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 make a straight path for God in our hearts, our families, and our workplaces

For the gift of hope: that the Word of God may bring new hope and courage to us so that we may cooperate with God in confronting evil and working to heal the brokenness in 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 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 prejudices, free us from vices that blind us to God presence, and dissolve our inability to forgive others

For a reawakening of our hearts: that we may embrace a new vision for our lives and courageously live as disciples who bring good news and compassion to others

For this community of faith: that our love for others may grow in depth and sincerity and that God’s work in us may bring us ever closer to God

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 suffering: that God may smooth the pathways of those fleeing oppression, guide refugees to places of safety, renew the spirits of those who have experienced abuse, and free those unjustly held

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

For all who are ill: that God will heal the sick, strengthen their caregivers, and inspire all who are seeking cures for disease

For all whose faith has grown cold: that God will stir up the flame of faith, help them to turn toward God, and help us to welcome them warmly into our faith community

For all who are experiencing a rough time in life: that God will open opportunities for those who lack work, give comfort to those who are grieving, and guidance to those who have lost direction or purpose

For wisdom: that God will give insight to the members of Congress as they consider ways to address the needs of society

For peace: that God will inspire us to respect the dignity promote justice for one another in our families, faith communities, and workplaces