Prayer

Creator spirit,

The health and well-being we enjoy as individuals is directly connected to the health and well-being of the environment in which we are immersed. Wake us up to this reality more and more, that we might become ever more effective agents of healing to a planet in need. When we are tempted to focus unduly upon our own comfort and security, in isolation from others, remind us of the call to hospitality and solidarity with all of your creatures. In the hope of creating a more tolerable planet for all, we pray. Amen.

Prayer

Word of life,

What a harmonious world it would be, if more of us took the good advice to stay silent more often! Unless we’re improving the silence with a kind and true word that our neighbors deserve to hear, help us embrace the respite that attends a meaningful break from the meaningless chatter. We pray as well for our Muslim brothers and sisters, as they begin their holy season of Ramadan today. May they experience all the blessings that come from such a meaningful break in their own usual patterns and may we all be inspired by such a devoted vision of fasting. Amen.

Prayer

Source of all stability,

Our world feels like a turbulent and violent place to dwell. Many live each day in fear and distress, lacking hope for tomorrow. May we join our prayerful voices with theirs and, as one human family, cry out for your transforming grace. Renew the face of the earth and use us to do so! As we choose today to continue extending your transformative healing to all those in need, we thank you for being our refuge and strength. May we serve as a refuge and strength for all who are especially vulnerable today. Amen.

Prayer

God who knows best,

We strive to make plans using the most reliable information. Yet we will always encounter uncertainties. Help us become more conscientious about the unknowns attending our decisions, so that we may learn to adapt in the moment, with agility and wisdom. Remind us that you have promised to accompany us in every phase of the mission we share. As we journey forward by faith, give us assurance that we can handle all the unknowns together. Amen.  

Prayer

Gentle leader,

We pause today and lift in prayer all those who are now walking in the shadow of death. Those who are struggling with suffering and anticipating more challenges on the road ahead. Deliver them from fear and let them perceive your abiding presence within them, before and behind them. Lead them in the way of comfort and illumine their pathway forward. May they be surrounded by family, friends, and compassionate others who are eager to bless them with peace, assurance, and solidarity. Amen.

Prayer

Gracious Spirit,

Today we commit ourselves to make those choices that enhance our sense of connection, purpose, and meaning. We choose to reflect inwardly on our highest calling, and to consider the ways in which we are or are not living that calling to the full. Inspire us with the thought that the world is genuinely waiting for us to embody the gifts and talents you gave us, as the individuals we are. And so may we serve the world better, by growing closer to our spirits. Amen.

Prayer

God of blessing,

Along with its religious significance, St. Patrick’s Day gives us a chance to show respect and gratitude for the legacy of Irish culture. And so we give thanks for such a rich tradition overflowing with blessings, songs, and stories that manifest the gift of our presence together, all throughout the journey of life. Inspire us all, to make more of an effort to bless one another in myriad ways. At life’s thresholds of comings and goings, in the day to day work that surrounds us, throughout every phrase of our mission together—may we become better at receiving and giving genuine blessing. With joy and gladness on St. Patrick’s Day, Amen.