Prayer

Strengthening Spirit,

We all grow weary at times, and so we must pause, rest, and recover. Other times, though, we just need motivation and encouragement to press on towards our goals and pursue our calling. Give us both at the appropriate time and in good measure, both rest and encouragement, so that the mission we share with you might succeed. As we serve you today by serving your people, let us be more conscientious of those beside us, those who need a restful break and those who need a strengthening word. May we be eager to support one another in meaningful ways. Amen.

Prayer

God of the living,

In late-nineteenth century Ireland, an apparition of Mary, Joseph, and John the Evangelist on the side of a church held a crowd of spectators captive for over two hours in the pouring rain. Unique to their vision was the appearance of a sacrificial lamb standing on a cross and surrounded by angels. As we celebrate this extraordinary event with our Irish colleagues today, we ask that we might be bold enough to remain on the lookout for new revelations of your presence among us. Fill us with wonder! Amen.

Prayer

Unconditional Love,

How challenging it can be for us to live out your mission! We know we’ve been called to serve those who are poor, underserved, and dying. Yet if we are honest, we are all guilty at times of sitting in judgment of those who come through our doors. Forgive us. When we fail to embody your gospel fully, by holding back your compassion from those we deem undeserving… Renew us today by grace, as we renew our commitment to show your love and concern for all people, without condition or judgment. Amen.

Prayer

Word of Life,

May our daily lives reflect the hope of our salvation, which you have won for us and which the saints now enjoy in the fullness of your presence. Thankful for the example of faith that they left us, especially Mary, your mother, we pray for our own words and deeds to become a source of hope for those who are hopeless. As we accompany each other towards life’s open future, we pray. Amen.

Prayer

Merciful God,

Today we may have colleagues who may be struggling in various ways. In solidarity with them, we call out to you for your deliverance, comfort, and new life. Make us each more willing to let your word come alive through us as we support and strengthen each other in tangible ways. May we become agents of your liberation to those needing a firm place to stand, and may we hold each other steady in the next steps ahead. Amen.

Prayer

God over all,

You have called us to partner with you in transforming the world. As we strive to do so faithfully, help us also remember that you are God and we are not. It is your mission we seek to extend by contributing what we can out of what we have. Beyond that is, indeed, beyond us. Help us, then, to find a deeper freedom by embracing our limits and trusting you with the rest. With gratitude for the mission that you’ve shared with us, Amen.

Prayer

God of the humble,

We are tempted sometimes to think that world-changing power depends on the title we’ve been given or the salary we make or the number of people we direct. Yet in the ministry you started and that we strive to embody, we’ve seen too much evidence to the contrary. The power to make a difference often comes from the humblest of hearts. So while our offering may be little and our efforts look paltry in the eyes of the world, you have shown us how your compassionate love can magnify the effects of whatever we bring to the table. No matter our role and function today, empower us to make a real difference in the places we live, work, and play. Amen.