A Prayer We Pray

I came upstairs after 21 google meets ready to put on my favorite podcast, sneakers, and head outside for a walk. I knew Scott was going on a walk with Abigail right after lunch - so this 'done teaching' walk I could clear my head and move my feet after sitting for so long. But when I came upstairs it wasn't just raining, it was hailing... so this picture was exactly what I turned my late afternoon into, baking bread. And that... is just as good as a walk and good podcast. Baking fills my soul.



Looking forward to warm bread to go with our dinner tonight. And with that I thought I'd share our prayer we've been praying aloud.

Every night before we eat dinner, we pause and say this pray around our small circle table. Every night. It is from our parish. It's beautiful and it's words read and prayed over and over have been like a balm to our souls.

God of Mercy and Grace,

You have called us from the east and from the west, from the south and from the north to be your body in this world. Keep us connected through you even in our physical distance.

We come to you trusting that you are our refuge and our strength, our very present help in trouble. 

We pray for people who are experiencing symptoms of COVID-19 and for the family and medical staff who surround them in care.

We pray fro those who are most vulnerable to this disease, whether from underlying health conditions or other contributing factors. May they rest in your peace and protection.

We pray for healthcare workers and people on the front lines of this disease. For workers who are inessential roles to keep our communities going. Keep them healthy; keep them safe. 

We pray for parents and children who are struggling with this new normal of distance learning, especially those who rely on school mean programs. We pray for everyone struggling with these rapid changes. May we be your peace and your presence. 

We pray for people who face hate and discrimination brought on by fear and anger. May these your beloved children feel your embrace.  

We pray for those whose actions are motivated by fear and anger. May they remember that you are a God of abundance. 

We pray for our leaders. May they be guided by your wisdom. May they be courageous and make the bod decisions necessary to end this pandemic. 

And we pray for all of the advocates and the volunteers who are responding to your call to care for the people who are most vulnerable in our communities and around the world. Give them endurance. Stir them with your longing for justice. May they be comforted and moved by your Holy Spirit. 

It is in the strong name of Jesus that we do pray. Amen.