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 instruments of hope, bringing light to the darkness of society, to those who are suffering, and to those who lost purpose and meaning in life
For new awareness: that we may recognize the presence and action of God in the people and events around us and be open to God’s invitations to extend the reign of God through our words and deeds
For the gift of patience: that God will help us to trust so that we may wait through various challenges and allow God to show us a new way to proceed
For insight and a new vision: that we may not limit the actions of God but be open to how God touches us through people, prayer, and unexpected events in our lives
For a deeper understanding of Jesus: that we may come to know Christ more fully and comprehend his love and care for us
For greater gratitude and appreciation: that through the reflections of Advent, we may have a deeper love for our spouse, family members, and all who are significant in our lives
For Pope Francis: that God will bless him on his birthday, strengthen him in fulfilling his office, and guide him in leading the Church to greater faith and discipleship
For the grace of compassion: that we may have concern and understanding for all who make our lives difficult
For all who struggle with doubt: that God will open their eyes and hearts to Jesus and the marvelous things which God does within and around them
For all who suffer for their faith, for persecuted Christians, prisoners of conscience, and those who suffer discrimination: that God will sustain them, give them hope and relieve their suffering
For all government officials: that the Spirit will guide their work, help them to recognize the truth in all the issues before them, and open them to new ways of addressing the issues of immigration, poverty, and violence
For healing of our bodies, minds, attitudes, and spirits: that God will heal and make whole all the sick, wounded, and broken areas within us so that we may more fully be instruments of God’s love
For those who are caught in their own expectations: that God will break their bonds and open their vision to all that is possible through God’s love
For all who go without daily essentials: that God will provide for their needs as refugees or people fleeing violence, open doors for them, give them strength to face their challenges, and move the hearts of many to assist them
For an end to war and healing for the nations: that violence and bloodshed may end, the innocent be