These ideas are designed to be starting points for the prayers of a particular community of faith.

Joe Milner

For the Church: that we, who have been created in the image and likeness of God may always find joy through our relationship with Christ

For a deeper knowledge and connection to Jesus: that Spirit will lead us into a fuller relationship and help us know and love Jesus more fully

For a joyful spirit: that as we recognize the gift of our relationships and the many blessings that God has given us, our hearts may be grateful, and our spirits filled with joy

For freedom of spirit: that God will free us from selfishness, prejudice, and fear so that we may be true sisters and brothers to one another

For the growth of reverence: that God will open our eyes so that we may see the presence of God in one another and help us to listen attentively to each other

For a renewal of the gift of the Holy Spirit: that God will stir up the Spirit that has been given to us so that we may announce the Good News, share hope, and offer compassionate care to those around us

For a renewal of prayer: that we may recognize how God is communicating with us in every moment and allow our words and deeds to be a response to the love that God has shown us

For all who are held captive, whether by economic situations, lack of education, or addiction: that God will free them and open new opportunities for life, growth, and wholeness

For all searching for God: that the lights, hymns, and warm greetings of this season may be a doorway to finding God in all things and to recognizing that God is with us

For all who must wait: that God's loving presence will give strength and hope to those who are in isolation, awaiting surgery or the birth of a child, or who are caring for the sick or dying

For a new appreciation of the created world: that we may find God in all things that God has created and rejoice that God is close to us this day

For all public officials: that God will move them to recognize and take action to address the needs of the poor, the homeless, the elderly, and children so that no one will be forgotten in our communities

For all who are traveling: that God will guide their journey, keep them safe, and free them from delays

For all who are suffering: that God will comfort the grieving, heal the sick, guide the homeless to safe places with warmth, provide food for the hungry, and safety to those fleeing violence

For peace: that God will bring forth a new springtime of peace in every land, end the fighting in Ukraine and Sudan, maintain the ceasefire in Gaza and Lebanon, and turn darkness into light, pain into joy, and fear into hope.