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 servants of one another, particularly of those in need, and thus bear witness to God’s love for everyone

For greater awareness: that we may recognize our common humanity and accompany one another along the journey of life

For spiritual freedom: that God will awaken us to our selfishness and disordered desires that distract us so that we may choose to be instruments of God’s mercy and compassion

For the grace of conversion: that God will help us to curb our passions of envy and the desires to possess so that we will be free to live peaceably and with gratitude for all that God has given us

For a clearer recognition of healthy and unhealthy ambitions: that we may be aware of the motivations that stir our hearts and respond to those that lead us closer to God and toward greater wholeness

For Pope Francis and all leaders in the Christian Community: that God will guide them in addressing the wounds that the Church has experienced and inspire them in promoting healing and a renewed unity in the community of faith

For the poor and powerless in our society: that we may hear their voices, understand their pain, and humbly walk along side of them through life’s challenges

For all children who live in institutions, in detention or who are awaiting adoption: that God will protect them and prepare them to enter into new and nurturing relationships

For all who have been impacted by hurricanes, floods or wildfires: that God will strengthen them, give them hope and guide them to the assistance that they need

For the members of Congress: that God will give them wisdom and insight as they address the issues that challenge our society and decide on funding for government programs

For all who are ill: that the dying and rising of Jesus may bring them healing and hope

For healing amongst the daughters and sons of Abraham: that God will heal the wounds and misunderstandings, and bring reconciliation and greater cooperation amongst followers of Islam, Judaism, and Christianity

For a greater stewardship of the earth: that God will guide us in our use of earth’s resources and in being good stewards of them for future generations

For peace: that God will free hearts for anger and revenge and help all to see the value and dignity of each human life

For all who have died: that Christ will call them close to himself and welcome them to share in the joy of God’s presence forever