If the Lord had not been my help,
my soul would soon have lived in the land of silence.
When I thought, “My foot is slipping,”
your steadfast love, O Lord, held me up.
When the cares of my heart are many,
your consolations cheer my soul. (Psalm 94:17-19)
We invite you to join us as we share new prayers each week for the vulnerable among us facing challenges, fears, and threats. We will name many of the harms unfolding around us and acknowledge what is being erased, lost, and threatened.
Please join us in prayer and share these prayers with your dioceses and parishes.
We are one church united in prayer, naming reality in the face of lies, creating space for grief in the face of denial, and freeing space in our souls for hope. We gather to be the body of Christ for one another—bearing one another’s burdens—and pointing the world to the cross and its redemptive power already at work through our witness (even when it may not feel like it).
These prayers are not a replacement for action; they offer grounding and space to discern what actions each of us feel compelled to take. We may feel called to meet with or contact our elected officials, participate in community organizing, provide services to those in our communities, or join in protests or acts of civil disobedience.
As a church, our advocacy continues, and we invite you to join us. The Episcopal Public Policy Network has weekly action alerts, resources, webinars, and trainings. Learn more here.
Prayers for the week of August 22
For Truth-Telling and the Defense of Human Rights
God of truth and justice, your formed humanity in your image and called us to walk in your ways. As governing authorities retreat from their role in identifying and ending human rights abuses, we ask for your guidance as the church continues speaking out and acting to defend those harmed and at risk. Strengthen us to speak with courage, to defend the powerless, and to proclaim your kingdom where righteousness and peace are embraced. Inspire governing authorities to use their power rightly for the common good, so that all nations may reflect your compassion and justice. Through Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen.
For Al-Ahli Hospital and All Who Serve in War Zones
God of mercy and healer of all, we pray for the staff of al-Ahli Arab Hospital in Gaza, who risk their lives to uphold the sacred duty of care. As they tend to all who come to them wounded, we grieve assaults that have killed and injured many in a place of healing. Guard them and all who serve in hospitals and clinics under fire, that their ministry of healing may continue without fear of attack. We remember the provisions of the Geneva Conventions, meant to shield the sick and those who care for them, and we cry out for accountability, protection, and peace. Strengthen your church, oh Christ, to lift its voice in advocacy, and to walk in steadfast solidarity with all who suffer in war. Amen.
For Peace in Myanmar
God of mercy, you created us to live in harmony, and your peace surpasses all understanding. We lift before you the people of Myanmar, longing for safety, justice, and hope. Let your Spirit breathe healing upon this land. Protect those who suffer—the displaced, the hungry, and the grieving. May your kingdom come, and your will be done, in Myanmar and in all the Earth. Through Jesus Christ, our Prince of Peace, Amen.
For Victims of Terror and Those Who Seek Peace
Almighty God, source of justice and our everlasting hope, through your prophet Isaiah you spoke of a day when terror shall give way to peace. We mourn with all communities shattered by violence, where lives are stolen, and fear thrives in darkness. Comfort those who grieve and shelter the wounded in your mercy. Strengthen all who stand for justice and peace in places torn by hatred. Guide leaders and neighbors alike to reject vengeance and pursue reconciliation. Give us courage to name evil, faith to hold fast to your promises, and love to overcome fear. Through Jesus Christ, our light in the darkest hour. Amen.
