Prayer

Spirit of Unity,

As we recognize International Day of Persons with Disabilities today, we recommit ourselves to pursuing the unity within all our diversity, working to foster a more inclusive culture of well-being that extends beyond our facilities’ walls and into our wider communities. May all those who find themselves excluded, by structures and systems that disadvantage them in a host of ways, instead find us as ready allies, eager to share their concerns and work for their good, in big ways and small. Amen.

Prayer

God of the voiceless,

As we respond to the signs of the times and extend your compassion today, we are thankful to have leaders within this ministry and across the Catholic community, who remain unflinching in their defense of human dignity. May their courage inspire our own, that we may fulfill our moral imperatives, as a ministry of the Church, distinguishing ourselves especially through service to and advocacy for all those who are particularly vulnerable and marginalized in our society. As a global ministry, help us to love and pray for our respective countries, while raising our voices in defense of our shared dignity. As one human family, we pray. Amen.

Prayer

God of compassion,

As we observe recognize World AIDS Day, let us recommit as a ministry to accompany neighbors near and far who are and have been wounded in different ways by AIDS. Those who grieve the loved ones lost, those presently affected, the young and vulnerable who are susceptible—all those who are so much bigger than the pain of disease and illness. Help us love them with compassionate and quality care, while continuing to invest in prevention and treatment. For the good of all, we pray. Amen.

God of love,

Your love for us has never been based on material items, rather it is a love that is all encompassing and dwells deep within our hearts. As we enter this most sacred season, help us to understand more fully the love you have for us, the love that Jesus brought to the world, and the love that we are called to share with each other every day. May we begin each day with a desire and dedication in sharing that same love with our patients, families, communities and co-workers, and may this time of Advent deepen our love for you. We ask this in the name of God, who loved us first. Amen.

Prayer

God over all,

Fill us with creativity and love, which flows from spirits eager to make a difference across the human family and the world we share together. May we employ our gifts and talents, guided by your Spirit’s inspiration, in the service of the common good, advancing a social fabric that protects and advances the inherent dignity of every person. Let our spirituality facilitate real and tangible cultivation of inclusive communities worth inhabiting. Amen.

Prayer

Creator God,
We give thanks for the rich traditions, wisdom, and care for the earth that Native peoples have shared for generations. Bless their communities with strength, healing, and hope. Guide us to walk in respect and unity with all your children. With gratitude for the beauty of every culture, we pray. Amen.

Prayer

Gracious God,
On this day, as we gather with family and friends to give thanks for all the good we have received, help us remember that sharing our blessings with others is part of our calling in life. It was through generous offerings and open invitations, so many years ago, that we became a nation celebrating the goodness of people coming together. As we carry that tradition forward, we thank you for your abundant, unconditional love. Amen.