Prayer for Those Who Are Afraid
The unknown is terrifying,
responsibility is overwhelming,
the untapped anger cannot be borne.
Hear our cry, O God of love,
for all so trapped in fear.
Open our hearts to trust
your presence to guide us
in the unknown places;
teach us to know
you will support us in all
that we undertake;
free us to share with you
the rage within, knowing
you will never desert us.
Amen.
- Vienna Cobb Anderson
Prayers
Blessings on a Marriage
May the sun of many days and years shine upon you;
May the love you have for one another grow and hold you close;
May the good true light within you guide you on your way together;
May your dreams come true, and when they do not, may new dreams arise.
In the words of Leo Tolstoy, may you each bring more love and truth into this world,
and may your marriage be the instrument that sustains you in this task.
And long, long years from now, may you look at one another and be able to say, "Because of you, I have lived the life I always wanted to live - because of you, I have become the person I longed to be."
- Cynthia Reed, Wedding Celebrant
****
Prayer for Those Suffering From Alzheimer’s
O God of love,
hear our prayer
for all who suffer from Alzheimer’s.
In the days of changing memory,
be with them in their fears.
In the days when memory has gone,
bless their families who suffer.
Surround them with tender love
from family, friend, and stranger.
Grant them peace in their hearts,
a secure home environment,
and dignity in their lives.
May each day bring a blessing,
hope, and greater love.
Amen.
- Vienna Cobb Anderson
May the sun of many days and years shine upon you;
May the love you have for one another grow and hold you close;
May the good true light within you guide you on your way together;
May your dreams come true, and when they do not, may new dreams arise.
In the words of Leo Tolstoy, may you each bring more love and truth into this world,
and may your marriage be the instrument that sustains you in this task.
And long, long years from now, may you look at one another and be able to say, "Because of you, I have lived the life I always wanted to live - because of you, I have become the person I longed to be."
- Cynthia Reed, Wedding Celebrant
****
Prayer for Those Suffering From Alzheimer’s
O God of love,
hear our prayer
for all who suffer from Alzheimer’s.
In the days of changing memory,
be with them in their fears.
In the days when memory has gone,
bless their families who suffer.
Surround them with tender love
from family, friend, and stranger.
Grant them peace in their hearts,
a secure home environment,
and dignity in their lives.
May each day bring a blessing,
hope, and greater love.
Amen.
- Vienna Cobb Anderson
Morning Prayer
We have awoken, and all of creation has awoken, for Allah, Lord of all the Worlds. Allah, I ask You for the best the day has to offer, victory, support, light, blessings and guidance; and I seek refuge in You from the evil in it, and the evil to come after it.
- Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him)
****
To Know God's Will
Father, I'm praying that (name one or more) and others in my circle of family and friends will know Your will...
Help them know Your will through the spiritual wisdom and understanding that comes from the Spirit so they may live lives worthy of You, pleasing You in every way. Help them to bear fruit, to influence others' lives in every good thing they do. May they constantly be growing in their understanding of who You are and in their awareness of how You work in the world. (Colossians 1:9, 1 John 2:28; Colossians 1:10)
Help them offer themselves as living sacrifices, desiring not to live like those who are giving in to the ways of the world but to be totally changed by the renewing of their minds. Then they will be able to know Your will—Your good, pleasing, and perfect will. (Romans 12:1–2)
May they yield their will to Yours and set their hearts on doing Your will. Help them set aside their own desires, seeking only Your will, standing firm and keeping on in Your strength. Help them be strong and not give up no matter what happens— filled with joy and thanksgiving. (Matthew 6:10; Ephesians 6:6; Colossians 4:12; Hebrews 10:36; Colossians 1:11–12a)
May they have no other desire than Yours. In Jesus' name, amen.
***
I Look to Thee in Every Need
I look to Thee in every need, and never look in vain;
I feel Thy strong and tender love, and all is well again.
The thought of Thee is mightier far than sin and pain and sorrow are.
Discouraged in the work of life, disheartened by its load,
Shamed by its failures or its fears, I sink beside the road.
But let me only think of Thee and then new heart springs up in me.
Thy calmness bends serene above, my restlessness to still;
Around me flows Thy quickening life, to nerve my faltering will.
Thy presence fills my solitude, Thy providence turns all to good.
Enfolded deep in Thy dear love, held in Thy law, I stand;
Thy hand in all things I behold, and all things in Thy hand.
Thou leadest me by unsought ways, and turn my mourning into praise.
- Samuel Longfellow
We have awoken, and all of creation has awoken, for Allah, Lord of all the Worlds. Allah, I ask You for the best the day has to offer, victory, support, light, blessings and guidance; and I seek refuge in You from the evil in it, and the evil to come after it.
- Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him)
****
To Know God's Will
Father, I'm praying that (name one or more) and others in my circle of family and friends will know Your will...
Help them know Your will through the spiritual wisdom and understanding that comes from the Spirit so they may live lives worthy of You, pleasing You in every way. Help them to bear fruit, to influence others' lives in every good thing they do. May they constantly be growing in their understanding of who You are and in their awareness of how You work in the world. (Colossians 1:9, 1 John 2:28; Colossians 1:10)
Help them offer themselves as living sacrifices, desiring not to live like those who are giving in to the ways of the world but to be totally changed by the renewing of their minds. Then they will be able to know Your will—Your good, pleasing, and perfect will. (Romans 12:1–2)
May they yield their will to Yours and set their hearts on doing Your will. Help them set aside their own desires, seeking only Your will, standing firm and keeping on in Your strength. Help them be strong and not give up no matter what happens— filled with joy and thanksgiving. (Matthew 6:10; Ephesians 6:6; Colossians 4:12; Hebrews 10:36; Colossians 1:11–12a)
May they have no other desire than Yours. In Jesus' name, amen.
***
I Look to Thee in Every Need
I look to Thee in every need, and never look in vain;
I feel Thy strong and tender love, and all is well again.
The thought of Thee is mightier far than sin and pain and sorrow are.
Discouraged in the work of life, disheartened by its load,
Shamed by its failures or its fears, I sink beside the road.
But let me only think of Thee and then new heart springs up in me.
Thy calmness bends serene above, my restlessness to still;
Around me flows Thy quickening life, to nerve my faltering will.
Thy presence fills my solitude, Thy providence turns all to good.
Enfolded deep in Thy dear love, held in Thy law, I stand;
Thy hand in all things I behold, and all things in Thy hand.
Thou leadest me by unsought ways, and turn my mourning into praise.
- Samuel Longfellow
To Be Content Alone
Father, I'm praying for (name one or more) and others in my circle of family and friends who are single...
For these who are not married and may find it troubling, I ask You to help them learn to be content with being single, as well as with any other issues or circumstances of life they find themselves in. (Philippians 4:11b)
Help them delight in You, for You have said when we do, You'll give us the desires of our heart. May their desires match Your desires, Your will and plan for their lives; then fulfill Your purpose for them. (Psalm 37:4; 57:2; 138:8)
If Your plan is for them to be married, give them the grace to wait on You, to be strong and take heart. As they wait, help them to keep Your ways, discerning what is best, keeping pure and blameless in Your sight. (Psalm 27:14; 37:34; Philippians 1:10)
I ask Your special touch on those who are single parents, because managing a home without a spouse can be difficult. May they put their hope in You, continuing night and day in prayer. May others in the body of Christ respond to their needs as they would want to be helped if they were alone. (1 Timothy 5:5; Matthew 7:12)
May they be fulfilled in Christ. In Jesus' name, amen.
- Jim & Kaye Johns
***
Prayer for Right Behavior
In the name of Allah (I go out); I place my trust in Allah! O Allah, I seek refuge in You from being made to stumble, from straying and from being made to stray, from doing wrong to others and from being wronged by others, and from losing my temper with others, and their losing it with me.
- Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him)
Father, I'm praying for (name one or more) and others in my circle of family and friends who are single...
For these who are not married and may find it troubling, I ask You to help them learn to be content with being single, as well as with any other issues or circumstances of life they find themselves in. (Philippians 4:11b)
Help them delight in You, for You have said when we do, You'll give us the desires of our heart. May their desires match Your desires, Your will and plan for their lives; then fulfill Your purpose for them. (Psalm 37:4; 57:2; 138:8)
If Your plan is for them to be married, give them the grace to wait on You, to be strong and take heart. As they wait, help them to keep Your ways, discerning what is best, keeping pure and blameless in Your sight. (Psalm 27:14; 37:34; Philippians 1:10)
I ask Your special touch on those who are single parents, because managing a home without a spouse can be difficult. May they put their hope in You, continuing night and day in prayer. May others in the body of Christ respond to their needs as they would want to be helped if they were alone. (1 Timothy 5:5; Matthew 7:12)
May they be fulfilled in Christ. In Jesus' name, amen.
- Jim & Kaye Johns
***
Prayer for Right Behavior
In the name of Allah (I go out); I place my trust in Allah! O Allah, I seek refuge in You from being made to stumble, from straying and from being made to stray, from doing wrong to others and from being wronged by others, and from losing my temper with others, and their losing it with me.
- Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him)
Every Minute
Through every minute of this day, be with me, Lord!
Through every day of all this week, be with me, Lord!
Through every week of all this year, be with me, Lord!
So shall the days and weeks and years be threaded on a golden cord.
And all draw on with sweet accord into thy fullness, Lord, that so,
When time is past,
By grace I may, at last,
Be with thee, Lord.
- John Oxenham
***
Guide Me Through These Dark Days
O Lord, I am torn up with grief.
I know you are there, but I cannot see past
my sorrow and tears.
Be with me, Lord, and do not take
my unhappiness to heart.
Rather, work within me to guide me through
these dark days
and bring your light to my life,
so that I may see your goodness, even in my mourning.
- Maureen Pratt
Through every minute of this day, be with me, Lord!
Through every day of all this week, be with me, Lord!
Through every week of all this year, be with me, Lord!
So shall the days and weeks and years be threaded on a golden cord.
And all draw on with sweet accord into thy fullness, Lord, that so,
When time is past,
By grace I may, at last,
Be with thee, Lord.
- John Oxenham
***
Guide Me Through These Dark Days
O Lord, I am torn up with grief.
I know you are there, but I cannot see past
my sorrow and tears.
Be with me, Lord, and do not take
my unhappiness to heart.
Rather, work within me to guide me through
these dark days
and bring your light to my life,
so that I may see your goodness, even in my mourning.
- Maureen Pratt
Prayer to the Holy Spirit
Breathe in me, O Holy Spirit, that my thoughts may all be holy.
Act in me, O Holy Spirit, that my work, too, may be holy.
Draw my heart, O Holy Spirit, that I love but what is holy.
Strengthen me, O Holy Spirit, to defend all that is holy.
Guard me, then, O Holy Spirit, that I always may be holy.
Amen.
- St. Augustine
***
Prayer for the Nation
With malice toward none; with charity for all; with firmness in the right, as God gives us to see the right, let us strive on to finish the work we are in; to bind up the nation's wounds... to do all which may achieve and cherish a just and lasting peace among ourselves and with all nations.
- Abraham Lincoln
***
Breathe in me, O Holy Spirit, that my thoughts may all be holy.
Act in me, O Holy Spirit, that my work, too, may be holy.
Draw my heart, O Holy Spirit, that I love but what is holy.
Strengthen me, O Holy Spirit, to defend all that is holy.
Guard me, then, O Holy Spirit, that I always may be holy.
Amen.
- St. Augustine
***
Prayer for the Nation
With malice toward none; with charity for all; with firmness in the right, as God gives us to see the right, let us strive on to finish the work we are in; to bind up the nation's wounds... to do all which may achieve and cherish a just and lasting peace among ourselves and with all nations.
- Abraham Lincoln
***
Your Love and Your Grace
Take, O Lord, and receive all my liberty, my memory, my understanding and my will; all that I have and possess. You have given them to me; to you, O Lord, I restore them. All things are yours: Dispose of them according to your will. Give me your love and your grace; for this is enough for me.
- St. Ignatius of Loyola
***
Prayer for Help With Finances
Dear God,
I surrender my financial affairs and concerns about money to your Divine care and love.
I ask that you remove my worries, anxieties, and fears about money, and replace them with faith.
I know and trust that my debts will be paid and money will flow into my life.
I have only to look to nature to see proof of the abundance you provide.
I release all negative thoughts about money, and know that prosperity is my true state.
I commit to being grateful for all that I now have in my life.
I learn to manage my finances wisely, seeking help where needed.
And finally, I ask you to help me understand my purpose in life and to act on that purpose with courage and strength. I know that prosperity will come, in part, by doing work I love. Please help me use my skills and knowledge to be of service in the world.
Thank you, God.
Amen
- Lynn Robinson
Take, O Lord, and receive all my liberty, my memory, my understanding and my will; all that I have and possess. You have given them to me; to you, O Lord, I restore them. All things are yours: Dispose of them according to your will. Give me your love and your grace; for this is enough for me.
- St. Ignatius of Loyola
***
Prayer for Help With Finances
Dear God,
I surrender my financial affairs and concerns about money to your Divine care and love.
I ask that you remove my worries, anxieties, and fears about money, and replace them with faith.
I know and trust that my debts will be paid and money will flow into my life.
I have only to look to nature to see proof of the abundance you provide.
I release all negative thoughts about money, and know that prosperity is my true state.
I commit to being grateful for all that I now have in my life.
I learn to manage my finances wisely, seeking help where needed.
And finally, I ask you to help me understand my purpose in life and to act on that purpose with courage and strength. I know that prosperity will come, in part, by doing work I love. Please help me use my skills and knowledge to be of service in the world.
Thank you, God.
Amen
- Lynn Robinson
Show Me the Course
Steer the ship of my life, good Lord, to your quiet harbour, where I can be safe from the storms of sin and conflict. Show me the course I should take. Renew in me the gift of discernment, so that I can always see the right direction in which I should go. And give me the strength and the courage to choose the right course, even when the sea is rough and the waves are high, knowing that through enduring hardship and danger in your name we shall find comfort and peace.
- Basil of Caesarea (c. 329-379)
Steer the ship of my life, good Lord, to your quiet harbour, where I can be safe from the storms of sin and conflict. Show me the course I should take. Renew in me the gift of discernment, so that I can always see the right direction in which I should go. And give me the strength and the courage to choose the right course, even when the sea is rough and the waves are high, knowing that through enduring hardship and danger in your name we shall find comfort and peace.
- Basil of Caesarea (c. 329-379)
Prayer for Police Officers
Almighty God we pray to you
In heaven up above
Watch over our dear police officers
And protect them with your love.
Please guide them as they keep us
safe both day and night
And hold them firmly in your care
should danger come their way.
Give them true strength and courage
As they serve til duty's end
And one more thing to ask dear Lord
Protect their family and their friends.
Almighty God we pray to you
In heaven up above
Watch over our dear police officers
And protect them with your love.
Please guide them as they keep us
safe both day and night
And hold them firmly in your care
should danger come their way.
Give them true strength and courage
As they serve til duty's end
And one more thing to ask dear Lord
Protect their family and their friends.
Prayer of Thanks for Creation
Great and Eternal Mystery of Life, Creator of All Things, I give thanks for the beauty You put in every single one of Your creations.
I am grateful that You did not fail in making every stone, plant, creature, and human being a perfect and whole part of the Sacred Hoop.
I am grateful that You have allowed me to see the strength and beauty of All My Relations.
My humble request is that all of the Children of Earth will learn to see the same perfection in themselves.
May none of Your human children doubt or question Your wisdom, grace, and sense of wholeness in giving all of Creation a right to be living extensions of Your perfect love.
Great and Eternal Mystery of Life, Creator of All Things, I give thanks for the beauty You put in every single one of Your creations.
I am grateful that You did not fail in making every stone, plant, creature, and human being a perfect and whole part of the Sacred Hoop.
I am grateful that You have allowed me to see the strength and beauty of All My Relations.
My humble request is that all of the Children of Earth will learn to see the same perfection in themselves.
May none of Your human children doubt or question Your wisdom, grace, and sense of wholeness in giving all of Creation a right to be living extensions of Your perfect love.
Breakfast Prayer
Father, we thank thee for the night,
And for the pleasant morning light.
For rest and food and loving care,
And all that makes the day so fair.
Help us to do the thing we should,
To be to others kind and good,
In all we do, in all we say,
To grow more loving every day.
- Rebecca J. Weston
Father, we thank thee for the night,
And for the pleasant morning light.
For rest and food and loving care,
And all that makes the day so fair.
Help us to do the thing we should,
To be to others kind and good,
In all we do, in all we say,
To grow more loving every day.
- Rebecca J. Weston
Prayer for Autumn Days
God of the seasons, there is a time for everything; there is a time for dying and a time for rising. We need courage to enter into the transformation process.
God of autumn, the trees are saying goodbye to their green, letting go of what has been. We, too, have our moments of surrender, with all their insecurity and risk. Help us to let go when we need to do so.
God of fallen leaves lying in colored patterns on the ground, our lives have their own patterns. As we see the patterns of our own growth, may we learn from them.
God of misty days and harvest moon nights, there is always the dimension of mystery and wonder in our lives. We always need to recognize your power-filled presence. May we gain strength from this.
God of harvest wagons and fields of ripened grain, many gifts of growth lie within the season of our surrender. We must wait for harvest in faith and hope. Grant us patience when we do not see the blessings.
God of geese going south for another season, your wisdom enables us to know what needs to be left behind and what needs to be carried into the future. We yearn for insight and vision.
God of flowers touched with frost and windows wearing white designs, may your love keep our hearts from growing cold in the empty seasons.
God of life, you believe in us, you enrich us, you entrust us with the freedom to choose life. For all this, we are grateful.
- Author Unknown
God of the seasons, there is a time for everything; there is a time for dying and a time for rising. We need courage to enter into the transformation process.
God of autumn, the trees are saying goodbye to their green, letting go of what has been. We, too, have our moments of surrender, with all their insecurity and risk. Help us to let go when we need to do so.
God of fallen leaves lying in colored patterns on the ground, our lives have their own patterns. As we see the patterns of our own growth, may we learn from them.
God of misty days and harvest moon nights, there is always the dimension of mystery and wonder in our lives. We always need to recognize your power-filled presence. May we gain strength from this.
God of harvest wagons and fields of ripened grain, many gifts of growth lie within the season of our surrender. We must wait for harvest in faith and hope. Grant us patience when we do not see the blessings.
God of geese going south for another season, your wisdom enables us to know what needs to be left behind and what needs to be carried into the future. We yearn for insight and vision.
God of flowers touched with frost and windows wearing white designs, may your love keep our hearts from growing cold in the empty seasons.
God of life, you believe in us, you enrich us, you entrust us with the freedom to choose life. For all this, we are grateful.
- Author Unknown
Prayer for Artists
Bless the creators, O God of creation,
who by their gifts make the world
a more joyful and beautiful realm.
Through their labors
they teach us to see more clearly
the truth around us.
In their inspiration
they call forth wonder and awe
in our own living.
In their hope and vision
they remind us
that life is holy.
Bless all who create in your image,
O God of creation.
Pour your Spirit upon them
that their hearts may sing
and their works be fulfilling.
Amen.
- Vienna Cobb Anderson
Bless the creators, O God of creation,
who by their gifts make the world
a more joyful and beautiful realm.
Through their labors
they teach us to see more clearly
the truth around us.
In their inspiration
they call forth wonder and awe
in our own living.
In their hope and vision
they remind us
that life is holy.
Bless all who create in your image,
O God of creation.
Pour your Spirit upon them
that their hearts may sing
and their works be fulfilling.
Amen.
- Vienna Cobb Anderson
For Families Torn by Addiction
We pray, O God of hope,
for all families
whose lives are torn and disrupted
by drugs and alcohol.
Enable them to identify the illness.
Strengthen them to seek help.
Bless them with the power of your love,
which imparts transformation and wholeness
to those who trust in your name.
Grant that as they walk this tortured road,
they may journey together
and bound close in the bond of love.
Amen.
- Vienna Cobb Anderson
We pray, O God of hope,
for all families
whose lives are torn and disrupted
by drugs and alcohol.
Enable them to identify the illness.
Strengthen them to seek help.
Bless them with the power of your love,
which imparts transformation and wholeness
to those who trust in your name.
Grant that as they walk this tortured road,
they may journey together
and bound close in the bond of love.
Amen.
- Vienna Cobb Anderson
I Have Feared Growing Older
Lord, I have feared growing older,
but I know that my life is in your hands.
Let me keep my eyes upon you and my hands busy with
your work.
And let me never be cast aside,
but always find things to do
so that I may praise you and praise you,
my faithful God.
- Maureen Pratt
Lord, I have feared growing older,
but I know that my life is in your hands.
Let me keep my eyes upon you and my hands busy with
your work.
And let me never be cast aside,
but always find things to do
so that I may praise you and praise you,
my faithful God.
- Maureen Pratt
Prayer of Despair
I have been rejected and despised;
I am hurting and destroyed by the pain.
I am angry with others and with you, O God,
for there is no comfort, none anywhere.
I call your name and you are absent.
I wonder why you let me suffer so.
My cries echo in the universe
and ring in my ears
and I am weary of the taste of my tears.
Hear my plea, O God of love.
Let me not be destroyed
by this agony on the brink of death.
I am like a broken reed,
fragile and crushed.
Hear my plea, O God of love.
Let me not be destroyed.
Amen.
- Vienna Cobb Anderson
I have been rejected and despised;
I am hurting and destroyed by the pain.
I am angry with others and with you, O God,
for there is no comfort, none anywhere.
I call your name and you are absent.
I wonder why you let me suffer so.
My cries echo in the universe
and ring in my ears
and I am weary of the taste of my tears.
Hear my plea, O God of love.
Let me not be destroyed
by this agony on the brink of death.
I am like a broken reed,
fragile and crushed.
Hear my plea, O God of love.
Let me not be destroyed.
Amen.
- Vienna Cobb Anderson
Prayer to Refrain From Violence
Thou givest a hand to transgressors, and thy right hand is stretched out to receive the penitent; thou hast taught us, O Lord our God, to make confession unto thee of all our sins, in order that we may cease from the violence of our hands, that thou mayest receive us into thy presence in perfect repentance.
***
38) I want thee, only thee (from Gitanjali)
By Rabindranath Tagore
(1861 - 1941)
English version by Rabindranath Tagore
That I want thee, only thee -- let my heart repeat without end. All desires that distract me, day and night, are false and empty to the core.
As the night keeps hidden in its gloom the petition for light, even thus in the depth of my unconsciousness rings the cry -- I want thee, only thee.
As the storm still seeks its end in peace when it strikes against peace with all its might, even thus my rebellion strikes against thy love and still its cry is -- I want thee, only thee.
Thou givest a hand to transgressors, and thy right hand is stretched out to receive the penitent; thou hast taught us, O Lord our God, to make confession unto thee of all our sins, in order that we may cease from the violence of our hands, that thou mayest receive us into thy presence in perfect repentance.
***
38) I want thee, only thee (from Gitanjali)
By Rabindranath Tagore
(1861 - 1941)
English version by Rabindranath Tagore
That I want thee, only thee -- let my heart repeat without end. All desires that distract me, day and night, are false and empty to the core.
As the night keeps hidden in its gloom the petition for light, even thus in the depth of my unconsciousness rings the cry -- I want thee, only thee.
As the storm still seeks its end in peace when it strikes against peace with all its might, even thus my rebellion strikes against thy love and still its cry is -- I want thee, only thee.
Prayer for the Homeless
O God, as Naomi and Ruth journeyed from one land to another seeking a home, we ask your blessing upon all who are homeless in this world. You promised to your chosen people a land flowing with milk and honey; so inspire us to desire the accomplishment of your will that we may work for the settlement of those who are homeless in a place of peace, protection, and nurture, flowing with opportunity, blessing, and hope. Amen.
- Vienna Cobb Anderson
O God, as Naomi and Ruth journeyed from one land to another seeking a home, we ask your blessing upon all who are homeless in this world. You promised to your chosen people a land flowing with milk and honey; so inspire us to desire the accomplishment of your will that we may work for the settlement of those who are homeless in a place of peace, protection, and nurture, flowing with opportunity, blessing, and hope. Amen.
- Vienna Cobb Anderson
Do Not Lose Heart
Therefore we do not lose heart.
Though outwardly we are wasting away,
yet inwardly we are being renewed day by day.
For our light and momentary troubles
are achieving for us an eternal glory
that far outweighs them all.
So we fix our eyes not on what is seen,
but on what is unseen.
For what is seen is temporary,
but what is unseen is eternal.
- 2 Corinthians 4:16-18
Therefore we do not lose heart.
Though outwardly we are wasting away,
yet inwardly we are being renewed day by day.
For our light and momentary troubles
are achieving for us an eternal glory
that far outweighs them all.
So we fix our eyes not on what is seen,
but on what is unseen.
For what is seen is temporary,
but what is unseen is eternal.
- 2 Corinthians 4:16-18
Prayer for Those in Need of Respect
Most merciful God,
there are many in this city
who hate themselves,
who consider their lives worthless,
who have not known the healing of love.
Touch them with the wonder and power
of your transforming love
that their lives may be made whole,
that they may find fulfillment in life,
that they may rejoice in your blessing.
Amen.
- Vienna Cobb Anderson
Most merciful God,
there are many in this city
who hate themselves,
who consider their lives worthless,
who have not known the healing of love.
Touch them with the wonder and power
of your transforming love
that their lives may be made whole,
that they may find fulfillment in life,
that they may rejoice in your blessing.
Amen.
- Vienna Cobb Anderson
An Evening Family Prayer
Lord, behold our family here assembled.
We thank you for this place in which we dwell,
for the love that unites us,
for the peace accorded to us this day,
for the hope with which we expect the morrow;
for the health, the work, the food and the bright skies
that make our lives delightful;
for our friends in all parts of the earth. Amen.
- Robert Louis Stevenson
Lord, behold our family here assembled.
We thank you for this place in which we dwell,
for the love that unites us,
for the peace accorded to us this day,
for the hope with which we expect the morrow;
for the health, the work, the food and the bright skies
that make our lives delightful;
for our friends in all parts of the earth. Amen.
- Robert Louis Stevenson
Live Holy Lives
Father, I'm praying for (name one or more) and others in my circle of family and friends to have the self-control they need in every area of life...
Strengthen their hearts so they will be holy and blameless in Your presence when Christ comes. Help them make every effort to be good and knowledgeable, self-controlled and godly, relying on the Spirit's power within them. (1 Thessalonians 3:13; 2 Peter 1:5–7; Ephesians 3:16)
May they imitate the Lord Jesus Christ in all they are and everything they do, and may the way they live match what they say they believe. May they make every effort to live clean and holy lives, devoting themselves to You, to prayer, and to doing good. (1 Thessalonians 1:6; 1 Corinthians 4:17; Hebrews 12:14a; Leviticus 27:28; Jeremiah 30:21; Colossians 4:2; Titus 3:8b)
May they desire more than anything else to follow You, setting their hearts and souls on seeking You. Help them move from strength to strength, faith to faith, and glory to glory. May their love increase and overflow for each other and for everyone else. (Psalm 84:5; 1 Chronicles 22:19; Psalm 84:7; Romans 1:17; 2 Corinthians 3:18; 1 Thessalonians 3:12)
In Jesus' name, amen.
- Jim & Kaye Johns
Father, I'm praying for (name one or more) and others in my circle of family and friends to have the self-control they need in every area of life...
Strengthen their hearts so they will be holy and blameless in Your presence when Christ comes. Help them make every effort to be good and knowledgeable, self-controlled and godly, relying on the Spirit's power within them. (1 Thessalonians 3:13; 2 Peter 1:5–7; Ephesians 3:16)
May they imitate the Lord Jesus Christ in all they are and everything they do, and may the way they live match what they say they believe. May they make every effort to live clean and holy lives, devoting themselves to You, to prayer, and to doing good. (1 Thessalonians 1:6; 1 Corinthians 4:17; Hebrews 12:14a; Leviticus 27:28; Jeremiah 30:21; Colossians 4:2; Titus 3:8b)
May they desire more than anything else to follow You, setting their hearts and souls on seeking You. Help them move from strength to strength, faith to faith, and glory to glory. May their love increase and overflow for each other and for everyone else. (Psalm 84:5; 1 Chronicles 22:19; Psalm 84:7; Romans 1:17; 2 Corinthians 3:18; 1 Thessalonians 3:12)
In Jesus' name, amen.
- Jim & Kaye Johns
Evening Prayer
Almighty God, we give you thanks for surrounding us, as daylight fades, with the brightness of the vesper light; and we implore you of your great mercy that, as you enfold us with the radiance of this light, so you would shine into our hearts the brightness of your Holy Spirit; through Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen.
Grant us, Lord, the lamp of charity which never fails, that it may burn in us and shed its light on those around us, and that by its brightness we may have a vision of that holy City, where dwells the true and never-failing Light, Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen.
O Lord God Almighty, as you have taught us to call the evening, the morning, and the noonday one day; and have made the sun to know its going down: Dispel the darkness of our hearts, that by your brightness we may know you to be the true God and eternal light, living and reigning for ever and ever. Amen.
Seek him who made the Pleiades and Orion, and turns deep darkness into the morning, and darkens the day into night; who calls for the waters of the sea and pours them out upon the surface of the earth: The Lord is his name. Amen.
Almighty God, we give you thanks for surrounding us, as daylight fades, with the brightness of the vesper light; and we implore you of your great mercy that, as you enfold us with the radiance of this light, so you would shine into our hearts the brightness of your Holy Spirit; through Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen.
Grant us, Lord, the lamp of charity which never fails, that it may burn in us and shed its light on those around us, and that by its brightness we may have a vision of that holy City, where dwells the true and never-failing Light, Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen.
O Lord God Almighty, as you have taught us to call the evening, the morning, and the noonday one day; and have made the sun to know its going down: Dispel the darkness of our hearts, that by your brightness we may know you to be the true God and eternal light, living and reigning for ever and ever. Amen.
Seek him who made the Pleiades and Orion, and turns deep darkness into the morning, and darkens the day into night; who calls for the waters of the sea and pours them out upon the surface of the earth: The Lord is his name. Amen.
Prayer of Thanksgiving
We gather today, Lord of abundant life, as grateful children. Delighted and humbled by our bounty, we celebrate gifts of food and shelter, of colors that dance at dawn and dusk; we relish the scent of cooking foods, of burning leaves and summer's wet grass, of snowflake, of animal fur. We marvel at the intricacy of spiders' webs and fish bones, newborn babies and lines etched on faces of grandparents come for a visit today. All gifts from Your hand. When our meal is completed, leftovers stashed, and naps taken, we will leave replete, energized, and eager to go generously into the world and share our good fortune.
- Rev. Lynn James
***
Gratitude for Friends and Family
To our friends who have become family
and our family who have become friends-
May you be blessed with the same
love and care you've given us.
- Mary Maude Daniels
We gather today, Lord of abundant life, as grateful children. Delighted and humbled by our bounty, we celebrate gifts of food and shelter, of colors that dance at dawn and dusk; we relish the scent of cooking foods, of burning leaves and summer's wet grass, of snowflake, of animal fur. We marvel at the intricacy of spiders' webs and fish bones, newborn babies and lines etched on faces of grandparents come for a visit today. All gifts from Your hand. When our meal is completed, leftovers stashed, and naps taken, we will leave replete, energized, and eager to go generously into the world and share our good fortune.
- Rev. Lynn James
***
Gratitude for Friends and Family
To our friends who have become family
and our family who have become friends-
May you be blessed with the same
love and care you've given us.
- Mary Maude Daniels
El Maley Rachamim (Prayer for Ruhani)
God full of mercy who dwells on high
Grant perfect rest on the wings of Your Divine Presence
In the lofty heights of the holy and pure
who shine as the brightness of the heavens
to the soul of _______.
who has gone to his eternal rest
as all his family and friends
pray for the elevation of his soul.
His resting place shall be in the Garden of Eden.
Therefore, the Master of mercy will care for him
under the protection of His wings for all time
And bind his soul in the bond of everlasting life.
God is his inheritance and he will rest in peace
and let us say Amen.
El maley rachamim shochen bam'romim
hamtzey menuchah nechonah al kanfey haschechinah
bema'alot kedoshim ute'horim
kezohar harakia me'irim umazhirim
lenishmat
shehalach le'olamo
ba'avur shekol beney hamishpachah, yedidim umakirim
mitpalelim le'iluy nishmato
began eden tehey menuchato
lachen ba'al harachamim yastireyhu
beseter kenafav le'olamim
veyitzror bitzror hachayim et nismato
Adonai hu nachalato Veyanuach beshalom al mishkavo
Venomar amen.
God full of mercy who dwells on high
Grant perfect rest on the wings of Your Divine Presence
In the lofty heights of the holy and pure
who shine as the brightness of the heavens
to the soul of _______.
who has gone to his eternal rest
as all his family and friends
pray for the elevation of his soul.
His resting place shall be in the Garden of Eden.
Therefore, the Master of mercy will care for him
under the protection of His wings for all time
And bind his soul in the bond of everlasting life.
God is his inheritance and he will rest in peace
and let us say Amen.
El maley rachamim shochen bam'romim
hamtzey menuchah nechonah al kanfey haschechinah
bema'alot kedoshim ute'horim
kezohar harakia me'irim umazhirim
lenishmat
shehalach le'olamo
ba'avur shekol beney hamishpachah, yedidim umakirim
mitpalelim le'iluy nishmato
began eden tehey menuchato
lachen ba'al harachamim yastireyhu
beseter kenafav le'olamim
veyitzror bitzror hachayim et nismato
Adonai hu nachalato Veyanuach beshalom al mishkavo
Venomar amen.
To Be Free From Worry
Father, I'm praying that (name one or more) and others in my circle of family and friends will be free from worry...
Help them not worry when things don't go the way they expect. Jesus said we're not to fret, not to worry, not to let our hearts be troubled or afraid. He said we're to trust in You— and also in Him. May it be so in their lives and ministry, no matter how impossible things seem. (John 14:1, 27b)
Keep them from worrying about tomorrow, for each day has enough trouble of its own. When such trouble comes, help them to cast all their anxiety on Christ because He cares for them. (Matthew 6:34; 1 Peter 5:7)
Help them not to be anxious about anything but to pray about everything with thanksgiving—for when they do, You'll give them Your peace that surpasses their understanding, and such peace guards their hearts and minds in Christ Jesus. (Philippians 4:6–7)
Keep their minds steadfast in trusting You, and give them Your perfect peace. May they turn to the Lord of Peace who will give them peace at all times, in every way. (Isaiah 26:3; 2 Thessalonians 3:16)
Help them leave every worry at Your feet where it belongs.
In Jesus' name, amen.
- Jim & Kaye Johns
***
Prayer for Those Facing Surgery
O Lord, as I face surgery,
You know what my fears and worries are.
Please guide my heart and soul to trust in you,
to know that you are at my side and pouring your
protection upon me,
even through the darkest valley.
- Maureen Pratt
Father, I'm praying that (name one or more) and others in my circle of family and friends will be free from worry...
Help them not worry when things don't go the way they expect. Jesus said we're not to fret, not to worry, not to let our hearts be troubled or afraid. He said we're to trust in You— and also in Him. May it be so in their lives and ministry, no matter how impossible things seem. (John 14:1, 27b)
Keep them from worrying about tomorrow, for each day has enough trouble of its own. When such trouble comes, help them to cast all their anxiety on Christ because He cares for them. (Matthew 6:34; 1 Peter 5:7)
Help them not to be anxious about anything but to pray about everything with thanksgiving—for when they do, You'll give them Your peace that surpasses their understanding, and such peace guards their hearts and minds in Christ Jesus. (Philippians 4:6–7)
Keep their minds steadfast in trusting You, and give them Your perfect peace. May they turn to the Lord of Peace who will give them peace at all times, in every way. (Isaiah 26:3; 2 Thessalonians 3:16)
Help them leave every worry at Your feet where it belongs.
In Jesus' name, amen.
- Jim & Kaye Johns
***
Prayer for Those Facing Surgery
O Lord, as I face surgery,
You know what my fears and worries are.
Please guide my heart and soul to trust in you,
to know that you are at my side and pouring your
protection upon me,
even through the darkest valley.
- Maureen Pratt
May today there be peace within.
May you trust God that you are exactly where you are meant to be.
May you not forget the infinite possibilities that are born of faith.
May you use those gifts that you have received, and pass on the love that has been given to you.
May you be content knowing you are a child of God.
Let this presence settle into your bones, and allow your soul the freedom to sing, dance, praise and love.
It is there for each and every one of us.
- Saint Theresa's Prayer
***
Child's Prayer
Dear Father, hear and bless
Thy beasts and singing birds:
And guard with tenderness
Small things that have no words.
May you trust God that you are exactly where you are meant to be.
May you not forget the infinite possibilities that are born of faith.
May you use those gifts that you have received, and pass on the love that has been given to you.
May you be content knowing you are a child of God.
Let this presence settle into your bones, and allow your soul the freedom to sing, dance, praise and love.
It is there for each and every one of us.
- Saint Theresa's Prayer
***
Child's Prayer
Dear Father, hear and bless
Thy beasts and singing birds:
And guard with tenderness
Small things that have no words.