Weekly Prayers for the Church Street Family
Week of September 11, 2024
Written by Steve Richardson
God in heaven and in our midst, during these moments of prayer and reflection, open our minds and hearts to your strengthening wisdom and guidance.
23 years. A full generation ago. Yet memories of the images and our emotions of this September 11th day are as vivid now as they were in 2001. The impacts of those attacks against our innocent citizens still ripple through portions of our daily living even now. Thank you for helping us heal from the grief of loss and vulnerability. Strengthen us as we continue to persevere in the Kingdom work of loving one another, serving one another, showing mercy and justice for one another, and walking humbly with you, our God. If we hope to move forward, those are things we must do.
Additionally, Merciful God, as we reflect on troubling events of recent days, help us all accept the realization that senseless violence is an act of sin, not a fact of life. Free us from our complacency and stubbornness so we will take sensible and reasonable steps within our social system to curb such evils.
Fill us with the comfort of your Holy Spirit when we grieve; when we hurt; when we feel lonely; when we are sad; when stress is stifling; when we are confronted by uncertainty; when we are left out; when we are oppressed; when dreams of better days are dashed; when our mental and physical capacities diminish. Ways of the world – – physical and societal – – are often beyond our control. You know this, Lord. During such times, when circumstances place us on unfamiliar and often unwanted paths, remind us that you, our Good Shepherd, are there to lead us to living more abundantly.
Thank you for your love that will not let us go. Thank you for hope that flows into us to fill feelings of emptiness and doubt. Thank you for faith that lifts and inspires. Thank you for your wisdom that shines light amid life’s darker moments. Thank you for anchors of prayer, scripture and trustworthy relationships for times we flounder in currents of turmoil and restlessness.
With gratitude and anticipation, we welcome Kelsey Gillenwaters to Church Street’s staff as Communications Director. And in several days, we’ll welcome Josh Phelps as our Music Director. Opportunities will surely arise from their talents, service and witness. Help us to graciously embrace and support their commitments to Church Street and your calling.
And now, God of Peace, hear these needs and prayers of others in our congregation. Surround all represented here with your loving presence and comfort…
We pray for…
- Friends and family members going through difficult times
- A couple going through divorce
- One who is waiting on medical tests results
- Those with COVID
- Guidance for daughters who are figuring out next steps for mother after her surgery
- An 89-year old grandfather who had heart attack is now in hospital
- An elderly mother recovering from dental surgery and now preparing for heart surgery
- A family who is grieving the death of an aunt; sustaining prayers of comfort after so many deaths in family the past two years.
We offer prayers of thanksgiving for….
- For our new Director of Communications, Kelsey, and her family as they transition to new job!
- Cooler temperatures (for a few days!)
- Good report from heart catherization
We continue to pray for….
- Couples who are wanting to start a family.
- All of the men and women in the military.
- Those who are caring for family members who have dementia.
- Members who have cancer and are going through the ups and downs of treatments.
Our Father who art in heaven, hallowed be 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 trespasses as we forgive those who trespass against us. And lead us not into temptation, but deliver us from evil, for thine is the kingdom, and the power, and the glory forever. Amen.
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