National Day of Prayer, First Thursday in May
On this National Day of Prayer, “May the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace in believing, so that you may abound in hope by the power of the holy Spirit” (Romans 15:13)
Turn our hearts in hope, You who knit us in our mothers’ wombs, that we may protect children and young people from the many darknesses of the world: from violence and neglect, hunger and homelessness. May our children live in peace and joy, embodying hope for the future of the world.
Turn our hearts in hope, Eternal One, that we may learn from the wisdom and experience of our elders, grandparents, and those advanced in age. May we honor their inestimable dignity, reverence the value of their lives, and accompany them with unfailing compassion and support.
Turn our hearts in hope, Great Caregiver, that all those who bring healing to patients may embody your Wisdom, tenderness, and abundant mercy as they serve and accompany those in their care.
Turn our hearts in hope, O God, that we would see each person we encounter—in our neighborhoods and across society—as people of worth with gifts, talents, and the capacity to love. Let us recognize and celebrate each other’s goodness and have the courage to love our neighbors as ourselves.
Turn our hearts toward You, that each of us would “Learn to do right; seek justice. Defend the oppressed,” as Jesus, your Beloved Son, has taught us.
Through Christ, our Lord, we pray: AMEN.