Dear St. James’ family,
Please hold in prayer all those affected by partial shutdown of the Federal Government. Check on friends and neighbors who are facing the stress of work stopped, family rhythms interrupted, and financial strain. Keep in prayer everyone impacted, and reach out to support those you know who may be hurting – with a hug, listening ears, an invitation to dinner, or anything else you can think of. Let us extend the love of God in tangible ways, offering compassion and encouragement to those in our circles.
If you or your family have been financially impacted please feel free to reach out to me via phone or email. I am available to meet with anyone needing prayer or to talk about local resources, including money for urgent help with groceries or an essential bill.
May God sustain those who are struggling, and inspire us all to remember that we belong to each other.
Yours in God’s peace,
Kristin+
Some Prayers adapted from the Book of Common Prayer (page 820)
30. For the Unemployed
Heavenly Father, we remember before you those who suffer want and anxiety from lack of work [or interruption of payment for work]. Guide the people of this land so to use our public and private wealth that all may find suitable and fulfilling employment, and receive just payment for their labor; through Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen.
39. For those who Influence Public Opinion
Almighty God, you proclaim your truth in every age by many voices: Direct, in our time, we pray, those who speak where many listen and write what many read; that they may do their part in making the heart of this people wise, its mind sound, and its will righteous; to the honor of Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen.
28. In Times of Conflict
O God, you have bound us together in a common life. Help us, in the midst of our struggles for justice and truth, to confront one another without hatred or bitterness, and to work together with mutual forbearance and respect; through Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen.
27. For Social Justice
Grant, O God, that your holy and life-giving Spirit may so move every human heart [and especially the hearts of the people of this land], that barriers which divide us may crumble, suspicions disappear, and hatreds cease; that our divisions being healed, we may live in justice and peace; through Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen.