Prayer

Attentive spirit,

The gift of attention is one of the sweetest offerings we can extend to others. To be present and attentive, eager to listen with our whole being to the person before us. Help us to honor the dignity of all your children by becoming more generous with our attention. May we see the people around us through your eyes, respecting them as the persons they are. As we extend your compassionate ministry today, help us respond to the goodness within every individual by giving them the gift of attention. Amen.

Prayer

God of tomorrow,

We often see the gap between the way things are and the way they should be. For those of us in the helping professions, we see this gap and sincerely long to overcome it, for the good of others and the betterment of our communities. Yes, we were first drawn to this work because we hope to see more of your dream for humanity come into reality through us. Encourage us today as we pursue that dream once again. No matter how long we’ve been at it, remind us that the future will be what we make it. With your presence to guide and accompany us, we have every reason to believe that healing and deliverance will come. Amen.

Prayer

God over all,

The American flag is an enduring symbol of freedom and hope for people in search of a land of opportunity. A nation where the shared pursuit of the common good might enable the flourishing of each and every citizen. And vice versa, where the flourishing of individual citizens leads them to build up the common good. As a ministry called by your name, help us resist the temptation to sentimentalize such noble ideals. Instead, on this day especially, may we renew our commitment to embody these ideals with conviction, devotion, and a sincere desire for unity, across all our differences. Amen.

Prayer

Loving Creator,

The warnings have been repeated so many times that we risk growing numb. Yet the truth remains. We are obliged to change our ways of living so that our children might have a world worth inheriting. By your mercy and grace, empower us, as individuals and as an organization, to become diligent and passionate practitioners of environmental stewardship. May we encourage our culture in the same direction, until we all are aware of the calling we’ve been given, as those made in your image, to protect the earth in your name and lead it to a beautiful future. Amen.

Prayer

Liberating God,

As those who claim to know you, we should be those who know “the joyful shout.” We should be those who celebrate loudest because the God we serve is in the business of justice, liberation and compassion, especially on behalf of the poor, vulnerable, and marginalized. And so if we are among those who’ve been touched by your healing power, help us reveal it in our words and deeds and invite others to know you as we do. May we do so joyfully, motivated by your own heart of love. Amen.

Prayer

Good Shepherd,

On this Feast of St. Oliver Plunkett, we are inspired to remember and hold on to your promise to unify and restore us as one human family. Beyond every division and the many ways we’ve been scattered, lead us to a future in which we can appreciate our interdependence more and more, and can commit to securing the cause of peace. In your name, we pray. Amen.

Prayer

Gracious God,

We should all be more amazed by the work of your grace in our lives. For through the eyes of our hearts we are able to see so many stories of profound transformation. As patients respond to quality, compassionate care; as communities are empowered by the support we provide; or as colleagues and friends are encouraged to develop their skills and talents while growing as persons before you… In all of these ways, we have been so richly graced. As a ministry together, lead us to marvel today at your amazing grace. Amen.