These ideas are designed to be starting points for the prayers of a particular community of faith.

Joe Milner

For the Church: that we may make ready a way for the Lord in our time and place and make a straight path for God in our hearts, within our families, and in our workplaces

For the gift of hope: that our hearts may be open to the Word of God and that we may co-operate with God’s saving work so that evil may be defeated, hostilities ended, and unity restored to the human family

For the grace of insight: that we may see the work of God in the events large and small in our lives and cooperate with God in bringing God’s love where it is most needed

For all who are called to live and speak the truth: that they may courageously witness to the way of Christ when confronted by the powerful of society

For a leveling of the obstacles in our hearts: that God will remove from our hearts resentments and inability to forgive, free us from vices that blind us to God presence, and dismantle injustices and discrimination in our society

For a reawakening of our hearts: that we may embrace the vision that God offers for wholeness, reconciliation and new beginnings for all the human family

For all who are gathered here: that our love may grow in depth and sincerity so that our words and actions may manifest compassion towards all whom God brings into our lives

For freedom and healing: that God will fill in the valleys and make level the lives of all who struggle with depression, addictions, or pride, so that they may experience freedom and wholeness

For all who are oppressed: that God may smooth the pathways of their lives and bring low those who abuse their power and authority

For all who have suffered abuse: that God will heal their spirits, give them strength to engage life fully and free them from fear

For all children: that the hope that fills their hearts in this season may become firmly planted and sustain them throughout life's journey

For all who are recovering from storms, wildfires or the cold: that God will give them courage, lead them to the resources that they need and open the hearts of many to assist them

For those who have been released from prison and their families: that their hearts may be healed and their relationships renewed

For refugees and all who have been impacted by violence: that they will find strength in the Gospel and that God will lead them to places of safety

For peace within families, on our city streets, in faith communities and amongst nations: that God will inspire all to respect the dignity of one another and to work for justice