Universal Prayer Ideas for the Solemnity of Christmas – Dec 25, 202

Joe Milner

For the Church: that we may receive the angel’s message that God comes to save us and share it with others through our words and deeds

For people of faith: that we who have moved from darkness to light may radiate the Light of Christ to all whom we encounter each day

For people in every land and place: that God will grant peace and good will to everyone, reconciliation and forgiveness to those in conflict, and freedom from suffering to all the human family

For an outpouring of God's favor in our time: that a childlike spirit of wonder and awe may be rekindled in our hearts and that we may have an excitement about life and the gift of each day

For all who will be opening gifts: that we may see in these gifts the love that God and others have for us

For all who will have no gifts to open: that God may fill their hearts with hope, joy, and a vision of new possibilities

For all children: that their imaginations may lead them to new and exciting visions for life and to a deeper appreciation for all their opportunities

For all who are new parents: that they may recognize the gift of God that they hold and faithfully nurture the gifts and talents that God has given their child

For reconciliation in families: that God will heal old wounds and help us to recognize the gift that each person is

For all who celebrate Christmas: that our minds may be more aware and our hearts more responsive to all who are in need, especially the victims of war, refugees, famine, or who lack healthcare

For the Christians who are unable to celebrate because of persecution and oppression: that God will strengthen them, fill their hearts with hope and help them to be signs of God’s love and presence

For all who find Christmas difficult: that God will touch their lives with love and help them find supportive friends

For those in the hospital, the homeless, the homebound, and the imprisoned: that the coming of Christ may bring hope, healing, and new opportunities for them

For the forgotten, the marginalized and those with no social standing: that they may hear the Good News and experience the length, depth, and breadth of God’s love for them

For all who are traveling or away from home this night (day), especially missionaries, members of the military, and those caring for refugees: that God will guide their movements, preserve them in love, give them peace, and bring them home safely

For all recovering from shootings or natural disasters: that God will heal their wounds, memories, and fears

For peace in the world: that the Prince of Peace will turn hearts from violence and open every heart to the dignity of all human life, particularly in areas of warfare and civil unrest