Prayer

God of life,

You showed us and told us that the life of faith entails risk. Yet we often find excuses to hunker down and remain in our usual zones of comfort. Give us courage instead, as people and as a ministry, to step out in faith and to trust that you will guide us to greatness, even through unfamiliar terrain. As we take inspiration from the leaders before us, may we be as willing to surrender our desire for safety for the success of your mission. Amen.

Prayer

Unifying spirit,

As we continue to celebrate Spiritual Care Week, we give thanks for those servants among us who devote so much energy and talent to building community and ensuring everyone they encounter experiences a sense of belonging. For patients and families and for us as well, our chaplains and spiritual health professionals ensure that each of your children is seen, heard, and loved in the fullness of their dignity before you. Empower them for the good work they perform and may we bless them this week especially, with tangible signs of support and encouragement. Amen.

Prayer

Joyful Spirit,

Made in your image, we so often experience a share of your happiness when we do the things you love, especially works of service. Thank you for the inner joy that comes from extending your ministry of healing in our communities. Give us strength to go on each day, holding fast to our deepest sense of purpose and meaning in the work we perform and the help we provide to others. Even when situations are tense and choices are tough, let us end the day happy knowing we’ve found our way to serve. Amen.

Prayer

God of excellence,

We know and have seen that you do all things well. Help us reflect your own character through our commitment to quality in all our interactions with patients and families but especially through the care we provide them and our wider communities. May our mission of improving health and well-being continue to be realized among us, and may all those professionals directly responsible for healthcare quality be blessed this week. Amen.

Prayer 

God of light, 

As many of us continue celebrating the festivities of Diwali, we all take time to give thanks and rejoice in the power of light over darkness. Shed your light abroad in our hearts today, that we might illumine the places we serve and put the shadows to flight. Brighten the world through our lives of service and dedication, as we strive to share your compassionate love, mercy, and healing to all those in need. Amen. 

Prayer

God our help,

We in our times of need, offering up our tears and groanings as the world around us becomes strained. You are so faithful in helping us. As we encounter others today who are suffering in their own ways, empower us by your spirit to bring them good help and compassion, responding to their needs, as an expression of your own goodness and love. As we all look to you, we pray. Amen.

Prayer

Loving God,

Help us to remain open and teachable to the rhythms of your creation, for we are your creatures, designed in your goodness, and play an integral part within the whole network of life sustained by your love and attention. Let our gratitude for the changing of the seasons and the movement of the sun comfort us, as we remember that you are changing us as well, from the inside out, from darkness to light, through sorrow to healing and help for others. Amen.