Sunday, July 15, 2018
Offered by Victoria G. Curtiss, Associate Pastor

Loving and steadfast God, we hope when you look intently upon us that you see we have faith to be healed. Short of that, we still earnestly call on you to heal us. We pray for all who are challenged with health issues, that you would strengthen them in body and spirit and mind. We pray for all who are grieving, whether the loss of a loved one or mentor, the loss of a pet or home, the loss of employment or reputation. Comfort them toward new life. We pray for all who are traumatized by violence—that which has already occurred or that which threatens to break out—that you would bring them peace and heal their hearts. We pray that those who have been victims of hate and racism would also know your healing and justice. We pray as our church members and staff travel in South Africa that their music and presence can bring a healing witness and that the travelers will be open to receiving the healing extended by their hosts.

We also pray for healing of our earth. Protect other species, especially those whose habitats are being lost, and guide humankind to make it a priority to care for the lives of other creatures.

Heal our nation as well, gracious God. Our political polarization and social divisions have diminished our sense of oneness with others and narrowed the search for common ground. Bring healing to our brokenness. Guide government agencies and social workers in their efforts to reunite immigrant children with their parents, that their reunion may come soon. Inspire us to secure our borders in ways that also treat people with dignity and respect. Repair relations between our nation and nations around the world. Protect and strengthen the efforts of all who are on the frontlines of seeking to keep the peace and build unity.

All this we pray in confidence and trust that your Spirit is at work in the world, O God, in ways we cannot see or comprehend. Hear us now as we pray together the prayer that Jesus taught: Our Father . . .

Prayer © Fourth Presbyterian Church