from the remarkable women who have shaped and nourished us. Yes, in so many ways, moms exemplify the invincible courage of love for others. So we thank you for them and we bless them today! Amen.

Prayer

God of life,

It is easy for us to dwell on the disparaging words spoken against us. Whether we hear them as kids, young adults, or later in life, they wound and darken our hearts in so many ways. Yet we believe and have seen that you have come into our lives so we might have life and have it abundantly. Heal us, then, from hurtful words of the past, and make us now to live in the light and the truth of your words of life. Help us be willing to share words of life with others in need. Amen.

Prayer

Compassionate God,

In the midst of all that continues to challenge us, we are amazed to see tireless heroes performing their duties faithfully—with devotion and compassion, and, sadly, too often, without recognition. Yet in our ministry, as Bon Secours Mercy Health, we do see and recognize the heroes among us, our nurses. Today and this week, we pray all nurses would sense in their hearts the deep regard that we have for them, as they continue their work in difficult circumstances. May they be honored among us, as we are inspired by them. Amen.

Prayer

Ever-listening God,

Today we join our prayers for the world with those of our friends, family, and neighbors. We are especially mindful of the spiritual connections we share with all people of faith. In unity and concern, we come before you with an urgent desire to carry the weak, to hold up the vulnerable, and to search for pathways of healing for all those who are wounded in mind, body, and spirit. Let our prayers be effective today, that your kingdom might come and your will be done, on earth as it is in heaven! Amen.

Prayer

God of Love for all,

Help us continue the good work already begun by those who are breaking the stigma that lingers around mental health issues. Give us the freedom as a people, as a culture and simply as neighbors, to live out our solidarity one with another, offering hands of support to all those in need. Let there be no reason among us for anyone to feel unworthy of help and support. Rather, in a spirit of unity, help us acknowledge we all are vulnerable in various ways and commit to building a common foundation for all to experience health and life to the full. Amen.

Prayer

Divine Presence,

We are troubled at times with questions and cares that we would love to bring to you directly. Someday we will, but until then we seek and we pray. We listen and look for your comforting presence. As we continue to search, give us patience with questions that cause us to struggle, and release us from worrying about what we cannot control. Above all else, continue to be near us through the world you have made. Day after day, night after night, let creation itself speak in your name. Amen.

Prayer

God of all blessing,

As our Muslim brothers and sisters conclude Ramadan with a holy feast, we all give thanks for the blessings of charity in our lives. In big ways and small, we all are connected in webs of giving and receiving that sustain us together, as one human family. Help us to be more mindful of these connections, and in gratitude for all we have received, renew in us a sincere and urgent desire to care for our neighbors, loving them as we love ourselves. Amen.