Prayer

Joyful God,

In these days of confusion and conflict, help us build bridges of laughter that can unite people. Forgive us for toxic speech and cranky complaints. Show us how to reclaim a space in the company of others, where the seriousness of our concerns never erodes the freedom and yes, even the delight, that comes from working together for the common good. Let laughter collapse the distance between us as we discover new ways to cooperate, collaborate, and brighten the days ahead. For the good of all we pray, Amen.

Prayer

God of mercy and grace,

We are so often daunted by the magnitude of the problems we face. The gravity of the world’s pain weighs us down and can tempt us to despair. Strengthen our hearts today, that we might keep a proper perspective and do what we can. Help us remember that we are not obliged to save the whole world, all on our own. And when we feel like giving up, restore our compassion at least for the one before us right now. In this moment we pray, Amen.

Prayer

Gracious God,

Sometimes we need reminding that our treasure is ever before us, in the faces of those we are serving. Those who are poor, vulnerable, underserved, and dying. They are so precious in your sight and our hearts should swell with gratitude for being able to serve and minister to them in your name. As we strive to do so faithfully, remind us of the ultimate value of what we are doing. Beyond the paycheck and the provision it brings, our service here reveals our greatest priorities and puts value where it belongs: in sacrificial love for others, just as you showed us. Amen.

Prayer

Ever-working God,

We are glad for those colleagues who seem so naturally gifted at whatever they do. Yet we all know that serving well in this ministry requires more than talent alone. Our calling demands a virtuous degree of commitment, dedication, effort, and hard work. When we are tempted to look down on ourselves for not being as gifted or talented as others, remind us that you always look at our hearts and you see the sacrifices we make every day to work hard. Give us stamina to remain on this path to which you have called us, together, that we might better serve the needs of those around us. Amen.

Prayer

Encouraging Word,

When there are voices of discouragement around us, give us laser-like focus on the bigger purpose and mission to which we are committed. When the voice of discouragement comes from within us, give us colleagues and partners who are quick to lift up our heads, and who will urge us to stay on the path to which you have called us. May the voices of those who say it cannot be done find encouragement in the support by those of us who are ready to embrace the work set before us with joy. Yes, we know that with you by our side, all things are possible. Amen.

Prayer

Indiscriminate Love,

It’s easy for us to love those we like and especially those who love us in return. Yet you call us to discover love’s greater depths. You call us to show love to all people, no matter who they are or what they can do for us. As we celebrate the life and love of St. John Vianney today, we are reminded that our religion—our bond with you—is “true” only if it leads us to show universal charity for everyone, without condition. And so we ask you again to lead us, as we strive to practice new depths of love today. Amen.

Prayer

Giver of all that is good,

You have so richly blessed us with this sweet gift of life, which you give to all your children with a mysterious mix of limitations and opportunities. We are, each one of us, free to make of our lives whatever we will, in the places and times that you have put us. With gratitude for this great gift of life, help us avoid the temptations of biding our time and distracting ourselves in trivial amusements. May we passionately strive to make the most of this life and to develop in new ways each day, so that we may become gifts before you and a source of life to our neighbors and world. Amen.