I bid you pray* for our community, the world, and all in need.
For our community:
- For those who are unemployed, underemployed, or trapped in unfulfilling work;
- For those still struggling to break the bonds of addiction;
- For those who have been in automobile or other accidents;
- For those who mourn the loss of a loved one.
*Meditate, hold in good thought.
For the world:
- For the survivors of the Boxing Day Tsunami, as they struggle to rebuild their lives and communities;
- For the people of Iraq, for US forces stationed there, and for all victims of violence in that nation as the January 30 election approaches, and the wake of a hospital fire;
- For the people of Ukraine as a new government takes office there;
- For Israelis and Palestinians, as attempts to establish peace begin again;
- For Americans, as we enter into President Bush's second term, that he and his administration may govern wisely and compassionately, particularly in regards to the war in Iraq and changes to the Social Security Administration.
- For all places wracked by war, disease or poverty.
For all in need:
- For the families of Johnny Carson and Rose Mary Woods, and for all who grieve;
- For those who suffer from elder abuse, and for those commit it, that they may be healed and that their frustrations and callousness may be redeemed;
- For those on death row, for their victims and families, and for the state that has condemned them, that we may not repay evil for evil;
- For those affected by blizzards and winter weather, especially the homeless, that they may find safety and shelter at the last; and with special concern,
- For the poor of all nations.
With praise, wonder, and joy, we give thanks:
- For the conclusion of the hajj;
- For new life, and for our children;
- For the marvels of a world glimpsed for the first time;
- For friends, family and all who share the journey of our life together.
Amen.