Prayer

Magnificent God,

What a thought! To imagine that all of creation invites us to rejoice, even the smallest blade of grass! This beautiful, colorful world is so precious in your sight, and you call us to love it and care for it in your stead. May we do so boldly, by sharing in your vision of creation’s goodness, so we can steward its beauty and vitality with joy and gladness. Amen.

Prayer

God with us,

Your presence among us is such a gift. Yet on this holy day especially, we give you thanks for the promise you’ve made to always be near us in holy communion. As we strive to reciprocate your great love to us, may we be refreshed and renewed in our efforts of extending your healing touch to others. Send us today, as agents of your life-giving presence, so that all may experience the hope and joy of communion. With you and each other, we pray. Amen.

Prayer

Joyful Creator,

To observe your creation is to witness a world that is vibrant with life and joy and, indeed, a good dose of fun! So many of your creatures exhibit a playfulness that, we can only conclude, comes straight from your heart as the all-good designer. You must truly love fun and laughter. May we follow your lead in this and deliberately build into our lives a place for fun and joy. May we celebrate your creation with hope, knowing that our work in conserving and protecting the web of life you created is not a chore, but a deep cause of delight and purpose. Amen.

Prayer

Font of all joy,

The world is wanting for joy. People are waiting to hear they are loved, and loved unconditionally, simply for who they are and who you made them to be. Help us to serve our patients and families and communities with this kind of joy-filled love today. In all our engagements, conversations, and transactions, may we be extensions of joy, revealing a love beyond conditions. Amen.

Prayer

Compassionate Healer,

We have already discovered this reality: if we neglect caring for ourselves, we will eventually be unable to tend to the needs of others. Yet still we learn things the hard way. Sharpen our discernment together, that we might know with clarity when it’s time to step away and recoup. When it’s time to reach out for help. And when that time comes, surround us with colleagues and friends who embody the right combination of sensitivity and boldness. Sensitive enough to detect our need for self-care, and bold enough to insist we pursue it. As we strive to follow your golden rule, loving our neighbors as we love ourselves, help us we pray. Amen.  

Prayer

Ever-new Love,

In so many powerful ways, we bear witness to the renewing dynamic power of love. In our patients’ experience of healing in mind, body, and spirit. In the transformation of our relationships in community. In the many ways we see good help and compassion expressed to those who are suffering. Love is constantly being remade through this ministry we share, thanks to the loving attention of so many associates eager to serve. Inspire us all to follow such footsteps, that we might continue to let love lead in all that we do and say. Amen.

Prayer

God above us,

As we remember St. Jarlath today, we are inspired by a life so devoted to prayer, study, and good works for others. In our own ways today, give us a measure of peace, so that we too can be still, get to know you better, and then act in ways that extend your presence with and for others. We all are longing these days for a quiet moment to recoup and refresh. May the saints’ own habits inspire us to embrace a prayerful silence whenever we can. Amen.