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 a recognition of the continual dawning of the Incarnation: that the Word of God may continually bring new light and insight to us as we confront the despair, darkness, and evil that exists in the human family

For the grace of awareness: 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 expectations and demands of contemporary society

For a leveling of the obstacles in our hearts: that God will remove from our heart’s coldness and resentments, 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 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 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 violence or oppression, guide refugees to places of safety, supply food and medicine to those in need, and bring comfort to the homebound

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 diseases

For all suffering from the cold, natural disasters, and poverty: that God will relive their pain, fill their hearts with hope, and open the hearts of many to assist them

For Justice and respect: that God will turn hearts from prejudice and bias, open new opportunities for dialogue, and guide people to new opportunities to work and grow together

For Peace: that God will sustain the peace in Lebanon, bring peace to Ukraine, Gaza, and Sudan, protect the innocent from harm, and bring an end to violence within families and cities