Prayer
God of joy,
Through the work we do with patients, families, and communities, joy can sometimes be difficult to experience because of the challenging journeys we walk with them. Illness and demanding situations are never easy, but through our interactions with each person, we often find joy together, even in the smallest moments. In the midst of struggles and challenges, help us to always seek out those moments of joy to carry us through. Amen.

Prayer
God of light,
A quick smile, a joyful ‘hello,’ a kind word, or just a pat on the back is enough to brighten someone’s day. You give us these simple gestures to share with others, reminding them of their value in this world and showing them they are loved. Too often, we get so caught up in our busyness that we forget to pause and share that light. Help us to remember the importance of bringing your light to our patients, families, co-workers, and communities. For this, we pray. Amen.

Prayer

God of solutions,
We often come to you with our problems, seeking your help, and many times desiring a quick solution. Yet, when we reflect on past challenges, we recognize that true and lasting solutions rarely come quickly, and that what is best comes from trusting in your perfect timing. Through our prayers, may we always be reminded that you hear each one of us, and in your time, you will answer each prayer with the best solution. In trust, we pray. Amen.

Prayer
Faithful God,

Upon hearing about the birth of your Son, Jesus, the three kings journeyed from the east to offer homage and gifts to the true King. Trusting in the star to guide them, their unwavering faith led them to Bethlehem, right to where the Christ child lay. May our faith be strengthened by their example, and may we follow your guidance in our lives, knowing that you will lead us to Christ through all those we encounter each day. Humbly, we pray. Amen.

Prayer
God of all,

We gather as a community to share the love that you so freely give to each of us. By taking time to share that love with others, we strengthen each other’s purpose here on this earth. When we build up, rather than tear down, the bonds between us grow stronger for the good of all. Help us to always choose to build each other up, to celebrate our purpose, and to live fully into the calling you’ve placed on us. Through these actions, may your love spread throughout the world. For the good of all, we pray. Amen.

Prayer

God of faith, hope, and love,

As we celebrate the feast day of St. Elizabeth Ann Seton, we are inspired by her confidence in you through her journey of faith, her hope in following your will, and her deep love for you that embraced every experience she encountered. May her example be our guide as we walk our own journey with you, and may we share that same faith, hope, and love with all those we serve. We ask this in your name. Amen.

Prayer

Unifying God,

The culture around us often lacks tolerance, to say nothing of promoting compassion, for people who are different or who hold contrasting beliefs. May it be different among us, in the ministry we advance together. Let us be fearless in modelling a community that affirms every person’s fundamental dignity and receives them just as they are. No matter what differences we may otherwise discover between us, let compassion drive us to forge new paths of unity that can inspire change and heal the divisions around us. By your grace, we pray. Amen.