Prayer
Lord of love,
As we celebrate Jesus’ entrance into Heaven, we trust in his promise of eternal life for all who believe. Strengthen our faith and inspire us to share it with others, so that many may come to know the hope of your kingdom. May our lives reflect the joy of this promise as we journey toward you. In faith, we pray. Amen.
Prayer
Loving God,
In our desire to serve others, we sometimes forget to care for ourselves. Your love reminds us that nurturing our own well-being allows us to give more fully to those in need. Help us find balance, tending to our own health so we may better serve the poor, the dying, and the underserved. Guide us in being good stewards of the gifts you have given us. Amen.
Prayer
Creator God,
Your beauty is revealed in the wonders of nature—blooming flowers, flowing rivers, and majestic mountains. Yet, we have not always cared for creation as we should, allowing harm to threaten its future. Help us to be mindful stewards of the earth, working to restore and protect its beauty. May our efforts ensure that future generations can witness and cherish your magnificent creation. For your glory, we pray. Amen.
Memorial Day
Prayer
God of Peace and Strength,
Today, we honor and remember all those who have made the ultimate sacrifice in defense of our country. For nearly 250 years, courageous men and women have given their lives out of love and dedication to their homeland. May their sacrifice never be forgotten. We ask that you bring comfort to their families, strength to those who continue their legacy by serving in the Armed Forces, and gratitude in the hearts of all Americans who live in freedom because of their selfless service. In gratitude, we pray. Amen
Prayer
Lord of All,
May your favor rest upon us as we strive to do your work—healing the sick, comforting the dying, and serving those who are poor and underserved. You guide our hands in reaching out to those in need, allowing them to encounter the depth of your love through our care. Strengthen us to continue this sacred work and may your grace touch all those we serve. In your holy name, we pray. Amen.
Memorial of Our Lady, Help of Christians
Prayer
God of Strength,
On this day in 1814, Pope Pius VII was freed after five years of imprisonment under Napoleon’s rule. In gratitude, he honored Mary with a special feast, recognizing her as Our Lady, Help of Christians. We, too, are ever grateful for her intercession, knowing that she continually leads us to her Son. May we turn to Mary as a source of strength, trusting in her prayers on our behalf and finding comfort in her loving guidance. Through her intercession, may our world be blessed with peace and healing. In your name, we pray. Amen.
Prayer
Gracious God,
Inspire us to be people of integrity. Fill us with your Holy Spirit that we may be the people you create and call us to be. May our actions always be consistent with the values we cherish. Give us the courage to practice the principles you call us to embody rather than simply profess them. May we strive always to live an authentic life, dedicated to serving others and making the world a better place for all. Amen.