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)
Join us each week as we share new prayers for the vulnerable among us facing challenges, fears, and threats. We will name many of the harms unfolding and acknowledge what is being erased, lost, and threatened.
These prayers are not a replacement for action; they are meant to offer space for grounding and discernment as we seek to bear one another’s burdens in the love and way of Christ.
Join by Zoom each Monday at 11:45 a.m. ET to hear the prayers aloud, in the context of a simple liturgy, prayed by members of the Community of Francis and Clare.
For Peace and Wisdom in Times of Transition
Lord God, you are the ruler of the cosmos and our guide as we sustain our common life. We pray for peace and wisdom in times of transition in the United States Congress. We lift up all those entrusted with public office. Help them each day to remember that power is a public trust, not a personal possession. Grant all those who seek public office humility in victory and grace in defeat. We pray that all public officials might fulfill their duties conscientiously, placing the common good above partisan interests. We pray for cooperation over intimidation and peace among officials and citizens amid political change. Keep this nation under your care, O Lord, that all who call it home may dwell in justice and peace. All this we ask through Jesus Christ, who lives and reigns with you, in the unity of the Holy Spirit, one God, now and forever. Amen.
For the Responsible Stewardship of Investment
God of life, who created us in your divine image and entrusted us with the care of your creation, we pray for wisdom and integrity in our investments. Help those with great financial resources to steward their money and power rightly, for the common good. We pray for those who hold authority over economic policy; grant them the wisdom to protect the lives impacted by their decisions. We pray that investors retain the ability to raise concerns about harms, submit resolutions, and act as good stewards. Protect workers, the Earth, and all vulnerable creatures from the consequences of misguided self-interest and a need for more. Help us remember that all things come from you, O Lord, and that you command us to love you and love our neighbors. Through Jesus Christ, in whom all things hold together. Amen.
For Peace and Protection in Yemen
Gracious God, whose Son taught us to welcome the stranger and care for those in need, we pray for the people of Yemen, especially those displaced by conflict in Taiz and throughout the country. Great God, comfort and sustain all those who are traumatized, without a home, and struggling to feed themselves and their families. We pray for an end to violence and conflict in the region. Grant wisdom to those in authority and military leaders, helping them to remember their duty to protect civilians from the consequences of armed conflict. Help us to remember our responsibilities as well. Strengthen all who provide aid, advocacy, and prayer for those suffering in Yemen and throughout the region. Grant this, almighty God, through your Son who leads us in the way of your kingdom. Amen.
