Weekly Prayer – March 27, 2024

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Weekly Prayers for the Church Street Family

Week of March 27, 2024

Written by Rev. Tim Best

Holy God,

During this Holy Week we seek your strength and your compassion. In each of the stories that we encounter about this week of your ministry which culminates in your passion and death, we see that when our love, our understanding, our patience, and our courage fails, you remain steadfast. As we read and remember the stories of your journey to the cross, open our hearts that we might be renewed in our discipleship. As our lenten journey comes to an end, prepare us to proclaim the hope and mystery of our faith after Easter.

As you taught in the temple, and prophetically challenged the powers of your day, challenge in us our love for the way things are. Where we have used talk of you to benefit ourselves and those close to us, lead us to repent. Help us to remain steadfastly committed to you, that we would abandon the appearance of devotion for the sincere commitment to you and the path you set before us. Make us mindful of those in our midst who suffer and are vulnerable. We pray for those whom we have ignored, those whose suffering has benefitted us, and those who have yearned to know your love, but have not found in us compassionate friends. Guide us that we may see the suffering of others and respond with the mercy and grace you have shown to us.

As you greeted those who arrived to arrest you with peace, help us to face our enemies with confidence in your kingdom and a resolve to greet force and violence with patience and trust in the final triumph of your kingdom. We pray for those who suffer from violence. We pray for all peoples afflicted by war. We pray for the ongoing war in Ukraine. We pray for Israel, for Gaza, for all those who are suffering. As your disciples we know that your desire is for all creation to be gathered into a peaceful and even joyful existence under the Lordship of Christ. Help us to treat our enemies as Christ treated those who saw him as an enemy. Soften hard hearts and direct the powerful so that your peace may reign.

Through your own suffering on the cross you teach us that we might cry out to you in our own trials. Deepen our faith that we might be so bold to name our suffering before you and before the world. We praise you that we are not required to hide our pain and suffering. We pray for those who are suffering. Our hearts are broken as we continue to learn details of the tragic bridge collapse in Maryland. In such moments we feel limited by words and our inability to undo such suffering. Hear us when we pray and hold those who suffer in your care.

As we come to the end of another day in this Holy Week, grant us peace and rest this night. Take from us the burdens of the day, and help us to recognize the simple mercies we have experienced throughout this day. Where we have failed to fully obey you today, help us tomorrow. In humble trust we offer all the cares of our hearts to you, including these joys and concerns of our church family….

We pray for ….

  • The city of Baltimore and all those affected by the bridge collapse. Praying especially for the families of the six workers. Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer!
  • A sister who is going through divorce mediation; may all be calm and respectful.
  • A member’s nine grandchildren; may they know th ey are all loved by God and family.
  • One who is having trouble sleeping while looking for work; pray that someone would call for an interview!
  • Praying for family and friends who are going through difficult times; God knows the need.
  • Family and friends who are grieving the death of a special lady who taught us all about perseverance, hope, and trust in God.
  • A mother who has been hospitalized at Vanderbilt; thankful doctors are able to bring her relief
  • A colleague who is having health concerns; may she make good decisions
  • One who is waiting to hear results from MRI
  • Those who are prisoners of human trafficking
  • Family in Indonesia
  • A husband who has broken nose and and cannot sleep well
  • A family having to make decision about putting their mother in nursing home. Prayers for this 88-year old.
  • A cousin’s wife who has advanced kidney cancer; she begins treatments soon. Please pray for healing and peace.
  • The husband of a close friend whose throat cancer has returned. Prayers for him and for his wife who is caregiver.

We give thanks for ….

  • A daughter who has found a wonderful full-time job after years of being stay-at-home mom!
  • The beautiful musical offering on Sunday night, St. John’s Passion
  • For all the people who read these prayer requests and offer their time to pray.

We continue to pray for ….

  • A grandson who is healing from surgery on tibia and fibula
  • Those who have had surgery
  • One who is recuperating from leg surgery; praying that pain will be gone.

We offer our prayers in the name of Jesus, our Lord, who taught us to pray, saying:

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 – March 20, 2024

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Weekly Prayers for the Church Street Family

Week of March 20, 2024

Written by Rev. Catherine Nance

O God of evening, many of us are coming to you now ready for a good night’s sleep. We look back over the day and offer gratitude for the ways you have shown your love and grace to us. But you know, O God of nighttime, that there are those of us who dread the night for we have trouble sleeping. There is much on our mind. We want to ‘find our rest in you,’ but our minds will not turn off. 

Soothe our spirits O God, give us a sense of trust that you are with us. You neither slumber nor sleep and you will watch over us. We pray for mothers and fathers who watch their children sleep, worried about their future. We pray for children who hope their aging parents can sleep well; storing up energy for the next day’s medical appointments and errands. Our minds wander to the day’s news and when we close our eyes we see images from around the world. How can we rest? 

Breathe on us, O Breath of God. Help us to see and to receive the nighttime as a gift. Please help our minds and souls to rest. You have created in us in such a way that our bodies and spirits need rest. Help us to see this as a gift and not an escape or a hurdle to overcome. 

May we truly find our rest in you. 

We pray for those who are too weary to pray. We pray for those who do not know how to pray. And we pray for those who do not know the solace that comes from communing with you. We know you hear all the sighs and the groans and the silence and receive them as prayer. 

Bless you, O God of evening. 

Tomorrow may we rise singing, “Morning by morning new mercies I see!” 

And now, in an act of covenant love with our church family, we pray for these individuals and families who have asked for prayer … 

We pray for ….

  • A grandson who broke tibia and fibula playing basketball at school. Thankful that surgery went well. Prayer for healing for this young man!
  • A man looking for meaningful work that can sustain him financially and emotionally
  • A husband recovering from ACL surgery
  • A member having surgery at Duke; prayers of thanksgiving for a doctor who offered solution to pain
  • The babies and children who are starving in Gaza. Pray for compassion and sense to prevail. Lord, in your mercy, please deliver these children! Hear our prayer!
  • For a member waiting on MRI results
  • For a wife dealing with the unexpected death of her husband. Giving thanks for loving children and family
  • Sons who are grieving the death of their beloved mother
  • A husband and wife as they begin learning about different types of dementia and how to plan for a healthy and safe situation

We continue to pray for ….

  • The newborns in our church family; thankful for loving parents and good health!
  • A member whose beloved canine companion is undergoing treatment and therapy
  • A member who has moved to skilled nursing care and rehab after a stroke
  • A dear friend who was so active and now unable to walk
  • Loved ones who are transitioning from ‘home alone’ to ‘assisted living’ 
  • Caregivers who feel they are alone.
  • Those whose grief is deep 

We give thanks for ….

  • Acceptance letters from colleges and post-high school programs
  • Our country and its freedoms
  • The chance to visit with granddaughter
  • The improved health of a dear mother and mother-in-law

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 – March 13, 2024

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Weekly Prayers for the Church Street Family

Week of March 13, 2024

Written by Steve Richardson

God of all creation, God in heaven and in our midst, God of grace and love, we humbly ask you to hear our prayers. 

Thank you for the majesty of the spinning Earth and the changing seasons. Thank you for the emerging signs of springtime that hearten our senses ever more frequently. Thank you for the beauty of nature dispersed all around us in this region where we live. Although we know there are other areas around the globe just as delightful as ours, we still feel blessed to call this space our home. To you, God, all praise and glory.     

Thank you for your grace and mercy, even when we don’t deserve either. Thank you for sending Jesus the Christ who continues to point us to paths of righteous living, paths of justice, paths of love, paths of hope and confidence, paths of transformation, and paths of eternal life. Thank you for sending your Holy Spirit to journey with us on those paths every day. Thank you for your constant presence, even when we may not always realize it. To you, God, all praise and glory. 

Thank you for daily moments of joy, as well as memories of joy. These are gifts that help sustain us amid the difficulties we face. Thank you for your holy scripture that reminds us many, many times to “fear not” as you surround us with hope and love. Thank you for church and connections that provide ties that bind us in mutual support. To you, God, all praise and glory. 

Thank you for minds that can imagine, dream and hope; minds that can reason and solve problems; and minds that can share empathy and compassion with others who grieve and feel despair. Thank you for never abandoning us. Thank you for your Word and your Light. Thank you for the wisdom of Biblical writers, teachers, commentators and scholars. To you, God, all praise and glory. 

Yet even with these many blessings and countless others (plus blessings that undergird us but escape our awareness!), we still seek your help and direction. There are circumstances and challenges beyond the abilities of humankind. So we humbly pray to you, Lord, for your sacred omnipotence to bring your creation to its ultimate wholeness. And to you, God, with all praise and glory, we pray that you hear these needs and prayers of others in our church community; and that you surround each person with your loving embrace and comfort… 

We pray for ….

  • Family members grieving the loss of a beloved mother
  • A mother in the hospital
  • A newborn who had procedure done recently; prayers for healthy days ahead!
  • A mother grieving the death of her son by suicide; Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer!
  • A man in our community whose brother has been missing
  • One who is looking for safe housing and meaningful work
  • A recent widow and her day-to-day coping

We give thanks for ….

  • Acceptance letters from colleges and post-high school programs
  • Faithful volunteers who come to soup kitchen week after week
  • A good job interview; praying I will find the right job. 
  • A good time away with family over spring break; praying that the rest of the school year will be positive for my children
  • Our country and its freedoms

We continue to pray for ……

  • A grandmother who has been diagnosed with multiple cancers; prayers for discernment in next steps for treatment
  • A member who has moved to skilled nursing care and rehab after a stroke
  • A dear friend who was so active and now unable to walk
  • A woman seeking employment that will bring her joy and will help her family
  • The health of a newborn; may parents make good decisions
  • One is traveling overseas for school
  • For children who are adjusting to life after the sudden death of their mother
  • Victims of Israeli-Hamas war
  • Loved ones who are transitioning from ‘home alone’ to ‘assisted living’ 
  • Caregivers who feel they are alone.
  • Those whose grief is deep 

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 – March 6, 2024

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Weekly Prayers for the Church Street Family

Week of March 6, 2024

Written by Rev. Catherine Nance

Honestly God, it has been a dreary day.

We know we are supposed to give thanks in all things, but we let the gray sky and the rain and the humidity bring us down.

We say things like, “Now, I have to change shoes. These got all wet.”

Forgive us, O God of Sunshine and Rain. As we mutter under our breath that we left our other umbrella in the office and our new one is at home, make us pause to give thanks that we have two umbrellas. Forgive us when we forget we have a choice of clothing and can dress in layers. We complain when we have to de-layer; forgive us.

Move us beyond ourselves, O Lord.

We pause now, embarrassed by our pettiness, and offer thanks to you. We are grateful for all that we have. We are grateful for the options that most of us have. When an activity is rained out, we have a dry place to go. Forgive us for grumbling.

Now that we have our good sense about us O God, we do give you thanks for this day. We have had enough to eat, we have stayed mostly dry and warm, and we have a safe place to sleep tonight. We thank you for the people we have encountered today; some strangers and some family. People who were kind to us and people who took time for us.

Before we call it a day, be with us O God, as we remember the conversations and the interactions that were meaningful. We include you in these remembrances knowing that your spirit is always present. Thank you for your blessings.

Before we pray for those near and dear to us, we think about your world. We cannot imagine what a rainy day is like in Gaza or Odesa. We simply open our heart right now and know that you hear the prayers of people all over the world. Through the power of your holy spirit, as we pray for people we know and love, may we feel a connection to all people who call out to you.

Lord, we thank you for the rain. We thank you hearing our prayers. We offer now the prayer requests from our congregation ….

We pray for ….

  • A preschool special ed teacher who is having to deal with extreme behaviors from students; pray for safety, wellbeing, and peace of mind. God bless all the students
  • A grandmother who has been diagnosed with multiple cancers; prayers for discernment in next steps for treatment
  • A member who has moved to skilled nursing care and rehab after a stroke
  • A dear friend who was so active and now unable to walk
  • A woman seeking employment that will bring her joy and will help her family
  • A father in the hospital whose health is declining. May sons feel God’s guidance and strength
  • The health of a newborn; may parents make good decisions
  • One who is traveling overseas for school
  • For children who are adjusting to life after the sudden death of their mother
  • A member whose brother died
  • One who is working with new doctor for second opinion; praying for discernment

We continue to pray for ……

  • A friend who has started drinking again
  • One waiting on test results from doctor
  • One going through a divorce
  • A family dealing with many health issues and employment issues as they relocate
  • Victims of Israeli-Hamas war
  • Loved ones who are transitioning from ‘home alone’ to ‘assisted living’
  • Caregivers who feel they are alone.
  • Those whose grief is deep

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 – February 28

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Weekly Prayers for the Church Street Family

Week of February 28, 2024

Written by Rev. Tim Best

Gracious Lord,  

For the mercies of today; for rest, for work, for food, and for fellowship with others we give you thanks and praise. As we come to the end of another day help us to find rest and renewal in you. Lift from our spirits the burdens of the day. Where we have caused harm or pain today, strengthen us that tomorrow we might seek forgiveness and restored relationships.  

We are thankful for the food we have had today. All that sustains and nurtures is a gift to us from your loving hand. We acknowledge that some of us have had too much, and some of us did not have enough. Create in us generous hearts that whether we have much or little, we would see all we have as a gift. We are thankful that our church family was able to host neighboring churches and community members. Bless those who worshipped and fellowshipped with us today. May the world see and find in us, Church Street UMC, a place and a people where there bodies and their hearts can be fed by your gospel love.   

We are thankful for this community of faith; May your Spirit continue to be at work in and through this congregation to shape us by the the love of your cross. As we continue to journey through Lent, bless and guide those who are participating in a special study, class, or prayer group. Renew their love, dedication, and joy through their faithful study and service. We ask for your guidance in all our missions and outreach ministries. May our neighbors come to know your love through the the ministries of this community.   

We pray for all who are in any sort of need. We pray for those who have had surgeries, those who have been sick, and those who seek answers from doctors. Give strength to their bodies and courage to their hearts. Fill all of us with compassion and mercy for those who suffer. When we see those suffering from loneliness, move us by your Spirit to stand in solidarity and relationship. We pray for those separated from those they love by service, imprisonment, or due to employment.  

We pray for the coming of your kingdom of peace. In the midst of a world that knows violence and peace so well, make your church to be a sign of peace and justice for all the world to see. Where division and hatred divides your people, heal us and draw us together in devoted service to you. We pray for those who feel they have no hope; may your church be a beacon of hope in the midst of the sufferings of the world and may we proclaim that in the midst of their sufferings your love stands with them.  

In a spirit of hope and trust we offer these prayer concerns of our congregation up to you, gracious God.  

We pray for ….

  • A grandmother who is in hospital waiting on tests results; had a biopsy on a mass.
  • A friend who was recently diagnosed with breast cancer
  • One who is looking for a safe place to live; also needs a job
  • One who is struggling with work issues; seeking forgiveness
  • A member who is in rehab after a stroke
  • Those who have been hospitalized; may they feel your strength as they continue to recover.
  • A family in the loss of grandmother
  • A member who is asking for God’s guidance in decisions about treatment options; waiting on second opinion. Prayers for peace of mind and healing as she learns more about situation.
  • One waiting on tests results.
  • Family members who do not yet know Christ as Savior. 
  • A granddaughter’s anxiety and OCD.
  • Grandchildren who are having a difficult time in current family situation.

We give thanks for ….

  • New friends at youth group!
  • The birth of a baby boy!
  • A new college Sunday School class.
  • The sermon and lectures from our Bishop Lecture Series guest, Edgardo Colón-Emeric

We continue to pray for ……

  • A friend who has started drinking again
  • Members of extended family who are not believers inChrist
  • A friend who is missing her son
  • One going through a divorce.
  • A family dealing with many health issues and employment issues as they relocate
  • A faithful companion – a beautiful and dear pet who is having health issues; praying for strength for all God’s creatures!
  • Dear friends; a husband who is in ICU with infection and other concerns, and for his wife
  • One who continues to grieve for her husband while dealing with some family tensions
  • Victims of Israeli-Hamas war
  • Loved ones who are transitioning from ‘home alone’ to ‘assisted living’ 
  • Caregivers who feel they are alone.
  • Those whose grief is deep 

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 – February 21

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Weekly Prayers for the Church Street Family

Week of February 21, 2024

Tonight’s prayer is the one prayed last night at Church Council by Youth Representative, Pauline Schneiter. It was meaningful to all of us who heard and prayed it last night. Please pray it together now …. 

Dear Lord, 

Through all the troubles our world faces, thank you for the opportunity to gather together. Offer your grace to hearts in our community that are in mourning. We offer our own hearts to your will so we might fulfill our roles as comforters and advocates. Even without the understanding of your great power, allow our faith to stand strong.   

For we are co-workers in God’s service; you are God’s field, God’s building. (from I Corinthians 3:9) 

We pray for ….

  • Families in our congregation who are preparing for funerals this week
  • All who are grieving 
  • For one who is looking for a safe place to live; also needs a job
  • For a member who is in rehab after a stroke
  • For those who have been hospitalized; may they feel your strength as they continue to recover.
  • For a friend who has started drinking again
  • For members of extended family who are not believers inChrist
  • For a friend who is missing her son
  • For one going through a divorce.
  • For a family dealing with many health issues and employment issues as they relocate
  • For a faithful companion – a beautiful and dear pet who is having health issues; praying for strength for all God’s creatures!

We give thanks for ….

  • The birth of a baby boy!
  • A new college Sunday School class.

We continue to pray for ……

  • For dear friends; a husband who is in ICU with infection and other concerns, and for his wife
  • One who continues to grieve for her husband while dealing with some family tensions
  • Victims of Israeli-Hamas war
  • Loved ones who are transitioning from ‘home alone’ to ‘assisted living’ 
  • Caregivers who feel they are alone.
  • Those whose grief is deep 

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 – February 7, 2024

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Weekly Prayers for the Church Street Family

Week of February 7, 2024

Written by Rev. Tim Best

Gracious Lord, 

In the midst of sunshine and warmth we praise you for a break in the cold of winter. After so much snow and ice it feels like a break. Perhaps some of us have been able to wander outside in the warmth and feel our hearts and spirits renewed by the heat of the sunlight. Yet, we are mindful that there are still burdens that chill our hearts and weigh us down. Give light to those who dwell in the darkness and warmth to those who have found the coldness of the world especially biting. 

We pray for our neighbors that are alone. Make this church a community that loves and serves our neighbors and creates a genuine and welcoming family. Where the forces of division and loneliness seek to erode dignity and belonging, empower us to respond with compassion and embrace one another just as you have embraced us. May those who do not know your love and the friendship of others find in us friendship and care. 

As we prepare for children’s Sunday in worship, we do offer thanks for the children in our community. We are thankful for their humor, their wonder, their insights, and the ways the force us to think about what we say and do. We give thanks for those who taught us as children, and we as that you would guide us to care for the children in our community, and help them know your love for themselves. Where there are children in need help us to respond, and where we have gifts that can enrich the lives and faith of our children help us to use them. 

Just as you refresh the earth through the various seasons, refresh our hearts and souls. Receive the burdens that we carry in our hearts as persons and as a community. To hose who grieve, grant your comfort, help those who are sick, and be with those who are in any kind of trouble. We share with you and with one another these concern of our community….

We pray for ….

  • A daughter and son-in-law; prayers for peace during the last weeks of pregnancy. One of the twins will not live past delivery for very long. Heartbreaking – but joyful that the other is healthy. Prayers for both babies who are already so loved. Prayers for parents and grandparents as they travel this fragile road of love. Thankful for the eternal presence of God’s Love.
  • All who are wanting to have children and have not been able to; for all who are wanting to adopt and experiencing financial barriers; for all who are struggling with complex decisions..
  • A family who is asking God’s guidance in making the best decision about a loved one’s healthcare
  • A husband who continues to deal with cancer and the ups and downs of that journey
  • A husband and children who are grieving the death of their wife/mother. Prayers for extended family who are far away.
  • Our youth and young adults who are under so much pressure
  • Our Confirmation Class after their retreat this past weekend; may there be strengthened commitment
  • A mother who is home after rehab; prayers for strength as Physical Therapy continues.
  • A husband grieving the death of his beloved wife
  • A family who has asked for prayer as they prepare to move to India
  • Children who have been in hospital; thankful for antibiotics and for caring doctors and nurses at ETCH!

We give thanks for ….

  • The availability of health care options
  • Doctors and nurses who truly see their jobs as a calling
  • The love and support of church family
  • Good report from doctor
  • Extended family who is there when we need help

We continue to pray for ……

  • Caregivers who feel they are alone.
  • Grandparents who are dealing with health concerns
  • A husband who is home recuperating after hospitalization; prayers for physical strength
  • A member who has brain tumor; may she feel God’s comfort and healing presence

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 31, 2024

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Weekly Prayers for the Church Street Family

Week of January 31, 2024

Written by Rev. Catherine Nance

Note from Pastor Catherine: 

I miss the Serenity Prayer. When I was involved in Recovery Ministry, I said it at least once a week, on Wednesday nights. Usually Wednesdays were (are) hectic days, and there was a peace and a release that would come over me as I joined with others as we offered this prayer together.  

May it bring you peace tonight….. 

God, grant me the serenity 

to accept the things
I cannot change;
Courage to change the
things I can; and the
wisdom to know the difference.
Living one day at a time;
Enjoying one moment at a time;
Accepting hardship as the
pathway to peace.
Taking, as He did, this
sinful world as it is,
not as I would have it.
Trusting that He will make
all things right if I
surrender to His Will; 

That I may be reasonably happy
in this life, and supremely
happy with Him forever in
the next.
Amen 

We pray for ….

  • A husband who is home from the hospital and that he regain strength; we pray for his wife who has COVID and has been his caregiver.
  • A mother and son; the mother begins treatment for bladder cancer (second time). Her son has colon cancer and is dependent on her for transportation. Prayers on this family and all who love them.
  • The UT students who are new this semester
  • The friends and family of a wonderful  teaching assistant who died last week after a recent cancer diagnosis. Please pray for the students (age 4 & 5) who miss her and are having a hard time understanding. 
  • A member who had a heart attack Sunday night and is now in CVICU; prayers for her husband and children, also.
  • For a member’s father who is in hospice care now at home; prayers for the family as they care for him.
  • For a member’s grandmother who is in ICU with pneumonia and other health issues
  • For a cousin who was just diagnosed with a tumor; appointment with an oncologist soon. Has other health issues including diabetes.
  • A cousin’s wife has a tumor on kidney and spots on lungs; going to a specialist for more tests. Please pray for her and her family. 
  • A daughter having surgery on Thursday
  • A member in rehab; prayers for physical strength to be improved
  • Friends who need prayers; families we hold in our hearts
  • The family and friends of military personnel who were killed this past week
  • For those who have interviews this week
  • For one whose heart is so full of grief

We give thanks for ….

  • That all of the animals on the farm were safe during the recent cold weather. Thankful for the calf that was born!
  • A new sense of hope for IVF; thankful for doctor 
  • Friends at work who show appreciation and support
  • Being cancer free!
  • For a good report from last scan showing no change!
  • Baby brother!
  • Pets who bring us joy and comfort and companionship; it breaks our heart when they die

We continue to pray for….

  • Those who are caregivers and those who are dealing with chronic health issues
  • Peace in our world
  • For those struggling to find meaningful work
  • Couples who are dealing with fertility issues
  • Clear scans

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 24, 2024

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Weekly Prayers for the Church Street Family

Week of January 24, 2024

Written by Rev. Tim Best

Gracious God,

We praise you for your patience and presence in all things. As snow and ice melt, we give you thanks and praise for the ways that you have been at work in our community and in our church. We praise you for the ways your Spirit has been at work to teach us patience. Patience with those that we live with, patience with our neighbors, and patience with our expectations for how the world should work. May you continue to teach us in and through all things and draw us closer to your loving grace.

For many of us these “snow days” have been an inconvenience, a disruption to our normal routines and our expected plans. Help us to feel comfortable in naming and sharing our frustrations and disappoints before you, but make us ever mindful of the needs and suffering of others. We pray for those that will continue to experience the consequences of our frigid temperatures and snowfall for days to come. We pray for those who have homes that have been damaged, those that lost working hours, those that suffered in the cold, all others who will continue to deal with difficulties due to the weather.

We pray for those who are dealing with illness and disease. Be present with those who face surgeries or long recoveries. We know that in Christ all things shall be made whole, all people shall be made complete, and sickness will be no more. As we wait for the fullness of that future, make us, your church, agents of your love and healing. May we care for those who are lonely, support those who are sick, and may we offer care to the dying.

We pray for our leaders and for the peace of the world. We recognize, and proclaim to all the world, that all authority and power rests in Christ. Guide all those who would seek to wield authority over others that they would be humble in their own gifts, and abundant in their magnanimity towards others. As disciples of the Prince of Peace we pray for the victims of war, for all veterans, and for those that we name as enemies. Make us active instruments of your peace and grace in our own communities and throughout the world.

As the sun sets on our community once again, may your rest fall upon the hearts of your people. Relieve us of our anxieties and frustrations and be renewed through our rest in you. Whether wearied or rejoicing, blanket us with the knowledge of your love and presence. Help us to patiently wait for tomorrow, neither grasping too quickly for the good, nor dreading as so authoritative and final the bad. It is out of trust in you that we offer the concerns and the joys of our Church Street community:

We pray for ….

  • For those who are serving in the military; particularly those engaged in the Red Sea. Praying for safety and that resources can be delivered to those in need.
  • Those who are homeless or who have inadequate housing
  • For a child who is learning to maneuver with a cast and a wheelchair while his leg heals
  • For children heading back to school who have been out of the routine for a while
  • For a loved one who was just diagnosed with cancer
  • Those who have had surgery and are in rehab
  • A couple who is beginning a new journey of IVF
  • City and county officials and workers who have worked above and beyond during the record snow, ice, and below freezing temps
  • Our neighbors at Maplehurst and for all UT students starting back
  • A 7-month old nephew who is having tests run
  • A neighbor who had a heart attack and is in ICU; prayers for his wife. May they both feel God’s peace through this.
  • A member who has had a stroke; prayers for strength as they move to rehab
  • An aunt grieving the death of her niece

We continue to pray for ….

  • A member’s son who is having intestinal/abdominal issues; hoping to get diagnosis and treatment soon
  • Those who are looking for meaningful employment
  • Young adults studying abroad
  • Caregivers
  • Those with chronic illness as they deal with the day-to-day ups and downs

We offer prayers of thanksgiving for ….

  • The birth of a healthy baby boy!
  • Family and friends who are there to help when needed
  • Good neighbors
  • Doctors and nurses who serve in neonatal ICU
  • Clear scans

In patience trust of your love we pray, as we pray together the prayer that Christ our Lord has taught us….

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 17, 2024

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Weekly Prayers for the Church Street Family

Week of January 17, 2024

Written by Rev. Catherine Nance*

O Loving God of all Creation, we look out over the snow and think, “How beautiful!” Others think, “Oh no!” as medical procedures are put on hold. Children exclaim, “YIPPEE!” while parents and grandparents sigh, “another day.” For some it has brought a much needed respite; for others, more work. For some, there has been the joy of baking and for others there have been pangs of hunger as the usual places to get a meal are shut off. Some are having COVID flashbacks as we ‘work from home’ on ZOOM.  

Whatever our circumstance, O God, we thank you for the brightness and whiteness reflecting from the snow. Thie light reminds us we are in Epiphany! O God of Epiphany, we need YOUR light! We remember the words of Isaiah just a few weeks ago: “Arise, shine; for your light has come!” We think of those whose loneliness or circumstances cover them in darkness; loved ones we wish to help but the darkness seems impenetrable.  

May we trust in your Light. 

As a star rose high into the nighttime sky to draw the nations to the Christ-child; send your blessing, O God, on this nation, and every nation, and draw the whole world to your peace and truth. We pray for your children in Israel and in Gaza. We pray that your light shines in the minds and reasoning of those in power. 

May we trust in your Light.  

As John the Baptist guided throngs of people to the edge of the wilderness and baptized Jesus in the River Jordan, we pray that you would guide our country and our leaders to the ways of justice and righteousness. We have just celebrated Martin Luther King Day but know we have so much left to do.  

May we trust in your Light to guide us, O God. 

As Jesus called his disciples to leave their nets and boats, and follow him, we pray that your spirit would give us courage to set aside the things that hinder our discipleship. We pray for your light to clarify the things we need to leave behind – relationships, dependencies, additions, longings that do not reflect your will. Help us to leave our nets on the shore and leave those things that seemed essential before we heard the call, so that we might travel the road you have put before us.  

May we trust your Light to lead us, O God.  

Lord Jesus, Light of the World, hear our prayers, and make us reflections of your Light, that the places of darkness in our world, in our community, and in our relationships, would be pierced by your Light, and that all would be drawn to you and be overwhelmed with joy.  

We pray for ….

  • A sister who is anemic and for her doctor who is trying to find the cause.
  • Patience and guidance as one helps her brothers on family farm 
  • All people and animals who do not have shelter during this freezing winter
  • Someone who is asking for God’s will to be made clear to him. Wants to move beyond identity as “survivor” or “victim” into what God is desiring for him.
  • A friend who is a missionary in the Philippines; particularly in the Davao City area. Concerns arising from floods and earthquakes
  • For those who are serving in the military; particularly those engaged in the Red Sea. Praying for safety and that resources can be delivered to those in need.
  • Those who are homeless
  • For school children for whom ‘snow days’ are difficult because of situations at home.
  • For all in our church who are dealing with cancer
  • A dear friend who is grieving the death of her husband.

We continue to pray for ….

  • A couple trying to make good decisions about boundaries and friendships
  • A member’s son who is having intestinal/abdominal issues; hoping to get diagnosis and treatment soon
  • An individual who requests prayers for many concerns including depression and sleep disorder; prayers for peace and healing in body and family. 
  • Those who are adapting to being home after being in rehab for extended stay
  • Those who are looking for meaningful employment
  • Young adults studying abroad

We offer prayers of thanksgiving for ….

  • The birth of a healthy baby boy!
  • Family and friends who are there to help when needed
  • Vestal UMC, Magnolia UMC, and Cokesbury UMC working with the Office of Housing Stability and government agencies to provide warming shelters
  • Family Promise volunteers
  • Aneighbor who stopped by to check on us

We offer this in the name of Jesus Christ who taught us to pray …. 

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.

*A portion of this prayer is adapted from one written Rev, Rick Morley, an Episcopal priest, who lives in New Jersey.

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