Prayer

Ever-present God,

We all likely know that feeling, when we are desperate for help and so we reach out in prayer, yet our words hit the floor. We wonder: are you even there? As we wrestle through the challenge of a life of faith, it is comforting to know that even your saints felt this way. Help us consider that maybe, in some way, you are in fact closer when we feel you less. However we feel, strengthen our faith today and empower us to embrace the calling you have given and stand firm. Amen.

Prayer

Joyful God,

There is something so attractive about a heartfelt laugh. It is a source of refreshment in the course of our days. A new mom’s exhausted laugh-cry-sigh all at once, as the long-awaited delivery finally comes forth, an old man’s cackle at a well-spun tale from a friend, or a child’s giggle when the dog obeys, doing the same trick again and again. These are glimpses of freedom and spirit, which we are right to treasure whenever they come. Thank you that laughter and holiness go well together. Amen.

Prayer

God of Renewal,

Chaos. Brokenness. Destruction beyond imagining. These are the realities faced by many today, in their personal lives and shared lives together, as nations and across the world. We feel it, too, and we grieve. Yet we also have hope that your promise of transformation, redemption, and restoration will become a reality for all those in need. For the weak, the poor, and the vulnerable, empower us to help you bring order out of disorder, a meaningful world from the chaos. Amen.

Prayer

God of Rest and Restoration,

As we continue to celebrate Hospital Week, we are mindful of the strain and exhaustion affecting so many across our ministry. We pray for them today. Give our associates and colleagues the rest that they desperately need. Let a sense of urgency lead them to seek pathways for deeper restoration. May all those who are heavy-laden be encouraged today to seek and secure the renewal you long to give them for their health and well-being. Help us to continue to build a network that heals, protects and affirms each other. Amen.

Prayer

Servant of All,

We spend more and more of our waking hours looking at screens and devices than the faces of neighbors, friends, and family. There are benefits from all our technology, but we see trade-offs as well. As we forge ahead as a culture on-line, give us wisdom and discernment to remember our principles and hold on to our values. Help us always to put people first and to serve them as you have shown us, with humility, dedication, and neighborly love. Amen.

Prayer

Healing God,

Today and this week we recognize those who continue to work night and day in our health care facilities, sharing their gifts and their talents for the sake of the weak, the wounded, and vulnerable. May all those who extend your compassionate ministry across our facilities and care sites be strengthened this week. May their hands and feet be blessed as they continue their service. May their hearts and minds be encouraged, and their spirits uplifted as we share with them our gratitude. Amen.

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.