Prayers for Current Events
Prayers for Current Events
Writing prayers is a way for me to center and feel productive. Here's a regularly updated list of prayers for things that are happening:
Advent Prayer for a School Shooting
Lord Jesus,
Master of both the light and the darkness,
send your Holy Spirit of comfort in the aftermath of this Oxford school shooting.
We who have so much to do and so much on our minds are truly broken.
Help us reach out to you, to seek quiet spaces to hear your voice.
We who are anxious over many things look forward to your coming among us.
We who are blessed in so many ways long for the complete joy of your kingdom.
We who are taking action seek your guidance.
We are your people, walking in darkness, yet seeking the light.
To you we say, "Come Lord Jesus!'
Amen.
( HT Henri J.M. Nouwen)
Prayer for an Unsettled Election
Almighty God, whose will for us is harmony and justice, give us poise and patience in the wake of our unsettled election. Grant our clerks and government officials clarity and accuracy in counting ballots; Bless our candidates and their supporters with wisdom and respect for their opponents; Give us patience as races and results are determined; And help every voter realize the gift of democracy, the privilege of voting, and our responsibility in determining our destiny, that we may truly be one nation under God with liberty and justice for all. Amen.
For a Better Attitude
Almighty God, who triumphs over evil and looks upon your world with hope and joy, help us shun negativity and have a better attitude. Motivate us to regularly stop and be grateful; strengthen us to replace our complaints with compliments; grant us eyes to see our challenges as opportunities; and inspire us to regularly perform acts of loving service for others. Empower us with your Spirit to defeat every evil temptation and negative thought, and to ever dwell on whatsoever is true, honorable, just, pure, pleasing, and worthy of praise, in Jesus' name we pray, Amen.
For Joy
Holy Lord, who desires all people to dwell in unending peace and all consuming happiness, show us how to find joy in all things. Give us wisdom to redefine our situations not as burdens but as blessings; Empower us to routinely recall the good things in our lives and develop effective gratitude practices; And help us make our main goal the happiness of others, equipping us for the blessed pursuit of regular acts of loving service. This we ask of the One who tells us that by dwelling in him, our joy will be complete, Jesus Christ Our Lord, Amen.
For Help Getting Over Grief
Almighty Father, who knows the pain of losing a son, help us get over our grief. For those affected by Covid-19 who are losing health, wealth, and employment; for those worried about the election and are losing hope and faith in a better tomorrow; and for those fearing racial justice will never arrive. Guide us in our pain and help us see that no earthly loss can compare to the heavenly gain of knowing you and your mysterious ways of working things out. This we ask of the One who wept at the grave of Lazarus before raising him from the dead, Jesus Christ Our Lord, Amen.
For Fair and Peaceful Elections
Almighty God, whose will for us is harmony and justice, give us the gift of fair and peaceful elections. Keep our poll workers safe, alert, and attentive; Bring serenity to every polling place and voting line; Grant our clerks and government officials clarity and accuracy in counting ballots; Give us patience as races and results are determined; And help every voter realize the gift of democracy, the privilege of voting, and our responsibility in determining our destiny, that we may truly be one nation under God with liberty and justice for all. Amen.
For a Deeper Connection to God
Dear Lord, who promises that the closer we come to you, the closer you will come to us, help us loosen our attachments to everything but you. Remove from us false idols and the temptation to put anything before you; Help us see anew the folly in chasing after earthly things and the blessing of pursuing heavenly things; And reinvigorate us with a fresh and powerful dose of the Holy Spirit that we might have renewed power to seek you first, knowing that you will take care of all else. This we ask of our Brother Jesus who showed us how to dwell both on earth and in you, Amen.
For the U.S. President and First Lady
Dear Lord Jesus, whose earthly ministry was one of healing and wholeness, look with great mercy upon our president and first lady in their suffering, and bring them rapid healing and a return to full health. Give wisdom and direction to doctors and health care workers as they tend to the first couple; Stabilize jittery financial markets and the diplomatic bonds of our international relations; Watch over the nation and grant calm and stability during their convalescence; And remind us that our peace and comfort derive not from earthly nations and leaders, but from your continued grace and loving care. This we ask in the name of the Great Physician, Jesus Christ Our Lord who lives and reigns with you and the Holy Spirit, One God forever and ever, Amen.
For Well-Ordered Desires
Almighty God, whose clear desire is to reconcile the world to your love and peace, help us order our desires with like charity and clarity. Give us wisdom to discern our wants, that we may know right from wrong; Help us fend off the daily temptations that lead to obsession and preoccupation; Give us diligence in questioning our motives; And guide us in our appeals to scripture, tradition, and reason that our desires might align with yours, and that the purity that dwells in your heart might also find a home in ours. Amen
For Strength to Draw Nearer to God
Dear Lord Jesus, who spent hours in deserts, gardens, and remote places intentionally drawing nearer to the Father, strengthen us to do the same. Increase in us the desire for your presence and power; Inspire us to deeper prayer and study of heavenly things; Surround us with Godly influences, at work and play; And renew in us a desire to set our goals not on temporal prizes but on eternal ones. This we ask of the One who knows that a deeper connection to you is not only good for us, but for the world. Amen
For the U.S Supreme Court
Almighty God, who inspired Moses to seat judges so that justice and peace would rule the land, come to our aid that wise and fair jurists may be chosen to rule our land. Give legislators clarity and insight in determining both processes and candidates; Grant them strength to stand firm in their convictions and not bend to self-interest and partisanship; And renew in us the bonds of mutual love for country and neighbor which lie at heart of our Union, that we may withstand politicalization and division, and truly be one nation under God, with liberty and justice for all, Amen.
For Understanding and Acceptance
Almighty God, who made the universe and all therein as a reflection of your perfect love, help us understand why things are so broken and how we can help fix them. Grant us insight into our complex thoughts and motivations that we might truly know our hearts and minds; Send us friends and mentors to help us grow in awareness; Give us self-acceptance and forgiveness for the ways we contribute to the world's brokenness; And fill us with hope and encouragement to work through our pain and insecurity to more nearly follow Jesus' example of living and dying for others, Amen.
Prayer for Gratitude
Dear Lord Jesus, who once gave thanks for bread and fish and unleashed God's blessing upon a multitude; increase in us gratitude that we too might bless others. Make us more mindful of the big and small gifts of this day. Help us see them in nature, our families, our friends, our work, and in every interaction of the day. Open our eyes to the big and small wonders we take for granted from the rhythm of our hearts to the rhythm of the seas. And as you fill us with gratefulness, fill us also with joy, that we may gladly aim outwardly, to bless others as you have blessed us, Amen.
Prayer for a Return to School
Almighty God, who calls us to growth and maturity, bless students, teachers, and parents as they begin a new school year amidst a dangerous pandemic. Grant students a love for learning and a determined focus in their studies; Inspire teachers to be creative, enthusiastic, and caring in their work; and grant parents and all who tend to students, patience to encourage and support loved ones in their learning. And Lord teach us not just about earthly things, but heavenly things, that we might grow closer to the Source of all knowledge even Jesus Christ Our Lord, Amen.
Prayer for Those Affected by Hurricane Laura
O God of wind and rain, who delights not in suffering but in saving, and whose power is known in healing not affliction; stand alongside those getting hammered by Hurricane Laura. Come swiftly to the aid of the dying and injured; give wisdom and courage to first-responders; and inspire the whole human family to come to the aid of those who are hurting, bringing out in us your image of generosity, altruism, and love for the afflicted; this we pray in the name of the one who gave us the ultimate example of living for others, Jesus Christ, Our Lord, Amen.
For Politicians and Voters
Almighty God, by whose grace all wordly leaders exercise power, help politicians and voters move through this election season with respect and dignity. Bless all who are vying for political office with clarity and transparency in their campaigns and give voters openness and diligence in casting their ballots. Help us keep perspective that we may be firm in our convictions, kind and respectful to those who vote differently, and ever mindful that how we treat others is how we treat you. This we ask of the One who is Lord over every election, Jesus Christ Our Lord, Amen.
For Strength to Live One Day at a Time
Lord Jesus Christ, you told us not to worry about tomorrow; help us live one day at a time. Be present in the moment with all who are sick with Covid-19 and hold the hands of their loved ones. Help business owners and their employees, faith communities, parents, teachers, and all whose worries about the future tempt us to anger, worry, loss of appetite or sleep, to trust more deeply in your provision. And help us get busy with the work of helping others, knowing that this will improve their lives and ours. This we ask in the Name of the Prince of Peace, Amen.
Increase Our Concern for Others
Lord Jesus Christ, who put your love for others above personal gain and suffering, increase in us care and concern for others. Help us concentrate less on selfish thoughts and self-serving actions and focus more on the needs of our neighbors. Deepen our awareness of your love for us, so that our love for others might deepen. And place in us a strong confidence in your promises to provide, watch over, and care for us so that we might do likewise to those around us. This we ask of the One who equips us to follow his advice: to love our neighbors as ourselves, Amen.
For Accidental Death or Injury
Almighty One, whose desire for all things is life and life more abundantly, come to the aid of all who are injured or killed by accident. Comfort the dead and dying who have been unintentionally harmed; walk alongside the distressed who must live with the devastating consequences; And be present to all who unwittingly and unwillingly cause pain. Help us be kind to ourselves; remember that it wasn’t our fault, show us how to forgive others and ourselves; and help us see that what we've been through always has the possibility of bringing - some how, some way - something beautiful into the world, Amen.
For Strength to Endure a Covid-19 Resurgence
Everliving God, whose plan for the world ends not in pain but in paradise, strengthen all whose lives are being turned upside down, yet again, by Covid-19. Comfort the sick and dying; energize weary doctors and health care workers; steady those laid off and going bankrupt; and come alongside all who are suffering under a lingering sense of hopelessness and loss. Grant endurance and hope to your children, and may we never forget that your momentary suffering upon the cross was a prelude to eternal life in paradise. This we ask in Jesus name, Amen.
For Parents and Students
Almighty God, who knows well the love of a parent for a child, help us develop safe and workable plans for educating our children. Inspire administrators and teachers as they work overtime this summer; put at ease worried students and prepare them for the unknown; and calm the fears of anxious parents. Help them take one day at a time, have strength to juggle multiple responsibilities, and remind them that we can do this because we have each other and you. This we ask of the One whose love for children is greater than our own, Jesus Our Lord Amen.
For Help Building a Caring Community
Triune God, whose very essence is the unity of difference, help us come together under Covid-19 to deeply care for one another. Give the suffering and dying compassionate doctors, family, and friends; send wise and caring advisors to the bankrupt and unemployed; and awaken in all of us a love and concern for nation and neighbor that we might wear masks, wash hands, and keep our distance. Help us see more clearly the visible suffering of an invisible virus that we may take more seriously our potential for harming and helping, in Jesus' name, Amen.
For Covid-19 Vocational Reincarnation
Lord Jesus Christ who knows the devastation of losing everything as the necessary prelude to something better, comfort and inspire those caught up in Covid-19 unemployment. Help the broke and bankrupt find ways to pay bills or do without; stand beside those suffering from mental anguish and instability; and move in the hearts of those who have enough, to share with those who don't, that we might realize anew our dependency on you and one another. This we ask in the Name of the One who promises the end will be better than the beginning, Jesus Christ Our Lord, Amen.
For Minority Covid-19 Victims
Almighty God, who loves all people especially the afflicted and suffering, come quickly to the aid of Black and Hispanic victims of Covid-19 who are twice as likely to die from it. Comfort those on their sick and death beds; help the healthy take proper precautions; and inspire those in positions of power to reshape a system that harms those who need it most. Plant your seeds of compassion and mercy in the soul of our nation not just that the pain of some may be felt by all, but that the hope of all may be known by all. This we ask in your Holy Name, Amen.
For Victims of the Rising Covid-19 Wave
Almighty God, whose faithfulness is never-ending, be with all who continue to suffer under Covid-19. Comfort the suffering and dying, their families and friends; strengthen workers and all who want to work; come alongside the apathetic, the weary, and the worried; and give us strength and conviction to wash hands, wear masks, and keep our distance. Heavenly One, accept our diligence as our worship, through which we honor you by honoring our neighbors. This we ask of the One whose promised ending is not pain and death, but peace and life, Amen.
For An End to LGBTQIA+ Persecution
Almighty God, who created humans in wonderous variety meant to show forth your glory and do your reconciling work in the world, help us stop persecuting people because of their sexual orientation. Come quickly to aid the bullied, humiliated, disowned, and fired; enlighten the closed minded, humble the judgmental, and let us all hear more clearly your call to stand up for justice, fairness, and the dignity of all people. This we ask in the Name of the One who died for the marginalized, that we all might be freed, Jesus Christ Our Lord Amen.
For Mental Fortitude
Lord Christ, who endured the harsh mental stress of loss, mockery, and death, come quickly to the aid of your people suffering under a pandemic, economic collapse, and racial unrest, and grant us mental fortitude. Calm the nerves of the sick and dying; the worries of the unemployed; and the daily and debilitating jitters of those who are venturing forth into the unknown. Use this time of heightened stress not to tear us down, but build us up, that we may be made stronger, more faithful, and better equipped to carry on your life-giving work in the world, Amen.
For Sustained Vigilance
Dear Lord Jesus, during your earthly ministry you stayed the course and always remained focused on doing the right thing, give us sustained focus to keep Covid-19 from spreading. Send your holy angels to comfort the sick and dying; send your holy protection to all who are returning to work; and send your holy wisdom upon all who are venturing out. Impress upon us the seriousness of our roles in keeping ourselves and others safe. Help us to wear masks, wash hands, and take appropriate precautions knowing that our vigilance honors not just us, but you, Amen.
For Police Reform
Lord Jesus Christ, who suffered and died under unjust authorities, help us bring renewal and reform to the ways we police ourselves. Have mercy on all who are being unjustly treated and unfairly punished; give proper restraint and wise patience to our officers, guards, and prosecutors; and grant us strength and courage to take on the immense job of bringing fair and effective reform to our old, broken down system. Begin this work, O Lord, inside each of our hearts, make us a just people that we might form a just world, under your banner, which is love, Amen.
For Creative Summer Parenting
Risen Christ, who called the children to come unto you, in these first days of summer vacation during a pandemic, help parents be patient, loving and creative. Comfort all whose summer plans have been cancelled or altered; keep safe all who venture out into public places; give those who care for children imagination, stamina, and perseverance; and use this time away from school to draw us closer to you, that we might discover anew your life-giving power to turn our challenges into blessings, for our sake, as well as the world's, for whom you died and rose, Amen.
For Those Facing Economic Hardship
Dear Lord Jesus, who knows what it's like to suddenly lose everything, come quickly to the aid of those facing serious economic hardship. For owners losing businesses, workers losing jobs, retirees losing their full benefits, and all of us who are losing hope; hold us securely in your hands. Be with us in the pain, confusion, embarrassment, and worry of our losses, and give us strength to believe you are somehow at work and will get us through. And remind us at every turn, O Lord, that one thing we will never lose is you, Amen.
For the Healing of Divisions
Lord Jesus Christ, who unites the divided by love, help us heal the deep racial divisions of our day. Inspire our leaders to find new ways to reform or replace unbending, and unfair systems; soften the hard edges of opposing sides that negotiation might be possible; and remind us all that the core of our common humanity is not dictated by the color of our skin, but the character of our Creator, whose presence in us leads not to self-interest and greed, but self-giving and love. This we ask in the name of the One who is reconciling all things in himself, Jesus Christ. Amen.
who gave your life to bring us peace, help us heal the deep
For Safety as Restrictions Ease
Dear Lord Jesus, whose most frequent advice to his disciples was 'Fear not,' keep us safe as Covid-19 restrictions ease. Assure the sick and dying of your presence and care; make confident business owners, workers, students, shoppers, vacationers, and all who are leaving their homes, that you go before them; and impress upon all of us our mutual responsibility to keep others safe by what we wear, where we go, and how we behave. This we ask of the One who taught us that our love for God is seen most clearly in how we love others, Amen.
For Persistence
Almighty God, who is tireless in pursuing the perfection of all things, grant us persistence in our pursuit of racial justice. Energize protesters to continue to make their voices known; imbue the powerful who are pushing for positive change, with obstinancy; and grant to all of us who have put the comfort of whites above justice for blacks, a new and relentless devotion to justice that will not quit until big changes are made. This we ask of the One who assures us that relentless asking, seeking, and knocking, will never go unheard, even Jesus Christ Our Lord Amen.
For Strength to Look Inward
Dear Lord Jesus, who urged his followers to stay alert and keep awake, use this tender moment of racial unrest to help us look inward. Assist the strong and powerful in discovering their weaknesses; the confident and sure, their shortcomings; and the naive and unaware, their roles and responsibilities. At a time when introspection feels inadequate, give us strength to search our hearts, engage courageous conversations, and not retreat from focused self-examination. This we ask of the One who did not back down from needful confrontation, Jesus Christ Our Lord Amen.
For Substantive Change
Lord Jesus Christ, who lived and died that the world would change for the better, help our outrage, anger, and protest lead to positive, substantive change. May our deep feelings of discontent not be satiated with shallow promises or whither away with the next news cycle; instill in us a never-ending thirst for all that is just, fair, and equitable; and soften the hearts of those in power to make needful changes, giving us grit and determination to continue on if they don't. This we ask in the name of the One who fought to the death and won, even Jesus Christ Our Lord Amen.
For Racial Healing
Almighty God, whose strength is found in the diversity of Father, Son, and Holy Spirit, soothe racial tensions in our land. Do not diminish our outrage and anger, but help us channel it productively; do not quell the spirit of protest, but help it change policies and people; and do not let us forget the big and small slights and aggressions people of color face every day, but help our awareness lead to understanding and then to authentic change of heart, mind, and attitude. This we ask in the name of the One in whose diverse nature lies not tension and division, but harmony and peace, Amen.
For Victims of Racism
Lord Jesus Christ, who did not deserve to be mocked, beaten, or killed, come to the aid of those harmed by racism. Help the distraught family of George Floyd and all who have died at the hands of racists; comfort all who daily face racial aggression while shopping, studying, driving, running, or walking; and use this moment to not only awaken the majority to the plight of the minority, but to stir up unprecedented action for equality and justice. May your kingdom of fairness and equity come, where protesting turns to peacemaking and the victimized see victory, Amen.
That Protests Would Make Progress
Dear Lord Jesus, who bravely spoke truth to power and changed the world, help us turn our disgust and anger over the death of George Floyd into real progress toward racial equality. Help protesters articulate clear and effective messages; help politicians make changes that are substantial and fair; help our businesses and institutions become more invested in equity and justice; and guide all of us whose discontent is moving us to take action, to find constructive, long-lasting, and life-giving ways forward, that your work of bringing peace to the world may be done, Amen.
For George Floyd and for Us
Lord Jesus Christ, whose rage over Injustice upended tables in the Temple, guide our anger and outrage over the murder of George Floyd. Raise up protesters who will be known not for looting and violence, but for effective pressure on unjust systems; inspire legislators to spurn partisan politics in favor of real fairness and change; awaken police departments to end brutality and racial oppression; and may our discontent fuel the searching of our own souls, that we might put to death in us the things that led to George's death. This we ask of the One who finds life in every death, Amen.
For Poor Children
Lord Jesus, who bid the children to come unto you, help your littlest ones suffering under Covid-19. Give strength to parents and care givers suffering from addiction, mental health challenges, unemployment, poverty, and despair to love and care for their kids. Assist teachers and schools in furnishing computers and Internet to remain commited and connected. Help our government make the plight of poor children a bigger priority. And help us all see that success is not measured by how well our rich do, but how well our poor do. This we ask in your name, Amen.
For the 100,000
Lord Jesus Christ, who knows the pain of mourning, the sting of death, and the hope of resurrection, be with the victims, families, and friends of the 100,000 people who have died from the coronavirus. Comfort the dying, strengthen aid-givers, and encourage the distraught. Help us honor the dead by reaching out to the living, especially the vulnerable, lonely, and depressed, not only in comfort, but in finding a cure, that your work of bringing life to the world may be complete. This we ask in the name of the One who triumphs over death, Christ Our Lord, Amen.
For Maintaining Connection
Dear Lord Jesus, who knows what it's like to be separated from friends and family, help us, who are keeping a distance, stay connected. Keep the bonds of love and friendship strong between the suffering and their loved ones, medical professionals and their families, businesses and their customers, teams and their fans, faith communities and their members, schools and their students. Help us sustain our most important relationships; to let go of those who are leaving, welcome those who are coming, and always remember you are at work through it all, Amen.
For Discipline
Almighty God, who sustains the world with regularity and rhythm, in this time of Covid-19 lockdown sustain your children not only with healthy habits, but the discipline to practice them. Give to all who suffer, all who heal, and all who must work, the strength to cast aside distraction and temptation, and grant them power to carry out life-giving routines. Help us see the charade of the quick and easy, and give us perseverance for the slow and steady. This we ask that the One whose persistence in loving us, may inspire us to be persistent in loving all things, Amen
For Help Starting Over
Almighty God, who began your work of Creation with nothing, help those devastated by Covid-19, to start over. Be with the sick and dying as they daily awaken to new landscapes; guide brave health care professionals facing unemployment; help company owners and workers whose livelihoods have vanished; and encourage all who have hit rock bottom to look to you and not lose heart. Awaken us to the new colors and blank canvasses around us and, we dare pray for your power within us to take over and guide our hands in painting your masterpiece, Amen.
For a Vaccine
God of all Creation, whose unsurpassing wisdom made all that is seen and unseen, help your children develop a cure for Covid-19. To scientists, grant insight and inspiration; to drug makers, cooperation and collegiality; to those overseeing trials, patience and carefulness; to those who decide if it works and if it's safe, clarity of mind and freedom from political influence. And to all who are awaiting a cure, may your gentle hand comfort them on their journey. This we ask of the One who cured many people of many things, Jesus Christ Our Lord Amen.
For Stressed Couples
Almighty God, who created us not to live alone and who blesses us with significant others, relieve couples under stress by Covid-19. Comfort the sick, the dying, and their partners; help medical professionals and others who must live separately, not to draw apart; and grant patience, understanding, and forgiveness to couples who are not used to spending so much time together. Help us deflect provocation, avoid bickering, and live into the harmony of diversity that you are, and in whose name we pray, Father, Son, you Holy Spirit, one God, now and forever, Amen.
For the Other Sick People
Lord Christ, who walked the earth with healing and compassion for all, we pray not just for those afflicted with Covid-19, but for those who aren't. Come to the aid of all who are suffering from non-Covid maladies and are forced to delay needful treatment, help medical professionals in their critical work of triage, and give all of us who are forced to wait on circumstances beyond our control, to look to you, our rock, our comfort, and our light. This we ask in the name of the One who patiently and faithfully endured suffering, Jesus Christ Our Lord, Amen.
For Children
Dear Lord Jesus, who beckoned the children to come unto you, help the youngest among us get through this pandemic. Give strength to your precious ones who are sick and dying, comfort grieving parents, grant wisdom to medical teams rendering aid, and assuage the fears of all children who are suffering from the distress of missed routines, cancelled events, long-distance friendships, and bad dreams. Calm their fears, dry their tears, and equip those who care for them with compassion to channel your immense love into these little hearts, this we ask in your name, Amen.
For Prisoners
Lord Christ, who knows well the bonds and the bounds of incarceration, comfort all who are imprisoned. As the coronavirus ravages our correctional facilities, make your presence known to the sick and dying; steady the nerves of those battling mental illness and addiction; and walk alongside corrections workers who put themselves in danger that others may be safe. Give wisdom, compassion, and personal protective equipment to all who need it, and help us remember those who are easy to forget. This we ask of the One who has freed us from every bond, Christ Our Lord, Amen.
For Native Americans
Great Creator and Sustainer, whose presence is known by all peoples of the earth, come to the aid of those most vulnerable to Covid-19, especially Native Americans. Comfort the sick and dying who are disproportionately affected, send funding and health care workers to their aid, and help business owners and workers whose livelihoods are being devastated. Renew in them resilience to make it through yet another tragedy, and inspire all people to work with determination and compassion that the equity and justice found in your kingdom, may also dwell here, Amen.
For Hospitality Workers
Dear Lord Jesus, who walked the earth as one who served, come quickly to the aid of the majority of Covid-19 unemployment benefit applicants: hospitality workers. Comfort laid off hotel and restaurant employees, be with owners whose businesses will or won't survive, inspire government leaders to find ways to assist, and motivate all who are able to patronize these businesses. Assure the depressed and despondent who cannot work for us, that you will not cease to work for them, and that you, who are The Way, will somehow make a way, Amen.
For Video Conference Fatigue
Almighty God, who created us to live in harmony together and now struggle to live in harmony apart, help us handle the stress and fatigue of virtual connectedness. Help the sick and dying whose deepest comfort comes through a screen; help essential workers who must withhold touch; and help all of us who are trying to learn, organize, counsel, comfort, communicate, and deepen relationships to feel your peaceful presence. Strengthen us to not grow weary in doing your work of reaching out to others no matter the form, as you continually reach out to us, Amen.
For Loneliness
Lord Jesus Christ who knows what it's like to be all alone, help us as we struggle with loneliness. We pray for the sick and dying who cannot be with those they love; for health care workers separated from families; and for all who are unable to nurture everyday friendships in gyms, coffee shops, schools, churches, markets, offices and at parties, concerts, and sporting events. Be with us in our aloneness, inspire us to reach out to the lonely, and may we be overcome by a sense of your presence and promise that you are with us always Amen.
For Courage to Face the Unknown
Lord Jesus Christ, who stood strong in the face of uncertainty, give us courage to face the unknown. Amidst the unpredictability of this worldwide pandemic, strengthen the faith of those who will suffer and die today; encourage caregivers, embolden businesses and their workers, and help all of us who are making it up as we go along, not to be afraid, for you are with us. Help us be bold and sure, confident and calm, and to encourage one another, that we might all face that which we don't know with Someone we do, even Jesus Christ Our Lord Amen.
For Calm
Dear Lord Jesus, who once settled a raging sea, come to us in this pandemic and make things calm. Blanket the sick and dying with your peace; steady the hands and hearts of overworked medical professionals; numb the worries of the financially strained; and to all who are feeling overwhelmed, under-prepared, overcommitted and under-resourced, renew in us a sense of your calming presence. And because we suffer more in imagination than reality, take our busy minds and set them on you, for you are the maker and bringer of all peace, Amen.
For The Slog
Lord Jesus Christ, whose journey to the cross did not happen overnight, give us strength to shine during the Covid-19 slog. Be with the afflicted as death and sickness linger; renew hope in weary medical professionals, inspire grit and determination in sidelined businesses and workers and fill all of us who are battling apathy, discouragement, and hopelessness with the assurance of your presence that we may be free to imagine, connect, and create during this pensive but precious time. This we ask of the Creator and Sustainer of all Time, Jesus Christ Our Lord Amen.
For Our Grief
Almighty God, who knows well the sadness of deep, deep loss, help all of us who are grieving. For those whose lives are being cut short by Covid-19, for their loved ones unable to offer suitable comfort, for businesses that are closing and workers who are laid off; for one-third of the world that is on lockdown, and two-thirds of the world that cannot escape threat. Help us to properly grieve both our fears and our losses, yet not lose sight of your mysterious presence, that we might offer to others, the hope of your love. This we ask of God who is our Comfort, Amen.
For Refugees
Lord Jesus Christ, who was once forced from home to find safety elsewhere, be with all refugees and displaced persons. As Covid-19 heightens all of our fears, especially those with no home, money, or options; soothe the tensions at the Afghan border, aboard ships filled with unwanted Rohinga refugees, and in all places where those fleeing oppression, poverty, and infection have no place to go. Open our hearts to their suffering and fill us with compassion, creativity, and the will to help. This we ask in the name of the One who never turns us away, Christ our Refuge, Amen.
For Strength to Shun Excess
Lord Jesus, whose daily habits of prayer and devotion helped you live a life for others, give us strength to keep disciplined and shun excess. In this alarming time of Covid-19, help the sick and dying tempted to worry too much; the economically advantaged tempted to buy too much; and all of us who are tempted to fend off fear, loneliness, and worry with too much food, drink, or entertainment. Grant us clarity to know when enough is enough, and strength to do something about it. This we ask in our powerlessness of the Source of all power, Jesus Christ Our Lord, Amen.
For Those Who Must Wait
Almighty One, whose prophets encourage us to wait for the Lord, strengthen the vulnerable who are forced to wait. For children awaiting adoption and foster care, sick patients awaiting delayed surgeries, the mentally ill awaiting counseling, and the homeless awaiting housing; strengthen their resolve,
assure them of your abiding presence, and awaken all of us to the suffering around us, that we might have increased patience for the hurting and do all we can to shorten the wait. This we ask of the One who always waits for us, Jesus Christ Our Lord, Amen.
For Unity
Dear Lord Jesus, who famously prayed we would all be one, use these perilous times to bring us together. Soften rivalries between nations, political leaders, scientists, and vaccine providers. Help families, neighbors, communities, and countries draw near, not apart. Grant us humility to dismiss jealousies and divisions, strength to forgive painful and long-standing transgressions, and a renewed understanding of how our commonalities vastly outweigh our differences. This we ask of the One whose very essence is the unity of three in one, Amen.
For Perspective
Almighty Lord, who sees all things in perfect perspective, help us focus on the big picture and quit sweating the small stuff. As Covid-19 threatens lives and health, businesses and employment, relationships and peace of mind, give us a sense of your guiding hand. Remind us that you are working in us and through us; help us see anew the value of each moment; and give us your point of view, which assues us that we are loved, accepted, and worthy and that, somehow, some way, all will be well because all we see, have, and need, is found in you. In Jesus' name Amen.
For Contentment in All ThingsAlmighty God, overseer of both the perfect and imperfect, in this time of pandemic help us find contentment in all things. Give a sense of satisfaction to those whose lives are being cut short, whose concern for loved ones is causing stress, whose careers are being upended, and all of us who are doing the best we can with what we've got. Give us a peaceful ease of mind amidst the let downs of broken plans and missed opportunities, and a sense of calm assurance that you are at work bringing all things to fruition in Jesus Christ, who is our peace, Amen.
For Trust to Live in the Moment
Lord Jesus Christ, who told us not to worry about tomorrow, help us not to be anxious about the future. Be present in the moment with all who have contracted the coronavirus, and hold the hands of their loved ones. Help business leaders and their employees, faith communities, parents, teachers, and all whose worries about the future lead to anger, illness, loss of appetite or sleep, to trust more deeply in your provision. Remind us that disruption precedes improvement, which is sculpted best with calm hands and steady hearts that are fixed on you, Amen.
For Hope
Dear Lord Jesus, who set his sights not on the cross, but the victory that lay beyond it, give us hope to see beyond the pandemic that besets us. Encourage the sick, dying, and all who love them; renew the spirits of aid and essential workers; and lift the hearts of all who are feeling apathetic, worried, bored, and estranged. Fill us anew with hope in your promises to love, care, and accompany us, not as we plan and desire, but as you see fit in your unbounded wisdom and love. This we ask of the One whose plans for us are for good, not ill, even Jesus Christ Our Lord Amen.
For Understanding
Great Creator, from whose gracious benevolence and unknowable complexity all things come into being, help your children, greatly suffering under Covid-19, better understand what's going on. Give to scientists knowledge to develop cures, to aid workers strategies to save lives, to those on lockdown, clarity and direction, and to all of us, insight into the evolving nature of your handiwork, which births both curses and blessings not meant to afflict but to aid. All this we ask of the One who came to save and restore, Jesus Christ Our Lord, Amen.
For Help Surrendering
Lord Jesus Christ, who willingly went to the cross, giving up everything; grant us strength to surrender. For those who thought they would live longer and more comfortably: for those who had envisioned more secure financial and employment futures; for those who had hoped for more harmonious and long-lasting relationships, and for all of us whose plans have been at best altered, and at worst, destroyed, help us surrender the complicated emotional pain we hold for ourselves and others: Take us, hold us, heal us, strengthen us, in Jesus' name, Amen.
For Faith in Uncertain Times
Almighty God, who at Creation put into motion an unpredictable rhythm of advance and decline, grant us faith in uncertain times. For the sick and dying awakening in new places, medical aid workers making new homes away from loved ones, unemployed workers scrambling to find new ways to get by, and all who are feeling the stress and burden of not knowing: energize our faith, help us feel your presence, and fill us with confidence to face what can't be ascertained or changed. This we ask of the One who is our rock and fortress, Jesus Christ Our Lord, Amen.
For Appropriate Caution
Lord Jesus, who advised us to be as wise as serpents and as gentle as doves, help us move through this day with appropriate caution. In our decisions, give balance between commerce and safety to politicians; kindness and distance to neighbors; care and meddling to parents; and the if, when, and how to all who leave their homes. Give us wise discernment to approach all of our decisions not with the chill of fear, but the warmth of faith. This we ask in the name of the One whose dangerous path ended in peace, Jesus Christ Our Lord Amen.
For Those Who Are Scared
Dear Lord Jesus, who urged your disciples to be not afraid, comfort all of us who are scared. Soothe the fears of those in sick beds and death beds; calm the nerves of health care professionals and essential workers; and come alongside all whose fear has made them sleep-deprived, short-tempered, overly-cautious, and less able to sense your abiding presence. This we ask of the one who has gone ahead of us to prepare a place of peace and in whom there is no fear, Jesus Christ Our Lord who with you and the Holy Spirit lives and reigns one God now and forever Amen.
For Those Who Are Alone
Lord Jesus, you know the gifts and challenges of living by yourself, be with all who are moving through these scary times alone. Accompany those facing the trauma of sickness and death by themselves; be with the sequestered poor and elderly who cannot be with loved ones; walk alongside quarantined health care workers separated from families; and help all who are living or feeling alone to find warmth in your abiding presence. This we ask in the name of the One who inspires us to reach out to one another and who never leaves or forsakes us, Jesus Christ Our Lord, Amen.
For RestAlmighty God, who gave one day in seven to be free of work and worry, grant us much-needed rest. Take away the insomnia of the sick and dying, grant to weary friends and families, exhausted medical professionals and tired essential workers respite and revovery. Ease the mental strain of constant worry that makes us edgy, snippy, and tired; and fill us with a peace that can enable true rest. This we ask in the name of the one who found sleep on turbulent seas, even Jesus Christ Our Lord who, with you and the Holy Spirit, lives and reigns one God forever and ever Amen.
For Encouragement
Almighty God, who told us we could heal the sick, feed the multitudes, and even move mountains, encourage us for the labors of the day. Help the sick and dying to be trusting and brave; inspire medical personnel and essential workers to stay the course; and help us all remain vigilant and upbeat in washing hands, keeping our distance, and staying put. This courage we ask of the One who has faith in all who have faith in him, Jesus Christ Our Lord who with you and the Holy Spirit lives and reigns, one God, forever and ever, Amen.
For the Anxious
Dear Lord Jesus, whose anxiety in the Garden caused you to sweat blood; Come to all whose worry is overwhelming. Calm the stress around workers and their jobs, seniors and their pensions, couples and their relationships, renters and their rent. Help the healthy worried about getting sick, and the sick who fear death. And use this moment of vulnerability to awaken us anew to your promise to hold, protect, provide, and ever walk with us. We ask this in the name of the One whose anxiety preceded victory, Jesus Christ Our Lord, Amen.
For the Disappointed
Dear Lord Jesus, who put deep trust in people and plans only to be sorely let down, help all who are coping with the pain of disappointment. Be with workers unable work, students unable to study, travellers unable to travel, fans unable to cheer, families unable to gather, and patients unable to receive the comfort of loved ones. Help us stay calm and hopeful amidst the scramble of cancellations and reschedulings and to set thankful hearts not on what we've missed, but on what we have. This we ask of the One who promises all will be well, Jesus Christ Our Lord, Amen.
For Patience
Almighty God, whose patience we see in Creation, the calling of Israel, and in your long-suffering toward us; Help us remain calm in these tense times. To jittery investors grant self control; to the restless homebound, give strength to stay put; to hurried motorists, bring renewed calm; and for all who are struggling with impatience, grant us the power to chill out and wait. This we ask in the name of the One who never hurried nor arrived late, Jesus Christ Our Lord who with you and the Holy Spirit lives and reigns one God forever and ever Amen.
For the Homeless
Dear Lord Jesus, when you walked the earth you had no place to lay your head; Help the homeless survive this deadly virus. Send your loving care to those making their homes in shelters, alleys, overpasses, abandoned buildings, cars, and borrowed accommodations. Help them cope with the addiction, mental health affliction, and current trauma which threatens to awaken prior trauma. Strengthen the healthy and strong to reach out with compassion and mercy, reminding us all that our true home is always in you. This we ask in the name of Jesus Christ our Lord, Amen.
For Perseverance
Lord Jesus Christ, who spent the Monday before his death in steady perseverance; be with all who are fighting to stay the course, remain upbeat, and keep the faith during this time of pandemic and lockdown. Encourage weary health care workers, embolden tired essential workers, and enliven the cooped up, bored, and anxious. This we ask in the name of the one who overcame all the fiery darts of doubt and disbelief to show us that, yes, we can do it; even Jesus Christ Our Lord who with the Father and the Spirit lives and reigns one God forever and ever Amen.
For Those Worried about Loved Ones
Almighty God, who knows what it's like to see a child in danger; comfort all who are witnessing loved ones in peril. Be with worried parents, anxious siblings, and sons and daughters who are distressed about their elders. Renew in us your promises to care for our loved ones, not as we see fit in our shortsightedness and frailty, but as you see best, in your wisdom and power. This we ask in the name of the One who invites us always to cast our cares upon you, who lives and reigns with the Son and the Spirit, One God, now and forever Amen.
For Those in Close Quarters
Almighty God, whose desire for humanity is to dwell in peace, together: Be with all whose risk of sickness and death is increased by forced proximity. Comfort those who must be in ships at sea; in prisons, slums, hospitals, and stores on land; and on planes in the air. Provide for their bodies protective devices, for their minds wise choices, and for their spirits faith to see you beside them in all times and places. This we ask in the name of the One who is always near, Jesus Christ our Lord, who with you and the Holy Spirit lives and reigns forever and ever, Amen.
For Peace
Lord Jesus Christ, who fell asleep in a rocking boat before calming a mighty storm; Come to all who are being tossed about by Covid-19. Steady the fears of the healthy, comfort the hearts of the newly diagnosed, and place your steady hand of loving care upon the sick and dying. And as you promised to give us your peace, make us channels of your calm confidence that, steadfast in your assurances, we might model your non-anxious presence in our worried and weary world. This we ask of the Father who lives and reigns with you and the Holy Spirit lives now and forever Amen.
For Those Who Have to Work
Almighty God, who sent his Only Son to work, through the valley of the shadow of death; Be with all workers whose jobs call them to dangerous places. Comfort delivery drivers, store clerks, healthcare professionals, and all essential workers with your presence; Keep them safe from harm; and remind us that they are doing critical work upon which many lives depend. This we ask in the name of the One who strengthens us to work through our fears, even Jesus Christ Our Lord, who with the Father and the Spirit lives and reigns, One God forever and ever, Amen.
For Idled Workers
Dear Lord Jesus, whose work took him from carpenter shop to Temple square; be with all whose desire to labor surpasses opportunity. Help idled freelancers, hourly employees, salaried workers, business owners and their families to faithfully endure economic stress. Make them resourceful. Grant them patient endurance. And encourage them with your promises to never leave or forsake us. This we ask in the name of the One who modeled poise through adversity, Jesus Christ our Lord who with you and the Holy Spirit lives and reigns one God forever and ever Amen.
For Leaders
Lord Jesus Christ, when you walked the earth you led with conviction, composure, and charity; be with leaders in households, businesses, communities, and governments as they navigate a changing landscape fraught with stress, fear, and the unknown. Strengthen them with poise and confidence; and when the gifts of clarity and direction are elusive, give them compassion, empathy, and self-sacrifice. This we ask in the name of the One who also led by serving, Jesus Christ Our Lord who, with the Father and the Holy Spirit, lives and reigns, One God, forever and ever, Amen.
For Travellers
Dear Lord Jesus, whose earthly life was marked by dangerous travel; Be with those whose livelihoods and life circumstances necessitate traveling. Watch over those who are stranded in faraway places; keep safe pilots, stewards, and all travel industry employees; soothe their fears of physical and economic hardship; and keep in safety all who venture ouside their comfort zones. This we ask of the One who walks with us through the valley of shadow of death, who with the Son and the Holy Spirit, lives and reigns, One God, now and forever Amen.
For the Elderly
Almighty God, whose glory has been made known through elderly prophets and sages; watch over the aged, whose sum of years can make mobility, memory, and immunity to disease more than challenging. Keep the elderly safe from the coronavirus, free from loneliness, and convinced of their continued value to us and to You. This we ask in the name of the One who loves those in all, and of all, ages, Jesus Christ Our Lord who lives and reigns with you and the Holy Spirit, one God now and forever, Amen.
For Small Businesses and Employees
Dear Lord Jesus, whose earthly father was an independent tradesman; be with all small business owners and their employees who are facing unemployment, an uncertain economy, and the looming threat of permanent closure. Renew their entrepreneurial spirits; enliven their creativity; and remind them of your abundant promises to care for them through prosperity and adversity. This we ask in the name of the One who knows triumph even through death; Jesus Christ Our Lord who, with you and the Holy Spirit lives and reigns one God forever and ever Amen.
For the Covid-19 Students
Dear Lord Jesus, whose young life bore witness to your dedication to the Father; Be with all students whose course of study is changing, whose placements are unsure, and whose graduation is uncertain. Comfort them in their losses of trips, proms, sports seasons, and Spring gatherings. And as you found hope in the midst of grief, so grant to all our young people the faith to see and seek you in their sadness. We ask this of the Father, who with you and the Holy Spirit lives and reigns, one God now and forever. Amen.
For the Covid-19 vulnerable
Almighty God, who sent your Only Son to heal, care, and comfort the most vulnerable; be especially with the elderly, chronically ill, poor, and uninsured. Come to them in spirit, and send us in body, that we might channel your Presence of encouragement, healing, and reconciliation. This we ask in the name of the One who bid us to take special care of the vulnerable, Jesus Christ Our Lord, who, with you and the Holy Spirit, lives and reigns, One God, now and forever, Amen
For the Lonely
Lord Jesus Christ, who knew well loneliness and abandonment; during this time of pandemic, be especially with those who are alone and feeling left out. Inspire the strong to help the weak, the rich to help the poor, and the remembered to help the forgotten. Help us reach out and be the companion to them as you are to us; This we ask in the name of the One whose very being is the community of Father, Son, and Holy Spirit, Amen.
For those Battling Mental Illness
Dear Lord Jesus, whose special love and care for those afflicted with mental illness highlighted your earthly ministry: be with those who are facing increasing anxiety, depression, and fearfulness due to the coronavirus. Strengthen medical professionals and counselors with compassion and wisdom; and give us all increased patience and understanding for those whose battles may go unseen but are very real. We ask this in the name of our great healer Jesus Christ, who with you and the holy Spirit live and reign one God forever and ever. Amen.
For the financially unsteady
Lord Jesus, who cared especially for the poor and economically distressed; be with those facing serious financial hardship, job loss, pension depletion, and the fears of economic deprivation. As you steadied the ferocious seas, calm jittery minds and markets, and help us discover anew that our deepest faith lies in you.
This we ask of our Almighty Father who with you and the Holy Spirit, lives and reigns, one God forever and ever. Amen.
For the hoarders
Lord Jesus Christ, who knew all about our mob mentality; be with those who are stressed out and overly anxious. Heal those afflicted by the Corona Virus, comfort them and their loved ones with your abiding presence. Also, be with us as we mourn our many losses, the trips, meals and experiences we had planned for ourselves and our loved ones. And help us grow closer to you, knowing that it is by faith that we overcome fear. This we ask of the Father who with you and the Holy Spirit live and reign, one God forever more. Amen.
For Covid-19 victims
Almighty God, who desires health and well-being for all your children; comfort and heal all who are afflicted with the Covid 19 virus; enfold the worried and troubled with your peace; and grant wisdom and courage to the healthy to care and nurture all who are suffering. This we ask in the name of Jesus Christ our Lord, who knows suffering as well as healing, and who with you and the holy Spirit lives in reigns one God forever and ever. Amen.
