Weekly Prayer – June 21, 2023

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Weekly Prayers for the Church Street Family

Week of June 21, 2023

Rev. Catherine Nance

On this night of Summer Solstice, I am inspired by the hymn writer, Kathleen Thomerson, and offer her words here ….

I want to walk as a child of the light. I want to follow Jesus.

God set the starts to give light to the world. The star of my life is Jesus!

I want to see the brightness of God. I want to look at Jesus.

Clear Sun of Righteousness, shine on my path, and show me the way to the Father.

In him there is no darkness at all!

The night and the day are both a like.

The Lamb is the light of the city of God.

Shine in my heart, Lord Jesus!

[UMH #206, K. Thomerson, 1966]

O God of Light, with your voice you called forth a way for us to see out of the darkness. Your voice gives us a path and direction.

We thank you for the gift of creation which gives us a sense of rhythm, a way to keep time; we are thankful for both day and night. There is something healing, though, about the sun, Creator God! Thank you for the way you have ordered the planets. Thank you for scientists and astronomers who study the skies and help us to understand that we are not the center of the universe! Thank you for the creation of this planet that offers us life!

O God, for those who are experiencing darkness of any kind, reveal your light!

Darkness of despair, bring the light of hope!

Darkness of disease, shine your healing light!

Darkness of shame; bring redemption and release!

Darkness of sin, shine mercy!

Darkness of regret, shine new beginnings

Darkness of death, give us the assurance of eternal life.

We thank you for the extra bit of daylight today, O God!

May your light shine in us and through us!

May our living always reflect the Light of your Love!

We offer prayers of intercession for ….

  • A couple going through IVF; prayers for good health!
  • A friend in hospital who has cancer in liver and pancreas
  • A church member and wife whose dearest friends are having to deal with grief and sadness
  • A friend having wisdom teeth removed
  • A friend who is home from hospital; still dealing with Parkinson’s disease
  • A member in the hospital being moved to rehab floor; prayers for strength and healing
  • A mother grieving the sudden death of her son
  • A mother praying for her son in his addiction battle; prayers for daughter-in-law and his children
  • A wife who is in declining health; prayers for all who are living with dementia and their caregivers
  • A member who is struggling with depression
  • A friend who is in hospital with irregular heartbeat
  • A daughter who needs a job (and needs to realize God is in her life)
  • A member in ICU diagnosed with a brain mass; prayers for healing
  • A member in ICU dealing with seizures and respiratory concerns; prayers for healing and for parents who care for her
  • A member whose mother died last week after battling dementia
  • A friend who has lost his job after a long hospitalization; prayer for relief
  • A sister whose cancer has spread to kidney
  • A friend going through conversations with medical team about cancer treatment
  • A friend just diagnosed with cancer; other health concerns make chemotherapy difficult
  • A fifteen-year old niece awaiting gallbladder surgery among other complications;
  • A newcomer to Knoxville who recently lost her job
  • A church member flying to Africa to visit family
  • A friend in the hospital

We offer prayers of thanksgiving for ….

  • The good work of Stephen Ministers

We continue to pray for …

  • God’s wisdom in our lives
  • Those who are dealing with grief; may God’s presence be a comfort and certainty to them
  • Grandchildren who have been through serious health issues; thankful for good doctors and healing!
  • Successful surgery and a loving family!

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 – June 7, 2023

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Weekly Prayers for the Church Street Family

Week of June 7, 2023

Rev. Catherine Nance

Good evening friends! I am at Lake Junsaluksa, North Carolina attending the Holston Annual Conference along with Pastor Tim and our lay members. It has been a glorious time of worship and hearing reports about what is happening in our conference. “Recalibrating” is the key word for the conference and forward-looking positivity is the energy in the room. I want to share with you today some of the prayers that have been offered here. You are part of this meeting although you are not here physically. The Holy Spirit always connects us through prayer. – Pastor Catherine

BREAKTHROUGH PRAYER for Holston Conference (You can insert ‘CSUMC’ or ‘our family’ or ‘me’ where the prayer mentions ‘conference.’)

Gracious God, we know that you are with us and you are for us. Together we pray:

  • Pour out your spirit upon Holston Conference to renew and revive us in new ways.
  • Reveal where the Holy Spirit is leading us as a conference and as your people.
  • Break through our barriers, opening new doors of dreams, hopes, and possibilities beyond what we know and can imagine.
  • Grant us the courage to walk through the doors you are opening.
  • Stir us to seek you first and root us deeply in your will and way.
  • Renew, revive, and replant this conference, unleashing new and abundant life.  In Jesus’ name, Amen!

Prayer offered at ordination service (we were reminded by our Bishop that we have ALL been called at our baptism to be in ministry). This was the prayer for those ordained elders:

Give to these your servants the grace and power they need to serve you in this ministry. Make them faithful pastors, patent teachers, and wise counselors. Enable them to serve without reproach, to proclaim the gospel of salvation, to administer the sacraments of the new covenant, and to offer with all your people spiritual sacrifices acceptable to you; through Jesus Christ our Lord, who lives and reigns with you, in the unity of the Holy Spirit, one God, now and forever. Amen.

Below is a portion of the prayer offered at the Memorial Service where we remembered clergy and spouses who have died since last year’s Annual Conference. Many of us who read these Wednesday prayers continue in our grief. 

Months or years may have passed, and still we feel near to them. Our hearts yearn for them. Though bitter grief has softened, duller pain abides; for the place where once they stood is empty now. The links of life are broken, but the links for love and longing cannot break. Their souls are bound up in ours forever. We see them now with the eye of memory, their faults forgiven, their virtues grown larger. So does goodness live, and weakness fade from sight. We remember them with gratitude and bless their names. Their memory is a blessing forever.

Dear God who hears our prayers whether they are whispered by an individual or read in unison in sanctuary, we thank you for the privilege we have in being able to communicate with you. We are thankful you desire to be in communion with us. Stir up in us the acknowledgement of our responsibility in carrying out and living out the prayers we bring before you. In the power of our Risen Savior we pray, Amen.

We pray for ….

  • A wife who began chemo treatments this week; may she feel God’s healing presence
  • A Soup Kitchen guest who has been attempting to get a bus ticket to Phoenix; he has the money – just not the technology that is required these days. Bless all those who do not have access to email, internet and who struggle to do transactions without.
  • A brother who has moved to skilled care; prayers for him and for family as he makes decisions about palliative care.
  • For a newly wed couple; may their life be one of contentment and joy.
  • For a son undergoing chemotherapy for colon cancer
  • A young father having cancer surgery tomorrow at Vanderbilt; prayers for his wife and daughter and all the family as they wait.
  • A grandchild who has a cyst on kidney; may the MRI today bring clarity and discernment
  • A church member who has two broken vertebrae; prayers for healing and patience as he wears neck brace for next twelve weeks
  • A friend undergoing tests today; 
  • A church member having knee replacement surgery
  • Prayers for one going through IVF cycle
  • For church members and friends who are hospitalized; may they feel the presence of our prayers
  • A son who is executor of father’s estate

We give thanks for ….

  • Successful knee replacement surgery for a member last week
  • The good news being reported about Annual Conference
  • Harp music last Sunday! Praise God!
  • Stephen Ministers
  • The experience our youth choir is having on their tour
  • A good visit with extended family while on vacation

We continue to pray for ….

  • Our military who are serving around our country and world
  • Our leaders – local and national
  • A little boy struggling with so many health concerns; prayers for family
  • Those whose grief is overwhelming
  • A husband looking for meaningful employment
  • A couple longing to have a 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 – May 31, 2023

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Weekly Prayers for the Church Street Family

Week of May 31, 2023

Rev. Catherine Nance

Ah … summer! Thank you, God, for the season of summer vacation! Even for those who are not ‘in school,’ there seems to be an energy in the air. A spirit of relaxation, a spirit of exploring, a spirit of anticipating good things! Thank you for this shift in our spiritual atmosphere! 

We also know how quickly high expectations for a season can be dashed by one small thing. So we pray for realistic expectations! We pray for patience and for understanding! May family gatherings be nurturing …. May visits between grandparents and grandchildren be life-giving to both …. Give parents the courage to be honest with their children about budgets and expenses … give us the eyesight to see the beauty and joy in front of us ….  

We put so much pressure on ourselves to make everything ‘picture perfect.’ Keep us mindful of the people around us and that your grace that abounds. You love us as we are; may we extend that same grace to ourselves and others. 

We pray for our Bishop and the District Superintendents this weekend as they prepare for Holston Annual Conference on Sunday. May our clergy and lay members be inspired and renewed as they worship, pray, and fellowship together. We thank you for this church, gracious God. We thank you for the worship that happens on Sunday mornings in the nave and online and how it connects us to each other through the week. 

May the words we speak and sing on Sundays, transform our very beings throughout the week. 

We pray for …

  • The families of all those involved in the crash at the corner of Henley & Main today.
  • A son who is beginning chemotherapy for colon cancer. So far, he has tolerated it well. Prayers for the next six months that this treatment brings healing.
  • A wife (and new grandmother) recently diagnosed with breast cancer. Chemo treatments begin soon. Prayers for healing.
  • A friend who is having to move to Arkansas to be with family. Prayers for safe travels and prayers for discernment about next steps and how long. Prayers for peace about the future.
  • A family who is grieving a mother, grandmother, great-grandmother who brought joy to all! Thankful for peaceful passing into Light Eternal and for the JOY she gave and leaves behind!
  • A joyous and safe Parish Youth Choir Tour; prayers for all of the singers and leaders. May they be a blessing to all they meet!

We offer thanksgivings for …

  • Those who loaded ‘food buckets’ and got them to Cokesbury UMC this morning. Praying for the families in Zimbabwe who will receive them in a few months.
  • Being able to attend grandchild’s graduation; thankful for good health to travel.
  • Healthy pregnancy; prayers for little ones as they grow!
  • Prayers of thanksgiving for the medical technology and all the tests and advances that reveal better information sooner; but also prayers as people process the information. Prayers for discernment and guidance for doctors and all who interpret information for us.

We continue to pray for …

  • A young father who will have surgery on June 8 to remove abdominal tumor; prayers that this surgery plus the chemotherapy brings healing to his body. Prayers for him and his family.
  • A friend who had been hospitalized; prayers for healing from MRSA.
  • A young woman whose husband’s funeral was Sunday. They held a funeral for their infant son three years ago. Lord, in your mercy ….
  • A mother and wife in the hospital with pneumonia; prayers for oxygen levels to increase. 

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?

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Weekly Prayer – May 24, 2023

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Weekly Prayers for the Church Street Family

Week of May 24, 2023

Rev. Andy Ferguson

Fire-giving God, on the day before long-ago Pentecost, 

You looked down on all you had created: 

     –a universe beyond measure, 

     –a world of sustained beauty and productivity, 

     –creatures great and small. 

You looked down on the followers of your Son: 

     –hiding for fear of their lives, 

     –hopeless in the face of the Cross and his crucifixion, 

     –trying to comprehend the news that the Savior Son again lives — resurrection! 

In the days before Pentecost… 

 

Most days, just now, it seems that we still live in the days before Pentecost, 

     As if your Spirit Fire did not fall to empower believers like us. 

In countries across the globe, families still hide 

     for fear of war outside their doors. 

     –In Ukraine, Syria and sub-Saharan Africa death fills the air. 

     –Let them breathe freedom again at the falling of the Spirit’s Fire. 

Families up and down Central America live in hopelessness today: 

     –Gangs of criminals make their lives a living hell, 

     –Corrupt governments look the other way in the face of injustice, 

     –Jobs in their home countries are impossible to find and keep. 

We struggle to comprehend how lives are changed now that the Savior Son lives. 

     He was raised on long ago Easter, so why is life still fragile? 

     Why is chatter about the Resurrection reserved for graveyard ceremonies? 

     What does that long-ago Pentecost mean for this world? This time? This day? 

 

 Fire-giving God, as you sent tongues of fire to fall on disciples long ago, 

     Send fire again to fall on all who still believe. 

Set us on fire for the Savior Son, Jesus the Christ, 

     That we might be part of building a world 

     Of such peace that the warriors will lay down their arms in awe. 

     That those who watch their children suffer will see a new day dawning. 

Give us such an experience of the Spirit falling 

     That we too must run to tell what God has done, 

     That we might live in Pentecost hope as they did. 

We pray in the name of Jesus, who sent the Spirit Fire after him. Amen. 

We pray for ….

  • Third graders who are having a difficult time this week; prayers for parents. Please God, help our teachers not feel judged.
  • A niece who has been diagnosed with endometrial cancer. Bless her in her work (chaplain with hospice patients) as she deals with her own struggles.
  • Caregivers who feel torn in so many directions; prayers of thanksgiving for those who understand.
  • A safe delivery of baby boy
  • God’s peace while waiting on medical procedures and results
  • A member waiting on diagnosis in hospital; prayers for doctors as they find the right protocol
  • A dear friend who is battling so many demons; pray that he will listen to God’s Voice.
  • Families going through all of the transitions of graduation and moving up and leaving home
  • Safe travels for a son who is moving today; grateful for supportive and loving parents to help!
  • A member in hospice care and her husband who cares for her; strength for both.
  • A family friend who has been in hospital for ten days; praying that the surgery yesterday to remove MRSA infection is successful and will bring healing.

We continue to pray for …

  • The precious child at Children’s Hospital who has had ups and downs since his tracheotomy. Prayers for weary parents. Lord, in your mercy, provide tangible signs of hope and healing.
  • A member recovering after surgery
  • Clarity from doctors and patience while we wait for a medical answers and direction
  • A young wife as she and family prepare for funeral of husband this weekend

We offer prayers of thanksgiving for …..

  • Summer vacation! Please let everyone have a good summer! 
  • Our church family
  • The joy a new baby brings

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?

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Weekly Prayer – May 17, 2023

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Weekly Prayers for the Church Street Family

Week of May 17, 2023

Rev. Catherine Nance

O God of Alpha and Omega, God of Beginnings and Endings and Beginning Again, we can hear the strains of Pomp and Circumstance in the air and see mortarboards being tossed towards the heavens. Students are relieved and giddy; parents are relieved and tearful. Whether the graduate is a three-year old moving up to Pre-K or a young adult receiving a hood, we are grateful for your presence in their lives and in ours.  

When we move through milestones – and what is sometimes harder – watching children move through milestones, we take time to give thanks for the ways you have been with us along the way. 

The month of May brings memories and hopes and always a bit of heartache. We pray for teachers who have done their very best this year. We pray for teachers who wish they could do more and for teachers who are wondering if they still have the spark. We pray for those who teach and lead at colleges and universities; institutions which used to be places for exploration and hard questions but are now under such scrutiny. We think of students for whom school is their safe place and for others who are already dreading next school year. O God of Compassion, put the right people in paths of those who need to hear an encouraging word.  

Some joyously celebrated Mother’s Day last week and others were grieving. You know all the stories, O God. You know the desires and the disappointments and the celebrations. We pray for new mothers who are hoping for so much and for older mothers who long for their children. Mother’s Day and Decoration Day and Memorial Day … so many opportunities for celebration and honoring precious memories. We are grateful. But we are also human and know that we can break one another’s heart; and yours. Forgive us when we do not reflect the grace that you bestow. 

Fill the world with the hope that swells when we hear bands play at graduation! A drumroll and the crescendo of the horns opens our ears and hearts and spirits to possibilities. The signs of “congratulations” and balloons we pass in the neighborhood make us want to start over and do better. Forgive us when we look back with regret; fill us with “strength for today and bright hope for tomorrow!” May we see your blessings all around us and be thankful! 

There are many concerns, O Lord! Church members have poured out their heart knowing that there is strength and healing when we say the words, “please pray for me…” So, in the newness of spring and the glory of your presence, we offer thanks for the gift of prayer. 

We pray for …..

  • A son who has had legal issues for the past several years; finally having a court date this week. Prayers for resolution.
  • Our high school seniors .. may all of them continue to listen to God’s plan for their lives. May they walk in their faith and be mindful of the blessings they are!
  • Friends who have asked for prayers – friends who are struggling with health or financial or relationship issues
  • That we would stay healthy and full of your purpose for these times.
  • A husband who is struggling with grief over his father’s death. Prayers that he can find his way and know God’s calming presence. Prayers for employment that fills his soul with happiness. 
  • A member who asks for good mental and physical health – for clarity. Prayers as she faces knee replacement surgery that she not be filled with worry and anxiety. Prayers for peace.
  • A young wife whose husband died unexpectedly this week; prayers for peace about the future.
  • Couples who are going through difficult times
  • Parents who are trying to balance all the things!
  • A family who is grieving the loss of a dear pet

We offer thanksgiving for ….

  • Successful surgery for the child with tracheotomy; thankful he and his family are adapting and growing in love. Prayers now for increased muscle strength and that he can get off of the vent.
  • Grandparents who were able to visit a granddaughter who has come through difficult surgery
  • Members of the Congregational Care Committee; thankful for the cards and letters and contact they ensure for homebound members.
  • Healthy grandbabies delivered!

We continue to pray for ….

  • Those who are grieving
  • A dear mother in rehab
  • A newborn in NICU – thankful for weight gain!

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?

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Weekly Prayer – May 10, 2023

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Weekly Prayers for the Church Street Family

Week of May 10, 2023

Rev. Catherine Nance

Sunshine! Light of the World! Let there be light! Let your light shine! Arise, shine; your light has come! 

O God who is Light and who created Light and shares Light, we are aware of and grateful for what the power of sunshine today! This was a beautiful Wednesday. THANK YOU! Our souls as well as our bodies have soaked up your warmth! 

Make us aware of how our spirits are connected to what is happening outdoors. It is difficult to grumble in the morning when we hear birds chirping happily. We breathe in deeply as we leave our temperature-controlled offices to go outdoors. Our lungs perk up with the fresh air. We give you thanks for this connection to creation. Forgive us when we forget that we are part of your creation. Forgive us when we forget that we are called to be stewards of this gift. May we take time to notice sky, earth, rivers, and creeks. We even thank you for all critters; they remind us that we humans were not the only ones on your mind as you said, “Let there be ….” 

Gracious God, we pray that all may feel the warmth of your light and sense the brightness of your love. We know that we are called to be light bearers and light reflectors! Give us the strength and humility to live into those roles. There seems to be so much darkness and strife – we are weary of hearing news and breaking news and updates on breaking news! Yes, we know. We know all the things that are happening in the world. How can we not know with all of the alerts? Honestly, God, we find ourselves becoming numb and losing our empathy. Please shine a light on someone near us; shed a glimmer of hope on a situation nearby where we can focus our attention and prayers and love. We do pray for “your world,” O God, but sometimes we need a smaller picture. We pray for large categories of people; make our prayers have intention! 

We pray for the hungry …. we know about our guests at Soup Kitchen and those who receive extra ‘weekend backpacks’ of food. Thank you for these dear souls, Loving God, whom we have the honor to nourish. 

We pray for the sick …. We can picture people in our neighborhood or in our Sunday School class. These are dear ones who are hurting right now and we are thankful for the ways we can reach out to them and share your love. 

We pray for the lonely …. We are sure there are so many in the world! Thank you for helping us see that one person in our line of vision, O God! May our attention to them be a healing balm. 

Thank you for hearing our prayers at the end of the day. We have so much to be thankful for! 

We offer the requests from our congregation ….. 

We pray for ….

  • A neighbor’s son who has been having seizures and has been in an induced coma for weeks. Please pray that his doctors will be able to figure out what is causing his seizures. Also pray for his Mother, Father, Sister, and Wife as they are with him in St. Louis at a brain specialty hospital.
  • A church member who will be in rehab after surgery to repair a broken hip; prayers for healing and strength. Prayers of thanksgiving for a loving family!
  • Those who have had a family member or loved one die this past week.
  • Recent graduates of the Getting Ahead class at Beacon of Hope; may they continue to feel the confidence and support of this community.
  • Our high school seniors who will lead in worship this Sunday
  • A member’s brothers who need healing and a sense of well-being
  • Family members who live in other countries
  • Family members who are sick; especially older ones who have pneumonia

We continue to pray for …

  • A church member dealing with nerve disease; prayers for relief from pain
  • The precious child who had a tracheotomy last week; prayers for healing. Also prayers for his parents and baby brother as they strive for health and routine.
  • A young father receiving chemotherapy
  • So many in our congregation who are dealing with caregiver issues for aging parents, chronically ill spouses, adult children with addiction issues …. Lord, in your mercy!
  • A brother in rehab regaining his strength and balance

We offer prayers of thanksgiving for  …

  • Two babies born in our congregation! Grateful for the gift of life and love! Prayers for both families!
  • A baby who is still in NICU ‘moved up’ to a crib; continues to gain weight and make strides!
  • For adults who not only “work with” children and youth in our church, but who see them as “their children and youth!”

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?

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Weekly Prayer – May 3, 2023

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Weekly Prayers for the Church Street Family

Week of May 3, 2023

Rev. Catherine Nance

We come together in prayer this evening – knowing that is only through the power of your grace and the mystery of the Holy Spirit that we are able to commune with you and with one another. This is more than an email we clicked on, O God, (we do thank you for technology); this is a way of connecting. We heard in our scripture Sunday that the apostles devoted themselves to prayer and that contributed to the growth of the community. So, we pause here to think about people in our congregation who are praying alongside us now …. 

We think of those who sit near us on the pew … we think of those who type in ‘good morning!’ on the YouTube Rejoice chat. We think of those who are not able to come to the building but who depend on these emails and prayers for connection. What a gift it is to imagine others beside us. 

As we offer thanks to you for the gift of creation, we can imagine others saying, Thank you, Lord! We look at the mountains; others who pray tonight look across plains while some hear ocean waves splashing as they whisper, “Thank you, Lord, for your creation!”  

As we pray collectively, we acknowledge that we have the same needs and desires —  the same fears and hopes.  We join in prayer with those who are struggling to find a sense of peace, a sense of community, a clear path. You know the decisions and situations we face, O Loving God. Thank you for your calming spirit. If we would simply listen to your voice assuring us we are loved and that we are precious in your sight, we would not waste our energy on worry. Forgive us when we look to you as an ‘outcomes manager,’ instead of the Source of our Being. We want to hurry up and make things perfect (or more honestly, easy or comfortable). Remind us of whose we are and how your presence gives us a steadiness for each day.  

Great Physician, we pray for healing for ourselves and loved ones. We are grateful for so many advances in medical technology and pharmacology, but we become impatient or resentful when we do not ‘feel better’ right away or when a pill or procedure does not ‘fix’ everything. Help us to tend to our bodies well, O God. We are fearfully and wonderfully made! Give us patience as we heal and give us holy encouragement to make good decisions for our health. And when we have done all we can and our bodies still decline and illnesses invade, may we turn to you for solace and strength. We pray for those who struggle with pain.  Make us sensitive to the hurts, the anguish, the illnesses that are usually not visible to us. We offer prayers for those who are suffering with mental illness, with shame, with hurtful relationships and other situations that are normally kept private. May we let others know that the community of believers is a safe place to say, “I need help.” 

We pray for our country O Lord; we are horrified and saddened by more reports of violence; neighbors attacking neighbors; we pray for police officers and EMT personnel who must respond. Our hearts are with the communities in Henrietta, Oklahoma and Cleveland, Texas. We ache for all of those who were on Interstate 55 in Illinois and now know how life can be disrupted – or ended – in an instant. It is easy to read news stories and feel such grief or outrage, and then it fades away as we move on with our day. Let us linger for a moment and remember the ripples in community, O God. One victim of a crash is someone’s father who is someone’s friend who is someone’s teacher who is someone’s ….  When tragedy is too overwhelming, may the knowledge that you are aware of all the ripples soften our hearts. May we be kinder to the people in our everyday connections. We never know how that might ripple out to others. Turn our outrage and grief into civility and respect for all people. Move us to whatever action will bring you glory. May our church offer opportunities for all people to live in harmony with one another that we might be a beacon of light and hope.  

We pray for our government leaders; may they serve out of respect for humanity and obedience to you. Guide and direct them to follow your vision of community. Guide us all in the path of discipleship, so that, as you have blessed us, we may be a blessing for others. May our words and actions empowered by your love bring the promise of the kingdom near.  

We pray for ….

  • A niece who serves as a chaplain in a hospital; recently diagnosed with cancer. So thankful for successful surgery, but it leaves her unable to have children. Prayers for all the layers of healing …
  • A family whose child has died after a long struggle; prayers for extended family and friends. Thankful for caring staff at St. Jude’s Hospital.
  • A friend’s little boy with several health issues had a tracheotomy this morning. Prayers for the family – mom, dad, and younger brother – as they navigate new procedures and home health care and being a family.
  • A friend whose father was killed in the ‘dust bowl’ crash on I-55 in Illinois
  • Our local politicians
  • Teachers as the school year winds down and students’ attentions are elsewhere!
  • One of our Soup Kitchen neighbors who asked for prayer
  • A 99-year old friend who had three blood clots in leg removed; prayers for healing as she looks forward to 100th birthday celebration next week!
  • A member  who has been diagnosed with a chronic pain ailment; praying that doctors may find effective medication
  • A family who is saying goodbye to a beloved father and uncle at age 94. May his memory be for a blessing!
  • The family and friends of a 55-year old daughter/mother/friend who died from cancer. Grateful to hold on to her mantra, “Faith over fear.”

We continue to pray for ….

  • A young father receiving chemotherapy
  • So many in our congregation who are dealing with caregiver issues for aging parents, chronically ill spouses, adult children with addiction issues …. Lord, in your mercy!
  • A brother in rehab regaining his strength and balance

Prayers of thanksgiving for …

  • A a son in Peachtree City who had successful surgery for colon cancer; prayers for continued healing as he moves forward with chemotherapy. 
  • Clear scans
  • The ability to have surgery when needed
  • Birth of a granddaughter and for good health!

We offer this prayer in the name of our Savior Jesus 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 – April 26, 2023

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Weekly Prayers for the Church Street Family

Week of April 26, 2023

Rev. Catherine Nance

We thank you, O God of Words and Poetry, for the gift of the Psalms. We begin our prayer tonight with the words of the psalmist: 

In you, O Lord, I seek refuge;  

do not let me ever be put to shame;  

in your righteousness deliver me. 

Incline your ear to me;  

rescue me speedily.  

Be a rock of refuge for me,  

a strong fortress to save me. 

You are indeed my rock and my fortress;  

for your name’s sake lead me and guide me, 

take me out of the net that is hidden for me,  

for you are my refuge. 

Into your hand I commit my spirit;  

you have redeemed me, O Lord, faithful God.  (Psalm 31:1-5) 

We say those words at the graveside, O God. “Into your hands, we commit the spirit of ….” But you intended them for daily living. O God as we think about things we want to hide from, situations that bring us shame, forces from which we want to be rescued — how would our days be different if we committed our spirit to you? 

As we come to the close of this day and look forward to the refuge of sleep and dreams, we want to ‘sleep like a rock!’ Perhaps sleep is our refuge. May we wake refreshed in the morning and may we remember to commit ourselves to you first thing. We commit our spirits, our desires, our intentions, our words, our thoughts, our tasks, our skills, we commit it all to you O Lord. 

Perhaps we will not be so weary, tired, and afraid tomorrow. 

Redeem us, O Lord, Faithful God! 

We pray for ….

  • A friend who went to ER; waiting for answers about ‘infection around liver.’ 
  • A young friend whose health has improved! Now home from St. Jude’s Hospital! 
  • A wife recovering from hip replacement surgery; doing so well in rehab.
  • A brother in the hospital after experiencing falls; prayers as he moves to rehab for strength and stability
  • The fourth- and fifth-graders who are going on retreat this weekend.
  • The sixth-graders who joined the church last Sunday!
  • A colleague who is feeling the stress of work issues.
  • A tiny one who is getting stronger each day in the NICU
  • College students at the end of the semester
  • The people of Sudan; may the leaders care about the people and not just themselves!
  • A husband recently diagnosed with Parkinson’s

We continue to pray for …

  • So many members who have loved ones going through treatments for cancer; waiting on tests.
  • A young adult looking for a job using his talents.
  • All of our elected officials; may they be servant leaders.
  • Those in our congregation dealing with chronic illnesses; the ups and downs – the unpredictability of good days and bad days.
  • The people of Ukraine and their soldiers
  • Those whose grief is so very raw

We offer prayers of thanksgiving for…

  • Bishop Debra Wallace-Padgett and the leaders of the Holston Annual Conference
  • The gift of holding a newborn
  • A sixtieth wedding anniversary!
  • A support group in addiction recovery.
  • Rejoice. Thank you for giving me a way to be at church.

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 – April 19, 2023

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Weekly Prayers for the Church Street Family

Week of April 19, 2023

Rev. Catherine Nance

O God of Resurrection Power, as we live into our Easter faith, we remember the disciples and their visits with Jesus after ‘the third day.’  

  • Mary being surprised by him in the garden, but hearing your name;  
  • Thomas missing out on the group meeting and asking reasonable questions;  
  • Cleopas and his friend who walked with him all that way and did not recognize him until after he had broken bread and departed;  
  • Peter and the others fishing and seeing a familiar figure (but they dare not believe) on the shore. 

If we were to write our accounts, Jesus, what would we add to the gospel writers’ stories? Where have we seen you? Have we even looked for you? 

As we look back over our day, where have you surprised us, O Christ? As we think back over encounters, were you speaking to us? Was that you nudging us, Jesus? Was that you, causing us to rethink and take a second look? 

We want the alleluias from two Sundays ago to reverberate in our soul, but we get distracted by other chants and voices. We hear the anguish of citizens who are concerned about gun violence and the cries of parents whose children have died. We hear the concern over our denomination and churches leaving to go out on their own. We hear government leaders making promises about safety. We hear people who are sick pleading for healing.  

O God, as we lay our head down this evening, our prayer is that we can intertwine the Alleluias into the needs and struggles of this world. We cannot keep them separate; forgive us when we try. If we praise you in church, then we must trust that you are working in your world. May we see you along the road and in the boardroom and at the school and in the offices where decisions are made. How might we utter or cry out alleluia – proclaiming Resurrection power in our everyday living. 

We thank you for words of promise and praise from our scriptures: 

Praise be to the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ! In his great mercy he has given us new birth into a living hope through the resurrection of Jesus Christ from the dead,  and into an inheritance that can never perish, spoil or fade. (1 Peter 1:3-4) 

May our first word in the morning be, Alleluia! May we mean it! 

In the name of Jesus we pray …. 

We pray for ….

  • A couple who is moving from Florida to be close to sister and brother-in-law here in Knoxville. Sister has brain shrinkage and  dementia. Thankful they can move closer so her family can help with her care. Prayers for our church members who are preparing to welcome them into the neighborhood and care!
  • One of our church’s unhoused neighbors: to give him peace from his concerns, protection in his unhoused status and grace as he makes his self-appointed rounds to remove trash at the downtown churches.
  • A member’s son who lives out of state and who is having such a difficult time. Serious medical issues; his best friend has had heart attack and is in coma; and, his wife is wanting a divorce. Prayers for his health as he faces all of these overwhelming circumstances. 
  • A couple’s 24-year old daughter who has had to move out of their home. Prayers for her well-being and theirs.
  • A young boy who is dealing with brain cancer and complications from scar tissue; prayers for his parents who were preparing for his surgery and then told that is not feasible.
  • Governor Lee
  • Members of a Sunday School class who hold each other in prayer each week.
  • A member who has been diagnosed with lung cancer
  • Friends who are struggling with family situations and finances
  • A sister who is waiting on results of PET scan

We continue to pray for …

  • Those who are grieving after the sudden death of loved ones
  • A member who was injured at work
  • A friend who is waiting for diagnostic tests

We offer prayers of thanksgiving for …

  • Our daughter who is pregnant with our second grandchild.

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 – April 12, 2023

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Weekly Prayers for the Church Street Family

Week of April 12, 2023

Rev. Tim Best

This week’s prayer is from in-person worship on Easter Sunday, April 9, 2023. 

Gracious and loving Lord,

We praise and glorify you as we celebrate your defeat of all the forces of sin and death. We join our hearts and voices together in singing hymns and in shouts of joy and celebration, singing and proclaiming “Christ our Lord is risen today”. We praise you because we are so aware of the power of death. Creation groans under the weight of all those powers and principalities that seek to undo, to destroy, and to steal our hope. In our lenten journey we have known and named such pain and loss. In the light of this Easter Day we find hope in the face of grief and loss. Fill us with an Easter hope that will stay with us through the year ahead.

Lord, with the confidence of resurrection,

We are not afraid!

God,

You who breathed life into all creation, breathe upon creation new life today. We see in our midst symbols and signs of your sustaining grace. We see the trees turning green again, colors and hues give new beauty to the landscape that for many months has seemed bleak and dull. We praise you for the beauty of creation, the bounty of your resources, and our calling to care and tend for the earth. Where we have used our resources unwisely or with selfish intent, forgive us. When nature has caused damage to the homes and communities of others, move us to action. When we have abused and neglected that to which we are charged to care for and steward, by your mercy guide us to change. Let us discover in your resurrection the strength to work towards a creation in harmony with itself. May we strive to embrace and embody a creation that fully reflects your peaceable kingdom.

Lord, with the confidence of resurrection,

We are not afraid!

Lord Jesus Christ,

In your triumph over the cross you show yourself to be greater than all the powers of this world. Rulers and kings sought to destroy you through violence and death, and yet you overcame the violence of the cross and the darkness of the tomb. When we are lured by the powers of this world, remind us of your strength, your grace, and most of all your loving mercy. Our hearts are so often filled with division and anger towards the “other”. The other that votes differently than us, the other that lives differently than us, other that speaks and acts and prays differently than us. As Tennesseans our hearts are heavy. We need this Easter proclamation as much as ever. We pray for our leaders, those we voted for and those we did not. We pray for those who work to keep or families, our schools, our children and all in our communities, safe. When fear moves us to use our power in harmful ways, correct and guide us in your Spirit. May we trust not in our power, but in yours.

Lord, with the confidence of resurrection,

We are not afraid!

Lord of the living and the Dead,

We pray for those who we love but rest in you. Even as we celebrate the resurrection, comfort us when we mourn. Remind us that since Jesus Christ has been raised from the dead, so too, will all those whom you call forth on that great getting up morning, may we be raised to new life. As we long for that day, grant to each of us the assurance that living and dying, our life is in you. We are afraid to die, but help us that in the promise of your resurrection we would not be afraid to live boldly for you.

Lord, with the confidence of resurrection,

We are not afraid!

We pray for ….

  • Church member whose aunt died this past week; last relative in that generation. Thankful for love and precious memories
  • Church member whose friend died suddenly
  • Those who are adjusting to life after burying a loved one
  • Those who are in the hospital
  • A member’s granddaughter as she seeks God’s will about college/future decisions
  • Our sixth graders who are preparing to profess faith and receive vows of membership on April 23
  • Those who are waiting on results from heart caths, PET scans and other diagnostic procedures
  • A family who is moving out of state; may they find good connections
  • All educators at every level who are dealing with spring fever!

We continue to pray for …

  • A newborn (who came very early) in NICU; thankful for his strength and loving family!
  • A young father going through chemo

We offer prayers of thanksgiving for …

  • Expressions of kindness and love after death of a family member
  • Easter! 
  • A couple who is engaged; prayers as they plan for their future together!

And now, because we can be confident in the resurrection, we offer these prayers to you in the name of the one 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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