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 LGBTQ+ Asylum Seekers and Refugees Who Cannot Return Home
God of safety, who draws near to the abused and the vulnerable, we pray for all LGBTQ+ forced migrants who cannot return home. Open safe pathways to asylum for these people, that they might live peacefully for the sake of their flourishing. God, help your church to build a world that is secure for every person, no matter their sexual orientation or gender identity. We know that you have made us all in your image and command us to treat each other as if we are face to face with Christ, who was himself a refugee, abused, and vulnerable to cruel powers. It is in his name that we pray. Amen.
For Nations Facing Health Crises
Sustaining God, who provides comfort, healing, and nourishment to the sick and the hungry, we pray for all people around the world experiencing the ongoing effects of USAID cuts and other reductions in humanitarian programs. We are grieved by the Ebola outbreak, famines, and deadly migration crises happening around the world, and by the loss of humanitarian assistance that has left many communities with fewer resources to respond to these emergencies. Lord God, empower us to act responsibly in the service of others. Grant countries with more resources the wisdom to aid those that have less, especially wealthy and powerful countries like the United States. Raise up people of compassion and courage to serve those in need, that we might bring an end to unchecked disease and hunger. Be with those who suffer around the world, granting them hope, solidarity, and your presence which never ceases to transform the world. All this we ask through the mighty name of Jesus Christ, our Lord, in the power of your Holy Spirit. Amen.
For Children Without a Country
Creator of our belonging, who provides for us during this earthly pilgrimage and bids us look toward a heavenly kingdom, we pray for all children without a country. We pray for all stateless people, refugees, and others displaced from their homes who lack the security for rebuilding their future. Be present also with all who fear that their children could be left without secure recognition of their citizenship or legal status if the U.S. ends its policies on birthright citizenship. Be with parents and children as they sit in uncertainty. Grant wisdom to ruling authorities in all countries as they work to make their lands welcoming and just. Keep those who are fleeing a country or moving through the immigration process in the U.S. safe as they chart their path to safety and hope. Instill in us a sense of our common dignity and belonging as we seek to create communities that act out of love toward one another. Never let us forget that when we welcome the stranger, we welcome your son, Jesus Christ. It is in his name that we ask all of these things. Amen.
