Weekly Prayer – February 1, 2023

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Weekly Prayers for the Church Street Family

Week of February 1, 2023

Rev. Catherine Nance

There are only twenty-eight days this month! The cold air gives us a tiny bit of panic as we draw our arms in and shield ourselves against any wind. As we come to the end of this first day of the second month, may we put our anxiety in your hands. Instead of drawing in, may we open up. Would having a February 30th or 31st really make a difference in our lives? As we come to the close of the day, O Lord, forgive us for feeling harried or spent or depleted. You have given us the time of this day. You have called each day, “good.” Lord who loves us as much mid-week as you did on Sunday, make us to feel your grace this evening. 

You are our Keeper, not our scorekeeper. Help us to look back over our day and see it through your eyes. May we see the gifts of food, of work, or interactions with others. We thank you for the gift of our ability to do the things we wanted to do or the gift of someone to help us get those things done. Lord, forgive us when we come to the end of the day and evaluate its worth by what we have ‘gotten done.’  

We have been in your presence. You have been with us this day. Knowing your presence brings us meaning and now we can rest as the world grows dark. Forgive us for thinking that today’s worth was dependent on us. This is the day, you made, O Lord. Let us look back on it and give thanks.  

Now that we have taken a deep breath and renewed our spirits in your presence, we are able to think of others. Even when thinking about illness, despair, economic strain, addiction, and other situations that weigh us down, taking time to pray brings us a strength. As we let your Holy Spirit wander around in our hearts and minds, we know that same spirit is moving in the folks for whom we are praying. Your same spirit is touching those who are praying and those who have shared concerns.  

And so we join as a community of faith and pray for others …. 

We pray for …

  • A member’s son in the death of his wife; prayers for him and two young children.
  • A member waiting on scans and other tests
  • A member’s husband who is dealing with multiple health issues
  • A college student who is leaving this week to study abroad in Spain for a few months! Safe travels and wonderful experiences!
  • A young father whose cancer has returned; prayers for his family and all of the network of caring people as treatments begin
  • Friends who are struggling
  • Adult children grieving the death of a beloved father
  • Memphis
  • Family grieving after death of elderly mother
  • A woman struggling with mental illness and seeking spiritual counseling
  • A sister-in-law who is caring for her 92 year old mother who is now under hospice care. 
  • The family, friends, and colleagues of a woman who committed suicide; 
  • The family of an eighteen-year old who died in his sleep last week

We give thanks for …

  • The miracle of organ donation; seeing God’s grace work through a time of grief
  • A wonderful first week of school at UT

We continue to pray for …

  • A friend who is battling stage 4 cancer and is battling a brain bleed from a fall; prayers for her husband is who caregiver
  • Caregivers who are struggling with exhaustion; may they know they are doing the best they can

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.

Have a Prayer Request?

Submit your prayer request confidentially by clicking here.

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Weekly Prayer – January 25, 2023

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Weekly Prayers for the Church Street Family

Week of January 25, 2023

Rev. Catherine Nance

May the words of my mouth and the meditations of my heart be pleasing and acceptable to you, O Lord, my Rock and my Redeemer.

We thank you, O Lord, for the redeeming work you do in our lives. Forgive us when we think of redemption as a one-time event in the future! You bring meaning, restoration, and grace to our lives each day – redeeming our attempts at making each day ‘count.’

May the words of my mouth and the meditations of my heart be pleasing and acceptable to you, O Lord, my Rock and my Redeemer.

We thank you, O Lord, for the redeeming work you do in the world. Open our eyes that we may see it instead of focusing on negativity. May we praise your name with the words of our mouth! When we see goodness, reconciliation, and hopefulness around us, may our speech pour forth your praise!

May the words of my mouth and the meditations of my heart be pleasing and acceptable to you, O Lord, my Rock and my Redeemer.

We thank you for encouraging words we have heard from family, friends, and colleagues. Open our hearts and our minds before we open our mouths, O God who is The Word! May our words not only be pleasing to you but helpful and edifying to others.

May the words of my mouth and the meditations of my heart be pleasing and acceptable to you, O Lord, my Rock and my Redeemer.

O God who knows our hearts, you know that some of us have mastered ‘kind language’ but what is dwelling in our heart and mind is not kind. Forgive us when we think politeness can cover up disdain and judgment. Clean out our hearts, Lord! There is much in there. Thank you for accepting all of who we are, but thank you for your willingness to work through and transform the darkness, the guilt, the shame, and the confusion. Redeem what is in our hearts, O lover of our souls!

May the words of my mouth and the meditations of my heart be pleasing and acceptable to you, O Lord, my Rock and my Redeemer.

Help us imagine ourselves abiding in your holy tent and lingering on your holy mountain! Even when we are alone with our thoughts and words – well, we are not alone. Redeem us!

O God, we thank you so much for always hearing our prayers.

We pray for …

  • a church member dealing with heart issues; praying to get meds regulated and get strength back
  • a church member waiting on a heart procedure; give her strength and hope for each day
  • a young mother who has been on life support and whose organs were harvested this morning. Praying for all of the family members; her husband and two children (ages 4 and 7). Thankful for supportive in-laws, extended family, and friends who are there for this family even in their own grief.
  • a young woman who had sinus surgery this morning; prayers that pain and headaches will be relieved
  • a woman who seeks God’s intervention to restore a broken relationship
  • a husband’s CT scan to be clear; prayers for God’s healing presence
  • a church member who came home from hospital today will be recuperating for six weeks; prayers for parents who care for her
  • a mother driving to middle Tennessee this week to see an incarcerated son
  • a member in the hospital discerning care he needs at home
  • a friend diagnosed with leukemia
  • friends and family members going through difficult times and need to feel God’s presence
  • a church member dealing with cancer diagnosis
  • a family who is keeping vigil at the bedside of a dear father and uncle; prayers of thanksgiving for a long life well lived and loved!

We give thanks for …

  • a spiritually uplifting weekend for our youth and counselors at Resurrection 2023
  • birth of a great-granddaughter
  • a successful surgery
  • Stephen Ministers and those who are interested in learning more

We continue to pray for …

  • the devastation in Ukraine to end
  • those who are plagued with addiction disease and pray for more options for treatment
  • church members and friends who are home after hospital and/or rehab stays; prayers that they will continue to heal and grow stronger

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.

Have a Prayer Request?

Submit your prayer request confidentially by clicking here.

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Weekly Prayer – January 18, 2023

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Weekly Prayers for the Church Street Family

Week of January 18, 2023

Rev. Catherine Nance*

Today is January 18, 2023 and marks the beginning of the Week of Prayer for Christian Unity. This past Monday, I was honored to participate at Overcoming Believers Church in the Martin Luther King Commemorative Service. There were people from many different churches in the congregation and on the stage. I began today by having coffee with two colleagues – each from a different denomination. Then, I went to the Cathedral of the Most Sacred Heart of Jesus and joined with clergy from Catholic, Greek Orthodox, Presbyterian, and Episcopal churches as we shared in leading the Service for Christian Unity with their students. It reminded me of our deep heritage and that we are all, indeed, one in Christ Jesus. 

I invite you to share the prayer that is in our hymnal for Christian Unity this evening …. 

 Let us ask the Lord to strengthen in all Christians fiath in Christ, the Savior of the world. 

Listen ro us, O Lord. 

Let us ask the Lord to sustain and guide Christians with his gifts along the way to full unity. 

Listen to us, O Lord. 

Let us ask the Lord for the gift ofv unity and peace for the world. 

Listen to us, O lord. 

We ask you, O lord, for the gifts of your Spirit. 

Enable us to penetrate the depth of the whole truth, and grant that we may share with others the goods you have put at our disposal. Teach us to overcome division. Send us your Spirit to lead to full unity your sons and daughters in full charity, in obedience to your will; through Christ our Lord. Amen. 

We pray for …

  • A granddaughter who had extensive surgery yesterday for spina bifida and scoliosis. Prayers for patience, endurance, and strength in the long recovery.
  • A church member in hospital whose doctor is hoping to get medicines regulated
  • A church member in the hospital with pneumonia
  • Church members who are in rehab
  • Our youth as they prepare to go to Resurrection in Pigeon Forge this weekend (and the adults!)
  • A friend who is having a difficult time after death of father
  • All who are grieving and planning funerals
  • A niece who is looking for a job
  • Church member having procedure this week
  • Colleague having surgery this week

We offer prayers of thanksgiving for …

  • A church member who has gone home from rehab
  • The birth of a granddaughter
  • For good friends who help
  • New members who joined Sunday

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.

*Prayer was written by Karol Wojtyla (Pope John Paul II), Poland, 20th century. 

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Weekly Prayer – January 11, 2023

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Weekly Prayers for the Church Street Family

Week of January 11, 2023

Rev. Catherine Nance

Away in a manger no crib for a bed … 

O little town of Bethlehem, how still we see thee lie … 

Silent night, holy night …. 

O God of mid-January, we are longing for the peace and calm of a few days off around Christmas. The quiet worship service and beautiful music soothed our souls and now we are frantic with planning for spring and summer! Why do we do this to ourselves, Lord? Do we not trust that your Christmas light will sustain us in a new year? 

As we accept the reality that it is not Christmas any longer, open our hearts to your Epiphany Light. We truly want to be wise men and women who follow your bright and sustaining light and not the flashes of notifications and advertisements.  

It is Wednesday, O God. No mention of Wednesday in our scriptures, but we have made it a priority in our evolution to mark time and name time. As we spend some ‘time’ in prayer this evening, remind us to close our eyes, take a deep breath, and focus on your presence. Let us ponder in our hearts the relationships and events that are truly important and Life-Giving.  

We take a moment to give thanks for the epiphanies we have experienced. The glimpses and surprises and unexpected sightings of your grace bring us joy. Kindness, hospitality, forgiveness, and graciousness have crossed our paths already this week. Thank you, God of all days and ordinary days. 

We take a moment now to pray for those we love, for our world, and we offer the requests shared by our church family … 

We pray for …

  • Families and friends who are grieving the death of a loved one by suicide. May God’s spirit help them sort out all of the feelings of anger, grief, confusion, guilt, shock …
  • For members who have had surgery and are recovering at home.
  • A mother receiving therapy at a health care facility after a fall.
  • A friend anxious to be home after surgery.
  • Successful hand surgery
  • For those considering becoming Stephen Ministers
  • Safe travels as family gathers for the weekend.
  • A United Methodist congregation who is struggling with disaffiliation.
  • A young family caught between grief and hope as they grieve the death of a child and celebrate the birth of another.
  • A family preparing to leave Knoxville to help with parents and begin new work.
  • A family in transition as older members’ health declines.
  • A family as they deal with a new diagnosis of a loved one.
  • Our wisdom to be increased; may we trust that God is watching over us and may we feel God’s peace, hope, love, and joy!
  • Those who are feeling the impact of hard financial times.

We offer prayers of thanksgiving for …

  • For Stephen Ministers and for those who are leading next training
  • The miracle of organ donation offering life and hope in the midst of grief
  • Support group started by Parish Health Ministry Team for those serving as caregivers
  • Miraculous procedures that happen every day at hospitals and clinics
  • A young couple expecting their first child.

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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Weekly Prayer – January 4, 2023

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Weekly Prayers for the Church Street Family

Week of January 4, 2023

Rev. Catherine Nance

This prayer is adapted from Sunday morning’s pastoral prayer, January 1, 2023. On this fourth day of the new year, and also the eleventh day of Christmas, we invite you to join in prayer …

How good it is to be here in a new year, O God, to worship you. We have been saying all through Advent, the people who have walked in great darkness on them light has shined; we have heard the words, Arise shine for your light has come. At the beginning of a new year, may we hold on to the Light of Christmas.

Let us pray to the lord: Let the light of Christ shine on all people.

“All people” … those who come from far away places bearing gifts, those who shop at the Food Co-op and Sharing Shop at Beacon of Hope, all people.

“All people.” We confess that we have problems with that phrase. You know that about us. When we say, “all people,” we cannot help but categorize, Lord. There are those special ones close to us; the ones we dearly love. There are those who live in our community – and we do care about their well-being. Then there are those who disagree with us; those who are so different …those who live in places we do not know about. We are grateful, God of All People, that it is not up to us to decide where your light shines. Forgive us when our actions or words or indifference would cast a shadow. Thank you for including us in all people – may we reflect your light and not hide it.

Let us pray to the Lord: Let the light of Christ shine on all people.

This is a day of reflection, O God of all days. We look back over the past year mostly with thanksgiving as we remember how you have revealed your love and presence to us. You are indeed steadfast.

Blessed Lord, into our darkness you have brought the Light of your love. You have given to us a reminder of the many ways in which you care for us and guide us. This has been a hectic time for so many of us. We have invested ourselves, our energies, and our resources in a flurry of activities; and now we are coming to the end of this calendar year, with a new year in view, and we wonder how we are going to have the energy that the new year will demand. Help us place our trust and our lives in your care. Give us strength and courage for the times ahead. Let love be the foundation from which all our actions spring.

Let us pray to the Lord: Let the light of Christ shine on all people.

Because you love us, we are called to love others. We pray for so many this morning. There are those who are sick; may your healing light shine on them. There are those who are worried, anxious, or depressed. May your comforting light shine on them. We pray for world leaders and city managers, who have responsibilities and decisions to make that we cannot imagine, may your light of clarity and goodwill shine on them. For those who are fighting a war, O God, we are bold to pray that the light of your peace would bring them hope.

Let us pray to the Lord: Let the light of Christ shine on all people.

Oh God, we pray that the more we recount your steadfast love toward us, that you would increase our affection and love for you. As we begin this year with worship, magnifying your name and acknowledging you are the source of all that is life, love, and light, we join with all people to offer the prayer your son, our savior, Jesus Christ taught us to pray:

We pray for …

  • Teachers who are beginning a new year, a new semester, a new class; give them strength and guidance to manage their classes.
  • Those who experienced death of a loved one over Christmas
  • A church member in hospital waiting on test results to determine treatment to fight infection
  • A mother who has fallen and broken her pelvis; prayers for her and her family
  • A daughter having surgery on hand
  • A niece waiting on news about a job
  • A college student who is struggling with decisions about next steps
  • A family member beginning addiction rehab program
  • A wife dealing with depression
  • A brother who had pacemaker put in; thankful surgery went well
  • Blessings and prayers of mercy and protection for the year; good health to all! Love and Joy for all! May we all grow in wisdom of the Lord!

We offer prayers of thanksgiving for …

  • A mother who is regaining her strength after a long rehab
  • Couples announcing their engagements
  • Successful back surgery
  • Healing
  • Colleagues at work who make me feel special!
  • Adult children finding their way
  • Wonderful visits with family and safe flights over Christmas!
  • Positive outcome in court

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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Weekly Prayer – December 28, 2022

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Weekly Prayers for the Church Street Family

Week of December 28, 2022

Rev. Catherine Nance

Snow had fallen, snow on snow, snow on snow …

Your love of beauty and your love for your earth was vividly stark and bright to us this last week.

Most of us stayed in and admired the glory of the snow; thankful it was on a day when most of our loved ones did not have to go to school or work. There was no rush. In the freezing temps, we were adamant about staying in and keeping warm. In these moments, O God, when we are forced to be still, we confess that we are uncomfortable with stillness. We measure our days with accomplishments and tasks done; to be still seems a waste. But it is in those moments, O God, if we allow you to help us quiet our inner voices and our anxiety, that we can feel a peacefulness and assurance.

We are reminded that we are not alone … we are loved ….you are Lord of heaven and earth which includes our quiet place ….there are others who are sitting quietly enjoying the warmth of a mug and the familiar smell of the crocheted blanket.

On this Fourth Day of Christmas – four calling birds — what are you calling us to, O lover of our souls? Calling us to worship, calling us to give thanks, calling us to be still, calling us to pay attention …what other calling is on our lives from you? Calling to forgive ourselves, to forgive others, to move on, to tarry?

We thank you, gracious God for the experience of worship on Christmas Eve and Christmas Day. How glorious to go from the quiet of Silent Night, Holy Night, to the joyful singing of Good Christian Friends, Rejoice! May these Days of Christmas linger a bit for us – even if we are back at work or heading back to routines – may the glow and warmth of all that was holy remain with us, abide in us.

We know that the cold and snow was not a time of quiet reflection for everyone. It did inspire us to ask about others, to wonder how those who live outside most of the time manage these days. We thought of folks who have to choose between running the heat or buying extra food. We are grateful for bursts of giving and spontaneous shelters. Thank you for volunteers who helped at Magnolia Avenue UMC and for the staff at KARM. Thank you for those who freely gave of their abundance so that others would have warmth. When the weather turns more pleasant and it is warm, may we not forget. Help us to work with the agencies and systems ahead of time, O Lord. We thank you for the day-to-day work of Beacon of Hope and Compassion Coalition and Volunteer Ministry Center and so many others. Thank you for our volunteers at Soup Kitchen who give of time and heart.

This first half of the twelve days tends to be a time of both-and. Both quiet reflection and a call to service; both quiet gratitude for what is past and planning ahead for ways to show more gratitude.

As we prepare for tomorrow and the long vowels of ‘Fi—–ive go—–olden riiiiiiings,’ may we appreciate lingering a bit more, feeling your presence and knowing that it is enough for the day.

We offer these prayers on behalf of our church members and friends …..

We pray for….

  • A mother who has fallen and broken a rib; prayers that pain will be relieved
  • A wife and mother who is under hospice care; prayers for family as they deal with the ups and downs of Lewy Body Dementia…
  • A family who has kept vigil by their grandmother’s side; prayers for comfort now in her death on the day after Christmas
  • Two different families who  had a mother die on Christmas Eve; prayers for them as they gather this week for burials.
  • A neighbor whose house was destroyed by fire
  • Those who have had heart caths and other procedures during the holidays; prayers that these will lead to a healthy new year!
  • Friends who are dealing with new diagnoses, maneuvering through unfamiliar language and territory; thankful for volunteers on Parish Health Ministry Team.
  • A couple who has suffered another devastating loss in attempts for pregnancy; prayers for all who love them.

We continue to pray for….

  • Members and friends who are beginning treatments for health concerns
  • Those who are hoping for pregnancy
  • Those who are healing – slowly! – after surgeries; prayers for patience!
  • Young adults struggling with the economy and job search

Prayers of thanksgiving for….

  • All of the wonderful music over the Advent and Christmas season
  • A good semester
  • Family being able to travel for Christmas

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.

Have a Prayer Request?

Submit your prayer request confidentially by clicking here.

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Weekly Prayer – December 21, 2022

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Weekly Prayers for the Church Street Family

Week of December 21, 2022

Rev. Catherine Nance

We are worried about the cold weather, O God. The empty shelves at grocery stores and the anxiety at gas pumps show that we anticipate the very worst. If we were honest – sometimes we are not completely honest with you! – if we were completely honest, we have plenty of food at home. Enough to last a few days. Maybe not our first choice, but we will not starve. We are worried about the cold weather, O God, but we buy items to make brownies and chili and stew and cornbread; almost as if we are planning a party!  

We are worried about the cold weather, O God. Maybe our extra bag of marshmallows in the cart is a way to cushion our worry and guilt about those who are homeless when we have enough. Maybe our buying an extra pound of ground beef reveals the intention to take extra soup to the neighbors.  

We are worried about the cold weather, O God. Some are haunted by childhood memories of not being able to turn up the heat or not having enough wood or coal. Some are anxious about the cost of utility bills right now but not wanting to let children know about layoffs and cutbacks. Some feel helpless in their warm apartment knowing there are those who are cold. 

We are worried about the cold weather, O God. Looking at the weather app and the clock and knowing all that needs to get done, we begin to shiver – not with cold, but anxiety. We meant to do more, we meant to run those errands earlier. We meant to, O God. 

We are worried about the cold weather, O God. We have family members who work for utility companies, we have friends who are rescue workers.  

We are worried about folks who don’t have the resources to keep warm and who have drafty crawlspaces where the pipes are. We are worried about family and loved ones who are traveling – O Lord, keep them safe! We are worried about parents who have to go to hospital in the cold and we are worried about elderly who …. 

O God of arctic winds and God of trade winds and warm air … O God, calm us down. As we blow warm air into our hands, may we feel your breath on us. Give us a sense of peace and a sense of time. Perhaps by warm lamplight on this longest night, we can make a Love-inspired list of folks to check on tomorrow. Perhaps with more daylight tomorrow we will feel hopeful that we have done enough. 

Thank you O God for hearing our anxious prayers and for calming our spirits. Give us good judgment and clarity. We thank you for opportunities we have through service and offerings to help those who do not have housing, to extend help to those in need. We offer prayers of thanksgiving for those whose job it is to prepare for cold weather.  

We thank you O God for your abiding presence in all times. May we feel the warmth of your Holy Spirit and may we be bold to share that warmth with others, however you give us opportunity. 

We pray for our church family who have requested prayer … 

Prayers have been requested for….

  • A daughter and son-in-law undergoing IVF treatment
  • A family whose teenager was killed in auto accident this week
  • Healing after surgery
  • An individual who is here from Ukraine; prayers that things will work out in starting a new life here
  • Friends and families with particular concerns (unspoken requests)
  • A high school student injured in ATV accident
  • Those who are homeless during this freezing weather. Prayers of thanksgiving for KARM!
  • A brother healing after cancer surgery
  • Those dealing with mental health issues and adjusting to medications and treatment
  • Teachers who have students going through crises of health or family
  • For a wife/mother who is being placed on hospice care tonight

Prayers of thanksgiving have been offered for…. 

  • Successful gallbladder surgery
  • That a mother has returned from rehab to assisted living
  • The joy of seeing church members who have been missing worship back in church
  • Wonderful worship services and musicians
  • Grandchildren coming to visit for Christmas
  • A new niece
  • A second interview!

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.

Have a Prayer Request?

Submit your prayer request confidentially by clicking here.

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Weekly Prayer – December 14, 2022

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Weekly Prayers for the Church Street Family

Week of December 14, 2022

Rev. Catherine Nance

Oh, Lord! Time is running away from us! 

Six more days until school is out … 

Ten more days until Christmas Eve…. 

Seventeen more days until a new year begins! 

You have gifted us with morning and evening, O God, and yet we complain we do not have enough time. 

Forgive our frantic natures, Lord! Still our spirits so we might acknowledge your presence. How would you have us spend this time?  

We think of others and how they are marking time. 

We think of children who are counting down days in excitement. 

We think of parents who are remembering the anniversary of a death. 

Young adults anxiously awaiting a notification after a job interview. 

Older adults who find themselves alone. 

Oh God, sometimes our hearts cannot hold all of the compassion we feel! We turn to you in prayer and ask that the presence of your Holy Spirit be with those who are hurting. People we do not know, but we hear about them in a news update or we see them at the mall. May these connections we feel strengthen our ties to you. May we find peace and comfort in your Emmanuel – in knowing that your Spirit can and does reach out to others.  

We do not want to be frantic, O God. So, we will cling to the prayer, Give us this day our daily bread. Give us this day enough energy for today. Give us this day opportunities to make today a good day for someone else. Give us this day a sense of all the others who are praying about today. In focusing on today, Lord, may our spirits turn from the frantic feeling of time rushing away to the time being a precious gift for now. 

We stop for a moment and hold in our hearts the people we love, those who are sick and frightened, and those who are feeling hopeless. May they feel the presence of our prayers, just as we feel your presence with us. 

We feel a special bond to all who are praying with us now as we say the prayer your Son taught us …. 

Church family asks for prayers for….

  • A mother recovering from knee replacement surgery
  • A husband recently diagnosed with Kennedy’s Disease
  • A friend recently diagnosed with Parkinson’s Disease
  • For other members in the church dealing with ‘test results’ and diagnoses; patience and discernment as they learn about new illnesses and protocols
  • Families not able to be together at Christmas
  • Teachers who are under so much pressure this time of year
  • A member recovering from surgery
  • Healing of heart and memories when family cannot travel or be together for the holiday
  • Safe travels and a wonderful visit for a church member seeing family in England – first time in three years!
  • A husband who has been laid off from job; searching for new work and hope!
  • A couple hoping for pregnancy
  • A little grandchild who has been so sick; prayers for healing
  • Comfort and strength in the midst of a sudden death of a dear friend. The family is already dealing with serious illness and treatments. 
  • A thorough and decisive conversation with primary care physician.
  • Guidance for a judge who is making decisions about where grandchildren can live; prayers for the mother who has been patiently waiting
  • An elementary-age daughter of a friend who had surgery on her finger this morning after a severe injury
  • A friend’s grandmother who had cancer surgery and is looking at a long recovery; prayers for the family as they deal with all that is ahead of them.
  • An aunt who is experiencing a lot of stress with family
  • A friend with stage three breast cancer who is having surgery this week
  • A relationship to be restored

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.

Have a Prayer Request?

Submit your prayer request confidentially by clicking here.

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Weekly Prayer – December 7, 2022

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Weekly Prayers for the Church Street Family

Week of December 7, 2022

Rev. Catherine Nance*

It came upon the midnight clear, that glorious song of old,  

from angels bending near the earth to touch their harps of gold:  

“Peace on the earth, good will to all, from heaven’s all gracious King.”  

The world in solemn stillness lay, to hear the angels sing. 

The night sky is rainy tonight – not exactly ‘the midnight clear,’ O God. But, you are God of all of the nights. The ones that are stormy, the ones that are clear; the sleepless ones and the late ones. O Lord, we do want to rest tonight. We want to hear angels sing and we want “peace on earth,” to be our last thoughts for this evening. However, O God who hears our sighing along with the angels singing, you know what is filling our minds with noise. Worry. Deadlines. Concerns about the world and heartache for those near and dear to us. In this time of prayer, O God, in this moment of choosing to pray, may we sit for a moment in solemn stillness …may we listen for your breath, your angels. We pray that those we love may feel your peace and stillness this very moment. 

Still through the cloven skies they come with peaceful wings unfurled, 

 and still their heavenly music floats o’er all the weary world;  

above its sad and lowly plains, they bend on hovering wing,  

and ever oe’r its Babel sounds the blessed angels sing. 

We know that as the sky moves from dusk to evening to midnight to dawn, your Breath, your Spirit, your messengers, your angels continue to be with us. Even when we turn away from you – whether by sleep or by decisive actions, you continue to come to us. Tune our ears O Composer of Life, that we might hear your singing above any other noise: the scripts we play over and over in our heads telling us who we SHOULD be, the voices who are telling us we need MORE, the culture who tells us we are not relevant, and any other babble that seeks to gain our attention. Let us hear your voice as you bend towards us. 

And ye, beneath life’s crushing load, whose forms are bending low, 

 who toil along the climbing way with painful steps and slow, 

Look now! For glad and golden hours come swiftly on the wing.  

O rest beside the weary road, and hear the angels sing! 

When we listen to your messengers and to your heart, O God, we are prompted to look towards others. Our hearts are heavy but full of prayers for those who are toiling, whose lives are so difficult. Whether they are soldiers in a far off land, EMTs on local roads, teachers doing their very best, parents struggling to ‘make Christmas,’ leaders striving to do the right thing, caregivers who feel tied to a bedside, and so many more. We pray that in the morning they may awake with renewed hope; that they hear the angels sing! 

For lo! The days are hastening on, by prophet seen of old,  

when with the ever-circling years shall come the time foretold  

when peace shall over all the earth its ancient splendors fling,  

and the whole world send back the song which now the angels sing.  

Having spent time in prayer to you and with you, O God of the nighttime, may we feel the assurance of a solemn stillness. You are with us. We are not alone. You bend towards us and hear our prayers …. 

Church friends have asked for prayers for….

  • Help for teachers with difficult classes and workloads.
  • A brother just diagnosed with colon cancer; prayers for upcoming surgery
  • Members of other United Methodist churches who are dealing with disaffiliation process
  • Families going through transition; caregivers moving away and making decisions for other family members in chronic health situations
  • Members who have been diagnosed with Covid and flu; prayers for safety and recovery
  • A daughter and son-in-law hoping for pregnancy; for all those dealing with fertility concerns during this season especially.
  • Friends and family who are dealing with chronic health concerns; the caregivers
  • Those who are waiting on tests and follow up appointments
  • That insurance company will work with a family
  • A mother who is in hospital after a fall

Our church family offers prayers of thanksgiving for….

  • A son who has worked hard and is being recognized by his industry
  • Adult children who are content
  • A wonderful Advent Craft Fair. Thankful for all of the volunteers and the families who attended!
  • Clear report on blood tests
  • A daughter-in-law who has found a job!
  • A church member’s successful back surgery
  • Members who have been able to leave hospital and rehab and go back to assisted living facilities

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.

*Tonight’s prayer inspired by Edmund H. Sears’ carol, It Came upon the Midnight Clear (1849)

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Weekly Prayer – November 30, 2022

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Weekly Prayers for the Church Street Family

Week of November 30, 2022

Rev. Catherine Nance 

From the rising of the sun to its setting, the name of the Lord is to be praised. 

You have given us the gift of evening and daytime, O Lord; it is how we first measured time. 

Then we named the days and now we have given each day a title this season: 

Black Friday (which now lasts for weeks before Thanksgiving). Cyber Monday is when we shop online more than any other day of the year and then Giving Tuesday – sort of a repentance for the overindulging we’ve done.  

O Lord, we know that you are infinite and that you are Lord of our Life, but we feel a little more in control when we can mark time, name time, divide time into hours or minutes. We make plans for days and save the dates. We want to spend our time wisely, but also be productive, and also enjoy each moment. Oh! The expectations and burdens we place on ourselves! 

We do like a good plan! Our families and communities function better when we have our schedule and know what time events will start and end! But, remind us to pause, O God. In this season of Advent, you have called us to watch, to wait, to be prepared. As we ask, “what time is it?” may we pause to ask “how is God in this time?” When we ask ‘How much longer”, may you guide us to wonder how you are waiting with us. We do not wait well, Lord. You know this about us. 

So, our prayer this evening is for those who are waiting and wondering how much longer … 

How much longer before the doctor calls .. 

How much longer before that check shows up… 

How much longer before she says, “I’m sorry”…. 

How much longer before he is healed…. 

How much longer do we keep trying to get pregnant… 

How much longer do we have to live like this… 

How much longer before he comes home…? 

We offer prayers of thanksgiving, O God of the Nighttime and Daytime, that you are indeed with us in all time. You wait with us. You watch over us, and for us, and with us. Open our hearts and minds that we might notice you; may our spirits catch a glimpse of you as we wait. In this Advent season, we grapple with the circle – the wreath – the everlastingness of it all. Sometimes, we want straight lines and angles and turns and clear direction. Help us find solace and comfort in the circle. Love never ending. Your presence who has no ending or beginning. May that bring meaning to all of our time. 

We pray in the name of the one who has come, who is with us now, and who will come again. 

We pray for ….

  •  A member’s co-worker just diagnosed with bone cancer.
  • A Holston Conference pastor and wife whose 20-month old son died after a tragic accident. The funeral service will be at our church; prayers for Pastor Tim as he leads.
  • Those who are grieving … so many losses this past year
  • A daughter who is making choices for her mother about assisted living, follow-up rehab, etc. Such a maze to work through!
  • Church members who are dealing with physical health issues; may they feel close to God’s energizing spirit!
  • A colleague waiting on medical tests and a clear diagnosis
  • The families behind each of those Beacon of Hope “angel tree” names. Praying for happy memories for each of the families and that they feel hopeful in the coming year!
  • Church members who have Covid; thankful for mild cases. Hoping for all to stay well!
  • A member’s friend who is having surgery this week
  • A son who works out of state who is having problems with back
  • A sister who is dealing with after effects of cancer treatments
  • A father who has Covid
  • A family situation … primary caretakers are moving away. Prayers for good decisions to be made about family members who need attention.

We continue to pray for ….

  • A niece in Los Angeles looking for a job
  • Two church members who are under hospice care; giving thanks for faith in God. Thankful for supportive families.
  • Those who are caregivers and those who are making difficult decisions
  • Those who are in rehabilitation after a fall and/or surgery
  • Those who are weary with chronic illnesses and those whose bodies are ‘wearing out.’
  • A member who is dealing with depression. We pray for so many who deal with depression – who want to be at church and with family, but just cannot make that happen.

We offer prayers of thanksgiving for ….

  • Healthy pre-natal check ups
  • The miracle of life through organ donation; we think especially of the lives of children who have renewed hope after the death of a 20-month old.
  • Emergency personnel – firefighters, police officers, EMTs, who respond when we call!

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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