These ideas are designed to be starting points for the prayers of a particular community of faith.

Joe Milner

For the Church: that we may allow Christ to bring forth abundant life within us and guide us in using our gift of life for God’s glory

For a listening heart: that we, who have been called by name, may hear the voice of the Good Shepherd, and respond confidently to God’s invitations

For all who minister in the church: that they will faithfully help others find Christ by the witness of their lives, the truth of their words, and the integrity of their actions

For Pope Francis and all pastors: that they may faithfully imitate Christ in accompanying the people of God on their journey and encouraging their growth toward wholeness

For all Christians: that we who have been called to follow Christ may lift to God those who cause us to suffer and refrain from threatening, insulting, and judging them

For all who suffer for the Gospel: that God will give them patience and guide them in following the example of Jesus who entrusted himself into God’s providence

For all who will be confirmed this spring: that the Spirit will help them recognize that they are the daughters and sons of God and guide them in using their gifts for the good of others

For all who are discerning a call to ministry: that they will recognize God’s invitation, open their hearts to God who loves them, and follow Jesus in laying down their lives for others

For all who are hearing the Gospel for the first time: that they may be moved by the Word of Life and seek to know Christ who is Lord and Savior

For the grace of discernment: that all who are making major life decisions will open their minds and hearts to God’s movements, be open to the greatest good that can be done, and move forward with trust and confidence in God who loves them

For healing in mind, body, and spirit: that the wounds of Christ will restore to wholeness all who are ill or suffering

For all who are suffering from natural disasters: that God will be a shepherd to them, guide them to the assistance that they need, and sustain them as they recover

For all who are facing famine: that God will open resources for them, end blockades and administrative mismanagement, and strengthen those who are trying to deliver relief

For greater care for earth’s resources: that God will help each of us to care for God’s creation and to use earth’s resources prudently and respectfully

For all diocese who are consolidating and restructuring: that the Spirit will guide leaders and parishioners in developing pastoral and effective structures to serve the people of God