Resplendent God, full of Light, Justice and Love, we gather as your people and try once more to get it right. We come this day tired and worn out from both the physical and emotional strains we face as humble disciples; we come fatigued by relentless displays of both individual and systemic prejudice, acts of violence done in the name of justice, and wanton expressions of hubris towards those who think differently from the way we do. Holy Spirit, breathe into your people the healing winds of love and the bonds of authentic unity.

Lord God, throughout this difficult year the world has endured, we have become grumpy and impatient with people within your Church, with civic leaders and business owners, and with those who are trying to maintain our safety and security during these rankled times. The evil one has used current events to replace kindness with curtness, longsuffering with impatience, and love for neighbor with looking out for ourself. Holy Spirit, breathe into your people the healing winds of love and the bonds of authentic unity.

Jesus, our Savior, our Lord, and our Friend, we beg your healing touch as the loving physician to not only heal our nations and our countries, but that you would bring comfort and health to those who are undergoing or are about to have major surgery or medical procedures. Please calm anxious hearts and minds as your people await either diagnoses or treatment plans. Bring peacefulness to relationships that have unraveled or are strained between spouses, children and their parents, our adult siblings. Lift those in the dank darkness of depression, PTSD, or other mental illness out of despair and let them bask in the light of radiant joy. Spirit of Life, we pray for those isolated in rehab centers, nursing homes, retirement communities and hospitals who are bereft of the presence and touch of loved-one’s touches and friends. We pray for the everyday heroes in our midst – our teachers, grocery clerks who stock our food shelves, police officers, fire personnel, and EMTs, as well as our next door neighbor who practices patience in the presence of our impatience. Remind those who mourn the death of someone they love of the unbreakable promise of Easter hope.

Lord, Hear us as we pray together, Our Father, who art in heaven, hallowed by thy name. Thy Kingdom come, Thy will be done, on Earth as it is in heaven. Give us this day, our daily bread, and forgive us our debts as we forgive our debtors. And lead us not into temptation, but deliver us from evil. For Thine is the Power, Kingdom and the Glory, forever!