Reflection   “Do to others whatever you would have them do to you. This is the law and the prophets.”  –Matthew 7:12   Prayer   Eternal Wisdom,  Your golden rule is as needed today as it was two-thousand years ago, and it’s just as count

Prayer

Eternal Wisdom,

Your golden rule is as needed today as it was two-thousand years ago, and it’s just as countercultural, too! For we live in a culture prone to forget about treating others the way we want to be treated—regardless or not whether they do. Instead, we see an atmosphere of retribution and retaliation that goes far beyond the demands of real justice. Grant us your mercy and give us your courage, that we might embody an ethic that embraces our common good together and keeps our eyes fixed on the good of “the other.” May we in this ministry especially be focused on treating others rightly, exemplifying unity, and seeking to live in harmony across all our differences. Amen.

     

 
    Reflection   “If it weren’t for hope, the heart would break.” –Thomas Fuller   Prayer   Source of all hope,  As a people of hope, we are especially sensitive towards those who are hopeless, even to the point of heartbreak. We put them be

Prayer

Source of all hope,

As a people of hope, we are especially sensitive towards those who are hopeless, even to the point of heartbreak. We put them before you, and with a spirit of compassion we implore you: rekindle their strength and lift their hearts. Use us in our service to them, that we might ignite at least a glimmer of expectation for the future ahead. May we be companions to them and stand on your promise together, that somehow you are able to bring about good from even the darkest of circumstances. Amen.

     

 
    Reflection   “It is what it is. But it will be what you make it.” –Pat Summitt   Prayer   Empowering God,  The gap between the world as it is and the world as it should be is often cause for grief and frustration, even anger. Yet we are

Prayer

Empowering God,

The gap between the world as it is and the world as it should be is often cause for grief and frustration, even anger. Yet we are here, today, standing up as a ministry and as people of conviction, believing we can make a difference—on behalf of patients and families, our wider communities, and the world to which we belong. Inspire us today to continue serving as agents of transformation, willing to do what we can to bring more of your dream for the world into reality. Amen.

     

 
    Reflection   “Coincidences are spiritual puns.” –G. K. Chesterton   Prayer   All in all,  It’s a sign of our times that we put so much stock in scientific and rational explanations for everything. Open our eyes to see more broadly and to

Prayer

All in all,

It’s a sign of our times that we put so much stock in scientific and rational explanations for everything. Open our eyes to see more broadly and to perceive more of the mystery laced throughout our experiences. Lead us to develop the kind of spiritual awareness that is eager to discover signs of your presence, even in something as simple as a coincidence. For the many ways you orchestrate simple blessings all throughout our days, we give thanks. Amen.

Summer Solstice

Summer Solstice

Prayer

God of the Seasons,

Summer is upon us, where the grass is green, children are playing outside, flowers are budding, bees are buzzing, and life seems to go just a little bit slower. Help us to take time to enjoy these summer days, spending them with family and friends, and knowing that your love for us surrounds us like the summer sun.  Summer has always been a special time to get rejuvenated and find joy in your creation of the outdoors.  Guide us to spend these days wisely, and to be refreshed in your spirit.  We ask this in love, Amen.

Memorial of the Irish Martyrs

Memorial of the Irish Martyrs

Prayer

God our source of strength and courage,

The Memorial of the Irish Martyrs gives us reason to celebrate such great examples of faith-filled men and women, whose heroic virtue encourages us still to this today. They were strong and courageous people, and their faith never failed even in times of turmoil and temptation. We hold them in high regard and honor the lives they led, and the faith we witness through their words and deeds. We ask your blessing upon them and upon all of us, as we each strive to embody a faith-filled life of love in our day. In your name, we pray. Amen.  

Juneteenth

Juneteenth

Prayer

God of Human Dignity,

As Bon Secours Mercy Health, we celebrate Juneteenth as a day to remember the freedom of all people, regardless of race, creed or color. Our organizational values call us to respect the Dignity of all people and to advocate for those whose dignity is most at risk of being overlooked or neglected, especially those who are poor, dying and underserved.  Remind us daily that we are all your children and that you love each one of us uniquely, infinitely, and without comparison.  Help us to show this type of love for each other, and through that love freedom will reign. We ask this in the name of the God of love, Amen.