Prayers of the Church

JOYS

Prayers of thanksgiving for …

The Department of Defense’s announcement that there were no combat-related casualties in the last week.

Our church’s participation in the school’s project to provide Christmas cards to local Veterans.

The gift of Nelson Mandela’s life and his inspired leadership.

Those whose lives shine in the darkness.

First Friday in December’s festivities in Stevensville, which included reading a prayer and the Christmas story on Main Street.

Our church’s brass ensemble’s concerts around town this weekend.

The nativity display at St. Mary’s Mission this weekend.

The Christmas Advent Devotional that includes church family members’ reflections and devotions.

All of God’s “critters.”

The gift of family pets’ influence in our lives.

Wonderful family reunions.

For answered prayers.

Visitors to church:  Danielle (Callie’s friend) and Sheila (Belinda’s mother).

Birthday blessings to Callie, Betty and Hazel.

Heat and warm beds … and the safety and comfort that we enjoy.

Church family members who step in and help when called.

Gratitude to live in area communities who actively care for one another’s needs.

CONCERNS

Prayers for recovery and healing for the thousands of casualties and millions of people affected by the recent typhoon in the Philippines.  (Thanks be to God that the United Methodist Committee on Relief, UMCOR, is in position and involved in disaster relief.)

Prayers for peace in the Middle East – and in all the “four corners” of the world. 

Prayers for our military Veterans. 

Prayers for travelling mercies and for those not with us today

Prayers for healing mercies for (1) Mary L., (2) Claire K., (3) Ms. Hattie Ann, (4) Bev L.’s brother, (5) John W.-B., (6) Nilda B.’s sister’s father-in-law, (7) Donna L.’s Uncle Bob, (8) Gail M.’s daughter-in-law, (9) Judy I. and (10) Becky B.

Prayers for Shirley, Aunt Marie and Cousin Charles.

Prayers for family and friends who are mourning the death of Gene Williams.

All those who are struggling to deal with the recent deaths of family members and close friends.

Prayers for those who are worried, frustrated and upset by the uncertainty surrounding their health-care coverage.