Third Sunday of Advent

Third Sunday of Advent

Prayer

God of Joy,

As we enter into this third week of Advent, we rejoice in the approaching celebration of Jesus’ birth. Jesus came into this world to reveal the true meaning of love and how we are to treat one another. When we imitate the love of Jesus, we know that He is near, for such love can only be instilled through Him. Help us to take time this week to reflect on the true meaning of love and to rejoice in our role in sharing that love with others. In your name, we pray. Amen.

Reflection “December, being the last month of the year, cannot help but make us think of what is to come.” ~ Fennel Hudson Prayer God of new beginnings, As the New Year approaches and we look toward 2025, we may find ourselves wo

Prayer

God of new beginnings,

As the New Year approaches and we look toward 2025, we may find ourselves wondering what it will hold. Yet, it is crucial to remain focused on today, the present moment, for much is in store for us in the hours ahead. Too often, we dwell on the future or the past and miss the new beginnings you offer us each day. Guide us to be present in the now, so that when 2025 arrives, we will not regret what we may have missed. Grateful for the new beginnings each day brings, we pray. Amen.

Reflection “How many observe Christ’s birthday! How few, his precepts! O! ‘Tis easier to keep holidays than commandments.” –Benjamin Franklin Prayer Loving God, The anticipation of Christmas can fill us with a sense of excitement,

Prayer

Loving God,

The anticipation of Christmas can fill us with a sense of excitement, nostalgia, and warm feelings of joy to come. At the same time, fill us with a sense of conviction and determination, truly to keep focus on the reason for this season and to observe the coming of your son in the ways that we live our lives. May we all take time to reflect more deeply on the deeper meaning of Christ’s arrival, the ministry that Jesus grew into and embarked upon, and the incredible responsibility we have been given to extend that ministry today. With gratitude for the birthday to come, we pray. Amen.

Reflection “There is not one blade of grass, there is no color in this world that is not intended to make us rejoice.” –John Calvin Prayer Magnificent God, What a wonderful thought, even on the cusp of winter, to imagine that all

Prayer

Magnificent God,

What a wonderful thought, even on the cusp of winter, to imagine that all of creation invites us to rejoice, from the smallest blade of grass to the most majestic mountain vista! This beautiful, colorful world is so precious in your sight, and yet you have called us to step up and love it concretely, caring for it in your name and with your blessing. May we do so boldly, as part of our joyous response to the beauty of the world you have given. As a ministry and as people of conscience, fill us today with more of your vision for creation’s inherent goodness, so we can steward its vitality with joy and gladness. Amen.

Reflection “We must pray without ceasing, in every occurrence and employment of our lives—that prayer which is rather a habit of lifting up the heart to God as in a constant communication with Him.” –St. Elizabeth Ann Seton Prayer

Prayer

God who hears us,

Empower our ministry today to grow as a community of prayer. Beyond words alone, may we lift our hearts continuously to you and welcome your presence among us each moment. Make us effective as a community, healing whole persons—mind, body, and spirit, so that your life more abundant would be manifest among us. For caregivers and those serving at bedsides today, let a prayerful spirit bubble among them and inspire them in their work. For those who are especially suffering today, may the nearness of your presence through our words and deeds become a genuine source of comfort and support. Grateful that you invite us to be a part of what you are doing in the world, Amen.

Reflection “Experience is a hard teacher. She gives the test first and the lessons afterwards.” –Anonymous Prayer God over all, Thanks to your goodness and love, even our trials and challenges can be transformed into opportunities

Prayer

God over all,

Thanks to your goodness and love, even our trials and challenges can be transformed into opportunities for us, to grow in wisdom while growing closer to you. Help us to trust that, in all we experience, you are right there beside us, accompanying us and working in our favor so that somehow some good might come, even from situations we would never wish for ourselves. For those who are facing unique and painful challenges today, help us be the ones to accompany them and to extend your compassion to them in ways that bring a measure of peace. May we find meaningful and concrete ways to encourage them spiritually, so that they might face their experiences with patience and hope. Amen.

Memorial of the Immaculate Conception

Memorial of the Immaculate Conception

Prayer

Gracious God,

On this Feast of the Immaculate Conception we are glad to remember the significance of Mary’s example in the life of faith. Like Mary, may we all be open to receive the gifts you desire to give us and to welcome the workings of grace already present in our lives. Each one of us has a unique calling, just as Mary’s calling was unique; yet together we know you have gifted, equipped, and sent us to extend your presence in the world today. Help us to do that effectively, as partners in ministry collaborating with you. Amen.