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 be witnesses to God’s message, expressions of God’s nurturing love, and instruments of God’s healing care to all who find life’s journey burdensome

For those overwhelmed by activity: that God will help them to slow down and be aware of the gifts and blessings that are in their life each day

For unity: that through Christ's victory over death, the divisions in the human family may be dissolved and the wounds of racism and prejudice be healed

For a spirit of compassion: that God will touch our hearts with care and concern for all whom we find burdensome, needy, or demanding

For Pope Francis and the bishops: that they may have the hearts of true shepherds and guide the church closer to Jesus and into greater unity

For all who exercise leadership: that they may place their gifts unselfishly in the service of others and draw forth the skills of others for the fulfillment of God's work

For all who offer retreats and places of solitude: that they will assist others in finding rest and in deepening their relationship with God

For all who serve in ministry: that God will bless their efforts, help them keep their lives in balance, and work through them to show a shepherd’s care

For support and renewal: that God will show a shepherd's care to refugees, those displaced by violence, and living under oppressive governments and help them find the resources that they need for life

For all living in densely populated settings: that they may find a space apart where they can find silence and experience God’s presence within them and around them

For all who have suffered abuse: that God's loving compassion will fill them with hope and courage and heal their bodies, minds, and spirits

For all who are suffering: that God will strengthen those recovering from natural disasters, give hope to those who have lost their homes, and give peace to those who are mourning

For parish communities who are being merged or consolidated: that they may trust in God’s unending love and be open to new ways of experiencing the Body of Christ

For the Jewish and Christian communities of faith: that God will heal the wounds that exist, open new opportunities for cooperation, and help us be faithful witnesses to God's presence and action in the world

For patience and insight: that God will help parents and young people who are in conflict, help them understand each other, and lead them to new respect and cooperation