March 17th, 2024

O God, as we acknowledge the pain, grief, and turmoil of our world, we choose this day to give thanks and praise for your grace, love, and presence in our lives as individuals and as a body of believers. We rejoice that you are the one true God; you have made us and we are yours, we are your people, your children, and the sheep of your pasture. We also give thanks and praise for the body of Christ around the world and especially lift up those who are suffering or grieving due to war, persecution, or famine. God, grant strength, perseverance, and the power of the Holy Spirit as their comforter and sustainer. May your will be done in and through all of our lives and we echo the words of the Psalmist who wrote “My soul finds rest in God alone, my salvation comes from him. He alone is my rock and my salvation; he is my fortress, I will never be shaken…..Find rest, O my soul, in God alone; my hope comes from him.” (Psalm 62: 1-2, 5)

God, help us to live in hope, with our eyes firmly fixed on Jesus and our lives in your hands.

God, we ask your blessing on this congregation as we transition to new pastoral leadership. Grant Paul Dyck holy wisdom and strength as he comes to serve and lead as an interim pastor, and we pray the Spirit’s calling on the pastor you have designed to be here for the longer term. We also pray for your blessing of wisdom on our leadership and members of the Search committee.

Father, thank you for the privilege of bringing our needs to you and we lift up prayers for members of our church family and our community. We pray for all those who grieve and experience loss and loneliness, praying that they may know the comfort and peace of the Holy Spirit in their lives. We lift up all those in our congregation and families who are being cared for in Nursing homes or in Long Term Care. Thank you for their lives and faithful witness to your grace and love. May they know that they are valued, loved, and deeply appreciated.

March 10th, 2024

Blessed Lord and Saviour, you have created, called and sustained us, grant us the grace and wisdom to see your continual love for us which we see most fully in Jesus Christ. Grant us insight to see that happiness isn’t what we possess but what we do with your blessings for the care and serving of others. Accept our humble thanks for times that draw us together with each other and you. As we are strengthened and renewed through your gifts, let us strengthen and renew others. As we receive and share your blessings, may we see it as your constant love for us and a foretaste of our eternal home with you. We thank you for our health , strength and love. Teach us to receive these gifts always with grateful hearts that our lives may bring honour to your name. Amen

Taken in part from Pastor Al Maier.

March 3, 2024

Dear God thanks so much again for hearing our prayers. As we enter the third week of Lent we were reminded that our world is filled with the tragic and the glorious, the terrible and the wonderful, the upsetting and the joyful. This week, we are invited to feed our souls with the beautiful, not to negate the difficult but to notice God’s love displayed all around us. We see it in the beautiful skies in the am. We see it in the bright shining stars and planets on cool clear evenings. We feel it in the longer days that are expressed even better with the sunshine. We feel it in the breeze sometimes cool and sometimes warm. We hear in the birds that are beginning to sense spring is coming soon. We feel it in the genuine concern that is offered to those around us.

In the 19th Psalm we read about the mysterious, unspoken voice that can be heard everywhere, revealing God’s nearness and glory. With the Psalmist we agree that Oh God, you promise that your presence and your love permeate our world and our lives, despite the sadness and brokenness that surround us.

As in the Lenten guide this week let us find the ways and take the times to truly use our senses to know you are God.

We are thankful for your presence even when we think we are far from it. Forgive us for the times we step away and try to do it on our own. Thank you for your never-failing love that brings as back to you. A love that has transcended years and many situations. A love and genuine concern that can hardly be replicated in human terms

As taken from the Lenten guide this week we conclude with :

For sunrises and sunsets, for the skies telling of your glory and for all your beauty displayed wordlessly around me, receive my endless gratitude. May my life reflect your beauty

Today we all come with different concerns, challenges and requests. Some we speak audibly and some we share with trusted friends and you in prayer. Sometimes we see challenging times coming and sometimes they meet us when we least expect it. When the outcome seems bleak help us to try the up look.

Our thoughts go to those tragedies that continue in various parts of the world. Whether in Israel or Ukraine we lift prayers for Peace . We also pray for the leaders of our world that they would use wisdom and genuine care as their basis for decisions.

In our local congregation we pray your grace and guidance for so many needs whether spoken or in the quiet of our hearts.

We as a congregation are thankful for guiding us thru this transition time. we Humbly thank you for all the gifts you have given each member here and for the leadership that has been shared by many. May you continue to be apart of all those involved in decision that affect who we are as a congregation. May your wisdom and guidance transcend all decisions and processes.

We now bring before you those who are struggling with health issues, those who await tests and test results, those who await surgery, we also pray for those that may suffer in silence. We pray your guiding hand of love and care and protection on each one and those that stand by them whether named or unnamed.

February 25, 2024

We come to you as a body of believers in the hope of everlasting life
with you Oh God. Many times we doubt ourselves and question our faith.
May we seek the faith that you have said gives us permission to have
complete confidence in you. May we know that your faithfulness to us
is constant. May you be glorified. Romans 4: 18 states: Against all
hope, Abraham in hope believed. Verse 20: Yet he did not waver through
unbelief regarding the promise of God, but was strengthened in his faith
and gave glory to God. May we be strengthened in our faith giving God
the glory in our daily walk.

February 18th, 2024

O God, we come to you this morning as a body of believers who individually have walked different roads this past week. Some of us have struggled on paths that were rocky and steep, some sped along open highways with little joy or imagination, while others walked a winding road where at each turn a new and beautiful vista greeted our eyes. We give thanks and praise that you were present with each of us, ministering your grace into our lives even when we were not aware.

Thank you Father for reminding us that you are the everlasting, faithful God whose love for us is beyond understanding. We hear the words of the prophet Isaiah echoing in our ears.

Do you not know? Have you not heard?
The Lord is the everlasting God, the Creator of the ends of the earth.
He will not grow tired or weary, and his understanding no one can fathom.
29 He gives strength to the weary and increases the power of the weak.
30 Even youths grow tired and weary, and young men stumble and fall;
31 but those who hope in the Lord will renew their strength.
They will soar on wings like eagles; they will run and not grow weary, they will walk and not be faint. Isaiah 40:28-31

Thank you for reminding us as a church and as individuals that our hope must be fixed on you, Lord, and that as we live in hope, you will renew our strength. God, we rejoice in your promise and invite you to enable us to soar, to run, or to walk our road of faith with perseverance. Lead us and guide us Lord; may your will be done in and through us.

February 11th, 2024

Good and Gracious God,

We lift your name on high, like a blanket of praise. Thank you for being present and embracing a fallen world. Thank you for this grace that flows endlessly to us each day, Lord, we celebrate your love for us, as we lay our burdens down at the foot of the cross. For those who are sick or have physical needs and surgical procedures we ask for healing. For all those in conflict, anxious and burdened we pray they may come to know peace as they lean on you. We extend our prayers for our Households of Faith, may they know the love and care of this church that they call home. We invite your beautiful holy spirit to move freely amongst us. Come dwell in each of our hearts as we strive to be disciples of healing and hope.


Thank you that even as our grief is raw and deep we can breathe in resurrection life. Lord, today we drink in once again the hope of eternal life and the promise of heaven. Thank you for your presence.

February 4th, 2024

Dear God thanks so much again for hearing our prayers. We all come with different concerns, challenges and requests. Sometimes we see challenging times coming and sometimes they meet us when we least expect it. We often feel alone and weak and feel like we are all by ourselves in our challenges. Forgive us for being slow learners as we know you have always been right there by our side. That being said it does not always lighten the emptiness load and anguish we feel when we meet these challenges. As We flip another calendar page in this new year of 2024 ,we recognize to that time passes and we age. Aging brings more physical challenges and limitations. We ask for strength as we hit these milestones. We cling to Deuteronomy 3: 18 “the LORD goes before you and he will be with you; he will never leave you or forsake you. Do NOT be afraid , do not be discouraged.”

We also give you thanks for the beautiful GOD moments you provide. For friendships past and present, the weddings, the new born, changing goals and moving on. Thank you so much for those times of joy and new life. We recognize these as gifts from you.

We ask that you continue to be part of our current time of transition here at WMC. We are thankful for those pastors and leaders that have come before us. We know you have empowered them to lead us here at WMC. As we look forward, we are excited about potential opportunities for new leadership. We ask for patience for the anxiety that me created by time like this. We also ask for wisdom as we as a congregation and leadership will require for looking ahead as to our future here at WMC. Thank you for all the gifts you have bestowed on each acting member here at WMC. Gifts that have allowed us to continue to work thru this transition.

January 27th, 2023

Rooted and grounded in God’s love, the trunk of the tree provides
stability.
May we be like the trunk of the tree. Steadfast in our faith, constant
even through the winds of change, ever growing and reaching upward
toward the sunlight of His Love!
Today we are thankful for our church family as we seek together our
values and our identity. Blessed with our many and various talents like
the rings of the tree trunk, collectively we can do what we cannot do as
individuals.
However we feel you stretching us Mighty One to learn and grow during
this time of discernment. We figuratively look upward envisioning our
future like the trunk and the branches of the tree knowing you are our
constant. No matter how young or old we are we continue to grow and
reach toward your light, warmth and comfort.

January 21st, 2024

Our gracious God we are grateful to you for so many blessings – For the
beauty of a white blanket of snow to shed light on our world during the
dull days of winter.
We are grateful for our homes and warmth with the past week of cold
weather but our hearts ache for those without a place to call home and a
warm meal. May they know to draw near to you and may those who work to
find shelter and food for those in need be blessed.

Our thoughts go to those in war torn countries, The Ukraine and Gaza –
The Israeli and Palestinian conflict ongoing since October 7, 2023. Oh
Lord we think of the innocent victims of war. The children who when
they hear a noise tense up knowing a bomb has fallen too near. The
parents who try to shelter their children themselves struggling with
physical and emotional pains of war:
When asked what message he has for Christians outside Palestine to know,
Palestinian Pastor Ashraf
Tannus leader of Evangelical Lutheran Church of the Reformation in Beit
Jala stresses:
‘Remember the kinship shared among all brothers and sisters in Christ.
We are all praying
the Lord’s prayer. When we say “Our Father” this indicates relationship.
We are all God’s children!”
(From A Common Place MCC publication)
Father we pray as your children, as brothers and sisters in Christ for
peace in a world of unrest.

In our local congregation we pray your grace and guidance for so many
needs whether spoken or in the quiet of our hearts.

January 14th, 2024

Almighty God,

To you all hearts are open, all desires are known.

Be with us now, that you may hear my small voice, my quiet whisper magnified by all who pray together with, and for, our congregation. Give us the strength to live and work together with respect and commitment as we grow as disciples of healing and hope. Some seek you today with mountains of enthusiasm and encouragement. Others from valleys of grief and darkness. Still others with hope and determination. Together we carry the light, basking in the glow of Christ as we pray for one another.

We humbly bring all this to your feet Lord and we know that you see far more than we do. In all this we ask in your powerful name. Amen

January 7th, 2024

HOPE FOR A NEW YEAR.

As we enter another New Year Year a variety of thoughts and expectations come to mind.

  • Wow 2024. We weren’t sure what to expect when we went in to 2000 and 24 years later here we are
  • For some a New year brings hope and excitement for upcoming events
  • For some a New year brings new physical challenges as we age.
  • For some a New Year is tough because we lost someone in the past year
  • For some a New year means New beginnings
  • For some a New year means the treadmill speeds up and for some it means we are changing gears and maybe slowing down some.

So we enter another year with many emotions and challenges. Even our Congregation enters a New year with out a full time Pastor. It is a challenging time for our Congregation. For some it can make us feel anxious and unsettled while others may have feelings of anticipation and excitement for what lies ahead.

As we move forward may we reflect on your promise from Deuteronomy that says:

“The Lord himself goes before you and will be with you; he will never leave you nor forsake you. Do not be afraid; do not be discouraged.” Deuteronomy 31:8.

Or maybe we need to draw strength from 2 Corinthians where Paul tells us

“Therefore we do not lose heart. Though outwardly we are wasting away, yet inwardly we are being renewed day by day.” 2 Corinthians 4:16

No Matter where we are in the gamut of emotions, challenges or life experiences may we take time to know that you God are even closer than we can imagine. Help us to take some time to reflect on the many ways we are fortunate and to be thankful for what we have. As we enter 2024 help us to be better people to those around us or those we may encounter. At Christmas we were reminded again of the hope that came to us in the birth of Jesus. Truly a remarkable story filled with mystery and suspense yet giving hope.

No matter where we are at or how we are feeling may we start off 2024 with Hope for our families, friends our Church and maybe more importantly ourselves.

We bring to you our concerns and needs as a congregation and individuals. They are as varied as the number of people in our congregation. You know the pains that some are feeling. For those that are suffering give strength to move on. We are thankful for our caregivers and for those that continually support us. Thank you for the healing you have granted some of us and for the potential healing that may be taking place.

We are also thankful for the holiday season we just came thru. A different and sometimes slower time of the year. A time where we can spend time with our families and start new memories.

We also ask that you give us strength as a congregation as we pass thru another transition here at WMC. There are many decisions to be made and we trust that you will guide us in this process.

December 31st, 2023

At the dawn of a new year,
we come to welcome hope for a new world.

Let the darkness lift,
to welcome a dawn of plenty,
with enough for everyone
and people ready to share.

Let the day begin,
with new energy for the struggle
to protect our children
and to care for the vulnerable.

Let the light shine,
to open a path to safety
for all who are seeking home
and longing for life.

Let the sun rise
on new talks and new resolve
to end the bombing and the terror
and to find solutions that will last.

At the dawn of a new year
we come to declare our hope
and to welcome a new world. ~ written by Susan Durber

O God, there are many in our church community, our neighbourhoods who grieve today due to the death of a loved one, some in the past weeks and months, some possibly years ago. When a relationship of love is broken, the result is pain and grief. And we know you understand and feel our pain because Jesus we too read about your grief as you stood by the tomb of Lazarus.

God, be present in our grieving, grant comfort and healing to our brokenness, and remind us of our eternal hope. We give you thanks and praise.

We also lift up those who are in need of physical healing today. God, thank you for healing through the gift of medicine, the wisdom of doctors and nurses, and for the miraculous healing of your touch as a result of the prayers of your people. God, hear our prayers as we silently lift up individuals to your throne of grace.

December 24th, 2023

As we remember and celebrate the birth of Jesus, the Prince of Peace, this weekend, I invite you to pray the following prayer for peace in the Holy Land.

O God of life and love and peace,

We witness the violence and injustice in your Holy Land

And our hearts break.

Our hearts break for the people of Israel –

For the victims of violent attacks by Hamas

For those who live with fear and insecurity

For those who suffer from the inter-generational

trauma of violence.

Our hearts break for Palestinians –

For the victims of violent attacks by the Israeli military

For those in the West Bank under attacks from Jewish settlers

For those being denied water, electricity and medical care

For those who are refugees, long displace from their homes.

We especially pray –

That weapons of war be laid down, that walls of separation be dismantled

That prisoners of war be released, that demonizing of “the other” cease

That political leaders seek the good of all people in

Palestine and Israel.

O God, whose heart breaks for the world,

May your justice dwell in the land

May your righteousness abide in fruitful fields

May the effect of righteousness be quietness and trust forever

May the effect of justice be peace – enduring peace.

Amen

(Mennonite Central Committee)

O God we give you praise for sending Jesus to live and walk among us in human form, for the gift of salvation, and for now your presence in our lives through the Holy Spirit. God, continue to give us strength to live with hope, to strive for peace, and to allow your joy and love to fill us and flow through us to others we come in contact with. Help us to be candles of light in a dark world.

God we also pray that you would bring healing to all who are wounded by loss, fear, and grief. Grant physical healing to many in our community here at WMC and may your grace renew hearts and minds. We give you thanks.

December 17th, 2023

Holy God, as we together light the candle of JOY, we choose to celebrate.

Good news! The Holy One, God Almighty, claims us as His very own!
Rejoice in the Lord!
Good news! The times of trouble are nearly over!
Rejoice in the Lord, always!
Good news!

God is in our midst, ready to renew us with holy love!
Rejoice in the Lord, always! Again we say rejoice!
Good news! The peace of the Lord will dwell in our hearts!
We lift up our hearts in thanksgiving. Thanks be to God!

Move us, Joyful God, take our hands and lead us in your dance of creation.
When we are uncertain, guard our hearts with your peace.
When our steps falter, surround us with the strength of your Spirit.
Guide us, Awesome and Powerful God,

until we are move and sing with the joy of your salvation.
In the name of Emmanuel, God with us, we pray. (adapted from wordpress)

(take a moment in silence to give praise for God’s work and presence in your life)

Awesome God, we give praise for your faithful work and presence in our lives, for the gift of life for each day, for the joy of community, for family and friends, and for the leading and empowering of the Holy Spirit in our lives. We rejoice for the evidence of healing and restoration in lives, both physically and in their spirit. God, continue to work out your will in and through us.

O God we also lift up to you those in our community and families who are grieving, who are struggling in loneliness and fear, and those who desire renewal and healing. Jesus, touch their bodies; Holy Spirit move with power and comfort; O God, we give you praise. During this season of advent, we also pray for the Peace of Christ to descend on us as individuals, on our families, community and on our world where war rages. Lord Jesus have mercy.

December 10th, 2023

An Advent Prayer

For the darkness of waiting

of not knowing what is to come,

of staying ready and quiet and attentive,

we praise you, O God: For the darkness and the light are both alike to you.

For the darkness of choosing

when you give us the moment

to speak, and act, and change,

and we cannot know what we have set in motion,

but we still have to take the risk,

we praise you, O God: For the darkness and the light are both alike to you.

For the darkness of hoping

in a world that longs for you,

for the wrestling and labouring of all creation

for wholeness and justice and freedom,

we praise you, O God: For the darkness and the light are both alike to you. (adapted)

Holy God, we come to you this morning with deep longing in our hearts for your mighty work and power to flow in and through us. Although our world writhes in pain and groaning, we praise you for your presence as the Prince of peace, and pray that your will be done in this world and in and through our lives. Grant us your strength and the courage to live as your servants, as agents of hope, peace, joy, and love. We desire to live in faithfulness and truth.

Oh God, we also pray for all in our church and local community who are in need of your healing and desire renewal. We praise you for answered prayer, for the evidence of your grace, and pray for your will to be done in each of our lives.

God, comfort those who grieve in this season; grant healing to hearts and minds. Enable all to be aware of your presence, knowing that you are present through the Holy Spirit. We also pray for a miracle of your peace in the Holy Land; transform hearts and minds so that a ceasefire can be agreed upon and lives can be saved. Oh God, have mercy.

We give thanks and praise in the name of our Saviour and Lord, Jesus Christ.

December 3rd, 2023

O holy God, today we have come to worship, to celebrate in hope, and yet to grieve in this time of releasing and saying good bye. Thank you for Pastor Kara and her years of loving service here with this body of believers at Wellesley Mennonite Church. Thank you Holy Spirit for leading Kara here, and for gifting her with love, compassion, wisdom and courage. Thank you for ministering through her, and to her over these many years. God, we give you praise. And now as we release her into a new season of your leading, may you grant deep peace and the comfort of your presence. Pour out your rich blessings on both Kara and Alvin; God, hold them close to your heart.

This morning we also choose to live with Hope in a world that is writhing in pain. God, where there is war we pray that you would change the hearts and minds of world leaders, and in doing so that peace would reign. Give us hearts of compassion to feed those who are hungry, to provide a cup of cold water to the thirsty, and wisdom to be people of justice as you enable us. May we see with your eyes and love with your love God.

O God we pray for those in this congregation and community who are grieving, those facing major decisions, and all who are in pain. Grant comfort, your holy presence, and the gift of your healing touch for all who are facing health issues.

We pray all this in the name of Jesus

Lord God, we also bring the following individual needs to you asking for your loving intervention.

November 25th, 2023

Eternal God, you are our God and we are your people.
You have claimed us as your own and have placed a seal on our hearts.

You nurture and sustain us in the garden of life.

Living God, we thank you for your gift of life eternal

and for all those who, having served you well,

now rest from their labours.

Today we give thanks for those who during the last twelve months

have died and entered into glory

including Marjorie, Patrick, Joan, Kevin, and those whom we hold in our hearts.

We thank you for their life and love,

and rejoice for them “all is well,

and all manner of things will be well.”

Be near to those who are grieving. Hold them.

Fill them with your comfort and peace.

Compassionate God, you attend to the wounded places of our hearts and lives,

You grieve with us in our losses and our fears.
You journey with us in our celebrations, our sorrows.

You are close even in the mundane routines of our days.
You delight in us, and you love us.

We pray for our siblings in faith in need of healing grace ….. we name them before you in the silence of our hearts.

We pray for our Households of Faith. May each family rest in your peace and be filled with your joy. May love rule in their hearts and fill their homes.

We pray for this world,
for the places and precious people

who are striving to recover from the effects of climate change.

We pray for peace among nations. May the weapons of war be laid down.
Make us instruments of that peace.

We pray for our children and our youth

that they may come to know you more fully,

growing to be all of who they have been created to be.

Give us an unwavering passion for justice,

and a tenacious faith that will not rest

until the hungry are fed,

until the oppressed find relief,

until the outsider finds welcome.

Hear us now as pray as you have taught us: Our Father.

November 19th, 2023

Loving God, we hold in your healing presence those who suffer pain and ill-health,

with their families, friends and those who care for them:

May they know the deep peace of Christ

We hold in your healing presence those who suffer in mind and spirit, and all who

care for them…

May they know the deep peace of Christ

We hold in your healing presence those suffering due to broken relationships, we

pray for the marginalized, the silenced…

May they know the deep peace of Christ

We hold in your healing presence those struggling with isolation, anxiety, mental

health challenges….

May they know the deep peace of Christ

We hold in your healing presence those struggling to overcome addiction or

abuse, those supporting and working with them, and all whose suffering has

distanced them from those who love them…

May they know the deep peace of Christ

Loving God, we hold in your healing presence those grieving the loss of loved ones

and those who are walking through the dark valley of death and those who care

and support them.

May they know the deep peace of Christ

We hold in your healing presence and peace those whose needs are not known to

us but known to you. In silence, we offer our prayers ….

May they know the deep peace of Christ

God of compassion and love, we offer you all our suffering and pain. Give us

strength to bear our weakness, healing even when there this is no cure, peace in

the midst of turmoil, and love to fill the spaces in our lives.

Glory to God from whom all love flows, glory to Jesus who showed his love

through suffering, and glory to the Holy Spirit who brings light to the darkest of

places. Amen.

November 12th, 2023

God, we have a lot on our hearts today. We’ve prayed prayers of lament, holding the heaviness of so many problems. We’ve prayed prayers of commitment, grasping at courage to make changes, to care in ways that matter. We want to live as your people in this world, every day. We need more strength than our own. We rely on you to fill us with love, with hope, with peace, in whatever situations we find ourselves in.

We pray for those in our midst, in our community, around the world, who struggle to find what they need to live.

We pray for those who are hungry, or homeless.

We pray for all affected by conflict, by war.

We pray for those who are grieving.

We pray for those living with illness, struggling with worries or sadness.

We pray for those facing decisions, or unwanted changes, or waiting for things beyond their control.

We pray for those supporting others.

You give us strength, God. You are the source of our life. You lead us to peace.

Thank you.

Amen. (prayer by Jane Kuepfer)

November 5th, 2023

O God, this morning we come into your presence with both cries of lament and praise on our lips. We bring our lament and anguish for the devastation and loss of life in both Israel and Gaza, crying out for your intervention, your work of grace in this land where Jesus walked and ministered. God, move in the hearts of leaders of both sides, calling them to agree to a ceasefire, opening their hearts and minds to Jesus, the Prince of Peace.

We also pray for countries such as Ukraine, Haiti and more recently Myanmar where war rages, civil unrest is the norm, and where people suffer and grieve the deaths of family and community. Lord, may the church rise up and become agents of your peace…may your will be done in and through us. God we lament and grieve with those within our church families who today face significant health challenges or are caregivers. We pray for your healing hand over those who suffer and for strength & grace for all who provide care, support and love. Jesus, remind us daily of your words, “Peace I leave with you; my peace I give you. I do not give to you as the world gives. Do not let your hearts be troubled and do not be afraid.”

O God we receive your peace with joy and thanksgiving, and give you praise. We also give praise and rejoice with those in our midst who today celebrate healing and wonderful answers to prayer. We also give praise God for your leading and guiding, for daily provision of food and for the gift of life for this day. Holy Spirit, live in and through us in such a way that the world around us may see the face of Jesus. Father, we give you thanks.

October 29th, 2023

Thank you, God, for the joy of today.
It is still morning, and yet so many good things have come our way.

Thank you to all those who call this church home, in body and spirit.
Thank you for the joy of worshiping you, our Creator. We pray as a community of believers, a church family in your care, as we nurture and care for one another. We welcome our newest members and embrace our collective yearning as we desire to be disciples of healing and hope.

As we cling to the common threads that bind us together we are witness to the letting go of nature all around us. The clouds let go of moisture in rain and snow. Trees letting go of their leaves, revealing their naked beauty. The winds let loose and blow everything away.
As the days grow short, and the nights grow long, help us this week to have compassion for those who struggle to let go of fears; the fears of an unknown diagnosis; those who are embracing a loved one in order to let go,’ all who are suffering and in need of healing and comfort; all those who are grieving; the fears of the news of this world of all those who are fleeing bombs and bullets, and all people who live with the fear of violence.

God of hope, thank you that you are with us in all our fears,
and that you bring joy even in the midst of them.
Thank you for your faithfulness through time,
for the ways you have been there for us in the past,
and the assurance that nothing can separate us from your love. Amen

Adapted from: Leading in worship by Carol Penner

October 22nd, 2023

Lord Jesus, True Vine,

in our need we come to You.

Amidst the troubles and sufferings of the world

we come to You.

Teach us to remain in You

and to find Your life flowing in us

providing strength, hope, and resilience.

Trim away all that is unproductive in our lives and your church.

Prune also that which is productive so that

fruit borne will be even more plentiful:

the fruit of peace, love, justice, goodness, generosity.

As we abide in the embrace of Your life-flowing love

may Your wisdom inspire

ongoing learning and unlearning

as we grow as disciples of healing and hope.,

We come this morning,

hearts heavy with images of violence we have seen on the news,

places of fear and terror, places of war, where

human suffering and disregard for human life is deep and broad.

Oh God, how You must weep.

Our hearts turn to the land You called holy,

where missiles shower death and destruction

chaos and terror.

We pray today for Israelis, for Palestinians…

and because you teach us to pray for enemies,

we pray for Hamas terrorists.

For those who are fleeing, we pray for sanctuary

For those who are staying: safety

For those who are fighting: how do we pray???

For those whose hearts are breaking we pray: comfort

For those who see no future: hope

God of peace, prune back all that stands in the way of peace.

We pray for people in leadership and power –

who have decisions to make

which impact world peace and the wellbeing of many.

We pray for our nation, and its leaders.

May changes and decisions be shaped by the values of the kingdom.

We pray for those in need in our church and community.

Wherever hearts are breaking,

bodies are failing,

minds troubled

families and relationships conflicted

uncertainty deep

loads too heavy to bear,

Lord, come with Your help and healing,

Your compassion, loving kindness, and grace.

Lord Jesus, True Vine, in our need we abide in You.

Amidst the troubles and sufferings of the world

You faithfully abide with us.

As your followers desiring to walk in our ways,

we offer our prayers in Jesus’ name. Amen

October 15th, 2023

Holy One, maker of heaven and earth,

you formed the mountains, the desert places, the fertile lands.

You created autumn colours, tart apples, refreshing rains,

and you made us.

You love us. You see us. You know us.

Thank you for guiding our lives and holding all of creation in your loving hands.

In the knowledge of your love and your power,

we bring before you our prayers for the world you love, the church you call, and the needs of our hearts.

Lord of all,

guide the leaders of our world and inspire wisdom for all making decisions.

Send your peace on earth the peace that comes from making justice.

May the weapons of war be laid down,

the dignity of all upheld. May the oppressed be set free.

Lord, oh how you must weep to witness the violence done in your name,

the violence we further through intolerance of differences,

the pride of privilege, complacency amidst injustice.

Lord, have mercy.

God of compassion,

in you alone we find our help.

you watch over all day and night,

you provide all we need.

Thank you for safety, security, and freedom

we so easily take for granted.

Thank you for harmonious relationships,

meaningful work, and this community of faith.

Grant us vision and courage to walk the path which you are leading us.

As we take the reimagining church road, we hold to the promise that you are

able to do abundantly more than all we could ask or imagine.

Our journey is in your hands. We place our trust in you!

Listening God, you are familiar with all our ways,

our greatest joys and our deepest pain.

You know our dreams and our hopes.

You know what causes us to stumble or stray.

Your desire for our flourishing is steadfast.

May your hand of blessing rest upon and uphold

those whose needs are deep,

those whose suffering or pain is known only to you.

Comfort the grieving,

Strengthen the weary.

Lead the wandering by your hand of grace.

Restore those whose hearts ache and burn.

Surround the lonely and the aged with your joy and hope.

Draw near to us as we draw near to you.

May your will be done on earth as it is in heaven.

We pray in Jesus, name.

October 11th, 2023

Let us join in prayer as conflict escalates, human suffering deepens, and the grieved and traumatized cry out for comfort:

Prayer of Lament and Intercession for Palestine and Israel

By Palestine-Israel Network

Since the October 7 Hamas attack near the Gaza Strip and Israel’s crushing military reaction, violence and destruction have escalated in the land we often call “Holy.” As we lament the carnage among Israelis and Palestinians, let us also pray for those working for a future that ends the deep and longstanding injustices that lie at the root of the crisis.

Prayer of lament and intercession for Palestine and Israel

God of love and justice, our hearts are perplexed, paralyzed and broken at the recent carnage in Palestine and Israel. We lament the loss of life and the suffering of so many innocent people on both sides. We are shocked at the inhumanity of soldiers and militants, especially when they act in the name of God.

We lament that our prayers for peace seem to go unanswered. We wish you would intervene. We cling to your promise of a different world, but we see so few signs of its fulfillment. Why?

In our feeble faith, we declare your desire for life and for peace.

Holy Spirit, strengthen our resolve to advocate for peace, justice, equality, and compassion for all. Don’t let us turn our face away.

Comfort all who are overwhelmed with loss—loss of life, loss of homes, loss of safety and security.

God of the vulnerable and the oppressed, neutralize the power of tyrants in their thirst for domination and control. Renew the strength and resolve of leaders committed to nonviolent resistance and change.

Remember the Christian communities in the land where Jesus walked ad where the church was born. May their witness to your love remain bright among their Muslim and Jewish neighbours. May they recognize your hand in their lives, even amidst the suffering.

God of all nations, guide our own government in responding in ways that support the legitimate rights of all, especially those who are most vulnerable, those who continue to suffer after decades of occupation, dispossession, and denial of basic human rights.

May your kingdom come, your will be done, on earth as it is in heaven. Yours is the kingdom, the power, the glory, now and forever. Amen

October 8th, 2023

God of all blessings,
source of all life,
giver of good gifts:
we thank you for the gift of life,
for the breath that sustains life,
for the food of this earth that nurtures life,
for the love of family and friends
without which there would be no life.

We thank you for the gifts of creation:
for the beauty that the eye can see, colours, landscapes, and seascapes
for the joy that the ear can hear,
geese winging their way southward, rain gently falling,

for the delights of tastes and flavours

berries and melons, tomatoes and squash

.
We thank you O God, for setting us in communities:
for families who nurture our becoming,
for friends who love us by choice,
for companions at work,
who share our burdens and daily tasks,
for strangers who welcome us into their midst,
for people from other lands and cultures
who call us to grow in understanding,
for children who lighten our moments with delight.

In silence or aloud we name our thanksgivings to you, O God…..

We also thank you O God, for your faithful presence amidst the

troubles and sufferings of the world and our lives.

Draw near the grieving, the lonely, the weak.

Grant strength to those enduring treatments and their side effects,

those awaiting medical tests and next steps.

Surround with peace those living with limitations of many kinds

and those whose unhealed hearts burn within.

Hold with comfort those walking the shadow of death and their loved ones.

In silence or aloud we name our need to you, O God ……

We raise our thanks to you God, who hears our laments

and our words of praise,

who cares for the world, our loved ones, and our needs.

We give thanks that you open new possibilities, new beginnings, new life

that stir our hearts again with thanksgiving and praise.

For all your good gifts, your love, and your amazing grace

we lift our hearts in thanksgiving in Jesus’ name. Amen

October 1st, 2023

Oh God, as we gather together this morning around the table of our Lord, we recognize and celebrate the beauty and wonder of the Body of Christ around the world. We gather as one body, believing in the atoning sacrifice of Jesus’ death on the cross. Thank you Jesus for paying the price for our sin, for the gift of redemption, and for the hope of eternal life. We lift up our praise and thanks to you God.

We pray as well for the unity of the Spirit to bind us together in love. We affirm Paul’s words that “There is one body and one Spirit, just as you were called to one hope when you were called; one Lord, one faith, one baptism; one God and Father of all, who is over all and through all and in all. As the bread and cup is shared today around the world in different cultures and languages, may we together remember the death and resurrection of Jesus, and as such be obedient to His command. Grant us courage to proclaim Jesus to our families and our world through words and actions.

We also pray for believers around our world who are suffering persecution or discrimination as a result of their faith in you Jesus. Grant courage, strength and perseverance; pour out your grace on their lives. May their faith be a holy witness to those who do not yet know you as Saviour and Lord.

September 24th, 2023

Holy One, you have built your church

on the foundation of disciples

and prophets, Jesus Christ himself, the chief cornerstone.

Join us together in unity of spirit

that we may become a holy temple,

ever growing and serving as your faithful people.

With reverence and awe,

we place our trust in you who

is able to do immeasurably more

than all we ask or imagine, according to your power that is at work within us.

Expand our minds;

guide us beyond our well-worn paths;

challenge our assumptions;

gentle our anxieties;

liberate us from all fear;

and grant us courage and patience to wait on you,

with hope and curious anticipation.

Loving God, hear our prayers for the world around us.

We pray for those oppressed by governments or economic systems,

those who are living amidst war and violence

those who can only stand by as their children die

from starvation, preventable disease,

or street violence.

Hear the rising cry from all who stand in need.

God of life hear our prayer for creation

Forgive us for our overuse and misuse

or natural resources,

for our excessive carbon footprint

and our contribution to climate change.

May we steward your gift of creation

with humility and deep gratitude.

Gracious God, we also bring to you our own needs.

Hear our prayer for all who suffer,

whether physically, emotionally, or spiritually.

May your presence surround and sustain us

so that we may know your love and live.

Where there is pain, grant peace;

Wherever grief is deep, grant comfort.

May your healing touch restore health and strength.

Hold the broken places of our hearts and our lives

In your loving hands.

We pray your kingdom come and your will be done,

on earth as it is in heaven,

in Jesus’ name. Amen.

September 17th, 2023

Faithful God, we call on your presence and your grace

as we journey the reimagining church road and

the race you have set before us.

Help us to keep our eyes on Jesus.

May our hearts be deeply rooted in trust.

You are with us.

Set our pace that we may further your will, not our own.
When we falter, give us fresh strength and courage.
When we sail fast as the wind, may your name be glorified.


Keep us from wanting to win at others expense.
As we marathon together,

Holy Spirit, stir our hearts,

inspire and nourish our faith,

shape and transform us as disciples of healing and hope. .

We offer our thanks for the treasure of good company

accompanying us each step, including our Hampstead friends.

Grant them deep peace and comfort as their journey continues to unfold.

God of all our journeys,

open our eyes that we may see the deepest needs of people;
move our hands that they may feed the hungry;
touch our hearts that they may bring warmth to the despairing;
teach us generosity that welcomes strangers;
Give us compassion that strengthens the sick

and comforts the grieving.

Listening God,

Thank you that you continue to meet us, whatever road we journey,

whether it be endings or fresh beginnings.

whether it be amidst our celebrations or deepest sorrows.

You know us. You see us. You love us.

Hear now our prayers for our households of faith;

family and friends, our own needs…. Which we now offer in silence.

Grant peace to those struggling with mental illness or addiction

those who live with pain, loss, uncertainty.

Comfort those walking through the valley of the shadow of death and their loved ones.

We pray for all who stand in a place of need.

Holy One, open our eyes to recognize the new thing you are doing

In the world, in your church, in our lives.

Grant us grace to see, and courage respond.

We offer our prayers in the name of Jesus who taught us to pray saying:

Our Father…….

September 11th, 2023

Lord Jesus, we thank you for the call to be disciples which came in such an uneventful way.

Contrary to the wisdom of the world you didn’t start with the privileged and the wealthy and the powerful. You didn’t begin with those who had little need and little desire for change. Rather, you began with the ordinary. You began with some fisherfolk.

We pray that your call “Come, follow me,” might again reverberate through our souls and your church.
May we hear again the challenge to be your disciples and leave behind the security of our nets.

May we hear again the message of God’s good news and God’s vision for the world restored.

May we with courage respond to your invitation to “become” – living into transformation through the power of your Spirit.

May we be freed from all that keeps us from casting new nets – rethinking, reinventing, recasting, reimagining.

May we hear again those simple words: “Come, follow me,” and may we come, just as we are, and know again the depth of your grace and love for us.

Lord, we pray for world leaders that they might work for peace,

lay down the weapons of war, and uphold the dignity of each person.

We pray for the displaced, the despairing, and those who live in desperate situations. May all receive the security and safety they need to prosper and thrive.

We pray for your church that we may be salt and light,

hope and healing for the hurting, and those who struggle

We pray for our households of faith

our family and friends

Hear our prayers for

those struggling physically, emotionally, or relationally,

those working to overcome or live with mental illness

those facing challenges at home or at work,

those grieving the death of a loved one,

those who seeking wisdom and light amidst troubles.

. Strengthen those we pray, awaiting medical appointments;

draw near to those absorbing a hard diagnosis and uncertain next steps;

comfort those walking through the valley of the shadow of death and their loved ones.

We pray for all who stand in a place of need.

Holy One, open our eyes to recognize the new thing you are doing

In the world, in your church, in our lives.

Grant us grace to see, and courage respond.

We offer our prayers in the name of Jesus who taught us to pray saying:

Our Father…….

September 3rd, 2023

(Based on Genesis 1)

In the beginning God created all things,
and God saw that they were good.

At our beginning, God created us
unique and irreplaceable, loved and wanted by God,
known and treasured by God even before He created us.

In all our new beginnings, God creates something new
so we will seek God in the freshness of this morning,
in the laughter of friends,
in the colors of creation,
and in the beauty of community.

Lord God, King of Creation,
open our eyes to see your presence,
our souls to sense your presence,
and our hearts to love your presence,
ever here in your creation,
and ever beyond it in eternity.
Amen.

O God, thank you for the amazing beauty, wonder, and diversity of all of creation around us. We see your fingerprint on all that you have made. Sea life, flowers and trees, the animal kingdom, the wonder of stars, galaxies, nebula, atoms, and electrons; so much of our created world is too minute to see with our eyes….yet all was designed and created for a purpose by you God. We also give thanks that you have created each of us, all of humanity in your image. You know us intimately, you know our names, our thoughts before we speak, and you love us. Thank you Jesus!

O God, as we rejoice and celebrate your creation this morning, we also recognize that there are those who grieve today, those who are struggling thru painful situations, those in need of healing, of food, of renewed relationships. God, be present in their lives. We pray that your comfort and peace be poured out on all who are weary, lonely and exhausted. Holy Spirit, be their strength and their source of Hope. Lord Jesus, grant us wisdom and a renewed sense of awareness to the needs around us. Renew and fill our hearts with your compassion and grace…help us to love others as you have loved us. We give you thanks!

August 27th, 2023

This summer’s worship theme has focused on “Seeking Peace Together.” Worship themes have included “Peace with God,” Peace with Self,” and today’s theme “Peace with Others.” When we sing, it is an act of peacemaking as is our practise of praying for the world God loves, the church God calls, and lifting our needs:

God of peace, we bow our hearts before you in prayer for this world that so desperately needs your peace. Here in this corner of the world, our lives are filled with bounty – fresh fruits and vegetables, clean drinking water, meaningful work, homes, and safety in our communities…..

and we are so deeply aware that peace can be fleeting and all the ways control can lead to conflict. Guide us we pray to make the difficult decisions required to be makers and maintainers of peace, in our families, our relationships, our workplaces, our neighbourhoods.

Listening God, we pray for peace of mind, body, and spirit body for those we love

and those whose needs we carry deep in our hearts.

Comfort the grieving

Grant courage to the despairing, the weak, and the struggling

Hold steady the troubled, the conflicted, the worried.

Be bright hope for those anticipating transitions,

new responsibilities, new places of learning or work.

Gentle all fears and light the paths you call us to walk.

May your healing touch and your comfort enfold and

restore the sick to health. We pray for peace within whom we share life aware how our actions can escalate or diffuse conflict. Lord, hear our prayer.

God of peace, we pray that conflicts within our community will be resolved in healthy, life-giving ways. We pray that the divisions and animosity present in our nation be eased; that people would listen well, think clearly, and speak with truth and kindness.

We pray for those in places of violence, that you would calm their fears and shield them from harm. We pray for all affected by raging wildfires – first responders, the displaced, and the weary. We also pray for those with power, that they will work toward the justice that leads to peace.

Holy God, we give thanks that despite our brokenness and the messiness of our own relationships your will is done. Your grace is sufficient. Your grace abounds. You are faithful and good. Bless your church, as we strive to walk in the shoes of peace.

We pray in the name of the Prince of Peace, Amen

August 20th, 2023

Oh God, make me, make us, an instrument of Your Peace
Where there is hatred let me sow Your love.
Where there is injury, your pardon Lord.
And where there is doubt, true faith in you.
Where there is despair, may we be agents of Holy Hope.
Where there is darkness, let us shine Your light.
And where there is sadness, may we be a source of comfort and joy.

O Divine Master grant that we may
not so much seek to be consoled as to console;
to be understood as to understand;
To be loved as to love
For it is in giving that we receive-
it is in pardoning that we are pardoned.
And it’s in dying that we are born to eternal life.

Holy God, make us an instrument of Your Peace.

(adapted from The Prayer of St. Francis)

We give you praise O God for the fact that you call us your children, for we are fearfully and wonderfully made. Thank you for working in us and through us, calling us to be your hands and feet in this world, in our communities, and in our families. Make us instruments of Your Peace.

God, grant us the ability to see our world through your eyes, mould our hearts with renewed compassion, grant us courage and strength to strive for justice, and in love always strive to see others as Your created children. We praise you for answered prayer, for the gift of life and strength, and for the gift of family, friends, and community. We also commit our needs to you, calling upon you God for healing, for comfort for those who grieve, for your work of grace in all of our lives. God of power, God of love; lead us and guide us by your holy hand.

August 13th, 2023

God, like the Israelites in the wilderness, we too have known Your love,

and experienced Your care and provision.

You invite us to extend that love to the world around us—

to care for others as deeply as we care for ourselves.

And so we bring the needs of our world before You now.

In Your mercy, hear our prayer.

We pray for the many who do not have enough:

enough food to eat, or shelter to keep warm; enough employment, or money to pay their bills;

enough medicine or medical care.

Lord, in Your mercy, hear our prayer.

We also pray for those who have more than enough,

but who still struggle to find meaning and purpose in life;

who indulge in dangerous or self-serving activities to dull their pain or loneliness.

Lord, in Your mercy, hear our prayer.

God, Your grace reaches out to all of us.

You call us to live as citizens of heaven, working together on earth with one heart and mind.

Strengthen us to live in a manner worthy of the Good News we have received,

offering our lives in service of Your kingdom, where the last are first, and the first are last,

and there is grace enough for all.

Lord, in Your mercy, hear our prayer.

In the name of Jesus Christ, our Saviour and Lord, Amen.

– Christine Longhurst (adapted)

August 6th, 2023

We give you thanks and praise always, Creator God,

for your love and knowledge surpasses all.

Like a potter at the wheel, you created every part of us,

shaping us in secret, in the hidden depths.

You read our inmost thoughts and desires and keep your hand upon us.

You know us by name and have claimed us as your own.

You are familiar with all of our ways,

our greatest joys and our deepest pain.

You know our dreams and our hopes.

You know what causes us to stumble or stray.

Your desire for our flourishing is steadfast.

Still, your hand of blessing and healing is upon us.

May your hand of blessing rest upon and uphold

those whose needs we know

and those whose needs are tucked deep in their hearts.

Be comfort for the grieving,

strength for the weary.

Lead the wandering by your hand of grace.

Surround the despairing, the lonely, the isolated with your joy and hope.

Fill our hearts, our homes,

our country, and your world with your peace.

As we soak in these summer days,

we pray for safety for summer travellers,

restoration that comes with vacation time,

meaningful times of fellowship

and delight in all the flavours and bounty of this season.

Loving and creative God, make us the people you want us to be.

May we follow in the path of Jesus each day

and proclaim your love in all that we say and do.

We pray in the strong name of Jesus. Amen

July 30th, 2023

Holy One, your welcome is wide

and the table is wide

and your arms open wide to gather us in.

You invite us to “come” just as we are

with all that we hold – our joys and gratitude,

with the heavy baggage that weighs us down

and the unhealed places of our hearts.

Your welcome extends to us whether

youthful or weary

tired or troubled

gracious or grumpy

secure in our faith

or seeking and searching.

You invite us to your table with joy.

And we come

as your people who trust in your grace.

We come unhindered and free.

And our deepest hunger will be

satisfied with the Bread of Life, which is you.

And our deepest thirst will be quenched

as we drink deeply from your cup of blessing.

At your table of grace

transform us to be bread

for a hungering world,

and drink for those who thirst.

May our table be wide

and the welcome be wide.

May our hospitality be generous and joyful.

God of grace, you welcome us and prayers

for our needs, those we love, and the world.

Be comfort for the grieving – our hearts are weeping.

Be strength for the hurting, those faced with big decisions and transition,

and those who struggle or find life hard.

We pray for all who stand in need of healing, hope, and wholeness.

Held in your wide embrace, hear our prayers for those

who gather at conflicted family tables;

world leaders gathered at the tables of power.

Pour out your grace at the tables of the poor, the marginalized,

the sick, those who are far from home,

and those who yearn for safety and security.

May all creation know your justice,

your peace that surpasses all understanding,

your love that sustains and heals.

May we each know your welcome and grace

and extend your welcome wide.

We pray in Jesus’ name. Amen

July 23rd, 2023

Great God:
Thank you for the constant call we hear from you every day.
The wind whispering around our ears, the birds singing to us from the trees,
rain pinging on the window, the good earth inviting our steps.
We hear that call again and again, through kind hands and warm hearts around us.
Open our ears to your call, which is as expansive as the world,
and as particular as a poor man walking a dusty road to a cross on Calvary.
Like him, help us to love, not just in word, but in deed:
love for our neighbours who are hard to love,
love for newcomers in our community,
love for people who are cast out by others.
Forgive us for the times we have failed to share your love,

choosing to hoard what is freely given,
fearful that we have limited resources, limited time…we’re too tired.
Thank you that even then, your consoling voice calls us.
Help us to respond with cheerful hearts as we do your work.
Strengthen those among us who face heavy burdens

who live with pain; physical, emotional, spiritual.
Holy Spirit, bind us together as a community to sing your chorus of love faithfully, heartily.
Multiply your call in us and through us.
In the name of Jesus we pray, Amen. [Carol Penner]

July 16th, 2023

Holy God, where can we go from your spirit?

Where can we flee from your presence?

If we ascend to success, happiness, esteem, confidence, pleasure,

you are there.

If we descend to failure, depression, humiliation, fear, pain,

you are there.

Even when we try to get away from you,

when we desperately want to hide ourselves from you,

you do not stop loving us.

You do not stop leading us into fullness of life.

Your creative energy is part of our deepest selves—

selves that you have loved, and do love, and will love until the end.

Thank you, God, for being around us and within us,

with us and for us, now and always.

July 9th, 2023

God of sunlight and starry summer nights, we yearn to truly become the

salt and the light of the world. We yearn for there to be more love on earth.

Change our hearts and our lives that we may be more understanding

and loving to one another, ready to respond to needs.

Righteous God, we pray that there may be greater justice on earth.

May governments and public officials

make room in their priorities and budgets

for the socially marginalized, those without work,

immigrants, the poor, and the hungry.

May your will be done on earth as it is in heaven.

God of peace, we pray that there be more peace on earth.

May nations put an end to words of hatred

threats of revenge, and lay down the weapons of war.

We pray for peace in our hearts,

our homes, our nation, and in the world.

We pray for peace through peaceful means.

God of joy, we pray that there be more joy on earth,

May we who strive to walk in the ways of Jesus

ask questions, cultivate curiosity as we learn and

grow in faith together.

God of compassion, we pray for healing, hope, and wholeness

for ourselves and for all who are journeying painful health challenges,

We pray for the grieving,

the lonely,

the isolated,

those distanced from family or friends by miles or conflict,

and those who find life hard.

Surround us and fill us with your presence of peace.

Grace us with resilience, the capacity to wait,

tolerance for differences, and kindness in all our words and actions.

Hear our prayers which we offer you now in the silence of our hearts.

Faithful God, may there be more faith on earth,

May the fruits of our VBS labours

bear good fruit in children’s lives

and in all of our lives.

Strengthen us to serve you

with all our heart, mind and strength

in Jesus’ name. Amen

July 2nd, 2023

Loving Parent,

who exists beyond the realms we can imagine

and within the deepest parts of ourselves,

we thank you for the joy of gathering in community

and we celebrate together,

all that is good, and beautiful, and holy in our lives.

Tender Parent,

we thank you for the teachings of Jesus

and for the privilege of coming to you in prayer.

We lift up the people in this community and those we love,

for concerns which we know,

for the needs of loved ones which we carry in our heart.

May your tender embrace each,

the weary, those who are awaiting on referrals,

treatments, or next steps,

and those who find life hard.

Nurturing Parent,

we pray that all people will have their daily bread—

the food, housing, health care, support, and safety they need

to survive and thrive.

We pray for equitable care, just systems,

and that the humanity of each be respected.

Guiding Parent,

let our earthly leaders follow your will

so that the people and the systems of this world

might look more and more like your reign of peace and justice.

Protecting Parent,

deliver your children from all harm.

We pray for all who suffer pain in mind, body, or spirit,

all who live in fear,

all who grieve,

all who face violence in its many forms.

Holy Parent,

let these prayers rise up as incense before you

as we pray with this community of faith

and in the quiet of our own hearts.

We offer our prayer in all the holy names of God. Amen.

June 25th, 2023

Shepherding God, you invite us to lie down in green pastures,

to rest beside still water. You promise to restore our soul.

We thank you for summer days of renewal, restoration, and play.

As we stand in a place of need, we thank you that you are our source of rest.

Lord, Jesus, you see what weighs us down,

what causes us to lose heart.

In times of weakness, struggle, and pain,
yours is the strength by which we carry on,
the shoulder we rest our head upon.
When our load is heavy and too much to bear,
yours are the arms stretched out to help us
the grace that we depend on.

In times of weariness and restlessness,
your invitation is heard,
‘Come to me… find rest.’
This is grace indeed,
the path we journey to wholeness
for mind, body and spirit,
the path that leads to you.

God of rest, within your embrace we find comfort and healing. We bring to you those who are weak, or struggling with physical, mental, relational, or spiritual health. You are the great healer, and we pray for healing, restoration, and renewal for those we now name in the silence of our hearts or aloud…………

God of rest, within your embrace we find justice. We bring to you the brave voices who cry out for freedom and those prepared to stand up to injustice. During this Pride Month, we pray for our hearts and minds to be open to our own homophobia, transphobia, to be open to our own racism, sexism, and all the ways we fear those who are different from us. We pray that we will never cease in our journey to learn how to love more radically including walking the path of reconciliation with our Indigenous neighbours.

God of rest, within your embrace we find peace. We bring to you the displaced, refugees who have fled home, victims of violence in its many forms, and for all those who have dedicated their lives for the search for peace and reconciliation.

God of rest, within your embrace we experience belovedness,

belonging, and holy fellowship.

Clear the chaos and the clutter;

clear our eyes that we can see;

all the things that really matter;

Be our peace, we pray in the name of the Prince of Peace. Amen

June 18th, 2023

Gracious God,

In love you created us,
and in love you sustain us, day after day.
We bow our hearts and heads before you, 
knowing you hear us, you know us,

and you will respond to our deepest prayers.

We pray for the world,

for all who suffer and call out for help:

            those without shelter or enough food to eat ,

            those caught up in violence and political uprisings,

            those picking up the pieces after a natural disaster and wildfires,

            those desperate to find work to support their families.

We pray for our neighbours and households of faith

            our family and friends

Hear our prayers for

            those struggling physically, emotionally, or relationally,

            those working to overcome or live with mental illness,

            those facing challenges at home or at work,

            those grieving the death of a loved one,

            those who seeking wisdom and light amidst troubles. 

.           Strengthen those we pray, awaiting medical appointments;  

            draw near to those absorbing a hard diagnosis and uncertain next steps;

comfort those walking through the valley of the shadow of death and their loved ones.

             We pray for all who stand in a place of need. 

              In your mercy Lord, hear our prayer.

God, you have called us to pray for our enemies;

to bless, rather than curse, those who cause us harm. 

We bring before you those who have wounded us, physically or emotionally;

            those who have broken trust; 

                   those who have caused harm through words, actions, or silence

            Lord hear our silent prayers…

Forgive us when we have wounded physically or emotionally,

          have broken trust,

or caused harm through words, actions, or silence.

             Lord, hear our silent prayers

Open our hearts so that we may see one another as you see us, 

and be able to live in the ways of your love, your kindness, your compassion.

God, we praise you for your faithful love,

and for your sustaining strength. 

Open our eyes to recognize your presence in our lives

and the power of your love and care transforming us. 

Give us grace to hear your call,

and courage to follow without hesitation.

We offer our prayers in the name of Jesus who taught us to pray saying: 

Our Father…….

Amen.

June 11, 2023

Gracious, Holy God, we come to you this morning as your children, rejoicing in your provision, your care, and your calling on our lives. We praise you that you live in us by the Holy Spirit and rejoice that you call us to partner with you in ministering your grace and love to a hurting world.

We praise you because You call us to service; to be your eyes and ears, hands and voice in this, your world.
To open our eyes not only to the beauty and love which you create, but the injustice,
hate and suffering that humankind generates.
To open our ears not only to the chattering of this coming week,
but the searching, fears and questioning of all whom we shall meet.
To open our hands not only to those we choose our lives to share, but in welcome,
love and fellowship to all who you draw near.

To open our mouths not only to speak platitudes and simple words, but the truths you lay upon our hearts.
Your Word for this, your world.

You call us to service, to be your eyes and ears, hands and voice in this, your world. Oh God, give us willing hearts and courageous imagination.

As we praise you God for all that you will do in and through us, we also pray for Aiden, Jonas, and Sam as this morning they enter the water of baptism.

May the blessing of the three-in-one God be yours.

May the Spirit bless you with hope poured out like water and flowing as the river.

May Jesus bless you with discomfort at injustice and oppression.

May the Creator who holds the Earth as an artist holds brush and palette

fill your imagination so that you always find the world inspiring and wonderful.

May God in whose being beauty shines on you journey with you.

God says to you, “you are my beloved, Be blessed this day and always.”

Amen

God, hear us now as we offer our joys, our needs, and our prayers for one another in the name of your Son, Jesus.

We pray for our households of faith for this week – the Rath household, the Regier households. Pour out your love and grace on their lives.

We pray for those awaiting test results, follow up, and those recovering from surgery. Comfort the grieving and strengthen those walking with loved ones through the valley of the shadow of death.

Grant courage for those facing uncertainty, bright hope for those receiving treatments, peace for those living in pain.  May your healing touch and embrace of love sustain them.

  We hold in prayer all those affected by wildfires. We pray for shelter and an outpouring of support. We pray for peace in our world where war, violence, and fear reign. Oh God, enable us to live with courage and hope.

May your kingdom come, your will be done on earth as it is in heaven.  Amen.

June 4th, 2023

Earth-maker, Creator,

giver of food and drink,

security and warmth,

love and hope,

life in all its goodness – 

we praise you –

for corn and grain sprouting,

the smell of fresh cut grass,

the birds of the air.

Jesus, wisdom and word;

lover of outcasts,

friend of the poor;

one of us yet one with God;

crucified and risen;

we praise –

for teaching us how to live and how to love,

including those who do us harm.

Holy Spirit, wind and breath of life;

bridge-builder, eye-opener,

unseen and unexpected,

untameable energy of life –

we praise you –

for your gifts of inspiration,

disruption, and comfort.

Holy Trinity, forever one,

whose nature is community,

fellowship, and communion

may we heed your call

to live wholly connected,

supporting and receiving support

giving generously and open to receive.

May our lives together reflect

your sacred fellowship as one.

Earth-maker, Pain-bearer, Life-giver,

You see us, you know us, you love us.

Hear us now as we offer our joys, our needs, and our prayers for one another.

We pray for our households of faith for this week – the Poole households, the Pretorius household. We pray for those awaiting test results, follow up, and those recovering from surgery. Comfort the grieving and strengthen those walking with loved ones through the valley of the shadow of death.

Grant courage for those facing uncertainty, bright hope for those receiving treatments, peace for those living in pain.  May your healing touch and wide embrace of love sustain.

            So many places in the world are rocked with violence, fear, and more. We hold in prayer all those affected by wildfires. We pray for shelter and an outpouring of support. We pray for peace amongst waring nations, the peace that comes form making justice.

May your kingdom come, your will be done on earth as it is in heaven.

Amen.

May 28th, 2023

Come, Holy Spirit! Come, anew and fill us with your love.
Open our eyes to see the presence of God all around us,
in the stillness of this sacred space,
in the busyness and noise of full days,
in the joys and celebrations of our lives,
in the tragedies and struggles that break our hearts.

Come, Holy Spirit, and comfort those who grieve.
Grant them the peace that only you can bring.
Stir within us a trust in life beyond death,
as we ponder the mysteries of Christ’s resurrection
and the hope we have in new and everlasting life.

Come, Holy Spirit, and bring wholeness to the sick.
Strengthen those who are weak;
heal the wounded and broken;
give rest to the weary.

Hear us now as we name in silence our own needs for healing and wholeness.

Come, Holy Spirit, and inspire our troubled world to seek peace,
to love our enemies,
to lay down all weapons,

to respect the dignity of all.

Come, Holy Spirit, and ignite a fire in our bones,
a passion for justice that cannot be quenched
until all have bread,
until no one is marginalized or oppressed,
until everyone has the opportunity to thrive,
until the world is transformed and renewed.

Come, Holy Spirit, and revive your church.
Liberate us from complacency and apathy;
inspire us with Christ’s vision for a world reborn;
strengthen us in service for others;

and transform our hearts and our minds.

Gracious God, give us a glimpse of your kingdom
emerging around us
and drawing us into the new things
you are doing in the world.
It is for your kingdom that we now pray,
filled with your Spirit, using the words Jesus taught us.

Our Father…

May 21st, 2023

Good and gracious God, teach us what it means to be strong and immovable in our faith. Guide us to live lives to the fullest of our capacities and gifts, all for your glory. May our words and actions be seasoned with grace and kindness, compassion and empathy. Nurture the good fruit of peace and generosity, self-control and joy in our lives and in your church.

When life is difficult, as it can be at times due to emotional, physical or relational pain, stressors of family life, work or school we confess, we don’t always show up our best selves. Forgive us when we harm others from our unhealed wounds and grant us a forgiving spirit toward those who do us harm. Restore us to wholeness. Heal and transform our brokenness into wisdom and gracious living. Foster in us a forgiving and obedient spirit ready to share the love of Jesus with all whom we share life.

God of the journey, make us strong and firmly rooted as we are being transformed by your love and care for us. Let the distractions of greed, selfishness, pride never take root in our thoughts or hearts. May we discern your voice and truth above all other voices in our lives. Grant us strength amidst suffering and perseverance and resilience to withstand the forces that lure us away from your good way.

God of peace, we pray for those who suffer due to war and violence; those displaced due to wildfire or floods. We pray for children who are hungry and parents unable to provide. We pray wisdom for world leaders and lasting peace that comes from making justice.

Listening God, we also bring our needs in prayer.

Be with the lonely, comfort the grieving and those who are journeying hard paths.

Grant deep peace for those living with anxiety, worries, or addiction.  

Heal those recovering from surgery.

Grant patience for those receiving treatment or awaiting test results.

We pray for those living with increased physical limitations,

and those journeying the shadow of death.

May your comfort and presence of peace draw near.

Faithful God, gather us into the warmth and security of your embrace,

and the stronghold of your love.

These things we pray in the name of Jesus

who taught us to pray saying…Our Father……

May 14th, 2023

O God of Love, God of grace, we come before you this morning in gratitude and in worship.

We are privileged to be your eternal family, to be children of such a parent, loving us so perfectly. On this beautiful Mother’s Day morning we come to you celebrating the gift of family. We see your glory and your wisdom in the diversity of that gift—a diversity that has always existed. We pray for small families like Elizabeth and Zechariah and their precious only son, John, and for large families like Jacob’s, with his twelve sons. We ask your blessing on multigenerational families like Timothy’s, whose mother and grandmother raised him in the faith.  Bless single person families like Mary and Martha and their brother Lazarus. We pray especially for broken families like King David’s, whether that brokenness is the result of death, destroyed relationship, or simply distance. We also pray for those like Ruth and Naomi who came through the pain of loss to establish new family ties.

We celebrate that you are a God who creates in beauty and wonder; we see that beauty and your creative handiwork in all of nature around us as Spring awakens the earth into life. We also celebrate your creation of humanity; for babies, children, adults, and elderly. We would echo the words of amazement and wonder of the Psalmist David as he wrote “For you created my inmost being; you knit me together in my mother’s womb. I praise you because I am fearfully and wonderfully made; your works are wonderful, I know that full well.” (Psalm 139)

We also praise you because you are a God who heals, comforts, and restores. O God, bring comfort to those who are lonely, those who are living with grief, and those who today are facing what may seem like overwhelming  situations. May your presence bring hope and peace.

We also rejoice with those who have experienced your healing, your gracious wisdom, or the power of your grace in their lives. We give you praise and lift our hearts in worship.

May 7th, 2023

Holy One, we give you thanks for all your gifts to us—

for daily food, for health, for each breath we take,

for freedom to choose,

and for the gifts of your Word, your power and your love.

Our hearts overflow,

as we consider how you have entrusted so much to us.

May we be worthy of that trust—

may we be a people who are unafraid to live

as fully and as richly as you want us to live.

Lord Jesus, as your followers

guide and strengthen us

to serve wholeheartedly,

live generously, love extravagantly,

even if it means being misunderstood.

May we always strive to do good

especially to those who have done us harm.

Spirit of God, we pray for the church gathered today,

both here and around the world.,

May each member be inspired,

to discover, develop and use all their gifts,

for the furthering of your mission.

We pray for our annual meeting today.

May we be open to your Spirit’s leading,

listening deeply, open to your transforming power.

We thank you today for each person who calls this church home.

For caregiving ministries, teaching and worship ministries,

Formation and fellowship ministries.

May our lives be enriched as we serve and grow in faith together.

Listening God, we also pray for those

who stand in need of healing, hope, and wholeness.

We pray for those who suffer, the lonely, the distressed,

the grieving and those who are journeying a hard path.

We pray for those living with addiction, anxiety, or worries,

those recovering from surgery or awaiting surgery,

those receiving treatment and those anticipating next steps.

We pray for the aged who live with increased limitations.

We pray for those journeying the shadow of death

and their families who hold them with love.

May we rest in the warmth and security of your embrace,

in the stronghold of your love.

These things we pray in the name of your Son, Jesus

who taught us to pray saying…Our Father……

April 30th, 2023

God, our Gentle Shepherd,

We praise you for all the ways you lead us to respite and rest

You are provider and sustainer of our lives.

We will never be in want.

You lead us to fields of plenty.

You refresh our souls with the cool clear waters of your Spirit.

Lord Jesus, our Good Shepherd,

we follow You because we know Your voice.

With confidence we know You will lead us through the darkest valley.

You are faithful to accompany us

so we will fear no evil but be comforted.

You came to give us life and bless life abundantly. 

You have prepared Your table for us and anoint us to further your mission in the world.

Pour out the blessing of your Spirit:

as we worship, serve, and share life together,

as we respond to your voice.

Nourish and strengthen us.

Lamb of God, who takes away the sin of the world,

we confess that we stray from your goodness,

your will and your ways of peace.

All of us are like sheep who have gone astray—

we have not loved You with our whole heart;

we have not loved our neighbors as ourselves.

We are sorry and we humbly repent.

Shepherding God, today we pray for one another…

including our wider Mennonite Church Canada community of faith.

Bless Doug Klassen and his ministry, MCEC leadership gathered this weekend,

and each of our sister congregations…

May our witness of peace bless your world.

We pray today for those who suffer.

We pray for the children. May hope be theirs.

We pray for those who live in plenty, but also those who live in want,

the lonely or isolated,

the grieving and those who struggle or find days hard.

May hope be theirs.

We pray for those living with addiction, anxiety, or worries,

those recovering from surgery or awaiting surgery,

those receiving treatment and those anticipating next steps.

We pray for the aged who live with increased limitations.

May hope be theirs.

For the needs of loved ones which we name before you now

aloud or in the silence of our hearts…………may hope be theirs.

Shepherd us O God, beyond our needs,

beyond our wants.

May we rest in the warmth and security of your embrace,

in the stronghold of your love.

May Your goodness and mercy follow us all the days of our lives.

These things we pray in the name of your Son, Jesus

who taught us to pray saying…Our Father……

April 23rd, 2023

–As the song writer pens,

We are pilgrims on a journey

We are travellers on the road

We are here to help each

Walk the mile and bear the load.

We praise you Holy One for revealing the power of your love

that breaks through our limited expectations, our narrow understandings,

your love that removes every stone

that entombs us with fear, despair, pain.

Thank you, Lord Jesus that you come alongside us on the road of faith

and for the power and presence of the Holy Spirit

as we share life together.

When we engage in conversations of faith, study of scripture,

bread and cup, caring and forgiving,

reveal yourself anew as the God whom even death could not hold.  

Forgive us when we put others in boxes.

Free us from our own confining life-denying boxes.

Open our eyes to your presence.

Open our hearts to your mystery.

From gentle flicker to blazing flame,

may our hearts burn within as we encounter your risen presence.

In response to yesterday’s Earth Day, we pray:

Creator God, majestic maker

we sit in awe and wonder.

We listen to the breath of earth and the song of heaven.

Let the skies sing for joy,

and the earth join its chorus.
Let us listen to the oceans thunder

and watch the fields join in praise

Let the weeds in pavement cracks sing out,

every tree, forgotten sprout..

May we be faithful stewards of your good earth,

Forgive us when we fail and stumble.

                      (please take a few minutes to check out this video from Rockway Collegiate’s Single-Use Plastics

Video:  https://youtu.be/qKCTGjqq2N0   

Listening God, we offer our prayers for one another:

Our households of faith this week: the Miller family, the Nafziger families.

We pray for those who grieve………

the sick, the weary,

those facing physical limitations due to aging bodies,  

those recovering from surgery, awaiting surgery,

those awaiting test results, or treatments…………

We pray for those journeying the shadow of death,

And all who stand in need of your healing touch and wholeness……

May your resurrection give life,

May your resurrection give hope to the hopeless,

May your resurrection give joy to those who yearn for new life,
May your resurrection bring new possibilities.

We pray in the name of the one whose footsteps we seek to follow and who taught us to pray:

Our Father who art in heaven,

April 16th, 2023

Gracious, loving God, we come to you this morning with praise and rejoicing on our lips as we have walked through this post-resurrection week. “Jesus is Risen. He is Risen indeed.” Thank you God for the gift of salvation, the gift of forgiveness through your Son Jesus. We praise you that we have a living hope through the resurrection of Christ from the grave. Death has been defeated and life eternal granted. For this we lift our praise.

However, we also confess that there are times when hope dims, we take our eyes off you Jesus and we stumble and fall. God, in those moments help us to cling to the promise of your Word that if we confess our sins, you God are faithful and just, and will forgive us our sins and purify us from all unrighteousness. We give you praise.

We would also echo the prayer of David as he cried out “Create in me a pure heart, O God, and renew a steadfast spirit within me. Do not cast me from your presence or take your Holy Spirit from me. Restore to me the joy of your salvation and grant me a willing spirit, to sustain me.” Psalm 51

Oh God, as we see the renewal of creation all around us during this Spring season, our prayer is that you would also renew our hearts so that we may truly live in Hope and walk in obedience to you as Jesus did. May your re-creation power be at work in us.

Hear our prayer of confession:

For failing to love others as you have loved us,

    God of grace, forgive us.

For wasting your gifts and hoarding our goods,

    God of grace, forgive us.

For plundering the earth and abusing the planet

    God of grace, forgive us.

For fearing those who are strange to us and ignoring those in need,

    God of grace, forgive us.

For losing heart at times, and abandoning Hope,

    God of grace, forgive us.

For all the ways we turn from you,

    God of grace, forgive us.

We offer our prayers in the name

   of the One who saves us, Jesus Christ our Lord.

Amen

April 14th, 2023

Good morning WMC Family

How about this for another sunshine “summer” day? Enjoy

Sue Compton is a good friend of ours at The Gathering Church and has a beautiful skill in writing. She has written and published one novel and is in the process of having a second one published, Several weeks ago she shared the following poem with Gloria and I, and I would like to share it with you. God is at work in creation and within us as well.

And yes, I realize it may feel like the days of “Slush” are behind us; however, we are still very much in the season of Spring. May you be encouraged by this poem.

Blessings on your day.

Clare

Slush

In seasons of ice and slush
I spend too much time looking
at my feet. Cautious, worried steps
in futile attempt to avoid
wet feet and headlong plummet.

But the once-frozen stream now
babbles me awake; look up, notice
sunshine, hints of green under dead
grass and branches not yet budding
but no longer stiff frozen, hopeful
sap hidden to my eye.

If the Maker of rebirth, of
tiny bud and hard-shelled seed
cracked open, of hibernation
end and unexpected warm sunrays,
has never forgotten during
deep winter freeze,

what has been planted,
cracked open, waiting to
burst
within my heart?

On days like this if I stand
still and alone in the wood
can I hear the sap running
to awaken fresh green life?
Or is that my own life force
rushing in my ears?

On days like this I hear
You whisper
patience.

By A. S. Compton

April 9th, 2023

On this bright Easter morning,

we welcome you Christ Jesus, into our lives.
We welcome your resurrection for it is
life changing, life giving , and life sustaining.
We welcome the hope it brings to our world.
We welcome the joy it brings to our darkness.
We welcome you Risen Jesus,

active and present in the world and in our lives.

Help us to grasp resurrection,
to understand its power,
to see its force at work in our world,
overturning oppressive powers,
transforming greed and selfishness within us,
moving the world slowly, persistently,
toward love and justice.

On this day of great gladness
empower us to be your Easter witnesses
proclaiming good news.
Good news in our kitchens and living rooms,
good news in our workplaces and workshops
good news in our classrooms and committees
Help us to be that good news,
walking softly on this good earth
caring gently for all people,
living with bright hope and with praise on our lips and in our hearts.

Amidst our joyous alleluia’s, we know many are struggling.

We hold in prayer all who are grieving………

the sick, the weary, the worn……..

those recovering from surgery,

those awaiting test results, or treatment…………

We pray for those journeying the shadow of death,

each one standing in need of your healing touch and wholeness……

each place in the world that is torn by war and violence…………

Risen Lord, may your resurrection give life,

May your resurrection be bright hope to the hopeless,

May your resurrection be joy to those who yearn for new life,
May your resurrection bring new possibilities.

Living God, Risen Christ, God of Easter resurrection
make us your living Church,
Your risen Church,
Your Easter Church,
we pray in the powerful name of Jesus the Christ. Amen

Holy One, you invite us to come before you, faithfully presenting our prayers and requests with thanksgiving. And we have so many reasons to lift up our voices in praise.

April 3rd, 2023

Thank you, God for your triumphal entry into our world each and every day.
The slow motion explosion of bulbs emerging from the cold earth, proclaim “Hosanna!”
Melting snow, the robin’s song, spring breezes, proclaim “Hosanna!”
The fragrance of spring in the morning air proclaims, “Hosanna!”

We join this chorus, giving you thanks and praise for who you are, for who you reveal yourself to be.

Holy One, you sent Jesus, who showed us your love for all creation and your love for us. He opened our eyes to see your kingdom come here on earth.

Forgive us when we go about our own business,
concerned with many things, oblivious to the needs of those around us,
oblivious to the call of your love in our heart.

Hosanna, we cry out today with hope.

Hope that is revealed in the face of a newborn and his parents.

Hope that is revealed through generosity of resources and time,

and willingness to serve. We ask your blessing today upon Delores as she begins a new term as Elder… and we pray for each one who has responded to the invitation grow into their gifts and serve in the coming year.

Hosanna, we cry out today, “save us,” because the world is in great need…..

Bombs dropping, innocent lives terrorized.

Environmental destruction, division between peoples and nations

Poverty, oppression, hunger…

We are tempted to despair.
Open our eyes to your entry into our world as the Prince of peace,
changing hearts, transforming our hearts, one by one,
shaping peacemakers who say no to violence, injustice, marginalization

God of great deeds, open our hearts to be your hearts,
our hands to be your hands,
our arms, to be your loving arms
for all who need your presence.

You know the people in our congregation and community standing in a place of need: those with new diagnoses, those waiting for tests or next steps, those living with chronic pain or facing ongoing treatments, or uncertain future. We pray for those recovering from surgery, those whose injuries are complex and many.We grieve with all who are grieving, and we ask you for comfort and healing.

Lord Jesus, you entered Jerusalem,

On your way to suffering and death

For the sake of our salvation.

This is the mystery and wonder of Holy Week which we now enter.

As we draw near to you,

may we not turn our eyes away

but rather bravely walk in your footsteps….

Sustain us as we move through these difficult days together.

In the power of your Spirit,

and in your name. Amen.

March 26th, 2023

God of resurrection new life,

We are surrounded by a world of dry bones,

a world of death and despair,

a world where we lose hope in our structures, institutions,

and at times, one another.

We pray for this world in need of your life-giving hope.

We pray for creation groaning under the weight of

misuse, abuse, and the overuse of natural resources.

We pray for all people living through war,

oppressive political powers,

domestic violence, racism, homophobia.

God, who breathed life into dry bones,

We are surrounded by people with dried up lives,

people unable to see life past their tears.

We pray for all who stand in need of your healing presence:

the imprisoned, the lonely,

the aged and the young,

the grieving, and those who struggle to hold onto hope,

those living with cancer, and those struggling with addiction

and families who love and support them.

We pray for loved ones whose needs we carry deep in our hearts.

We name them before you now,

aloud or in silence………….

God of resurrection new life,

you long to unbind us that we may live fully alive,

in ways that bring you glory.

Free us we pray from all that keeps us bound:

resentment and shame,

fear or an unhealed past.

Open our eyes to the power of your resurrection power,

the mystery that transforms caterpillars into butterflies

and seeds into apple trees.

We confess that in our end is our beginning

in our time infinity

In our doubt there is believing,

In our life, eternity

In our death a resurrection: at the last, a victory

Unrevealed until its season, something you God alone can see.

God, who breathes new life into us, into your world,

call us forward to resurrection.

Call us to follow in the footsteps of your Son Jesus,

who taught us when we pray to say:

Our Father in heaven . . .

March 19th, 2023

Light of the world, you stepped down into darkness,

open our eyes, let us see……

amidst war and poverty,

injustice and oppression,

open our eyes to see

that which is beautiful – crocuses blooming, helping hands, the flicker of a flame;

open our eyes to see that which is just…

when all are fed, have safe shelter, clean water;

open our eyes to see that which is pure…..

glorious sunrises, sweet maple syrup, the warmth and comfort of your love.

Sight-giver, when you walked this earth

you healed the blind, restoring sight

and you uncovered the blindness of your people.

When we are blind to our pride, arrogance, privilege,

walking in darkness,

forgive us

restore us.

Open our eyes to see your gracious presence in the world,

and in our lives,

your beauty and your justice.

Light of the world,

you come to us,

You see us – our joys and our pain,

Our strength and struggle,

Our beauty and brokenness.

We offer our prayers for one another – our households of faith for this week, those awaiting test results, surgery, or recovering from surgery. We pray for those who grieve and those walking with loved ones through the valley of the shadow of death. We pray for those who live with uncertainty – grant peace we pray and acceptance. We pray for those receiving treatments, or carrying the weight of physical or emotional pain. May your healing touch and wide embrace bring comfort and deep peace.

We also pray for all who return to classrooms tomorrow. May minds be open to learn and teach and grow. May relationships be healthy and wholesome. May the refreshment of March break sustain.

Finally, Light of the world,

we hold in prayer places and people in the world

where suffering is deep…..

The people of Ukraine and Russia….

Those impacted by floods, or storm, or starvation.

We pray, Your kingdom come, your will be done

On earth as it is in heaven.

For yours is the glory and the power forever and ever. Amen. Amen!

March 12th, 2023

Holy God, whose Spirit moved over the waters at the dawn of creation,

hear our prayers for all who thirst today.

We pray for those who are spiritually thirsty,

who long to know Your presence, to hear your voice,

to be touched by your grace.

We pray for those who are alone and without hope,

those who long to feel needed and loved,

those who are searching for meaning and purpose.

May we remain thirsty, our deepest yearning quenched with your living water.

We pray for all who are physically thirsty,

who don’t have enough water to drink, or feed their animals,

whose fields are parched, whose crops have withered;

those who have to walk long distances to find enough water to survive,

or whose communities including or Indigenous siblings who do not have clean water.

We pray for those whose homes and communities are devastated

because of drought, famine, flooding.

We pray for those who are thirsty for justice,

who long for an equal sharing of resources among peoples and nations;

those who put their lives at risk to protect streams and rivers and oceans;

those who are working to find clean water,

and make it available to those who need it.

God, we ask that you would open our hearts to the needs of all who thirst.

Give us courage to work together for justice,

to stand alongside those who are thirsty,

so that all people, everywhere, may live without want or fear,

and may discover the abundant life You promise to each one.

Source of living water, we pray for all who stand in need of healing, hope,and wholeness, we pray for one another, including our households of faith for this week.

Draw near to those awaiting test results or appointments, surgery, or recovering from surgery. We pray for those who grieve and those walking with loved ones through the valley of the shadow of death. We pray for those whose burden is light and for those whose burden is heavy. Bring relief we pray and refreshment for mind, body, and spirit.

For needs named and yearnings too deep for words we offer all of our prayers in the name of Jesus Christ, source of living water. Amen.

March 3rd, 2023

Oh God, in this time of Lent, we come humbly as your children, confessing our need of your work in our lives. Renew and restore us we pray.

God of Mercy and Grace, you came to us through your Son Jesus, to break down the dividing walls of hostility between us; yet we maintain walls that separate and isolate.

You give us the ministry of reconciliation; yet we nurse our wounds and withhold mercy and forgiveness.

You invite us to celebrate the glory of your presence as Peter, James, and John experienced on the mountain; yet we deny the wonders you have worked in our own lives.

You ask us to acknowledge and share our wealth; yet at times we refuse to recognize and relieve the poverty around us.

You bless our lives with boundless love; yet we fail to witness to that love,

and so keep others from knowing you.

Forgive our selfishness, we pray. Transform us by your Spirit and your Word into that which pleases you.

Make us new, enabling us to become the image of Christ in our world.

And as you renew us, we worship you, O God, with songs of praise.

We worship you with words of prayer and with ears that listen for you to speak your saving truth into our lives.

We worship you in the silent spaces where we struggle for hope and for courage.

We long for a glimpse of your glory; the glory that shines in the darkness and the darkness cannot overcome it; the glory that touches lives with a beauty so holy that it heals the wounded soul;

the glory that gives strength to the weary.

We, who stumble and fall so often, worship you, longing for your light to shine upon us.

Pour your holy love into our lives; draw us into your purifying presence;

speak to us your transforming truth.

Then, grant us grace to live every moment changed by such glory—

daring to live with hope and courage and love, reflecting the life of Jesus,

through whom your glory shines in the most unexpected ways.

We lift up your Holy Name. Amen.

February 26, 2023

As we journey into this Lenten season, we pray for those who are being tempted:

tempted to look the other way when wrong is happening in their family, their workplace, their neighbourhood;

tempted to misuse their gifts for self-gratifying purposes;

tempted to allow untamed emotions to direct or do harm;

tempted by the corrupting power of money;

and those tempted to stay in a rut rather than strike out on new life-giving paths.

Generous God, steer us through times of temptation,

And deliver us from evil.

We pray for the many who feel pushed and tested almost beyond their endurance;

those in positions of heavy responsibility who feel overloaded;

or those pressured from all sides by factions in workplace or community;

suffering people–and all who must watch a loved one suffer– who feel they can bear no more;

kindly folk whose patience with a difficult friend is at a breaking point;

persecuted Christians whose faith seems stretched beyond their limit;

and the depressed and despairing whose inner being cries out for relief

Merciful God, steer us through times of temptation,

And deliver us from evil.

We also pray for those whose days are sunny and bright –

the happy, that their happiness may always be used for goodwill and compassion;

the strong, that their energies may be used wisely and gently;

for the rich, that their wealth may be shared generously;

for the powerful, that they may use their position as a blessing;

and those of strong faith, that they may act justly, love mercy, and walk humbly with you.

Righteous God, walk with us and shape us

And deliver us from evil.

God of compassion, we also pray for each other – our households of faith for this week, those awaiting test results or appointments, surgery, or recovering from surgery. We pray for those who grieve and those walking with loved ones through the valley of the shadow of death. We pray for those whose burden is light and for those whose burden is heavy. Bring relief we pray.

Look upon us all with your loving eyes, test our anxious thoughts, shape us amidst testing to see you as you see us, beloved and good.

“save us from temptation and deliver us from all evil.”

Through Christ Jesus our Saviour. Amen

February 19th, 2023

Gracious God, we come humbly before you this morning, remembering that our strength, our hope is totally in you. Thank you for your word; we pray for increased understanding and insight, for courage to walk in your way. Remind us daily that your word is a lamp to our feet and a light to our path.

We would also echo the prayer of David as he poured out his heart to you God. (Psalm 119)

“May my cry come before you, O Lord; give me understanding according to your word. May my supplication come before you; deliver me according to your promise.

May my lips overflow with praise, for you teach me your decrees. May my tongue sing of your word for all your commands are righteous. May your hand be ready to help me, for I have chosen your precepts.

I long for your salvation, O Lord, and your law is my delight.

Let me live that I may praise you and may your laws sustain me.”

We grieve today for our world that seems to be writhing in pain. Compassionate God, the cries of the suffering and dying in Turkey and Syria rise with desperation. We rejoice with rescues that have occurred but pray your grace and comfort for those whose family members and friends have died.

Inspire generosity in our hearts and in the global community; grant strength & wisdom to all agencies and caregivers who serve and love, especially for those who reach out in the name of Jesus. May they be salt and light so that others can see Jesus in them. Grant each of us your wisdom as to your call on our lives as individuals; how do you desire to meet the needs of our world through us.

We pray for the many in our community who are currently suffering from COVID. Grant healing and strength to each as needed. For those living with grief, pain, loneliness, and struggle; God, meet their needs. For those awaiting test results, surgery or recovering from surgery, and those awaiting brighter days, we pray that they will experience your hope.

God we also praise you for answered prayer, for giving us daily life, breath, and strength. All of our hope lies in you. Thank you as well for the church, your body, this community of faith where we see your love in action. Help us to love others as you have loved us.

We offer all our prayers in the strong name of Jesus. Amen

February 12th, 2023

Lord Jesus,

You call us to radical discipleship.

You challenge us to forgive, to love our enemies,

to bless those who curse us.

But oh, how often we choose the easy way,

of retaliation or revenge,

grudge-holding, unforgiveness,

a path that leads to bitterness and brokenness.

But you, Lord Jesus have given us a life-giving path.

A path that stretches us beyond ourselves.

A path that reveals our deepest pains and every growing edge.

A path which you accompany us on, each and every step.

Grant us the patience and endurance to journey with You,

to allow ourselves at times to stumble,

to live into the hard way

to be open to transformation through your Spirit,

so that we might fully experience

Your love and grace and peace in this world,

becoming a people full of mercy and grace

loving, forgiving.

When we have been careless with our words that cannot be unspoken,

reckless with actions that cannot be undone,

and it is I, it is us that is known as enemy…..

forgive us,

grant us humility, the grace of accountability,

the light of your love that illumines our shadows.

Set us on solid ground where your mercy abounds.

Lord, hear our prayer.

Compassionate God, the cries of the suffering and dying,

in Turkey and Syria rise with desperation.

So many lives lost. So many injured and maimed.

Comfort those whose family members and friends have died.

Inspire generosity in the global community

to give the resources needed to help communities rebuild,

to heal, to live in safety.

Oh God in your mercy, hear our prayers.

We also bring our prayers and needs before you. For those living with grief, pain, struggle, we pray. For those awaiting test results, surgery or recovering from surgery, and those awaiting brighter days, we pray. And for those in our community of faith, especially our households of faith for this week, we pray. We are grateful for one another.

We are grateful for the bounty with which we live and the opportunities to live generously. Thank you for decision making regarding our spending plan for the coming year. Guide conversations today, remind us that we are stewards of all you provide.

For the church, your body, your people, here in this world, we need your mercy and your grace to walk in your ways. Breathe your Spirit of life upon your people and into your beloved world. Walk closely beside us each day. We pray as those seeking to follow your way of discipleship. Amen

February 5th, 2023

God of blessing,

you open your hands and provide for our deepest needs…

healing and wholeness,

our need for hope that banishes despair,

our need for peace amidst uncertainties and chaos.

We pray, loving God,

for the blessing of your Spirit

on all people with their widely diverse needs

and your creation groaning

under the weight of climate change.

We pray, loving God

your blessing

on the sick and their caregivers

on workers and employers

on the unemployed, underemployed, and those who stand by them.

We pray, loving God

your blessing

on the hungry and those who feed them,

the unsheltered and those seeking affordable housing solutions,

refugees and those who welcome them,

We pray your blessing

on those who struggle with addiction and those who treat them,

the poor and those who see them,

the sorrowing and those who comfort them.

We pray, loving God

your blessing to be poured out

upon us as well.

When we are weak, be our strength,

when we are afraid, calm our troubled minds,

when we doubt, strengthen our faith,

when we see needs, guide our response.

For those living with pain, change, or hurt, we pray. For those awaiting test results, surgery,

and those recovering from surgery, we pray. For loved ones whose needs to hold deep in our hearts we

pray. For prayers offered aloud and for those not yet formed into words, we offer all our prayers in

the name of Jesus who blesses. Amen

January 29th, 2023

Faithful God, despite all the abundance and blessings in our lives, we worry. We worry about finances, health, loved ones, our work, the church, and the future. We worry as Covid continues and its impact on the most vulnerable. We worry amidst uncertainty, change, and conflict. We worry about the impact of Russia’s invasion of Ukraine and so much more.

Calm our troubled hearts. Still our racing thoughts. Free us from anxiety that flutters deep within our being. As we turn our gaze and hearts to you, help us remember that you are with us and that we can trust you to light our steps, to provide wisdom and courage, strength and resilience. We can trust you to provide our daily bread. When we feel overwhelmed, remind us that you see us, that you care about us, and that you are the God who will provide all we need for healthy, faithful, and wholehearted living.

In gratitude for all that you provide, we offer our thanks: for loving relationships, breath and movement, rest and energy, beauty and stillness, hope and peace, thank you.

We name aloud or in the silence of our hearts our thanks for all that you provide……….

God of compassion we pray for your provision for all who stand in need of healing, hope, and wholeness. For the grieving, those living with pain, change, struggles, we pray. For those awaiting test results, surgery, and those recovering from surgery, we pray.

We pray for those who hunger – whether for food or for new beginning. We pray for those who thirst for justice and those who seek your kingdom.

And we pray for your Spirit to move amongst us as we meet today to discuss the work of the church and make financial decisions. Grant your church wisdom and gentle listening. Free us from all fear in order to live generously.

For prayers offered aloud and for those not yet formed into words, we offer all our prayers in the name of the God who provides. Amen

We pray for our loved ones who are experiencing limitations due to aging bodies and loved ones in long-term care. Surround each family with loving kindness and grant deep measures of compassion and patience.

As Covid and significant cold/flu viruses circulate in our communities and families, we pray for healing, grace and protection over all.

We pray for our Households of Faith.

January 22nd, 2023

There is no part of life

you do not touch, O God,

infusing your rich fragrance— your God colours and God flavours – gritty and real—

getting in underneath the surface,

drawing out and lifting up, winding love around

until defences are lowered, barriers broken down,

and the power of your love reveals the beauty

you intended for all your children and creation.

May our actions draw attention to you,

to the richness you bring to all life

and the abundance you share,

setting the scene for us to share too.

Help us to bring light

into all the darkness of life, spreading hope for a better world,

a world where justice is made real by your people living together

in harmony.

Help us to bring salt

into the blandness of life,

encouraging vitality and joy in living

in a world that dares to hope

for the future that you promise

where all people will know themselves

loved and valued and treasured,

created in your image,

bringing you glory forever.

We pray too for those in our own community today. For those for whom life is hard – those living with illness, pain, grief, change, struggles – we pray. For those awaiting test results, surgery, and brighter days, we pray. And for those in our community of faith, especially our households of faith for this week, we pray. We are grateful for one another.

Finally, for the church, your body, your people, here in this world. We need your mercy and your grace to release that which holds us captive from fullness of life, your hearts desire. Breathe your spirit of life into your people and into your beloved world. Walk closely beside us each day.

We pray as those seeking to follow and learn from you.

Amen.

As Covid and significant cold/flu viruses circulate in our communities and families, we pray for healing, grace and protection over all.

We pray for our Households of Faith.

Bless each of our households of faith with deep faith that holds them. Amen

January 15th, 2023

As we come before God together, I would invite us into the Beatitudes: into their surprising blessings, and
their bold proclamation of the Kingdom. Throughout generations, the followers of Jesus have relied on
these seemingly simple words to guide their lives, to help them understand God’s will, and to direct them
into prayer for and suffering with the world.
This morning as we gather our prayers, I will read each blessing and invite you to repeat it. Then I will
suggest a focus for a brief time of silent prayer. Let’s begin with silence.
Brief silence
Blessed are the poor in spirit, for theirs is the kingdom of heaven.
All: Blessed are the poor in spirit,
for theirs is the kingdom of heaven.

Lord Jesus, you see past achievements, status, and work ethic choosing to be on the side of the weak,
the forgotten, the despised. Your gaze is upon the broken – of heart, body, spirit.
Reveal yourself to the poor of this world
for whom the kingdom of heaven often seems distant and unattainable.
Silence
Blessed are those who mourn, for they will be comforted.
All: Blessed are those who mourn,
for they will be comforted.

Comforting God, draw near to those who are in mourning,
who have lost someone or something dear to them.
Draw near to those who mourn the injustices of this world
such as hunger, homelessness, corruption.
We pray for the blessing of comfort to strengthen us.
Silence
Blessed are the meek, for they will inherit the earth.
ALL: Blessed are the meek, for they will inherit the earth.
We praise you Jesus for your example of humility.
We strive to be more like Jesus every day.
but our pride often gets in the way, as does our stubbornness and selfishness
Rescue us from pride, we pray and help us walk the path of humility.
Silence
Blessed are those who hunger and thirst for righteousness,
for they will be filled
ALL: Blessed are those who hunger and thirst for righteousness,
for they will be filled.

Fit us we pray to call attention to the injustices in the world that abound,
Strengthen us to work together in support of ministries of justice
and may your Spirit transform us through our active participation
feeding the hungry, welcoming the stranger, caring for creation.
Silence
Blessed are the merciful, for they will receive mercy.
ALL: Blessed are the merciful, for they will receive mercy.
Lord God, you are merciful, slow to anger, abounding in compassion and truth. Be merciful to us, our
families, your church, and those who stand in a place of need.
Silence
Blessed are the pure in heart, for they will see God.
ALL: Blessed are the pure in heart, for they will see God.
We pray for a heart that desires nothing more than to abide in You and Your love.
Open the eyes of our heart to your presence in our lives and in your world.
Silence
Blessed are the peacemakers, for they will be called children of God.
ALL: Blessed are the peacemakers, for they will be called children of God.
Lord, make us instruments of your peace,
generously sowing love, injuring pardon, living faith boldly.
Where there is despair may hope abound; where darkness dwells may your light of love break through.
Silence
Blessed are those who are persecuted for righteousness sake for theirs is the kingdom of heaven.
ALL: Blessed are those who are persecuted for righteousness sake for theirs is the kingdom of
heaven.

Around the world, many Christians are persecuted — imprisoned, even killed — for their faith.
Be their rock, their safety, their peace and may their witness remain strong.

Emmanuel, God with us,
as we continue on this journey with you and one another,
may we live into your blessing and be a blessing in your world
we pray through Christ our Lord. Amen

We pray for those who are journeying through hard days – those who are waiting on tests, follow up appointments, or living with
chronic pain. May your love surround them.


We pray for our loved ones who are experiencing limitations due to aging bodies and loved ones in long-
term care. Surround each family with loving kindness and grant
deep measures of compassion and patience.
As Covid and significant cold/flu viruses circulate in our communities and families, we pray for
healing, grace and protection over all.
We pray for our Households of Faith. Bless their lives with purpose and meaning, rest and loving relationship. Draw them ever near to Your heart of blessing. Amen.

January 8th, 2023

God of wonder and mystery,
God of the stars and sky,
God of winding ways and straight paths,
our hearts overflow with gratitude

for the gift of your constant presence,
your trustworthy guidance,
and your daring risk-taking with us.
You dare to love us despite our inability to respond fully.
You dare to care for us, despite our challenge in caring for others.
You dare to walk with us, despite our wayward wandering.

As we journey into this new year,

lead us we pray,

light our steps,
guide us by the teachings of Jesus
to seek justice, love kindness, and walk humbly in your loving light.

God of peace, we pray for peace in this world,
the kind of peace in which we celebrate diversity,
are joyfully challenged by adversity,
and share in the joy that is to be found everywhere.

May peace grow in our hearts, in our homes,

in our actions and our words.

God of compassion,
we pray for those who are lonely.
Lead us to reach out with compassion and fellowship.
We pray for those who are hungry,
Lead us to respond to real human need.
We pray for the lost, the least, the last.
Lead us to share hope and joy.

We pray for the church.

May we work together, always lifting one another up.
May we be open to the transformation of your Spirit,

freeing us from fear and strengthening us to walk in faith,

liberating us from scarcity thinking that we may live generously

Gentle our wounds into wisdom, we pray,

our anxieties and worries into deep trust.

May your Spirit guide us

in decision making, giving, priority making,

as we come through so much change and transition

all for the furthering of your mission.


And we pray for our communities

in which we live, work, attend school, and serve.

May the light of your love shine in and through us

as faithful witnesses to the wonder of your incarnation.

Emmanuel, God with us,

as we continue on this journey with you and one another,
may we learn the lessons you offer
and seek the fullness of your purposes and your love,

Reveal yourself anew, your love and grace,

your mercy and forgiveness,

and may we respond with faithfulness and gratitude.

Amen

As Covid and significant cold/flu viruses circulate in our communities and families, we pray for healing, grace and protection over all.

January 1st, 2023

“O beautiful star, the hope of rest, for the redeemed, the good, and blest, yonder in glory when the crown is won; for Jesus is now that star divine; brighter and brighter He will shine; beautiful star of Bethlehem, shine on.”

O God, we rejoice and give thanks for this season of Advent & Christmas, the wonderful reminder that you entered our world through the person of Jesus, providing to all humanity the gift of a Saviour. Thank you for beginning a process of restoration that night in Bethlehem; a process that will only be completed when Christ returns in majesty and glory to take His children home to a new heaven and earth. And God as we begin this New Year, while we recognize that the time of Christ’s return is uncertain, we trust in your perfect timing. Our prayer is that as you led the shepherds, and later the wise men, into the presence of Jesus by the light of the star, you would also continue to lead us to your throne of grace as individuals and as a church. We also would pray for many in our community, our families, our world, who have yet to come face to face with Jesus, that you too would lead them to your Son. God use a star if you choose, use us in spite of our weakness; but our prayer is that you would open the eyes of many to the reality of Jesus as their Lord and Saviour. O God we give you praise!

God, this morning we also pray for those who today are suffering with loss and pain. Grant healing and hope, pour your love through us as your children, may your grace be evident through the lives and actions of believers all around our world. We pray for peace to come in places of war; we pray for justice and righteousness to prevail; where there are ethnic tensions, bring renewal & understanding; may love overcome hate.

God, we would also echo the words of this prayer:

“Living Christ, in these times when we fear we are losing hope or feel that our efforts are futile,

let us see in our hearts and minds the image of your resurrection,

and let that be our source of courage and strength.

With that, and in your company, help us face challenges and struggles

against all that is born of injustice.

Amen” VT 1033

We praise you God for the significant health care available to us in this country. While there are challenges at times, we pray for all those who serve in the medical field and ask God that you would grant strength, wisdom, and perseverance as they serve. We also rejoice that you are the great Healer and as such we bring the following requests to you.

We pray for our loved ones who are experiencing limitations due to aging bodies and our loved ones in long-term care. Surround each family with loving kindness and grant deep measures of compassion and patience.

We pray for our Households of Faith:

In the name of Jesus we pray

Amen.

December 25th, 2022

Luke 2: 1-7 In those days a decree went out from Emperor Augustus that all the world should be registered. This was the first registration and was taken while Quirinius was governor of Syria. All went to their own towns to be registered. Joseph also went from the town of Nazareth in Galilee to Judea, to the city of David called Bethlehem, because he was descended from the house and family of David. He went to be registered with Mary, to whom he was engaged and who was expecting a child. While they were there, the time came for her to deliver her child. And she gave birth to her firstborn son and wrapped him in bands of cloth, and laid him in a manger, because there was no place for them in the inn.

Light of the World, Prince of Peace, on this Christmas morning we celebrate Your coming to the earth in flesh. We worship you for becoming vulnerable, a baby, to live amongst us, revealing the heart of God.

Holy One, on this Christmas morning, we remember that your Son was born into a dangerous and troubled world. We hold in prayer our world today, where conflict dominates the news headlines, where injustice fuels oppression, and where the gulf between wealth and poverty widens; the same issues that took you from the cradle to the cross. Help all leaders – local, national, and global – to use their power for the good of all. Fill our world with the joyful hope that there is a better way. Help us live in peace.

Lord Jesus, as Mary gently cradled you in her arms, we pray for all women giving birth today, for all new born babies and for all expectant mothers. We pray for children who cry and are not comforted and for parents who fear for their children’s safety. Born into a human family, we give thanks for our families who will gather at the table for Christmas dinner and we remember those who cannot be with loved ones at this time. We pray for family members who are far from home due to weather and closed roads. Keep them safe and warm. Protect first responders, road workers, and health care providers and all who are working today to keep us safe and well.

Emmanuel, God-with-us, we pray for all who will be alone today, without family or friends, without enough to eat, with no place to live, or suffering due to the elements. We pray for refugees, especially those fleeing violence in Ukraine, living far from home in an effort to find food and shelter for their children. Bless the work of those who give up this day to bring joy and hope to others – for those who have opened their homes and for warming centres open to provide food, warmth and shelter. May the gifts of Christmas – hope, joy, peace, and love – abound and warm the hearts of those in need and those who serve.

God of compassion, speak words of comfort and love to those grieving, those suffering loneliness or sickness of body or mind. Bless the work of those who offer a listening ear to the needy and those living with addiction or mental illness. May the peace of Christ be with them and may they know they are never alone.

As Covid and significant cold/flu viruses circulate in our communities and families, we pray for healing, grace and protection over all.

We pray for our Households of Faith. Through Christ we pray, Amen.

December 18th, 2022

Waiting and anticipating, we bow our hearts before you Holy One.

Today we hear the angels’ proclamation:

“The virgin shall conceive and bear a son,

His name will be called Emmanuel, God with us.

Show us your child, O God,

For we walk together in hope and with deep yearnings.

Give your justice to the nations and their leaders,

and give your mercy to all whose decisions

affect the peace and well-being of the world.

Where we have power ourselves,

open our ears to the cries of the weak, the poor, and the needy,

and open our hearts to answer their call.

Show us your child, O God,
For we walk together in hope and with deep yearnings.

Bless this community, we pray

that in your light we may each become a servant, one to the other

holding the Christ light for one another in the night time of our fears.

Bring us together in story, song, joy, and sorrow;

and let each person who comes among us

find community and your presence of love in this place.

Show us your child, O God,
For we walk together in love.

God of compassion, pour out your healing grace upon all

who are dealing with sickness, fear, or any kind of trouble;

Draw near to those awaiting surgery, treatment, and those awaiting recovery of strength.

Comfort the grieving who feel their loss even more deeply amidst Christmas celebration.

Meet each be met with rest, peace, and your comfort.

Show us your child, O God,

For we walk together in peace.

God of restoration, with longing and thanksgiving,

knowing that you hold this world and all its children deep in your heart,

we pray for the grace to receive your gift given to the world.

May we lift up our eyes and look around,

and boldly join in your mission of restoration and reconciliation.

Grant us courage as it was for Mary and Joseph

to follow your pathway, to answer your call, to live in faith.


Emmanuel, God-with-us, we journey to Bethlehem and the manger

Prepare our hearts to receive you anew –

To receive the wonder, the miracle, the profound gift of your love.

We pray in the name of the Christ child. Amen.

We pray for our loved ones who are experiencing limitations due to aging bodies and our loved ones in long-term care. Support each family and grant deep measures of compassion and patience.

As Covid and significant cold/flu viruses circulate in our communities and families, we pray for healing, grace and protection over all.

We pray for our Households of Faith.

We pray for meaningful family time over Christmas and deep sense of Christ’s presence with them.

Amidst many ups and down over this past year, we give thanks for God’s faithfulness, for providing all the strength, peace, and courage they need for each day.

We pray for safe travels and a beautiful Christmas with family. Bless them with health, much joy, and peace. Amen

December 11th, 2022

Lord our God, you have revealed yourself as One

whose desire it is to bring justice, peace, and joy to all people.

In a world that turns away from and participates in injustice,

you cast your eyes on the destitute, the poor, and the wronged;

You have called us to follow you, to preach good news to the poor,

to proclaim release for the captives, and recovery of sight for the blind,

to set at liberty those who are oppressed, and to proclaim the time of your blessing.

Lord our God, be present with your church as we respond to your call.

Open our eyes to those in need, especially the lonely and the isolated.

Fill us with compassion for refugees and immigrants who seek safe refuge

Fill us with mercy for those who struggle with addiction and mental illness, or bear the weight of abuse in its many forms..

Fill us with gifts of caregiving for the sick, those who suffer pain whether in mind, body, or spirit……

May your healing grace surround the most vulnerable amongst us, especially loved ones in long term care.

We pray for our loved ones who are experiencing limitations due to aging bodies.

As Covid and significant cold/flu viruses circulate in our communities and families, we pray especially for the most vulnerable amongst us – the very young and the aged. May the light of your love shine bright as we journey dark days of illness, uncertainty, pain, and suffering.

We pray for our baptism prep class as they learn, ask questions, and explore faith. May your love and presence become more real to them, especially this Christmas season.

We pray for our Households of Faith. May their work be meaningful and purposeful, their relationships a source of great joy, and may their hearts be filled with the peace of Christ. Amen

December 4th, 2022

God of restoration and life,

draw near us as we journey the Advent story
of hope and mystery,
anticipation and preparation,
as we seek your kingdom
already here amongst us – and, coming in its fullness.

Heaven touching earth,
the footsteps of the divine
walking dusty roads,
we are a people searching for you.

We are people seeking restoration,

in our hearts, in our relationships,

in our relationship with creation,

In our relationship with You, O God.

We confess the world stands in need of restoration and healing

and we hear your call to return to you

and be restored to our belovedness as children of peace.

Forgiven, renewed and restored,

strengthen us to live generously,

to join with you in your mission of justice and peacemaking,

giving voice to the marginalized and oppressed,

speaking truth to power.

Open eyes and hearts,
to your restoring presence in the world.

May the weapons of war be laid down.

May there be peace through peaceful means.

We pray leaders will govern with wisdom and compassion

For the desert places in which we walk,
the streets we roam, the paths we cross,
guide our feet.
Take us to places
where you would go.
Give us words that you would use
that in this Advent season
ff promise and preparation
we might point the way with John the Baptist.

Restore us, O Lord, we pray,
bring us back to your heart,
Bring us back to that place
when our love was fresh,
and our joy uncontainable.
Restore us, O Lord, we pray.

We pray for our loved ones who are experiencing limitations due to aging bodies and loved ones in long-term care. Support each family and grant deep measures of compassion and care.

As Covid and significant cold/flu viruses circulate in our communities and families, we pray especially for the most vulnerable amongst us – the very young and the aged. May the light of your love shine bright as we journey dark days of illness, uncertainty, pain, and suffering.

We pray for deep peace for all who grieve and feel their loss more acutely these days of lights and glitter. Surround the grieving with care and comfort in healing ways.

We pray for our Households of Faith. May the gifts of this season inspire fruitful and faithful living. May joy fill each heart and home. Protect little ones from illness and grant strength for the roles of parenting. Amen

November 27th, 2022

This Advent, Lord, come to the manger of my heart. Fill me with Your presence from the very start. As I prepare for the holidays and gifts to be given, remind me of the gift You gave when You sent Your Son from Heaven. The first Christmas gift, it was the greatest gift ever. You came as a baby born in a manger. Wrapped like the gifts I find under my tree, Waiting to be opened, to reveal Your love to me. Restore to me the wonder that came with Jesus’ birth, when He left the riches of Heaven and wrapped Himself in the rags of earth. Immanuel, God with us, Your presence came that night. And angels announced, “Into your darkness, God brings His Light.” “Do not be afraid,” they said, to shepherds in the field. Speak to my heart today, Lord, and help me to yield. Make me like those shepherd boys, obedient to Your call. Setting distractions and worries aside, to You I surrender them all. Surround me with Your presence, Lord, I long to hear Your voice. Clear my mind of countless concerns and all the holiday noise. Slow me down this Christmas, let me not be in a rush. In the midst of events and planning, I want to feel Your hush. This Christmas, Jesus, come to the manger of my heart. Invade my soul like Bethlehem, bringing peace to every part. Dwell within and around me, as I unwrap Your presence each day. Keep me close to You, Lord. It’s in Your wonderful Name I pray. (Christianity.com)

God we also praise you in that you call us, you invite us to share in your work of restoration within our world. Give us wisdom to discern your leading, faith and courage to walk in obedience, and as we follow, fill us with your Hope.

O God, we pray for your presence, comfort, and hope in the lives of many in our community of faith as well as in our physical communities who today grieve loss, some through death, others thru loss of health and mobility, relationships etc. Holy Spirit invite all into a deeper relationship with the Father and as such enable them to experience healing and peace. We pray for families where there is discord and conflict. May you open their eyes and hearts to each other so that they too will hear your voice calling them to peace.

We pray for our loved ones who are experiencing limitations due to aging bodies including loved ones in long-term care. Support each family and grant deep measures of compassion and patience.

As Covid and significant cold/flu viruses circulate in our communities and families, we pray for healing, grace and protection over all.

We pray for our Households of Faith.

We pray all this in the Powerful Name of Jesus

Amen

November 20th, 2022

Eternal God, you are our God and we are your people.
You have claimed us as your own and have placed a seal on our hearts.

You nurture and sustain us in the garden of life.

Living God, we thank you for your gift of life eternal

and for all those who, having served you well,

now rest from their labours.

Today we give thanks for those who during the last twelve months

have died and entered into glory

including those whom we hold in our hearts.

We thank you for their life and love,

and rejoice for them “all is well,

and all manner of things will be well.”

Be near to those who are grieving. Hold them.

Fill them with your comfort and peace.

Compassionate God, you attend to the wounded places of our hearts and lives,

You grieve with us in our losses and our fears.
You journey with us in our celebrations and our sorrows

You are close even in the mundane routines of our days.
You delight in us, and you love us.

We pray for our loved ones in need of healing grace ….. we name them before you in the silence of our hearts.

We pray for this world,
for the places and precious people

who are striving to recover from hurricanes,

snow storms, and floods.

We pray for peace among nations.
Make us instruments of that peace.

Eternal God, you are our God and we are your people.

Continue to write your law of love on our hearts.

Give us an unwavering passion for justice,

and a tenacious faith that will not rest

until the hungry are fed,

until the oppressed find relief,

until the outsider finds welcome.

Hear us now as pray as you have taught us:

We pray for our loved ones who are experiencing limitations due to aging bodies including loved ones in long-term care. Support each family and grant deep measures of compassion and patience.

As Covid and significant cold/flu viruses circulate in our communities and families, we pray for healing, grace and protection over all.

We pray for our Households of Faith.

We offer all our prayers in Jesus’ name.

November 13th, 2022

Thank you to Jamie Gerber for today’s prayer:

Holy God. We pray with Gratitude and adoration.

We marvel at your wisdom in creation,

the changing seasons, the bounty of harvest,

You have been so good to us.

We marvel at the grace of Jesus, sent to be your living word among us.

And at the preservation of Scripture through thousands of years… that still tells the story of your transforming love for people of every tribe and nation.

Thank you for Greg and Tracey and their family. … for calling them to serve as translators and developers who offer scriptures to many who would not otherwise hear the gospel

Thank you for your generosity.

Grace us with the same spirit of giving.

Bless the offerings we give

so that what we say about you,

can be a reality for others to experience.

We join our prayers today for members of our congregation

For those who experience life in decline through age or health. Give them hope for a better future and grace to face whatever transitions lie ahead.

For those who find life full of energy, … give them wisdom to use their strength for your glory – blessing humanity.

In silence now we offer unspoken prayers for ourselves and our loved ones.

We pray beyond ourselves for our world

For government leaders ensnared in greed leading to violence and oppression, … open doors of transformation

For those making decisions about global warming, …

may they have courage and common sense.

Free our world leaders from showmanship and posturing.

Forgive us for smug attitudes that we sometimes hold … thinking we are better then the other.

Nudge us with gentle conviction to enact good stewardship for the land.

Thank you now for hearing our prayer

Through Jesus we pray

amen

We pray for our loved ones who are experiencing limitations due to aging bodies including loved ones in long-term care. Support each family and grant deep measures of compassion and patience.

As Covid and significant cold/flu viruses circulate in our communities and families, we pray for healing, grace and protection over all.

We pray for our Households of Faith.

Amen

November 6th, 2022

Oh God, we enter your presence this morning with a prayer for peace on our lips. We pray that your peace would reign in our lives, in our churches and communities, and in our families and our world. Jesus, we acknowledge you as the Prince of Peace and pray that by your Holy Spirit living in and through us we would become peacemakers in our world. You taught your disciples that “Blessed are the peacemakers, for they shall be called sons and daughters of God.” (Matt.5:9) Grant us wisdom and strength to live as peacemakers so that the world would see the image of God in us. Jesus, you also taught your disciples saying, “Peace I leave with you; my peace I give you. I do not give to you as the world gives. Do not let your hearts be troubled and do not be afraid”. (John 14:27) Enable us to live in the assurance of your promise in a world where there is much to fear. Hold us close to your heart and guard our hearts and minds in you, Jesus.

Hearing your call to be peacemakers in our world, we also echo the words of St. Francis:

Lord, make me an instrument of your peace:
where there is hatred, let me sow love;
where there is injury, pardon;
where there is doubt, faith;
where there is despair, hope;
where there is darkness, light;
where there is sadness, joy.

O divine Master, grant that I may not so much seek
to be consoled as to console,
to be understood as to understand,
to be loved as to love.
For it is in giving that we receive,
it is in pardoning that we are pardoned,
and it is in dying that we are born to eternal life.
Amen.

Oh God, this morning we also lift up many in our congregation and community who need a touch of your healing and grace, and the comfort of your presence.

We pray for our loved ones who are experiencing limitations due to aging bodies including loved ones in long-term care. Support each family and grant deep measures of compassion and patience.

As Covid and a significant cold/flu virus remains active in our communities and families, we pray for your healing, your grace and protection over all. We pray for your physical healing in our communities as well as spiritual healing. May your will be done in all things.

We pray for our Households of Faith.

May they see others through your eyes, may they know your peace and guidance, and may they grow in faith as they live with courage and deep trust.

We ask all this in the beautiful name of Jesus.

Amen

October 30th, 2022

Eternal God,

you are the maker of us all, and we are your creation,

people formed in your image, as individuals and community,

fed, nourished, and strengthened at your table of grace.

We worship you today in recognition of your calling,

of your caring to invite us to share in your creative and healing work.

We are here because we have heard you speak in and amongst us.

Help us, Lord, to ever serve you with all our hearts, minds, and strength.

God of all our moments, of our days and our nights,

you speak and you act in the world around us,

not only to call all people to you,

but also to direct and guide us in the way of healing and wholeness.

Awaken us Lord, to hear what you would say to us.

Open our ears, our eyes, and our hearts to your presence.

Help us to know when it is your voice we are hearing

and when it is our prejudices or desires to which we are paying heed….

Lord, we pray that your church may rise up with renewed commitment

in answer to your call,

that your people may be instruments of your grace and love,

invitational, open, inclusive.

We pray for those who are hurting and for those whom life is hard.

Comfort the grieving…

Grant patience to those who await appointments or test results

Hold with hope those who are living with unexpected diagnoses

Provide strength to those who struggle with declining health

Keep the weary close to your heart

We also pray with celebration the joys of life…..

Life shared with family and friends at the table…

Good food, laughter, a meaningful connection

We are thankful for purposeful work….

Loving relationship….

Meaningful encounters…

Amidst our joys and sorrows

You come…. You weep with those who weep

You celebrate with those who celebrate.

Grant us deep measures of care for one another

As we journey the ups and downs…

Unknowns and new beginnings

Lord hear our prayer….

Bless us and all those committed to continue the work of Jesus,

who came to heal, save, and teach us how to live and how to love,

and who taught us to pray as one family, saying…

Our Father….

We pray for our loved ones who are experiencing limitations due to aging bodies including loved ones in long-term care. Support each family and grant deep measures of compassion and patience.

As flu and covid infections have increased this fall, we pray for wisdom and patience . Protect the vulnerable. Bring about recovery and complete healing for all those who are suffering and provide strength and compassion for health care professionals.

We pray for our households of faith. We give thanks for each person and their giftedness. Draw near to each as they draw nearer to you. Meet them at their deepest places of need. We pray for healthy balance amidst full schedules, joy in relationships, and peace that holds them secure in your love.

We offer all our prayers in Jesus’ name. Amen

October 23rd, 2022

Loving God, we hold in your healing presence those who suffer pain and ill-health, with their families, friends and those who care for them:

                May they know the deep peace of Christ

 We hold in your healing presence those who suffer in mind and spirit, and all who care for them…

                May they know the deep peace of Christ

 We hold in your healing presence those suffering due to broken relationships, we pray for the marginalized, the silenced…

                May they know the deep peace of Christ

 We hold in your healing presence those struggling with isolation, anxiety, mental health challenges….

               May they know the deep peace of Christ

 We hold in your healing presence those struggling to overcome addiction or abuse, those supporting and working with them, and all whose suffering has distanced them from those who love …

                May they know the deep peace of Christ

 Loving God, we hold in your healing presence those facing bereavement and those who are walking through the dark valley of grief.

                May they know the deep peace of Christ

 We hold in your healing presence and peace those whose needs are not known to us but known to you.  In silence, we name in our hearts those whose pain we carry….

               May they know the deep peace of Christ

 God of compassion and love, we offer you all our suffering and pain. Give us strength to bear our weakness, healing even when there is no cure, peace in the midst of turmoil and love to fill the spaces in our lives.

 Glory to God from whom all love flows, glory to Jesus who showed his love through suffering, and glory to the Holy Spirit who brings light to the darkest of places.         Amen.

                We pray for our loved ones who are experiencing limitations due to aging bodies including loved ones in long-term care. Support each family and grant deep measures of compassion and patience.  

                As covid infections have been increasing this fall, we pray for wisdom and patience as this long journey of pandemic continues. Protect the vulnerable. Bring about recovery and complete healing for all those who are suffering and provide strength and compassion for health care professionals.

                 We pray for our households of faith: Darlene Bast; Mary Jane Bast; and Arnie & Barb Bender. We pray that you will draw near to each one, meeting them at their deepest places of need. Where there is pain, we pray for comfort. We also pray that your joy will fill their hearts and home.

We offer all our prayer in Jesus’ name. Amen

October 16th, 2022

Gracious God, we come to you this morning with praise and thanksgiving on our lips.

“You are exalted, forever exalted on high. I will praise you.

You are exalted, forever exalted and I will praise your Name!

You are my God, forever your truth shall reign.

Heaven and earth rejoice in your holy name.

You are exalted, forever exalted on high.”

Oh God, we celebrate that we are your children, your people, and the sheep of your pasture. Thank you that we can rest in your presence, we can bring all our needs to you in prayer, knowing that you hear us, and we rejoice that in all things you work for our good. We celebrate that you are a transforming God, and we invite you to mould and reshape us into your image, as individuals and as a church. Holy Spirit, speak into our hearts and minds; give us the courage to walk in obedience to our Lord. May your will be done on this earth, in our lives, as it is in heaven.

Oh God, this morning we would pray for peace in our world, in countries where war shatters lives, where persecution tears communities apart, and in families where conflict bears anger and pain. We pray for all in our community who grieve the loss of loved ones through death, whether currently or in the past. May the memories of loved ones bring peace and comfort by your grace Oh God. We also pray for those who this morning are discouraged, lonely, living in fear and uncertainty. God of hope, Jesus, Prince of peace, may your presence bring renewal, hope and peace into their lives.

Lord, we give thanks for answered prayer.

This morning we also wish to bring the following Household of Faith families before you God.

We ask all this in the name of Jesus.

Amen

October 9th, 2022

A Thanksgiving Prayer:

Give thanks to the Lord for He is good.

God’s love is everlasting.

Come, let us praise God joyfully.

Let us come to God with thanksgiving.

For this world you have created; for all things great and small, beautiful and awesome; for seen and unseen splendours;

We thank you, Lord God.

For human life; for talking and moving, thinking and sharing  together; for common hopes, joys and hardships shared from birth until our dying;

We thank you, Lord God.

For work to do and strength to work; for the comradeship of labour; for exchanges of good humour and encouragement;

We thank you, Lord God.

For marriage; for the mystery and joy of flesh made one; for mutual forgiveness and burdens shared; for secrets kept in love;

We thank you, Lord God.

For family; for living together; for celebrating and eating together; for family adventures and family pleasures;

We thank you, Lord God.

For children; for their energy and curiosity; for their brave play and startling frankness; for their sudden tender hearts and spontaneous joys

We thank you, Lord God.

For the young; for their high hopes; for their irreverence toward worn-out values; for their search for freedom; for their courageous faith;

We thank you, Lord God.

For growing up and growing old; for wisdom deepened by experience; for rest in leisure; and for time made precious by its passing;

We thank you, Lord God.

For your help in times of doubt and sorrow; for healing our diseases; for preserving us in temptation and danger;

We thank you, Lord God.

For the church into which we have been called; for the good news we receive from the Word; for our life together in this body of Christ;

We praise you, Lord God.

For your Holy Spirit, who guides our steps and bears the fruit of love, joy, peace, patience and so much more; who prays for us when we have no words, and prompts our grateful worship;

We praise you, Lord God.

Above all, O God, we give thanks for your Son Jesus Christ, who lived and died and lives again; for our salvation; for our hope in him; and for the joy of serving him;

We thank and praise you, Eternal God, for all your goodness to us.

Give thanks to the Lord, our God and King

God’s love is everlasting.

   We pray for all in our community who grieve the loss of loved ones through death, whether currently or in the past. May the memories of loved ones on this Thanksgiving weekend bring peace and comfort by your grace Oh God.

   We pray for Orie A. as he continues to receive treatments and recovers from hernia surgery. Keep him strong and may his healing proceed without complication. We pray for Vicki G. on her cancer journey, Judy St. who endures ongoing health challenges.

Lord, we give thanks for answered prayer!

This morning we also wish to bring the following Household of Faith families before you God. We lift up Paul, Jenny & Vicktoria Abell, Jim & Sharon Adams, and Andrea Albrecht, and Josh Kneller. Thank you that each of these individuals is created in your image, and that you love them with an everlasting love. We pray specifically for Vicktoria who deals with chronic pain which impacts the whole family. We pray for hope, for healing and for wisdom to know what to doMay your grace be poured out on all and may this weekend of Thanksgiving be a time of joy and celebration, of rejoicing in the gift of family, and may your peace reign in their lives.

We ask all this in the name of Jesus.

Amen

October 2nd, 2022

Creator God, we celebrate and rejoice in the goodness of your creation and the beauty of all that you have made. We echo the praise of the Psalmist David as he proclaimed in Psalm 104, Praise the Lord, O my soul.

Lord my God, you are very great;
    you are clothed with splendor and majesty.

The Lord wraps himself in light as with a garment; he stretches out the heavens like a tent
    and lays the beams of his upper chambers on their waters.
He makes the clouds his chariot and rides on the wings of the wind.
He makes winds his messengers, flames of fire his servants.

He set the earth on its foundations;  it can never be moved.
You covered it with the watery depths as with a garment;

   the waters stood above the mountains……..

He makes springs pour water into the ravines; it flows between the mountains.
11 They give water to all the beasts of the field, the wild donkeys quench their thirst.
12 The birds of the sky nest by the waters; they sing among the branches.
13 He waters the mountains from his upper chambers;

    the land is satisfied by the fruit of his work.
14 He makes grass grow for the cattle, and plants for people to cultivate—
    bringing forth food from the earth……..

How many are your works, O Lord!

Praise the Lord, O my soul. We choose to praise the Lord

Yet Lord we grieve today with those who are suffering as creation groans, hurricanes and floods destroy, drought and fires cause havoc. We lift up your children from Pakistan to Florida, Ethiopia to Eastern Canada, those who today grieve the loss of property and the death of loved ones through disaster. Grant perseverance and comfort, may country and world leaders make wise decisions and may each of us hear your call as to how we may make a difference in our world and community.

We also pray for those who grieve the death of loved ones; God may your presence bring peace and comfort. We pray for those facing health issues, bring healing and renewal, perseverance and strength. Thank you for medical staff, for those who serve in Hospitals, Nursing and Retirement homes. May they serve with wisdom, grace, and love. We pray for those who are lonely and discouraged, for those who battle mental health issues, and for all who do not yet know you as Savior and Lord. And Lord, if you choose to work and love through us to meet the many needs in our world, grant us obedient hearts and discerning minds to serve as you would lead.

O God, today we also bring the following specific needs.

Lord grant comfort; may Your peace reign, and may your presence bring healing.

We also pray for our Households of Faith

May your peace and presence surround these families, may your grace and power be their strength, and may you Holy Spirit live in and through each individual.

God, we give you praise in the name of Jesus.

Amen 

September 25th, 2022

Merciful and Compassionate God,

You care for all your peoples, whether they are here around us or in far off places, you care enough to call people to share the good news of your love and grace.

You care about our country as we continue to live through a pandemic, as hurricane winds destroy homes and disrupt daily lives in the Maritimes, and as we prepare for a municipal election.

You care about countries like Iran, Pakistan, Afghanistan, Ukraine and Russia whose needs are deep and where suffering is great.

You care about those who are sick, in pain, in treatment, awaiting test results, in long-term care homes. Your compassion extends to them.

You care about those who carry heavy burdens, broken hearts, those grieving, lonely and anxious, your compassion extends to them as well.

You care for the marginalized, the addicted, those in need of affordable housing, and parents who weep at night due to financial challenges.

You care for those who answer your call to lead, to preach, to teach, to administer, to share your Good News. Your compassion extends to us as well.

Forgiving God, like Jonah we resist when asked to tell the story of your love and mercy. We can feel awkward and inadequate. But you have called us to speak and to act, and to walk in the shoes of compassion and mercy with all. As your disciples as it has been for generations, help us to rise up and follow wherever you lead.
Hear us now as we offer our prayer as you have taught us ….

Our Father……….  Amen.

We pray for our Households of Faith.

September 18th, 2022

Spirit of transformation, we are grateful for the ways you inspire, disturb, and shape us through our experiences in the world and with one another. Open our eyes, soften our hearts, expand our minds, unravel our assumptions as you nurture personal growth, our callings, and deepened relationship with creation and one another. Help us to see the world through your eyes of compassion. Strengthen us to come alongside, support, and build strong communities in which all are welcome, where justice is done, and all have bread.

Whether experiencing difference or the routine of everyday, may our lives be open to your presence, active, moving, transforming our hearts and minds, nurturing our growth as your disciples of healing and hope.

Spirit of transformation, we pray for the world you love;

We pray for creation groaning due to global warming and environmental destruction at our hands.

May we be healing restorative stewards of your good creation. 

We pray for famine-stricken nations, nations at war, nations suffering due to corrupt political leadership.

May we endeavour each day to walk in the shoes of peace and justice, recognizing the world’s pain is our pain.

You are the God  who brings new life from the ashes; who makes streams of water to flow in the wilderness.

May your kingdom come, your will for restoration be done we pray….     

Spirit of transformation,

we pray for

all who stand in need of healing whether for physical, emotional, or relational pain.

Be with the sick, those living with chronic pain or physical limitations;

Be with lonely long-term care residents who feel forgotten and overburdened heath care providers.

We pray for those awaiting test results or appointments and those journeying cancer treatment.

We pray for the discouraged, the heart-broken, those who carry the scars of abuse, and the grieving.

Spirit of transformation, we pray for the church,

                As we live into a new church year, may we live into boldly and faithfully into your mission and vision. May ministries flourish, relationships deepen, and may joy abound as we learn and serve together including next weekend’s apple butter & cheese festival.   

Listening God, we offer all our prayers, those spoken aloud and those we carry deep in our hearts, as your people who strive to walk in your ways of Jesus in whose name we pray, Amen.

We pray for our Households of Faith. May peace and comfort surround them. We pray as September gears up and as they live into new rhythms. May each of our households of faith draw near to You as You draw near to them with joy, hope, and peace.

September 11th, 2022

Thank you God that you have called us to be your people, people who live generously, who love and serve generously, who give of our gifts and abilities, loving others as you have loved us. May you use our gifts to bless and encourage others and may you God be honoured and praised as a result

God, as we worship in the beauty of creation this morning, we give praise for the land, for the bounty of crops and food, for clean water and fresh air. We give praise for the evidence of your creative spirit, transforming even the smallest of seeds into the beauty of sunflowers, fields of corn, forests that very soon will be ablaze with your glory.

God, we also ask that your transforming power would also be at work in us, moulding & transforming us so that the character of Jesus is evident to all. Thank you for calling us to partner in your work so that the world would see and acknowledge that you are a God who redeems and restores. Give us the courage to step out, to be obedient to your call

Thank you Holy Spirit for your work in our lives, for holding us secure in the love of God, and for leading us, sometimes in ways we could not have imagined. Holy Spirit, may your transforming power change us as individuals, as a church

We give thanks God for answered prayer and for your invitation to bring all our needs and requests to you. Hear our individual prayers as we pause in silence before you.

(take a moment to pray for those individuals that the Holy Spirit brings to your mind)

Oh God, we lift up those in our congregation and community this morning who are grieving the death of a loved one or other tragedy of life. God, bring comfort, grant peace, and may your love bring deep healing into their lives. Jesus, be their hope.

We pray for those who are in need of physical healing and renewal….thank you that you are a God who heals and restores. Touch their bodies and renew their spirits. For those who are lonely or discouraged this day, bring hope and light into their lives.

Grant each of us Lord a discerning heart, eyes that see, and an obedient heart so that we may be people of grace and love in our workplace, our communities and families, used by you as instruments of hope and peace.

God, live in us and through us.

We give you praise and Thanks in the Holy name of your Son, Jesus.


   We pray for our Households of Faith as this school year has begun and the children have enjoying their new classes and routines. May they continue to grow in wisdom and grace.

Thank you God for these folks and may your peace and presence be their strength.

Amen   

September 4th, 2022

Spirit of transformation and power,

grant us the gifts of curiosity and imagination, to see the world as you do; to look on our neighbours with love and acceptance; to welcome the stranger with warmth and generosity. Grant us inspiration and courage to build bridges and connections beyond our comfortable circles of relationship and familiar neighbourhoods. May we be open to your presence, active, moving, moulding, transforming our hearts and minds, nurturing our growth as your disciples, deepening our capacity to love.

Spirit of transformation and power,

We pray the people of Pakistan amidst devastating floods;

The people of China sweltering amidst extreme heat

We pray for those whose homes and livelihood are threatened by wild fires,

The people of Ethiopia facing famine and drought

The people of Ukraine amidst war and unimaginable suffering.

You are the God who transforms ashes into new life;

You are the God who makes streams flow in the wilderness.

May your kingdom come in its fullness we pray…. that all may prosper, live in peace and justice.

Spirit of transformation and power, we also pray for:

All who stand in need of healing and wholeness for mind, body, spirit.

Be with the sick, those living with chronic pain, the dying;

Be with the lonely and isolated, most especially long-term care residents who continue to deal with covid outbreaks and lockdowns.

We pray for those awaiting test results, specialist appointments, those who are journeying cancer treatment, and those living with unexpected disruptions to daily life.

We pray for the discouraged, the heart-broken, those who carry the scars of abuse, and all who grieve.

Spirit of transformation and power, we pray for the church,

we thank you for gifts of leadership, flourishing ministries, and the enjoyment of serving together in ways that further your mission and your vision. Grant us strength to release that which has served its season. May we be open and faithful to walk the new paths you have for us.

Spirit of transformation and power, we offer all our prayers, those spoken aloud and those we carry deep in our hearts, as your people who strive to walk in your ways of peace. Amen.


We pray for our Households of Faith. Bless each one with the presence of your peace and the strength of your joy. Amen

August 28th, 2022

God of wedding celebrations and new wine,
of love and laughter, dancing and singing,
at the wedding in Cana
your son Jesus turned water into wine,
delighting all who were there.

Transform our hearts by your Spirit,
that we may use our varied gifts and abilities,
to reflect the light of your love as one body.

When our lives run dry,
we rest in the hope that you will replenish us.
Transform our lives
and provide what we can never provide for ourselves.

We trust you to take our emptiness
and fill us with the richness of new creation in you.
We submit ourselves to your love and power
to make us into our true selves, the people you created us to be.

Listening God, we also pray for:
the sick, those living with chronic pain, the vulnerable;
those who are lonely or isolated, most especially long-term care residents who continue to deal with covid outbreaks and lockdowns.
We pray for those awaiting tests or surgery dates, and those who are journeying cancer treatment.
We pray for the discouraged, the heart-broken, and those who stand in need of healing and wholeness.
We pray for those facing major life decisions, change, and those who grieve.
God of the church,
We thank you for gifts of leadership, the grace of calling,
And for WMC’s open hearts to Niahm & Peter these past months.
Thank you for Niahm’s generous spirit, her joy, and authenticity.
Bless her richly as her learning and formation continues
And bless those whom she serves in your name.
God of compassion and grace, hold all your people within the wide embrace of your love and strengthen us to walk in your ways of justice, peace, and joy. Amen

Surround and keep safe all those in long-term care. We pray for Nithview and all other LTC homes experiencing covid outbreaks.


We pray for our Households of Faith
.

Bless our households of faith we pray with joy, peace, and loving relationships. May each day hold meaning and purpose and may each heart continue to be drawn to your own. Amen

August 21st, 2022

Due to rainy forecast and a family death, the campfire for tonight at Alvin & Kara’s has been cancelled/postponed.

River of Life,

You both steady and nourish our roots.

You invite us to drink from your living water.

You nourish our spirits.

As sunlight enticing us taller,

as the breeze rustling leaves,

You are with us through dry seasons of summer heat,

and through dry seasons of our lives.

You are present through seasons of abundance.

For everything there is a season..

a time for every matter under heaven….

grace us with all we need for each day,

each season,

for the trials and the joys

the challenges and the delights.

Companion us. May your love warm and sustain us.

Water us, that we may thrive.

God of peace, we offer our prayers for places in the world that are in turmoil….

There are so many places….too many to name….

We pray for parents worried about food shortages and hungry little tummies;

Those suffering under the harsh hand of corrupt political powers;

We pray for countries where bombs rain down and tanks rumble down city streets.

Listening God, we also pray for those whom you hold close within your heart,

the sick, those living with chronic illness, the vulnerable;

those who are lonely or isolated, most especially long-term care residents who continue to deal with covid outbreaks and lockdowns.

We pray for those awaiting test results, surgery dates, and those who are journeying cancer treatment. May hope burn bright!

We pray for the discouraged, the heart-broken, the fearful, the dying, and those who stand in need of healing and wholeness.

We pray for those facing major life decisions, change, and those who grieve.

Hold your people within the wide embrace of your love and strengthen us to walk in your ways of love.

For needs named and for those we hold deep in our heart, we offer our prayers in the strong name of Jesus the risen Christ. Amen

We pray for all who are caregivers for aging parents and loved ones. Restore their strength we pray.

Surround and keep safe all those in long-term care living with covid outbreaks. We pray for other LTC homes experiencing covid outbreaks.


We pray for our Households of Faith. May these summer months bring refreshment and restorative rest for mind, body, and spirit. Giving thanks for our households of faith may joy, peace, and love fill each heart and home. Amen

August 14th, 2022

We give you praise this morning, oh Lord our God. We come as your children, and we celebrate your majesty and power, your presence and faithfulness in our lives. Holy is your Name. We give thanks that you are our Rock, our Refuge; your presence brings comfort through the storms of life. God, help us not to fear these storms, but joyfully receive the gift of your presence and sovereign power. Help us to set aside fear and doubt, keeping our eyes fixed on you Jesus, our Redeemer, Saviour, and Lord.

We come to you this morning with the words of David in Psalm 91 flowing from our lips.

Psalm 91 – The Message

Vs.1-4 You who sit down in the High God’s presence,
spend the night in Shaddai’s shadow,
Say this: “God, you’re my refuge.
I trust in you and I’m safe!”
That’s right—he rescues you from hidden traps,
shields you from deadly hazards.
His huge outstretched arms protect you—
under them you’re perfectly safe;
his arms fend off all harm.

……….

Vs. 14-16 “If you’ll hold on to me for dear life,” says God,
“I’ll get you out of any trouble.
I’ll give you the best of care
if you’ll only get to know and trust me.
Call me and I’ll answer, be at your side in bad times;
I’ll rescue you, then throw you a party.
I’ll give you a long life,
give you a long drink of salvation!”

As we come before you God we also bring the following praises and requests.

Oh God, we rejoice with those who are enjoying times of rest, renewal and restoration as they holiday together with family and friends these weeks. God, grant safety, be present through your Holy Spirit, and may they experience the wonder of your love. We also lift up those who are walking through deep waters, facing storms of struggle and pain. Lead and guide, provide hope and comfort as you hold them in your hands. Grant comfort to those who grieve and may your presence bring peace to those who are lonely and discouraged. We pray especially for those of our church family who reside in Long-term care or Nursing Homes. Oh God, may they know they are valued and loved by you and us. We pray for all who are caregivers for aging parents and loved ones. Grant patience, an abundance of love, and the wisdom to make wise, loving decisions. For those who are facing major personal life decisions grant Godly wisdom; where relationships are broken bring healing and redemption of the situation.

We praise you for your presence with Pastor Kara and Alvin over these past weeks as they have shared a time of rest and renewal. Thank you for ministering through her at Conference and for the gift of your grace and presence in her life as well. God, prepare her for the road that lies ahead as she serves and leads here at WMC.

We pray for the many needs that our community of faith face. Grant courage, strength, and peace. Surround and keep safe all those in long-term care living with Covid outbreaks.

Thank you Jesus for your presence with those of our Households of Faith.

God be present with each of these individuals, give them the strength and courage necessary to walk in obedience to you, and fill them with your love and grace.

We give you praise and thanks in the name of Jesus!

Amen

August 7th, 2022

We give you praise this morning, oh Lord our God. We celebrate your majesty and power, your presence and faithfulness in our lives. Holy is your Name. We give thanks for your love and grace poured into our lives; may we extend the same to all we interact with. God, rain down your love on this earth through us. Mold us, renew us, and form us into your image.

We come to you this morning with the words of David in Psalm 111 flowing from our lips.

Praise the Lord.[bI will extol the Lord with all my heart
in the council of the upright and in the assembly.

Great are the works of the Lord; they are pondered by all who delight in them.
Glorious and majestic are his deeds, and his righteousness endures forever.
He has caused his wonders to be remembered; the Lord is gracious and compassionate.
He provides food for those who fear him; he remembers his covenant forever.

He has shown his people the power of his works, giving them the lands of other nations.
The works of his hands are faithful and just; all his precepts are trustworthy.
They are established for ever and ever, enacted in faithfulness and uprightness.
He provided redemption for his people;
he ordained his covenant forever— holy and awesome is his name.

10 The fear of the Lord is the beginning of wisdom;
all who follow his precepts have good understanding.
To him belongs eternal praise.

As we come before you God we also bring the following praises and requests.

Oh God, we rejoice with those who are enjoying times of rest, renewal and restoration as they holiday together with family and friends these weeks. God, grant safety, be present through your Holy Spirit, and may they experience the wonder of your love. We also lift up those who are walking through deep waters, facing times of struggle and pain. Lead and guide, provide hope and comfort as you hold them in your hands. Grant comfort to those who grieve and may your presence bring peace to those who are lonely and discouraged. We pray especially for those of our church family who reside in Long-term care or Nursing Homes. Oh God, may they know they are valued and loved by you and us. We pray for all who are caregivers for aging parents and loved ones. Grant patience, an abundance of love, and the wisdom to make wise, loving decisions. For those who are facing major life decisions grant Godly wisdom; where relationships are broken bring healing and redemption of the situation.

We thank you Holy Spirit for speaking and challenging the broader church family as Pastor Kara brought the concluding message at the MC Canada Conference. May your will be done in the life of your church, Jesus.

We pray for the many needs that our community of faith face. Grant courage, strength, and peace. Surround and keep safe all those in long-term care living with Covid outbreaks.

Thank you Jesus for your presence with those of our Households of Faith.

Hold them in your hands.

We give you praise and thanks in the name of Jesus!

Amen

July 30th, 2022

We give thanks this morning, oh God, for the privilege of being called your people, your children, the sheep of your pasture. We praise you that through your great love and grace, we too have been grafted into the Vine, your Son Jesus. We rejoice!

Jesus, we also celebrate that we are a part of your Body, the church, both here at WMC and around our world. This morning as we gather to worship with believers from all across Canada we give thanks for the privilege of worship, of being able to bring honour and praise to you God, in the name of Jesus. We also pray for the leadership of MC Canada, for pastors and church leaders across our country. May they be filled with your Holy Spirit, may they walk in obedience to you Jesus, and may they experience daily the fullness of your love and grace. We also give thanks for the church around the world, for all believers who know you Jesus as Saviour and Lord. My we become your hands and feet, serving and loving in a world where fear and hurt abounds. We pray for believers who face persecution and abuse. Grant perseverance, strength, and an abundance of grace and love for those who hate. We give praise for the Body of Christ.

So this morning as we gather together, we pray and worship using the words of the Psalmist David, in Psalm 96.

Sing to the Lord a new song; sing to the Lord, all the earth.
Sing to the Lord, praise his name; proclaim his salvation day after day.
Declare his glory among the nations, his marvelous deeds among all peoples.

For great is the Lord and most worthy of praise; he is to be feared above all gods.
For all the gods of the nations are idols, but the Lord made the heavens.
Splendor and majesty are before him; strength and glory are in his sanctuary.

Ascribe to the Lord, all you families of nations, ascribe to the Lord glory and strength.
Ascribe to the Lord the glory due his name; bring an offering and come into his courts.
Worship the Lord in the splendor of his[a] holiness; tremble before him, all the earth.

As we come before you God we also bring the following praises and requests.

We praise you God for your presence in the lives of each member of the MDS Team as they have served this past week out East. Thank you for your blessing on the physical work completed and for the building of relationships. God, may the memories and learning of this week be honouring to you and formative in the lives of each team member

Oh God, help us to rejoice with those who rejoice and weep with those who weep. Grant comfort to those who grieve and may your presence bring peace to those who are lonely and discouraged. For those who are facing major life decisions grant Godly wisdom; where relationships are broken bring healing and redemption of the situation.

We also pray for renewal and refreshment during these days of holiday and travel.

We pray for all who are caregivers for aging parents and loved ones. Grant patience, an abundance of love, and the wisdom to make wise, loving decisions

We pray for the many needs that our community of faith face. Grant courage, strength, and peace. We pray for all those in long-term care living with Covid outbreaks.

Thank you Jesus for your presence with those of our Households of Faith.

God, may you fill them with your joy, grant strength for each day, and may your love flow through them to all they meet.

We give you praise and thanks in the name of Jesus!

Amen

July 24th, 2022

Oh God we give thanks this day and rejoice in these words of healing and hope from

Isaiah 53. We give you praise for the gift of life through your Son, Jesus.

Who has believed our message and to whom has the arm of the Lord been revealed?
He grew up before him like a tender shoot, and like a root out of dry ground.
He had no beauty or majesty to attract us to him, nothing in his appearance that we should desire him.
He was despised and rejected by mankind, a man of suffering, and familiar with pain.
Like one from whom people hide their faces
he was despised, and we held him in low esteem.

Surely he took up our pain and bore our suffering,
yet we considered him punished by God, stricken by him, and afflicted.
But he was pierced for our transgressions, he was crushed for our iniquities;
the punishment that brought us peace was on him, and by his wounds we are healed.
We all, like sheep, have gone astray, each of us has turned to our own way;
and the Lord has laid on him the iniquity of us all.

He was oppressed and afflicted, yet he did not open his mouth;
he was led like a lamb to the slaughter, and as a sheep before its shearers is silent,
so he did not open his mouth.
By oppression[a] and judgment he was taken away. Yet who of his generation protested?
For he was cut off from the land of the living; for the transgression of my people he was punished.[b]
He was assigned a grave with the wicked, and with the rich in his death,
though he had done no violence, nor was any deceit in his mouth.

10 Yet it was the Lord’s will to crush him and cause him to suffer,
and though the Lord makes[c] his life an offering for sin, he will see his offspring and prolong his days, and the will of the Lord will prosper in his hand.
11 After he has suffered, he will see the light of life[d] and be satisfied[e]; by his knowledge[f] my righteous servant will justify many, and he will bear their iniquities.
12 Therefore I will give him a portion among the great,[g] and he will divide the spoils with the strong,[h]because he poured out his life unto death,

and was numbered with the transgressors.
For he bore the sin of many, and made intercession for the transgressors.

Thank you God for the privilege of prayer, and for your invitation to bring all our needs to you.

We bring before you the members of the MDS/SYP Team, praying for your protection in travel and on the worksite, for joy and strength as they serve, and for deep compassion in each heart as they grow in their awareness of the needs of our world.

Oh God, help us to rejoice with those who rejoice and weep with those who weep. Grant comfort to those who grieve and may your presence bring peace to those who are lonely and discouraged. For those who are facing major life decisions grant Godly wisdom; where relationships are in tatters bring healing and restoration

We pray for all who are caregivers for aging parents and loved ones.

We pray for the many needs that our community of faith face. Grant courage, strength, and peace. Surround and keep safe all those in long-term care living with Covid outbreaks.

Thank you Jesus for your presence with those of our Households of Faith.

Be their strength, their peace, and their source of grace. Hold them in your hands.

We pray your peace and presence over Graham, Kara, Nathan & Iris Schwartzentruber. Hold them close to your heart, inviting them to rest in your love. We give you thanks.

We also pray for Luke & Delores Schwartzentruber. Hem them in, behind and before; grant them a deep awareness of your presence and your holy love. Grant wisdom and grace as they walk this road of life.

We give you praise!

July 16th, 2022

In light of the theme “Come to the Water” that we will follow for the next several weeks, I would encourage you to read the following.

A Letter from God – taken from portions of “Come Thirsty” – Max Lucado

Dear child of mine

Are you thirsty? Come and drink. I am one who comforts you. I bought you, and complete you. I delight in you and claim you as my own, rejoicing over you as a bridegroom rejoices over his bride. I will never fail you or forsake you.

I know your manifold transgressions and your mighty sins, yet my grace is sufficient for you. I have cast all your sins behind my back, trampled them under my feet, and thrown them into the depths of the ocean! Your sins have been washed away, swept away like the morning mists, scattered like the clouds. Oh, return to me, for I have paid the price to set you free. Your citizenship is in heaven. Come, inherit the kingdom prepared for you.

You are worried and troubled about many things; trust me with all your heart. Let me strengthen you with my glorious power. I did not spare my Son but gave him up for you. Won’t I give you everything else? March on dear soul with courage! Never give up. I will help you; I will uphold you.

Trust in me always. I am the eternal Rock, your Shepherd, the Guardian of your soul. When you go through deep waters and great trouble, I will be with you. When you go through rivers of difficulty, you will not drown! When you walk through the fire of oppression, you will not be burned up; the flames will not consume you.

So, don’t worry. I never tire or sleep. I stand beside you. The angel of the Lord encamps around you. I hide you in the shelter of my presence. I will go ahead of you, directing your step and delighting in every detail of your life. If you stumble, you will not fall, for I hold you by the hand. I will guide you along the best pathway for your life. Wars will break out near and far, but don’t panic. I have overcome the world. Don’t worry about anything; instead, pray about everything. I surround you with a shield of love.

I throw my arms of love around you, lavish attention on you, and guard you as the apple of my eye. I rejoice over you with great gladness. My thoughts of you cannot be counted; they outnumber the grains of sand! Nothing can ever separate you from my love. Death can’t, and life can’t. The angels can’t, and the demons can’t. Your fears for today, your worries about tomorrow, and even the powers of hell can’t keep my love away.

Give me your burdens; I will take care of you. I know how weak you are, that you are made of dust. Give all your worries and cares to me, because I care about what happens to you.

Remember, I am at hand. Come to me when you are weary and carry heavy burdens, and I will give you rest. I delight in you, and I can be trusted to keep my promises. Come and drink the water of life.

Your Maker, your Father

God

Thank you God for your love, for the gift of Living Water, and for the presence of the Holy Spirit in our lives. Give us faith to trust wholly in you, to drink deeply so that streams of Living Water will flow from within us, changing our world. We give you praise.

Listening God, we also pray for those whom you hold close within your heart,

the sick, those living with chronic illness, the vulnerable;

those who are lonely or isolated, most especially long-term care residents who continue to deal with covid outbreaks and lockdowns.

those awaiting test results, surgery dates, and those who are journeying cancer treatment. May hope burn bright!

We pray for the discouraged, the heart-broken, the fearful, the dying, and those who stand in need of healing and wholeness.

We pray for those facing major life decisions, change, and those who grieve.

Hold each heart secure within your own and strengthen us to walk in your ways of love.

For needs named and for those we hold deep in our heart, we offer our prayers in the strong name of Jesus the risen Christ. Amen

We pray for all who are caregivers for aging parents and loved ones.

We pray for the many needs that our community of faith face. Grant courage, strength, and peace. Surround and keep safe all those in long-term care living with Covid outbreaks.

Thank you Jesus for your presence with those of our Households of Faith.

We praise God as they bless their family with care and support, and use their gifts to also serve here at WMC and in the community. May God be your strength and joy.

July 10th, 2022

Good and gracious God, we give you thanks for summer days;

for early sunrises and bird songs that greet us each morning.

We thank you for summer’s change of pace,

anticipation of travels and rest,

the joy of weddings & reunions,

quiet mornings enjoying coffee on the porch.

We give thanks for your glory revealed each new day,

for your sustaining presence with us and all of creation…

God of peace, we offer our prayers today for places in the world that are in turmoil….

There are so many places….too many to name….

We pray for parents worried about food shortages and hungry little tummies;

Those suffering under the harsh hand of corrupt political powers;

We pray for a nation in mourning following horrific assassination.

We pray for countries where bombs rain down and tanks rumble down city streets.

We pray for the precariously housed here in Wtloo region and beyond;

those struggling financially, relationally, emotionally.

God hear our prayers for courage, peace, safety, hope!

Listening God, hear our prayers for humanity – open the eyes of our hearts to see the good in one another, to see your image, your face, your heart….

Listening God, we also pray for those whom you hold close within your heart,

the sick, those living with chronic illness, the vulnerable;

those who are lonely or isolated, most especially long-term care residents who continue to deal with covid outbreaks and lockdowns.

those awaiting test results, surgery dates, and those who are journeying cancer treatment. May hope burn bright!

We pray for the discouraged, the heart-broken, the fearful, the dying, and those who stand in need of healing and wholeness.

We pray for those facing major life decisions, change, and those who grieve.

Hold each heart secure within your own and strengthen us to walk in your ways of love.

For needs named and for those we hold deep in our heart, we offer our prayers in the strong name of Jesus the risen Christ. Amen

We pray for all who are caregivers for aging parents and loved ones.

We pray for the many needs that our community of faith face. Grant courage, strength, and peace. Surround and keep safe all those in long-term care living with covid outbreaks.
We pray for our Households of Faith. May these summer days bring about renewal, opportunity for reflection, and restorative rest for mind, body, and spirit. Giving thanks for our households of faith may joy, peace, and love fill each heart and home. Amen

July 4th, 2022

Holy One, thank You that You have been our strength in times past, and that You continue to support and strengthen your people through every season of life. For babies, their fragrance, their vulnerability, the softness of skin, we give thanks. For toddlers and children, full of energy and endless questions, squirming, and spontaneity, we give thanks. For teens, maturing and growing, young adults spreading wings and growing in independence, we give thanks. For all the stages of adulthood; the joys of family life, adventures, intimate relationships, for grandparenting, we give thanks. For the golden years of wisdom, grace amidst limitations, a time for reflection, a time for retirement, we give thanks and pray that you would be glorified through each stage and season.

We give thanks for summer days – ripe strawberries, the refreshment of swimming and the fun of water balloons; backyard bbq’s and fire flies. As school terms have wrapped up, summer jobs and vacation planning under way, we pray for refreshment for educators and students, bright celebration for our graduates. We pray for spaciousness in each day to soak in the beauty of each day. Vibrant sunsets; the warmth of the sun of our cheeks, waves that ebb and flow.

God, we offer our prayers for whose needs, or pain, or suffering, we carry deep in our hearts. We pray for compassion and comfort for all who are grieve, the weak, the frazzled. We pray for those anticipating appointments and the unexpected journey of treatment as well as their families as they support and extend care. We pray for the frustrated, the discouraged, those who are weary of struggle, or division, and those who live with pain. We pray for long-term care communities locked down amidst covid outbreaks. We pray for patience, comfort amidst isolation and loneliness. And we pray for safe travels for all on the roads these days.

We pray for Ron Gerber who has had a difficult week. Ron is receiving treatment for an infection. He is very weak and feeling unwell. Ron appreciates prayers for healing, restored strength, and deep measures of patience. We also pray for Ron’s family as they have taken on primary care giving roles. Grant them peace, strength, and rest. We pray for all who are caregivers for aging parents and loved ones.

We especially pray for all those currently impacted by covid outbreaks and lock-downs including loved ones at Nithview Home and Fairview Mennonite home. May God’s comfort surround all those experiencing isolation and loneliness.

We pray for Grace & Elmer Neeb & family as Grace begins chemotherapy tomorrow to treat leukemia. Grace & Elmer appreciate all the prayers and care they have received. We pray for treatment to do its healing work and for sustained strength and peace for Grace.

Surround and keep safe our loved ones in long-term care.

We pray for our Households of Faith. Whether at work, at rest, at play, may each know your love and peace. May relationships be seasoned love and may the peace of Christ fill each heart.

We pray Holy One as those desiring to walk faithfully in your ways saying: Our Father……………..

VBS Prayer:

VBS….. is opportunity to attend to the sowing of the seeds of faith…. Trusting that through the Spirit those seeds will be received, nourished, grow, and bear fruit.

Bible Stories, songs, activities including comforter knotting and milk bag mat making….are seed sowing opportunities.

Seeds are nourished through the accompaniment of patient and kind leaders and volunteers ….

It is God that makes the seeds grow.

Let’s pray: Abundant and Joy-giving God,

You fill your world with a season of summer delights. Fill us with the joy of this season.

As we gather in the midst of summer days to hear and engage with and live into your story of love, may our days together lead to new friendships, new activity, new insights, and a strengthened and deepened relationship with you.

May your Spirit shower upon teachers, leaders, and volunteers; giving energy, creativity, and patience. May your love embrace the children and young people who join us for VBS so they may come to know you more deeply. May your people experience good fellowship in these days as we study, create, and play.

Bless us, O God, as we seek to learn from your living Word and to share your love. As you gather us in for VBS, send us out beyond this place to show the world what we have come to know: that your grace and welcome and wonder are for all. We pray in the name of your Son. Amen.

June 26th, 2022

Thank you to Jane Kuepfer for offering prayers today:

Gracious and Generous God – In your love we live and move and have our being – as individuals, and as a body in which your Spirit lives. We offer ourselves to your work and to your way when we give our offerings, when we give our time and energy, when we make commitments to be part of this family of faith. God, take what we offer and bless it, that your spirit would be known beyond these walls, and that your love would reach the places it is needed.

As a congregation that is committed to being a welcoming community, we pray these words offered for Pride month:

“God of love and light and life,

We come to you because we want to embody your love.

We come to you because we need you to light our way.

We come to you because we seek to live our lives in you.

Thank you for each LGBTQ+ sibling in faith, among us and around us.

Thank you for the rainbow gifts of queerness to your Church and to your world.

As we build diverse community together, in your image, we ask that you call each of us by name, so that we might follow.

Show us the kaleidoscope of your grace, colourful, beautiful, and always giving us new perspectives.

Lead us toward the horizon of your love, always just a little further, a little wider, a little beyond what we thought we knew.

Open our hands to the wind of your Spirit, felt but uncontrollable, trusted but undefinable, around us and within our very breath.”

We are thankful for Alissa Bender who wrote those words, and for all who are helping us to understand and love more fully.

God, we hold with you this morning those we know to be in the midst of hard circumstances – we extend our compassion to those among us and around us who are suffering: from illness or injury, from loss and grief, from anxiety and fear. We join our hearts with those who are frustrated, exhausted, sad, lonely.

We desire courage for those needing to move forward, wise discernment for those making decisions, peace for those who are uneasy. God, you know all our struggles and needs as human beings in this complex world.

As those who are largely privileged and secure, teach us to live toward your ways in all we say and do. Protect those who are vulnerable and lead us all toward greater love and lasting peace.

We pray for all who are caregivers for aging parents and loved ones.

Surround and keep safe our loved ones in long-term care.

We pray for our Households of Faith: May love abound in each home and in each heart. May each home be filled with joy and may God grant health, strength, and meaningful relationships.

We pray as followers of Jesus, whose disciples learned to pray saying simply: Our Father, who art in heaven…

June 19th, 2022

This morning as we gather to worship, we give thanks oh God for the gift of your presence and leading in our lives, both as individuals and corporately. We praise you for your love; your faithfulness and for your grace, demonstrated by the fact that you call us your children. We come to you this morning to worship, to give praise, and to ask for your faithful work in our lives.

Today as we celebrate Fathers Day, Holy God, creator and sustainer, we thank you for nurturing us as a father, a mother. We praise you that your care and protection surrounds us. We remember all the people who have nurtured us, especially the important men in our lives. We praise you for those who birthed us, who mentored us, those who have seen us, not just with their eyes, but with their heart. God, we give thanks for them. [to share the remainder of this Fathers Day prayer, please see the attachment]

We also pray the words of David in Psalm 139

You have searched me, Lord, and you know me.
You know when I sit and when I rise; you perceive my thoughts from afar.
You discern my going out and my lying down; you are familiar with all my ways.
Before a word is on my tongue you, Lord, know it completely.
You hem me in behind and before, and you lay your hand upon me.
Such knowledge is too wonderful for me, too lofty for me to attain.

Where can I go from your Spirit? Where can I flee from your presence?
If I go up to the heavens, you are there; if I make my bed in the depths, you are there.
If I rise on the wings of the dawn, if I settle on the far side of the sea,
10 even there your hand will guide me, your right hand will hold me fast.
11 If I say, “Surely the darkness will hide me and the light become night around me,”
12 even the darkness will not be dark to you; the night will shine like the day,
for darkness is as light to you.

13 For you created my inmost being; you knit me together in my mother’s womb.
14 I praise you because I am fearfully and wonderfully made;
your works are wonderful, I know that full well.
15 My frame was not hidden from you when I was made in the secret place,
when I was woven together in the depths of the earth.
16 Your eyes saw my unformed body; all the days ordained for me were written in your book before one of them came to be.
17 How precious to me are your thoughts,[a] God! How vast is the sum of them!
18 Were I to count them, they would outnumber the grains of sand—
when I awake, I am still with you……..

Search me, God, and know my heart;
test me and know my anxious thoughts.
24 See if there is any offensive way in me,
and lead me in the way everlasting.

Thank you God for hearing our prayer. We come as a child to a Father; hold us in your love. Strengthen our faith, give us wisdom and courage to live lives of obedience and faithfulness to you. We pray this in the name of your Son, Jesus.

We pray for all who are caregivers for aging parents and loved ones. For all who are caring for elderly parents, God, may your love flow abundantly and the gift of your grace and patience be sufficient.

We pray for our Households of Faith that God’s peace and presence would be evident in and through the lives of these families and individuals. May God’s love fill them and flow through them to others. God, grant them strength for each day and may Your will be done in their lives. Grant strength and grace we pray.

Amen

June 12th, 2022

Good and gracious God,

You created with a word and declared “it is good.”

We bask in the beauty of your creation…

We hear the bird’s song… the rustling of leaves

We feel the warmth of the sun…

We are grateful for the refreshment of rain.

Thank you for growing seasons

Long daylight hours,

Seeds sprouting, lawns lush

Water ways, lakes, streams

Creeks and rivers.

We are grateful for the laughter of children,

Playfulness and spontaneity

We are grateful for our teens,

Growing, wings stretching

We celebrate these special milestones

Markers of new beginnings, growth, adventure

,

We are grateful for the bright celebrations of life

Birthdays, and special anniversaries,

Graduations, and more

We are grateful to be together,

To Worship, praise, care deeply,

To walk with one another….

Through the grief, through the pain,

Through uncertainties

We also pray for peace where war rages on.

May world leaders respond to

Russia and the Ukraine with wisdom, integrity.

We pray for those you hold especially close

Those who are living with illness,

Those dealing with change,

Those who are lonely, or heartbroken.

Hold their hearts secure within your own and help us to be generous with your love.

For needs named and for those we hold deep in our heart, we offer our prayers in the strong name of Jesus the risen Christ. Amen

We pray for all who are caregivers for aging parents and loved ones.

.
We pray for our Households of Faith
. May energy abound as the school year wraps up. May each experience joy, peace and the love of God. Amen

June 5th, 2022

Today’s prayer is an adaptation of a prayer written by Carol Penner

Lord, you are the giver of life.
From the beginning of time, your Spirit brooded over the deep,
your wind rushing, your breath filling.
As creatures of the earth, we inhale your grace
rejoicing in life abundant.
We use our breath, our being
to raise this hymn of praise:
for Jesus Christ, our Saviour,
and for the mission you give us
to spread your love to the world.

Our Pentecost petitions are many—
you know the prayers of our hearts.
Some of us are sick and tired, some of us are worried,
we fear for those we love, we fear the future.
Some of us are grieving, we don’t know how to go on.
We need your help!
We pray for the places in our world
where poverty has an iron grip…
whether that is close to home, or across the oceans.
We need your Spirit to confront powers and principalities,
tyrants and governments and corporations
that feed off of and perpetuate poverty.

This week, enliven us as your disciples of healing and hope

Empower us by your Holy Spirit

That we may breathe out the harmonies of your song,

Melodies of the Holy Spirit,

Unending, ageless, eternal and ever new. Amen

We pray for students and teachers as end quickly approaches. Grant each the stamina they need to see this challenging school year through.


We pray for our Households of Faith from this week and last. May God’s peace and presence be evident in and through their lives. May each one know God’s love and grace each day. May days be filled with joy, meaningful tasks, and healthy connections.

May 29th, 2022

God, like the Israelites in the wilderness,

we too have known Your love,

and have experienced Your care and provision.

Like the disciples living between resurrection and Pentecost

we too have experienced times of waiting,

unsure what is to come.

We hear your invitation to extend love to the world around us—

to care for others, and so we bring the needs of our world before You now.

We pray for the many who do not have enough:

enough food to eat, or shelter to keep warm;

enough employment, or money to pay their bills;

enough medicine or medical care.

We also pray for those who have more than enough,

but still struggle to find meaning and purpose in life;

who indulge in dangerous or self-serving ways

to dull their pain or loneliness.

We also pray for peace where war rages on.

May world leaders respond to

Russia and the Ukraine with wisdom, integrity.

We pray for those you hold especially close

Those who are living with illness, worry, or pain;

Those dealing with change, a major life decision, those who need reassurance and support;

Those who are grieving the loss of loved ones;

Those who are lonely, or heartbroken.

Hold their hearts secure within your own and help us to be generous with you love.

For needs named and for those we hold deep in our heart, we offer our prayers in the strong name of Jesus the risen Christ. Amen

We pray for all who are caregivers for aging parents and loved ones.
We pray for all who grieve. Continue to draw near to the broken-hearted with comfort and peace.
We pray for our Households of Faith from this week and last. May God’s peace and presence be evident in and through their lives. We praise God for each one and rejoice as God’s blessing flows into their lives.

May 22, 2022

This morning as we gather to worship, we give thanks oh God for the gift of your presence and leading in our lives, both as individuals and corporately. We praise you for your love; your faithfulness and for your grace, demonstrated by the fact that you call us your children. We come to you this morning to worship, to give praise, and to ask for your faithful work in our lives.
We echo the words of David in Psalm 117 “Praise the Lord, all you nations, extol Him, all you peoples. For great is His love toward us, and the faithfulness of the Lord endures forever.”

We also praise God along with David as we pray portions of Psalm 145
“I will exalt you, my God the King; I will praise your name for ever and ever.
2 Every day I will praise you and extol your name for ever and ever.
3 Great is the LORD and most worthy of praise; his greatness no one can fathom.
4 One generation commends your works to another; they tell of your mighty acts.
5 They speak of the glorious splendor of your majesty— and I will meditate on your wonderful works.[b]
6 They tell of the power of your awesome works— and I will proclaim your great deeds.
7 They celebrate your abundant goodness and joyfully sing of your righteousness.
8 The LORD is gracious and compassionate, slow to anger and rich in love.
The LORD is good to all; he has compassion on all he has made.
10 All your works praise you, LORD; your faithful people extol you.
11 They tell of the glory of your kingdom and speak of your might,
12 so that all people may know of your mighty acts and the glorious splendor of your kingdom.
13 Your kingdom is an everlasting kingdom,
and your dominion endures through all generations.
The LORD is trustworthy in all he promises and faithful in all he does.[c]
14 The LORD upholds all who fall and lifts up all who are bowed down.
15 The eyes of all look to you, and you give them their food at the proper time.
16 You open your hand and satisfy the desires of every living thing.
17 The LORD is righteous in all his ways and faithful in all he does.
18 The LORD is near to all who call on him,
to all who call on him in truth.

God, strengthen our faith, give us wisdom and courage to live lives of obedience and faithfulness to you. We pray this in the name of your Son, Jesus.

We pray for all who are caregivers for aging parents and loved ones.
We pray for all who grieve. Continue to draw near to the broken-hearted with comfort and peace.

Surround and keep safe our loved ones in long-term care.
For needs that have been named and for those which we carry deep in our hearts we pray.

We pray for our Households of Faith that God’s peace and presence would be evident in and through the lives of these families and individuals. We praise God for each of you and rejoice in God’s blessing on your lives.

Amen

May 15th, 2022

This morning we dedicated our new worship book Voices Together.

The following two prayers were shared during this morning’s worship.


We are people who must sing you,

for the sake of our very lives.

You are a God who must be sung by us,

for the sake of your majesty and honor.

and so we thank you,

for lyrics that push us past our reasons,

for melodies that break open our givens,

for cadences that locate us home,

beyond all our safe places,

for tones and tunes that open our lives beyond control

and our futures beyond despair.

We thank you for the long parade of mothers and fathers

who have sung you deep and true;

we thank you for the good company

of artists, poets, musicians, cantors, and instruments

that sing for us and with us, toward you.

We are witnesses to your mercy and splendor;

we will not keep silent…. ever again. Amen

Great Physician,

you touched the lives of the sick and the troubled;

your hands rested on bodies in crisis;

your words soothed broken hearts.

We call on you today, O God,

because we need your healing.

Where we have pain, bring relief.

When we are disoriented, bring clarity.

When we confront disease or brokenness, bring healing.

When we wait for tests or news, bring patience.

When we live with barriers, bring courage.

When we are bound by addiction, bring freedom.

When illness separates us from others, bring friendship.

When we cannot make ends meet, help us.

You are with us in loneliness, bringing comfort.

You are with us in despair, bringing hope.

You are the God who cares and heals. Amen (VT #976)

We pray for all who are caregivers for aging parents and loved ones.

We pray for all who grieve. Continue to draw near to the broken-hearted with comfort and peace.

Surround and keep safe our loved ones in long-term care.

For needs that have been named and for those which we carry deep in our hearts we pray.

We pray for our Households of Faith. May their work be fulfilling and may joy be their strength with each new day.

We pray for strength and much joy. AMEN

May 8th, 2022

Loving God, on this Mother’s Day we are grateful for mothers. We are grateful that you designed life such that when we each come into this world we’re not alone, but held and nurtured, first in the body of our mother, and then in her arms. As we grow our mothers are often our strongest cheerleaders, and our soft place to land in life. Mothers matter a lot.

So today we are mindful of our mothers, of those who gave us life, and those who have given us love, whether biological mothers or not.

We pray for all those in mothering relationships today, at all stages of life. We pray for good relationships and for difficult ones, and for all those normal relationships that are a mix of both.

We pray for those who are missing their mothers today, and for mothers who are missing children. Comfort too those who have longed for a mothering relationship that they haven’t had.

God, we experience your love for us as like that of a mother. Deeply rooted, unconditional, hopeful, persevering, warm and caring. As a congregation we hope to embody that love for each other and our community.

We pray for those you hold especially close today:

– those who are living with illness, and perhaps worry or frustration or pain;

– those dealing with changes, decisions, transitions, who need your reassurance and support;

– those who are grieving loss of someone dear to them;

– those who are lonely, or heartbroken.

Hold their hearts securely within your own and help us to show your love.

We pray not only for those close by, but for your children in all corners of this world. Whatever they are going through today, hold them securely, and bring them peace.

We pray all this in the name of your dear Son Jesus, and as we pray the prayer he taught us, we remember he spoke of you as our heavenly parent, saying “Hallowed be your name, your kingdom come, your will be done, on earth as it is in heaven. Give us this day our daily bread and forgive us our trespasses, as we forgive those who trespass against us, and lead us not into temptation, but deliver us from evil, for thine is the kingdom, the power, and the glory, forever and ever. Amen.

We pray for all who are caregivers for aging parents and loved ones.

Surround and keep safe our loved ones in long-term care.

For needs that have been named and for those which we carry deep in our hearts we pray.

We pray for our Households of Faith. Surround and hold each one in the embrace of your love and grace. Whether at work, at school, at rest, or at play, may each experience joy with each new day and purpose and meaning with each new day. Amen

May 2nd, 2022

Lord Jesus, you conquered death.

Raised to new life,

you revealed yourself
through hospitality.

Welcomed to the table. The breaking of bread.

Eyes opened.

Lives transformed.

And still, you reveal yourself

Through the stranger, the outsider,

in and through this gathered body, your church.

Amidst our struggles and joys,

amidst the everyday.

Wherever your people gather. You are revealed.

We pray for our family of faith.

For those whom life is hard….

We pray for those living with physical limitations, illness, pain, transitions, struggle

We pray for those standing in need of healing and wholeness

For those who stand in need of hope….. we pray

For those in need of community,

For all who grieve……

For our households of faith for this week.

We are grateful for one another.

We pray that your healing and hope will

move in and through us, reaching a hurting world.

As we extend hospitality – as we take the risk,

open our eyes to your presence.

As we give generously in your name

multiply our gifts of money as you did with 5 loaves and 2 fish….

That all may be fed. That your kingdom would flourish and be revealed.

O Lord, hear our prayer…………….

We pray for measures of patience and compassion for all caring for aging parents and loved ones.

Surround and keep safe our loved ones in long-term care.

We pray for our Households of Faith. Surround and hold each in the embrace of your love and grace. Whether at work, at school, at rest, or at play, may each experience joy with each new day. May each experience fulfillment and purpose with each new day. Amen

April 24th, 2022

We praise you O God whose ways are just and good.

Whose resurrecting power sets the prisoners free – breaking the chains that keep your people bound from living fully alive.

We praise you O God, whose healing grace opens our blind eyes revealing our biases; prejudice, and life-denying ways; who opens our eyes to identify your presence and activity in the world .

You are the God who desires that all are fed: sustenance for body, nourishment for spirit.

And you are the God whose desire for all people is community, healthy relationships where all can flourish, where all belong, where all are transformed as we walk together in your ways.

Strengthen us we pray to serve until all are fed, free; healed; embraced, housed, loved.

We pray too for those in our own community today. For those living with illness, pain, grief, change, struggles – we pray. And for those in our community of faith, especially our households of faith for this week. We are grateful for one another.

For the church, your body, your people, here in this world. We are listening; we are open to your leading as you guide us into your future. Tune our hearts and ears and breathe your spirit of life into your people and into your beloved world.

Walk with us. Strengthen us for the journey.

We pray in the strong name of Jesus our Risen Lord. Amen.

These past weeks we have seen a significant increase of covid infections. May we continue to take appropriate precautions at this difficult time. We pray for all who are ill, recovering, and caregivers who are weary.

We pray for measures of patience and compassion for all caring for aging parents and loved ones.

Surround and keep safe our loved ones in long-term care.

We pray for our Households of Faith. Surround and hold each in the embrace of your love and grace. May each experience fulfillment and purpose with each new day. May these households experience good health, supportive relationships and peace. Amen

April 17th, 2022

Generous and surprising God, when we thought that death
had claimed your only Son, you amazed us with the resurrection.
Surprise us again. Free us from certainty that we may live with a radical openness to your ways that bring new life, new beginnings, re-birth.


On this Easter morning we welcome your resurrection for it is
life changing, life giving and life sustaining.
We welcome the hope it brings to our world.
We welcome the joy it brings to our darkness and pain.
We welcome the empty tomb for we know your risen presence is among us.

In the joy and hope of this Easter morning’s alleluia’s

we know there are those who are hurting or sad.

We pray for those that have no hope,

those struggling with mental illness, loneliness, or fear.

We pray for those places and peoples in our world

where death and domination rule,

where imperial powers ignore the poor,

where war rages,

where children are hungry,

where parents grieve because they cannot provide,

In the joy and hope of this Easter morning,

we realize the depth and breadth of what it means

to be your Easter people.

For we are the ones who are called

to go into the places in our lives and world

to work for justice and life for all in your Creation.

It is up to us to bear witness to the promise of resurrection,

to hold those in despair, and believe for them,

that Love is stronger than death.

So give us the courage to bear your living Love

in every corner of our lives,

so that your peaceable realm will be so, here on earth, as it is in heaven. We pray

In the name of the Risen Christ, we pray, Alleluia! Amen.

These past weeks we have seen a significant increase of covid infections. May we continue to take appropriate precautions at this difficult time. We pray for all who are ill, recovering, and caregivers including health care professionals who are weary.

We pray for measures of patience and compassion for all caring for aging parents and loved ones.

We pray for all who are grieving and missing a loved one at the family dinner table this Easter. May warm memories and the love of family and friends be a source of deep comfort.

We pray for our Households of Faith. Whether at work, enjoying recreation or rest, pour out your bright blessing. May each experience fulfillment and purpose with each new day. May these households of faith experience good health, supportive relationships and peace. Amen

April 10th, 2022

Today’s prayer, written by Carol Penner has been adapted.

Thank you God for your triumphal entry into our world each and every day.
The slow motion explosion of buds on the trees proclaim “Hosanna!”
Rushing water, falling from heaven, gurgling to the sea, proclaims “Hosanna!”
The fragrance of spring in the morning air proclaims, “Hosanna!”

We long to join this chorus, giving you thanks and praise for who you are, for all you have created, all you are creating.

Thank you for sending Jesus, who showed us your love for all creation, your love for us.
He opened our eyes to see your kingdom come here on earth

He came to show us that power is revealed through humble service.
Forgive us for the times where we have gone about our own business, concerned with many things, oblivious to the needs of those around us, oblivious to the call of your love in our heart.

God of grace, equip us to be your servants, listening, eager, ready.

Thank you for your presence in our world, even in war-filled places.
We hear of bombs dropped in the Ukraine, children killed, the needy betrayed.
We are tempted to despair, and to think that you have forsaken us.
We are tempted to think that you are powerless.
Give us a vision of your entry into our world as the Prince of peace,
changing hearts, changing our hearts, one by one,
creating communities of peacemakers who say no to violence.
God of great deeds, open our hearts to be your hearts,
our hands to be your hands,
our arms, to be your loving arms
for all who need your presence.

You know the people in our congregation with pressing needs:
those with new diagnoses, those in recovery, those waiting for tests, those coping with chronic pain whether physical, emotional, or relational.
We grieve with those here who are grieving, and we ask you for comfort and healing.
We pray for relationships that are strained, walk with us, and show us the way.
We ask all these things, in the name of Christ, Amen.

We pray for abundant measures of care and compassion for all who are caring for aging parents and loved ones. May families work well together in caring and supportive ways.

May comfort and peace surround the grieving.

Surround and keep safe our loved ones in long-term care.

We pray for our Households of Faith. May joy fill their hearts, peace and love flow within and through them, and may they experience fulfilling and loving relationships. May each heart turn to you as they seek to follow your ways. Amen

April 3rd, 2022

Great God:
Thank you for the constant call we hear from you every day.
The wind whispering around our ears,
the birds singing to us from the trees,
rain pinging on the window,
the good earth inviting our steps.

We hear that call again and again,
through kind hands and warm hearts around us.
Open our ears to your call,
which is as expansive as the world,
and as particular as a poor man walking a dusty road
to a cross on Calvary.

Like him, help us to love, not just in word, but in deed:
love for our neighbours who are hard to love,
love for newcomers in our community,
love for people who are cast out by others.

Forgive us for the times we have failed to share your love,
choosing to hoard what is freely given,
fearful that we have limited resources, limited time…we’re too tired.

Thank you that even then, your consoling voice calls us.
Help us to respond with cheerful hearts as we do your work.
Strengthen those among us who face heavy burdens,
who live with pain; physical, emotional, spiritual.

Holy Spirit, bind us together as a community
to sing your chorus of love faithfully, heartily.

We ask you to pour life & love into our households of faith, those who grieve, those with health concerns and those who are healing. We seek your presence and your peace. ultiply your call in and through all of us.

In the name of Jesus we pray, Amen.

Surround and keep safe our loved ones in long-term care.

We pray for our Households of Faith. May joy fill their hearts, peace and love flow within and through them, and may they experience fulfilling and loving relationships.

March 27th, 2022

God of the lost, the last, the least, and all who long for home,

when we wander from your ways and waste the gifts you have given us,

welcome us back we pray, so that we may celebrate and rejoice

in your presence.

God, of prodigal grace, we give you thanks for the gift and the blessings of life,

for family, friends, community, belonging.

God of restoration we confess the lines we draw between ourselves and those we believe to be lost. Reveal to us the lostness of our pride, entitlement, and sin.

Transform us and all our broken ways and make us whole.

We pray for our community:

Lead us through the trials; the suffering and sorrow; the challenges and struggles
the tired time, despair, and bleak places.

Continue to grace us with hope, with joy, and healthy relationships.

God whose giving knows no ending, we ask your blessing upon the offerings we freely give. Bless the ministries that are supported here within these walls,

across the street and around the world. Bless the portion we keep – make us wise stewards.

We pray for world peace – especially the Ukraine – hear our prayer for the grieving, those whose homes have been destroyed and are far from home. We pray the wounded, the weary, and the aggressors. We pray for global leaders that they may govern with wisdom and integrity.

Finally, for the church, your body, your hands and feet and heart in this world.

We stand in need of wisdom and deep listening to discern who you are calling us to be, who we are becoming. May your Spirit move amongst us bringing clarity to your call and your will for our shared life together. Bathe us with your grace and you love and may that love move freely into your world.

We pray as those who seek to walk in your footsteps. Amen.

We pray for measures of patience and compassion for all caring for aging parents and loved ones.

We pray for all who grieve. May comfort and peace surround the grieving.

We pray for our Households of Faith.

March 20th, 2022

Lord Jesus, our hearts are broken. The world is quaking amidst grave atrocities and disregard for human life. How your own heart must break and weep. We reach out to you amidst deep sufferings in the world you so love.

We pray for the Ukraine – the grieving, the displaced, the wounded and weary. We pray for the nation’s leaders that they may lead with wisdom, compassion, integrity. We pray for peace through peaceful means.

We pray for all people who are suffering or struggling – the hungry, the poor, the unsheltered. Hear our prayer for victims of domestic violence, those oppressed due to race, religion, clergy abuse, gender, sexual orientation. Open our eyes to see your face in all we meet.

Lord Jesus, we are grateful that as the fig tree you provide us with everything we need to bear fruit. Trees grow slowly. Fruit takes time to develop and mature. Lord, you are the gardener who cultivates and nourishes. We pray for patience to wait, openness to be pruned, that we may be more fruitful to your glory. When we resist growth or change, dig around our hearts encouraging repentance and faithfulness.

We pray for those in our community. For those living with illness, pain, grief. We pray for those recovering from surgery and those living their sunset days.

Faithful God, we give thanks that there is no place we can go where you are not already present. Continue to walk beside us, loving us, forgiving us, renewing us, upholding us and filling us with your hope, joy and love. We pray in Jesus’ name. Amen

We also pray for the cares and concerns near and dear to our hearts:

We pray for measures of patience and compassion for all caring for aging parents and loved ones.

We pray for our Households of Faith. May your smile be bright upon each family. Surround each with loving relationships, meaningful work, and focus for studies. Whether at work or rest, bless their hearts and home with overflowing love. We pray for deep peace and comfort at this difficult time. May they sense they are standing on sacred ground because You God are near. Hold them close we pray. Amen

March 13th, 2022

Thank you to Jane Kuepfer for offering today’s Prayers of the People

Merciful God, we reach out to you from a world that is suffering in so many ways.

We pray for this world that you love.

We pray for the Ukraine, for those who have left their homes, for those still there, for families separated. We pray for people in other places of conflict and danger, overshadowed by this turn of attention to what is newly distressing.

For those who are vulnerable and powerless, in any corner of the world, God, bring strength, comfort, hope, justice.

For those with power, God, bring wisdom, integrity, compassion and courage to do what is right. We pray, God, that the destruction will end, that life will be cherished, that the precious resources of this planet will be protected and not wasted.

We pray too for those in our own community today. For those for whom life is hard – those living with illness, pain, grief, change, struggles – we pray. And for those in our community of faith, especially our households of faith for this week. We are grateful for one another.

Finally, for the church, your body, your people, here in this world. We need your mercy and your grace to climb out of the past and live into the future. Breathe your spirit of life into your people and into your beloved world.

Mold our hearts to respond in love, to live in faith and to further your ways.

Cover this world with your strong wings.

Walk beside us each day.

We pray as those seeking to follow and learn from you.

Amen.

We also pray for the cares and concerns near and dear to our hearts.

We pray for measures of patience and compassion for all caring for aging parents and loved ones.

We pray for our Households of Faith. May your smile be bright upon each family. Surround each with loving relationships, meaningful work, and focus for studies. Whether at work or rest, bless their hearts and home with overflowing love. Amen

March 6th, 2022

Lord Jesus, as we enter this Lenten season we yearn to know your ways. We confess that we are tempted to shore up our own security instead of trusting in you and in the strength of your community. Open us to generosity and trust. Free our tightly clasped hands that we may serve and give, heal and protect, hold and lift up, sow and scatter the seeds of peace….

God of peace, the world is shaking due to an unprovoked war, a genocide.

Our hearts ache as we witness violence against peaceful people and the greedy grasping for power. We pray for peace through peaceful means, we pray for world leaders as they discern how best to curb a huge humanitarian crisis – and because you ask us to pray for our enemy, we pray for Vladimir Putin and those under his power doing violence, maiming and needlessly killing.

Lord, hear our prayer…..

Lord Jesus, as people who proclaim peace and strive to live in peace, we confess that our words and actions have caused harm. Create in us a clean heart O God and renew a right spirit within us. As your witnesses, may we sow the seeds of peace in all of our relationships, our neighborhoods, workplaces, and beyond. May we spread the pollen of peace and seek justice for those who hunger for bread but only find stones, those who seek justice but can find no advocate who will help them; and those who are in danger and have no one watching over them.

Lord, hear our prayer.

Lord, speak to us in the silence of our hearts.

Show us the way to go as we seek your way…

Pour out your healing grace upon our loved ones who stand in need of healing, hope, and wholeness. We know them by name. You know each need, each one, your beloved. We pray in the name of Jesus, who taught us to come to you saying,

Our Father….

We hold in prayer all who grieve. May each know the peace of Christ.

We pray for all who stand in need of healing for emotional, relational, physical, and spiritual pain. May your healing grace hold the wounded and those who love them. May all those who are struggling receive the care and support they need. We also pray for our Households of Faith.  May your smile be bright upon each family. Surround each with loving relationships, meaningful work, and focus for studies. Whether at work or rest, bless their hearts and home with overflowing love and peace. Amen

March 2nd, 2022

Our journey to Good Friday and Easter resurrection begins today with Ash Wednesday.

Lent is a time to prepare our hearts for Christ’s death and Easter joy.

Lent is marked with spiritual practices including: self-examination, prayer, fasting, giving to those in need, and more. In order for our Lent to be a time of renewal and growth we begin this season by remembering our need for repentance and for the forgiveness of God proclaimed by Jesus.

Many Christian traditions offer services on Ash Wednesday including the imposition of ashes.

The previous year’s palm branches are burnt and a smudge in the form of a cross is made on one’s forehead and these words offered:

Remember you are dust, and to dust you shall return.

Turn away from sin and be faithful to Christ

Repent and believe the Good News: God longs for you to be whole.

Today you may wish to prayerfully sing “Create in me a clean heart O God” offering your prayer in song.

We are also invited to turn our hearts to God with a Prayer of Confession:

We have not loved you with all our heart, and soul, and mind, and strength.
We have not loved our neighbours as ourselves.
We have not forgiven others as we have been forgiven.

Lord have mercy.
We have been deaf to your call to serve.
We have been unfaithful, proud, and hypocritical.

Christ have mercy.
We have been self-centered, and have taken advantage of others.
We have been envious of those more fortunate than ourselves.
We have loved worldly goods and comforts too much.
We have been dishonest in daily life and work.

Lord have mercy.
We have neglected prayer and worship.
We have been blind to human need and suffering, and indifferent to injustice and cruelty.
Lord have mercy.
We have thought uncharitably about others, and we have been prejudiced towards those who differ from us.
We have wasted and polluted your creation, and lacked concern for those who come after us.
Lord have mercy.
Dear Jesus,

I confess my need of you.

I am sorry for my sin, and I trust that you forgive me.

I accept your love and grace for me

And welcome you into my heart and into my life

Help me believe in you and love you every day,

And help me show the world how great your love is.

I commit my life into your hands. Amen (Voices Together #22)

I pray that our Lenten journey will be a sacred time of reflection, renewal and new birth.

Pastor Kara

February 27th, 2022

Lord Jesus, you are the True Vine and we are the branches.

By your Spirit, produce the fruit of love, joy, peace, and patience in us for others to taste and see. Keep us from hanging on to love for ourselves. Prune all selfishness from us and fill us with your love.

God of Peace, have mercy on your earth and supply its needs. Where people are hungry, give food. Where people are in distress, comfort. We hold before you the peoples of Ukraine… and the people of Russia. Hear the rising cry for help. May peace rather than missiles and weapons of war rain down in your world. Rain down peace in every nation, in every home, in every heart. Where people are in distress or in trouble, bring order and peace. And turn the whole world to you in faith, repentance, and praise.

Lord Jesus Christ, as you abide in us and we abide in you, may your love flow freely to friends and family and those who stand in need of healing, hope, and wholeness.

Heal those who are unwell.

Grant hope for the despairing.

Pour peace upon the troubled and the fearful.

Minister patience and calm to those awaiting surgery, tests, or the doctors’ call.

We pray for wisdom for all who carry the weight of decision making.

We pray for justice for all who face of oppression,

We pray for stamina as we continue to journey this pandemic

Thank you, Lord Jesus, for hearing us and caring for us in all our needs. Constantly intercede for us before our heavenly Parent. We ask all this in all the holy names of God. Amen.

We hold in prayer all those who grieve. May they know the peace of Christ.

We pray for all who stand in need of healing for emotional, relational, physical, and spiritual pain. May your healing grace hold the wounded and those who love them. May all those who are struggling receive the care and support they need.

We also pray for our Households of Faith. May each know the deep peace of Christ. Surround each one with comfort and joy, Whether at work or rest, bless their hearts and home with overflowing love. We give thanks for each household of faith. May your bright blessing be poured out upon them. Amen

February 24th, 2022

The invasion of Ukraine has shaken the nations. The human cost of war is too great to bear.

In response, I have included a prayer offered by Ann Voskamp.

May we join our hearts in prayer, petitioning the Prince of Peace with our heartfelt prayers for peace – peace for the world, peace for every nation, peace in cities, peace in neighbourhoods, peace in our homes, peace in our hearts.

In the face of pain, may the people of God be found at their post, on their knees in prayer.


Because we know prayer isn’t just the least we can do,
and prayer isn’t all we can do,
but prayer is ultimately the most important work we all can do.

Because it’s calling on the One who slays all the dark, wins us all back from the mess, and cuts right through all the impossible knots of desperate things.

Where there is an invasion on earth, may our prayers war an all-out invasion on the powers and principalities, “against the rulers of the darkness of this world,” (Eph. 6:16).

Though missiles rain from the sky this morning, rain down Your mercy, Lord.

Though black smoke rises, our prayers rise higher, surer, greater.

Though explosions shatter and gunfire rattles, we hold our ground in the face of pain and we move toward the suffering, our hands reaching with bold solidarity.

Ours is a tired world, Lord, weary of suffering, weary of the dark, weary of all the heartbreak, ours is a tired world, weary for hope — raise us up with the indomitable certainty that this world is a broken one and You alone are our unwavering hope, King Jesus.

Lord, hear our cry:

Comfort children who cry terrified, give courage to mothers who gather to calm, strengthen leaders who stand steady to find a way to peace.

For those who need to flee — may they find our arms a safe haven.

For those who are hungry — may they find our open hands offering bread for today and living bread for all eternity.

For all the limping, weary and wounded — may they find us holding on to each other, because when we live like we all belong to each other — we answer so much of the longing in the world… even our own.

And for all those who despair, both near and far — may they find our hands and feet today to be those of King Jesus, we who get to be His very body of peace in a hurting world today. Amen

February 20th, 2022

Vine of life,

in Your branches we are gathered

taking shelter in the shade of Your strength.

With thanksgiving

we celebrate the growth and hope

we have found in placing

our roots in You,

for in life You nourish us

and Your Holy Spirit encourages us

to reach our full potential in the gifts we have been given

that others may know of Your love.

Lord,

make us more than sour grapes and unripe olives.

In the hardships of the world

may we look beyond the bitter politics and divisions

to find Your love

at the core of our relationships.

There may all people work with what we have in common

that we might grow to be a people of respect and trust.

May our branches bow

with the weight of the fruit you provide.

Help us to look beyond our own needs,

to recognize those

who are hungry for food, love, and justice.

May we offer others the shelter needed

under the weight of Your branches

so they find a rest from the cold and darkness,

the pain and loneliness of this world.

Instead may Your Spirit enable us

to value the gifts and talents of all.

May our leaves soak up Your light.

When we meet those who are worn down

with illness, loneliness, grief and abandonment,

may the light of Your presence shine

in the encounters they have with others

that all might know Your compassion.

Gardener of all life,

as You trim and shape us for Your purpose

may we place our prayers into Your hands

and trust that new seeds may grow

from tired and empty thoughts. We offer all of our prayers in Jesus’ name. Amen

Surround and keep safe our loved ones in long-term care.

We pray for all who stand in need of healing for emotional, relational, physical, and spiritual pain. May your healing grace hold the wounded and those who love them. May all those who are struggling receive the care and support they need.

We also pray for our Households of Faith. Whether at work, at school, at rest, or at play bless their hearts and home with overflowing love and care. We give thanks for each household of faith. May your bright blessing be poured out upon them. Amen

February 13th, 2022

Jesus, on the night you were betrayed,
you took a towel, and washed our feet.
We confess that we are reluctant to think of you
doing such a humble task, all for us.
Like Peter, we protest.
We fail to see how love takes the lowly way,
how it is worked out in a thousand small acts of kindness,
a thousand humilities.
For ourselves we prefer the grand gestures,
love that can be seen and applauded,
love that first and foremost makes us feel good.
You showed a different way.
Jesus, Towel-bearer, Foot-washer, Cross-carrier,
you have set us an example
We long to follow you, wherever you lead us.

Jesus, your ministry was up close and personal

Open our eyes with your healing grace that we may see our privilege in the world and how it is embodied as power over others….

Open our ears with your healing grace to hear the rising cry for help from oppressed and hopeless people

Soften our hearts with your healing grace as we serve and are served.

We pray your healing grace for family, friends, and our siblings in Christ who stand in need of healing, hope, and wholeness.

May comfort surround the grieving……

May patience sustain those awaiting tests or surgery dates…..

May protection surround the most vulnerable….

May peace hold the anxious, the worried, the unsettled……

May joy be the strength amidst difficult decisions……

May hope burn bright as we seek your desires for our congregation.

We pray that our lives will reflect your love in our words, in our actions,

In our thoughts, as we served and are served in Jesus’ name.

Surround and keep safe our loved ones in long-term care.

We pray for those who struggle with mental illness, anxiety, and addiction and those who love them. May all those who are struggling receive the care and support they need.

We also pray for our Households of Faith. Whether at work, at rest or at play, may their lives overflow with goodness and grace. May laughter, love, and joy overflow in their hearts and in their home. Amen

February 6th, 2022

Listening God,

you hear our prayers before we speak

yet welcome our praying;

therefore we come with confidence to lay our requests before you.

We pray for Christians everywhere,

for our denomination and congregation

for strength to persevere in faithfulness.

we pray for the whole people of God.

We pray for the earth and all living creatures.

for regions and species at risk,

and for the sharing of resources.

We pray for the wholeness of creation.

We pray for those who are overcome by violence,

for victims of injustice or oppression,

and for those in poverty or pain.

We pray for all who need healing and peace.

We pray for those who endure trials,

for those who are dying

and for those who mourn.

We pray for all in need of comfort and hope.

We also pray with rejoicing and ask for your bright blessing

We rejoice with those who rejoice and we mourn with those who mourn.

Surround and keep safe our loved ones in long-term care.

Over these past weeks covid has spread significantly. We pray for all frontline workers, the sick, the isolated, the dying, and the recovering. Grant strength for mind, body, and spirit as we continue to journey this pandemic season.

We pray for those who struggle with mental illness, anxiety, and addiction and those who love them. May all those who are struggling receive the care and support they need. We also pray for our Households of Faith….. Whether at work, at rest or at play, may their lives overflow with goodness and grace. Grant them deep measures of peace, contentment, resilience. Listening God, you have heard our prayers, those spoken aloud and those that reside deep within. We rest in the comfort of your care, as we pray in Jesus’ name. Amen.

January 30th, 2022

Giver of every good and perfect gift, you tend to the earth as your vineyard, longing for it to bring fruit. You desire society and our lives to look more and more like the Kingdom of Heaven.

We confess, at times we work against your plans, sometimes by what we do, and sometimes by what we leave undone. We abuse the land, take advantage of the weak, and turn a blind eye to the poor.

We confess, we struggle to give back to you from the bounty of gifts your hand provides, worrying we will not have enough. In response, we hold tightly for ourselves and for our family. Remind us again that you have blessed us to be a blessing to others. Free us from that which we do not want to see in ourselves, free us for more generous living. Free us to see as Jesus sees.

We thank you for the joy of community – growing together in faith, practicing our faith, making decisions, praising you together. Thank you for providing leadership, a shared mission and vision, and abundant gifts to minister together congregationally as we endeavour to do you will.

As a community we rejoice with those who rejoice and grieve with those who grieve. We strive to share your love with one another through prayer, words of encouragement, and compassion.

Today we pray for those facing significant decisions, those who stand in need of healing, hope, and wholeness, and all who are struggling from loneliness and isolation.

We pray for peace in the world – for peaceable negotiations between nations, leaders, and peoples. We pray especially for escalating tensions between Russian and Ukraine.

We pray for the most vulnerable, and for the strength and resilience we need for the living of these pandemic days.

Surround and keep safe our loved ones in long-term care including our Aldaview friends. Strengthen them in mind, body, and spirit.

We pray for those who struggle with mental illness, anxiety, and addiction and those who love them. May all those who are struggling receive the care and support they need.

We also pray for our Households of Faith. May each household be held in peace and strength, experience fulfillment in their work, and joy in their relationships.  For your faithful presence, your listening presence, your sustaining presence, we offer all of our prayers with thanksgiving in the name of Jesus. Amen.

January 23rd, 2022

This week is “Week of Prayer for Christian Unity,” an occasion when we acknowledge we are members of a large body of Christ, a global body diverse in language, culture, practice, made one through Christ. We give thanks for ecumenical brothers and sisters in Christ – and we strive to build bridges of understanding and walk in the ways of peace together.

Jesus,
just as you prayed for your disciples so long ago
Pray for us,
Pray for our wellbeing,
Pray for our protection.
Pray for your joy to be made complete in us.
Pray for our spiritual growth and transformation.

Pray for your truth to be made complete in us.

Jesus,

we often do not know how to pray,
So pray for us,
Pray with us,
That we may be one with you,
One with each other, and
One in ministry to the world you love.

Jesus,
Pray for your weak ones,
Your strong ones,
Pray for your ones who stand in need of healing, hope, and wholeness
Pray for your ones who breeze through life,
And your ones who struggle in life.

Jesus,
Pray for those who have lost loved ones,

whose grief is deep
pray for those facing tough decision, those taking on new positions,

or those in need of freedom from bondage.
Pray for all impacted by covid – health care providers, the sick,

the dying, the recovering, the self-isolating, and all who

are experiencing isolation, loneliness, or disconnection.


Hear us now as we pray as you have taught us….

Our Father……

Surround and keep safe our loved ones in long-term care. We pray for those who struggle with mental illness, anxiety, and addiction and those who love them. May all those who are struggling receive the care and support they need. Hold all in need close to your heart. Surround them with care, protection, and strength. We also pray for our Households of Faith….. May they know your peace in their relationships, in their work, as they share their lives generously. Amen

January 16th, 2022

Holy God,

thank you for giving us life and breath.

The sun beams out praise!

Pines and spruce offer their green hallelujahs!

Winter birds join the seasonal song of praise!

Buried in the cold earth, bulbs and roots rest at your command!

The glory of your goodness bursts out all around us,

The heavens declare your glory

the skies proclaim your handiworks.

Our hearts overflow with worship!

Today we say thank you for all who are nurturing life.

Parents awaiting the arrival of a newborn

for those who cook and clean,

for those who change diapers and do laundry,

for those who listen and encourage,

for those who give undivided attention,

for those who provide the necessities of life

willingly, lovingly, consistently.

Be with those who face challenges,

give patience where there is frustration,

resilience where there is weariness

and wisdom where there are challenges

You walk beside us on long caregiving journeys,

and you won’t leave us.

We pray especially today of those in our own community living in poverty

who have trouble putting food on the table and paying the rent;

Guide our politicians as they make decisions that affect children.

We pray for places where life is threatened…

due to violence, political instability, divisive policy.

We long for your intervention in these aching places of the world.

We also acknowledge our carbon footprint is driving enviornmental disaster.

Holy God, all of life on earth is your creation;

we repent that we have disregarded and ignored the treasure of diversity.

Help us find the will to change our ways and truly value all you made.

You hovered over the deep at the beginning of time;

you dared dream a world of life and beauty.

We want to dream together with you!

Send your Spirit on this community so that we can be your people of peace

living life to the fullest on earth as it is in heaven.

In the name of Jesus we pray, Amen

We pray for all who grieve. We pray for those who struggle with mental illness, anxiety, and addiction and those who love them. May all those who are struggling receive the care and support they need.

We also pray for our Households of Faith. Grant each of our households of faith much joy, loving relationships, and meaningful connections.

This morning many engaged in our second “congregational conversation”.

Here are the questions were are invited to reflect upon. As we continue to reflect, let us also continue to pray with John 15: 1-5 and listen for God.

1. As we reflect upon stories on congregational time-line, where do we witness God’s faithfulness?

2. Where do you witness abiding in God? Pruning? Fruit bearing?

3. How have these practices shaped WMC as a worshipping community?

1. Can anything that occurred over the past 22 months help us as we prepare for the next year?

2. What have we learned about ourselves? God? The world?

3. What are we learning about what people need from the church right now?

4. What brings us joy?

Have a blessed day,

Pastor Kara

January 9th, 2022

Holy One, we thank you that we stand in a long line of believers who have been faithful through the ages. You have been leading your people through trials and change and have always set before them / before us, hope for today and bright hope for a better tomorrow. We pray that you would bless us each day as we strive to be your faithful followers. May we know your gift of faith given freely, filled with hope in things not seen.

Give us faith we pray, like the grain of mustard seed which had small beginnings, but which yielded large results.

Give to us faith to move the mountains of racism, marginalization, and injustice.

Give us faith amidst our questions and when fear and doubts threaten to overwhelm.

Give to us a faith which has a vision of a new world where peace and love flow abundantly – where your shalom permeates all, and where war, hunger, and oppression is no more.

Give to us a faith such as Abraham’s to move forward not knowing our destination but trusting in your guiding providence.

Give to us a faith which is able to endure those moments of personal disquiet and to trust that you are with us.

Give us faith that you are growing something new in us as a faith community – something beautiful, something fruitful.

Give us faith amidst pruning and fruit bearing, growing and releasing.

Give to us a faith which sees the welfare of all creation including all peoples held in your enduring love and care.

Give to us a faith which sees beyond the present to an eternal home within your very heart.

God, give us faith to walk with you, vulnerability and courage to go wherever you lead.

Deepen our capacity to listen for you and a surrendering willingness to respond.

Surround our loved ones in long-term care.

We pray for all who grieve. May comfort and care surround them. We pray for those who struggle with mental illness, anxiety, and addiction and those who love them.  We also pray for our Households of Faith….. May each know your love and care more deeply each day as they turn their hearts toward you. May their hearts and homes be filled with joy, peace, and love. We offer all our prayers in the name of your Jesus who taught us to pray. Amen

January 2nd, 2022

We come to adore you, little one. We come on bended knee with hopeful hearts, and eyes stretched wide with wonder and awe. The gentleness of your gaze draws us into the mystery of all that lies beyond, and in that place of falling into joy, we yield all that we are to you.

We pray…..

for those who are broken, those who seek, the trembling, and the rumbling tummies, those without a home, the haggard spirits and the ragged lives, and those whose hearts pine for love or the lost.

We pray for our Households of Faith:

We give thanks for all the ways each of these families share God’s love, for the ways they generously contribute to congregational life, community life, and enrich the lives of those they encounter day by day. Bless each with good health, peace and contentment, joy and fulfillment each day.

We also pray for those whose needs we hold deep in our hearts…………

Protect our loved ones in long-term care amidst tighter pandemic restrictions. Keep them safe and secure in your love.

We pray with thanksgiving for your generosity moving in and amongst us – for faithful weekly tithes and offerings and the generous response that furthers the work of the church across the street and around the world. Bless the many ministries that are supported as we give of ourselves, our gifts, talents, and our money.

We pray for all who are grieving this Christmas season. Grant peace and comfort.

We also pray for wisdom and strength for all leaders charged with oversight and policy as covid infection rates soar. Help us to remember that human suffering is more than a number or daily statistic. We pray for the sick, those who grieve, the isolated, and the fearful. Continue to strengthen and uphold front-line workers, all who work and learn in classrooms, and provincial and national leaders. Be near to us and our loved ones as we continue to journey through this difficult time together. While we are receiving booster vaccinations, we pray for those in the world who continue to await their first vaccination. We pray for justice and equitable world-wide response amidst this global pandemic. As the privileged according to world standards, may we be humble, aware of our North American privilege, and be faithful in prayer, care, and compassion.

Bless us, O Lord, whom we adore, and turn our faces ever toward you. We pray for peace, for mercy, for the sake of all that is holy. We come to adore you, O Christ. Amen

December 26th, 2021

Jesus, Light of the World, we celebrate your birth! We share in the song of the angels, the gladness of the shepherds, and the wisdom of the magi. “Gloria in the highest and peace to all on earth” our hearts sing out. Lord Jesus, by being born one of us, and lying humbly in a manger, you came to show us how to live and how to love. Let the light of your love always shine in our hearts, in our homes, in our land, and in your world.

God of peace, we pray for the world’s nations and their governments. We ask for peace and understanding between all nations. We pray for the churches of the world, leaders and congregations, as we enjoy freedom to worship. May we be a light in our communities, pointing toward your presence, your goodness, your grace.

Generous God, in this season of giving and receiving we can so easily overlook your gifts to us. Thank you for so many reasons to celebrate including family and friends near and far and your beautiful creation. Teach us to take care of our family relationships, friendships, and your world which you love and sustain.

Gracious God, we thank you for being with us in life’s trials. Draw us close and teach us to trust you more each day. Be especially near to all those who stand in need of healing, hope, or wholeness.  Surround our loved ones in long-term care.

We also pray for our Households of Faith…..  May each experience a special blessing this Christmas season. Keep each safe and well. We pray for safe travels.

We pray for all those suffering the effects of Covid, those ill at home or in hospital and those isolated, frightened, or alone. We pray for all who work in emergency and essential services who keep us safe and leaders charged with decision-making. Grant strength, deep compassion, and encouragement.

God of Comfort, be near the grieving who experience the loss of their loved ones even more deeply amidst the festivities and feasting.

Amidst this joyous season, grant us deep sensitivity for one another, as many carry pain that is unspoken. We give thanks that your son Jesus’ radiance filled a lowly manger and that through his suffering, death, and resurrection, you offer the gift of new life, hope, and resurrection new life.

Jesus Christ, a star guided the magi to your birth. Guide us as we continue to celebrate through this season of Christmas. Be present with us as we continue to celebrate your holy birth, as we experience the deeper meaning of your birth, as we return to fields and flocks, and as we treasure and ponder your coming. We offer all of our prayers in the name of Jesus. Amen.

December 19th, 2021

Listening God,

as we continue on our Advent journey,

we acknowledge many ways we already filled up with waiting.

Waiting to hear the next report of bad news;

another mass shooting, another refugee crisis,

another famine, another environmental disaster,

another Covid outbreak, another variant.

The news is a litany of things to fear

that fills our heads with dread.

We wait for your help.

Remind us of Mary and Joseph,

ordinary people living in a country

under the boot of an oppressive regime,

who believed in your salvation,

holding on to hope against hope.

We hold on to you believing in your ability

to be born again even in times like these.

Give us eyes to see your arriving,

as we do the hard work of being kind and generous

in the rough and tumble of family life.

Give us ears to hear your arriving as we hear prophets proclaim good news

that the powerful will be brought down

and those who live in poverty will rejoice

We long to touch the hem of your garment

so that those we know who are sick

could be healed…………

Be present with loved ones in long-term care.

We pray for our Households of Faith.

May your love be born anew in each heart. May your blessing be poured out upon each.

We pray for all who are grieving. May your comfort hold them.

We long to taste your good news!

In this season of growing darkness,

keep our eyes fixed on the pinpoints of light

that shine and shine

because nothing can put them out.

In the name of Jesus, our hope we pray. Amen

December 16th, 2021

This Sunday we will listen to the ancient prophecy of Micah in 5: 2-5a.
We will also listen to an intimate encounter between Mary and Elizabeth and Mary’s song of joy, the Magnificat as recorded in Luke 1: 39-55.
May these days of waiting, anticipating, and expectation, be filled with unexpected encounters with Emmanuel, God-with-us.
As you re-read these familiar stories, pay attention to words and phrases that the Spirit of God brings to your attention.
Sit with your questions, your wonderings and listen for God. Pay attention to images or an invitation that may arise.
May your prayers with scripture both inspire and uphold you amidst the deep needs we carry and the deep needs of the world.

God, who hears us,
as we continue on our Advent journey, we acknowledge we are already filled up with waiting.
Waiting to hear the next report of bad news;
another mass shooting, another refugee crisis,
another famine, another environmental disaster,
another Covid covid outbreak, another Covid variant.
The news is a litany of things to fear
that fills our heads with dread.
We wait for your help.
Remind us of Mary and Joseph,
ordinary people living in a country
under the boot of an oppressive regime,
who believed in your salvation,
holding on to hope against hope.
We hold on to you believing in your ability
to be born again even in times like these.
Give us eyes to see your arriving,
as we do the hard work of being decent
in the rough and tumble of family life.
Give us ears to see your arriving as we hear prophets proclaim good news
that the powerful will be brought down
and those who live in poverty will rejoice
We long to touch the hem of your garment
so that those we know who are sick
could be healed,
those who are grieving could be comforted.
We long to taste your good news!
In this season of growing darkness,
keep our eyes fixed on the pinpoints of light
that shine and shine
because nothing can put them out.
In the name of Jesus, our hope we pray. Amen

December 12th, 2021

God, giver of joy,
thank you for squirming of babies,
for the irrepressible giggles of toddlers,
for preschoolers with their boundless energy

and for each child who shared the Christmas story with us this year.
Thank you that we are made for joy
and that advent reminds us of this.
Help us wait in hopeful anticipation for this gift of joy–
Saviour of the world, the Prince of Peace

Jesus, give joy this week to those who are suffering:
joy in the midst of illness, through a keen sense of your presence,
joy in the midst of grief, through an awareness of love deeper than death,
joy in the midst of anxiety, through sudden fleeting moments of beauty.

We also pray for our Households of Faith.

Listening God, we are waiting for joy in a world that is often bleak and cheerless.

We can easily succumb to despair, discouragement.
Violence and consumerism abounds and it blights lives and communities.
And we help it flourish —
we confess our own selfishness, hoarding things for ourselves,
or our own racism, our own fear of the other, fear of the stranger.
Around the world you know the suffering we inflict on each other.
Thank you for that even in this barren earth,
you cause joy to bubble up.

In joy, help us lavish generosity at Christmas;
not just on those we love, but generosity to charities, and to those in need.
Help us lavish forgiveness on those who’ve hurt us.
We long for the joy of relationships renewed and restored
All this joy to the world is from you,
radiating out from a Saviour who is Christ the Lord.
We join our hearts together this morning in joyful praise:
Glory to God in the Highest! Gloria! Amen

December 10th, 2021

Good morning all,
Over these past weeks our Friday Prayer gathering has spent time praying with Isaiah 9: 1-7.
And this past Sunday, the congregation was invited to pray with verses from John 15 as we seek God’s wisdom and guidance.
May you continue to be nourished through the Word and experience the voice of God that breaks through the loud noise of the world.

The following in an Advent Prayer by Henri Nouwen

Lord Jesus,

Master of both the light and the darkness, send your Holy Spirit upon our preparations for Christmas.

We who have so much to do and seek quiet spaces to hear your voice each day,

We who are anxious over many things look forward to your coming among us.

We who are blessed in so many ways long for the complete joy of your kingdom.

We whose hearts are heavy seek the joy of your presence.

We are your people, walking in darkness, yet seeking the light.

To you we say, “Come Lord Jesus!’

Amen.

December 5th, 2021

In the lonely places
The wilderness
Where we stand forlorn
Windswept and alone
Your voice calls out
Prepare a way for the Lord


In the dark places
The shadows
Where we hide our fears,

our insecurities, our doubts.
Your voice calls out
Prepare a way for the Lord

Because of the tender mercy of our God,

The dawn from on high will

break upon us,

to give light to those who sit in darkness

and in the shadow of death,

to guide our feet into the way of peace. (Luke 1: 78-79)

Shine upon those who live in darkness, we pray
That all might know the joy of your salvation
the forgiveness of sins

and your great mercy.

For the desert places in which we walk
the streets we roam
the paths we cross
guide our feet.
Take us to places
where you would go.
Give us words that you would use
that in this Advent season
of promise and preparation
we might point the way with John the Baptist,
to the Lamb of God, who takes away the sin of the world.

As we journey this season of Advent toward Christmas

we pray for the light of your hope and peace to surround the sick,

the suffering, and those in need of wholeness.

Comfort all who grieve…  When Christmas cheer abounds, help us to be mindful of those who are struggling.

Be present with loved ones receiving care in hospital or long-term care including:

Restore the weary.

Strengthen caregivers.

Deepen our capacity for compassion.

Pour out your peace upon the troubled places of your world and our lives.

            We also pray for our households of faith:

Come among us O God and prepare our hearts for Christmas joy.

Hear us now as we pray as you taught us:

Our Father who art in heaven ………………….Amen

December 2nd, 2021

This week we began our Advent journey toward Bethlehem and Jesus’ birth. We lit the candle of hope.
Where do you see hope springing up? As daylight hours shorten and darkness deepens, I experience hope as God’s sustaining presence through changing seasons, including the seasons of our lives.
As you reflect upon hope, what rituals enrich your Advent journey? For years, I would light a candle each evening of Advent. In prayer I held before God places in the world that were in need of healing light. There has never been a shortage of situations for which to pray. Theologian Stanley Haueruas writes “Advent is patience. It’s how God has made us a people of promise in a world of impatience.”
May we continue lighting our candles, offering our prayers, and living in hope with patience amidst a world of impatience.

I would encourage you to check out an Advent resource as we journey to Christmas.
Scholar and author Kate Bowler offers a free 4-week Advent Devotional available at katebowler.com
Kate’s most recent book is “No Cure for Being Human and other truths I need to hear.” She is Canadian born and a gifted writer. .

Advent Blessings,

Pastor Kara

November 28th, 2021

O God, the days are surely coming when all your promises will be fulfilled to your faithful children. We thank you for your faithfulness to us throughout all generations. We pray for the church. May we listen deeply for your voice. Grace us with discerning minds and willing spirits as we join with you to further your mission and discern your path forward for us. Strengthen us to be your hands, and feet and hearts and to know you and your ways more fully.  

As the pandemic continues, we pray for the grace for the challenging road yet to journey. We pray for the sick, health care providers feeling the strain of overwork, scientists, and governments making hard decisions. Calm our fears… Gentle our worries. Thank you that you are always with us and will never forsake us.    

In your time, O Lord, a righteous branch sprang up and you brought justice and righteousness in every land. We pray for our nation, and all nations, that your peace would be manifest in every corner of the earth, that justice would rule.   

In your Kingdom, O Lord, you bring your people safety and comfort. We pray your healing grace for the sick, the suffering, the wounded, and those in distress of any kind including those whom we name before you now……………..

Comfort all who grieve, we pray. When Christmas cheer abounds, help us be mindful of those who are struggling during this season.    

O God, your great works of redemption, span the ages. We also pray for those who rejoice this week. Thank you for answered prayer and open doors. May each who rejoices be filled with joy and gladness.

            We also pray for our households of faith: May your joy and peace fill each heart.

In the fullness of time, O God, you sent your Son, to be born of  Mary. And his name was Emmanuel: God With Us. We thank you for your Presence with us, and we pray that you might be always present with those whom we love, our communities and beyond.  

 Come among us O God, and hear our prayers; so that when your Son Jesus comes among riding on a cloud and with great power and might, we might come to adore him. Amen.

November 26th, 2021

Good morning!
As we anticipate our Advent journey toward Bethlehem and the stable, we strive to deepen our capacity to listen for God.
Our journey through pandemic has been disorienting, unsettled. Many unknowns mark each step we take.
During Friday Prayer these next weeks we will be praying with the ancient prophet Isaiah’s words as recorded in Isaiah 9: 1-7.
Drawing upon the practice of lectio divina we approach Scripture, with anticipation that God will speak to us.
We hear the text read aloud, letting it soak in as we take time for silent reflection.
The text is read a second time aloud. This time we are attentive to a word that may stand out, perhaps a phrase, an image or a question.
Following a time of silent listening we share with one another that which we have heard.
Lectio divina is a life-giving spiritual practice. All are invited to join in from 11:30 – noon.

Isaiah 9: 1-7

But there will be no gloom for those who were in anguish. In the former time he brought into contempt the land of Zebulun and the land of Naphtali, but in the latter time he will make glorious the way of the sea, the land beyond the Jordan, Galilee of the nations.
The people who walked in darkness
have seen a great light;
those who lived in a land of deep darkness—
on them light has shined.
You have multiplied the nation,
you have increased its joy;
they rejoice before you
as with joy at the harvest,
as people exult when dividing plunder.
For the yoke of their burden,
and the bar across their shoulders,
the rod of their oppressor,
you have broken as on the day of Midian.
For all the boots of the tramping warriors
and all the garments rolled in blood
shall be burned as fuel for the fire.
For a child has been born for us,
a son given to us;
authority rests upon his shoulders;
and he is named
Wonderful Counsellor, Mighty God,
Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace.
His authority shall grow continually,
and there shall be endless peace
for the throne of David and his kingdom.
He will establish and uphold it
with justice and with righteousness
from this time onwards and for evermore.
The zeal of the Lord of hosts will do this.

May God’s Spirit bless us in our Advent journey,

Pastor Kara

November 21st, 2021

Eternal God, you are our God and we are your people.
You have claimed us as your own and have placed a seal on our hearts.

You nurture and sustain us in the garden of life.

Living God, we thank you for your gift of life eternal

and for all those who, having served you well,

now rest from their labours.

Today we give thanks for those who during the last twelve months

have died and entered into glory

and those whom we hold in our hearts.

We thank you for their life and love,

and rejoice for them “all is well,

and all manner of things will be well.”

Be near to those who are grieving. Hold them.

Fill them with your comfort and peace.

Compassionate God, you attend to the wounded places of our hearts and lives,

You grieve with us in our losses, our fears.
You journey with us in our celebrations, our sorrows

You are close even in the mundane routines of our days.
You delight in us, and you love us.

We pray for your healing grace to be with those whom we hold in our hearts…….

We also pray for our Households of Faith:  May each of these families rest in your peace and be filled with your joy. May love rule in their hearts and fill their homes.

We pray for this world,
for the places and precious people

who are striving to recover from hurricanes,

raging fire, and floods. We especially think of those suffering in B.C.

We pray for peace among nations.
Make us instruments of that peace.

We pray for our children and our youth

that they may come to know you more fully,

growing to be all of who they have been created to be.

Bless the gifts of money we offer

and bless each ministry supported whether across the street

or around the world.

Eternal God, you are our God and we are your people.

Continue to write your law of love on our hearts.

Give us an unwavering passion for justice,

and a tenacious faith that will not rest

until the hungry are fed,

until the oppressed find relief,

until the outsider finds welcome.  Amen

November 17th, 2021

This Sunday is Eternity Sunday, an occasion to reflect upon the eternal reign of God and remember those who have passed on to God’s eternal love this past year.
In preparation for Sunday’s service let us join our hearts in prayer as provided by Carol Penner: :

Eternal God,
thank you for the things that do not end:
the wind swirling around the globe,
the sea rocking back and forth in its seabed,
the sun rising and setting as we spin through space.
Thank you for all the transient things we know;
the frost on the window,
the clouds in their majestic sailing beauty,
the grass that flourishes for a season and withers,
our own breath.
All this from your hands.
On this Eternity Sunday we come with grieving hearts,
for some of us are missing loved ones.
We feel the ache of love unanchored,
of words we can no longer speak,
of arms we can no longer embrace.
We turn to you in trust that you are the keeper of souls.
Hold our dear ones safe, and give to us
the assurance of life unseen, and memories that comfort.
Keep alive the love we shared, and multiply it.
Give us love for the whole earth, every part of it,
love which we cannot contain,
but which can flow through us,
in mysterious and wonderful ways.
Help us this week to be channels of your love:
where there is injury, let us bring healing,
where there is want, help us share,
where there is injustice, solidarity,
where there is despair, hope.
You hear the concerns of our community,
and we lift up especially_________
We pray all this to you, Lord of Life,
knowing that you can grant us all rest,
eternal rest. You grant us rest. Amen

November 14th, 2021

Loving God, we hold in your healing presence those who suffer pain and ill-health, with their families, friends and those who care for them…

                May they know the deep peace of Christ

We hold in your healing presence those who suffer in mind and spirit, and all who care for them…

                May they know the deep peace of Christ

We hold in your healing presence those suffering due to broken relationships, we pray for the marginalized, the silenced…

                May they know the deep peace of Christ

We hold in your healing presence those struggling with isolation, anxiety, mental health challenges….

                May they know the deep peace of Christ

We hold in your healing presence those struggling to overcome addiction or abuse, those supporting and working with them, and all whose suffering has distanced them from those who love …

                May they know the deep peace of Christ

Loving God, we hold in your healing presence those facing bereavement and those who are walking through the dark valley of grief. Be especially near to families who will remember loved ones at next week’s Eternity Sunday service.

                May they know the deep peace of Christ

We hold in your healing presence and peace those whose needs are not known to us but known to you.  In silence, we name in our hearts those whose pain we carry….

May they know the deep peace of Christ

May they know the deep peace of Christ.

We also pray for our Household of Faith:

May they know the peace of Christ.

God of compassion and love, we offer you all our suffering and pain. Give us strength to bear our weakness, healing even when there is no cure, peace in the midst of turmoil and love to fill the spaces in our lives.

Glory to God from whom all love flows, glory to Jesus who showed his love through suffering, and glory to the Holy Spirit who brings light to the darkest of places.    Amen.

November 10th, 2021

“Pray in the Spirit at all times in every prayer and supplication. To that end keep alert and always persevere in supplication for all the saints.” (Ephesians 6:18)

A congregational leader admits “I’m intimidated by prayer. I want it to be neat and tidy with words that make sense. But most of the time, I don’t have words.
I have a mix of feelings, or other times there’s nothing there.”
Perhaps you can relate. Or, perhaps you experience a rich prayer life.
I have been a member of a Shalom Pastor’s Group for several years and we agree, one of the members has the best prayers!

If we are to pray “at all times,” we have to allow ourselves some run-on sentences and messy thoughts.
Our whole lives are lived as a big messy prayer. Sometimes we need prayers that others write.
Sometimes we need to sit with ourselves and God in silence. And sometimes, we have to live out our prayers with our actions.
It has been said the desire to pray is itself a prayer…. and that is enough.

This Sunday in our worship we will offer prayer for the healing of creation, the healing of the nations, and pray for healing for ourselves and others.
When the needs of the world, the climate crisis, or our own needs seem too big for words, we trust that God listens to our hearts.
As God listens to our hearts, may we also listen for God. Amen

November 7th, 2021

Today MCEC encourages us to pray for the Climate Summit and to pray for the Mennonite church nationwide as we discern and act together to witness to the gospel of peace for all people and all creation.
 

O Holy One, God of all creation,
galaxies, molecules, and life itself are encircled in your loving embrace.
We come to you, on behalf of your beloved earth and all its inhabitants.
We come to you with the caution of Job ringing in our ears.
“Miners put an end to darkness, and search out to the farthest bound
the ore in gloom and deep darkness.
They put their hand to the flinty rock,
and overturn mountains by the roots.
But where shall wisdom be found?”
We come to you with the warning of creation ringing in our ears.
Fire, drought, storms, rising temperatures, changes in the earth’s currents and flows,
unlike any experienced by our ancestors.
Something is wrong, with your world and with us.
And so, we pray for the political leaders gathered in Glasgow.
Allow them to hear the voices of those most vulnerable.
Give them the courage to act in ways that will make a difference.
Bring change, O God, a rushing wind of change,
a change as intimate as the desires of our hearts,
a change as big as the marketplace of nations.
May your economy come and your will be done,
on the earth, in the earth, and above the earth,
just as it already is in heaven.
Make us instruments of your peace.
Make us instruments of holy ferment.
AMEN

Gracious Lord, we dream of a world free of poverty and oppression, and we yearn for a world free of vengeance and violence. We pray for your peace.

When our hearts ache for the victims of war and oppression, help us to remember that you healed people simply by touching them. Give us faith in our ability to comfort and heal bodies and minds and spirits that have been broken by violence.

            When the injustice of this world seems too much for us to handle, help us to remember that you fed 5000 with five loaves and two fish…. that in your economy small things do great things. Give us hope and faith that what we have to offer will turn out to be enough too.

            Liberating God, when fear of the power and opinions of others tempts us not to speak up for the least among us, help us to remember that you dared to turn over the tables of money changers..  give us the courage to risk following you without counting the cost.

God with us, when we feel ourselves fill with anger at those who are violent and oppressive, help us remember that you prayed for those who killed you. Give us compassion for our enemies too.

            Companioning God, walk with us as we answer your call to be peacemakers, around the world and across the street. Increase our compassion, our generosity, our hospitality for the least of your children. Give us the courage, the patience, the serenity, self-honesty, the gentleness of spirit and hope that is needed in a world filled with need.

            God of compassion we also bring our needs for hope, healing, comfort, and peace.

            We pray for our Households of Faith:

           May God’s gifts of joy and love fill their hearts and home. May work be meaningful, relationships loving, and each day filled with blessing.

            We offer our prayers and those which we hold deep in our hearts in the name of Jesus. Amen

November 3rd, 2021

Greetings!
This Sunday we will celebrate Peace Sunday and focus on the theme “Defending Hope.”
Mennonite Central Committee has provided a devotional guide as we prepare to worship together.
This year’s theme involves learning from the global church. We will hear stories from MCC’s Palestinian, South Sudanese, Columbian, and Korean friends and partners. May the experience of engaging with these stories, our personal reflections, and prayers serve to strengthen our faith, our journey with Jesus, and our journey with one another.
Here’s the link:

https://mcccanada.ca/sites/mcccanada.ca/files/media/common/documents/2021peacesundaydevotional.pdf

All are welcome to join Friday prayer from 11:30 a.m. to 12 noon.
Friday Prayer began early on during the pandemic as a way to remain connected personally and through prayer. It met an important need.
Is Friday Prayer continuing to meet our needs? Perhaps you have suggestions/ideas of other ways to nurture our faith and strengthen our spiritual practices.
I welcome your feedback and your ideas.
We could also be thinking about our next book club! What are you reading that you would like to welcome others into?
This fall I read Kate Bowler’s latest book: “No Cure for Being Human and other truths I needed to hear.”
In a culture that constantly strives to improve, Kate encourages us to cut back on self-help Kool-Aid and get off the toxic positivity band wagon.
With a deep faith and spiritual wisdom, Kate writes with deep hope.
I’d love to hear what you’re reading and how it is nourishing your spirit.

October 31st, 2021

Listening God, you hear our prayers before we speak

                yet welcome our praying;

                therefore we come with confidence to lay our requests before you.

We pray for Christians everywhere,

                for our denomination and congregation

                for strength to persevere in faithfulness.

                We pray for the whole people of God.

We pray for the nations of the world,

                for all leaders,

                and for those who make policy decisions.

                We pray for the well-being of our global community,

We pray for the earth and all living creatures,

                for regions and species at risk,

                and for the sharing of resources.

We pray for the wholeness of creation.

We pray for those who are overcome by violence,

                for victims of injustice or oppression,

and for those in poverty or pain.

We pray for all who need healing and peace.

We pray for those who endure trials,

                for those who are dying,

                and for those who mourn.

                We pray for all in need of comfort and hope.

                Hear our prayers for our Households of Faith:

                Faithful God, you have heard the prayers of your people. We rest in the comfort of your care, as we pray in Jesus’ name.  Amen

October 27th, 2021

It is good to be back with you following the gift of sabbatical! Thank you for your patience as I get caught up.

This past Sunday I shared how vital a spiritual practice it is to slow down and take time for reflection. The spaciousness of sabbatical provided abundant and fruitful times of reflection.

In follow up to Sunday’s message…

As you continue to reflect upon your water jar – are you filled to the brim? What is life-giving? What fills you with gratitude? With joy? 

Are you noticing that your water jar is depleted? What is draining your reserves? Is there a heavy burden you are bearing?

Perhaps your water jar is empty, completely poured out. What energies have been poured out to the point that you are experiencing a parched and dry spirit? 

As you sit with your water jar, take the time to be open to what God wants to say to you. 

Sometimes God’s voice is revealed with a word. Other times, with an image, a metaphor, a question, or invitation.

It’s been my experience that when I listen for God, my eyes are opened to see something new. Sometimes a new pathway is presented, a barrier shifts, or a perspective is reframed. 

As a congregation as we continue to discern and live into being a faithful church, we want to continue to strengthen our capacity for listening – to God, to that which lies deep within ourselves. We also want to listen to one another. As the song writer proclaims “Let all who thirst, let them come, come to the water…”

May the living water that Jesus provides, refresh us, renew us, and fill us as we continue to journey together.   

October 24th, 2021

Loving God, Creator and Sustainer, You open Your hand,

and satisfy the hunger and thirst of every living thing.

And so we look to You whenever we are in need,
trusting in Your love and Your abundant goodness.

As trees planted by flowing streams, Your waters of grace nourish us

that we may bear fruits of love and peace, generosity and goodness,

kindness and compassion. May our roots go deep as we drink deeply from your life-giving stream.

God of mystery, deepen our awareness to untapped potential of buds forming within and grant us strength to risk blossoming, individually and congregationally.

Grant us the courage to release, in order for new life to emerge –

Grant us stillness to sit with you, open to what you long for us to see and to hear.

May your grace abound as we seek to live and move in the gentle current of spiritual growth.    

Listening God, today we hear your invitation to come away and rest while,

to be attentive to mind, body, and spirit;

To attend to our relationship with You, creation, with others, and ourself.

We confess many things distract us – productivity, perfectionism….

Draw near to us as we draw nearer to you. Spirit of the Living God all afresh upon us and grant us rest.

Lord Jesus as You once fed the hungry crowds with five loaves and two small fish,

we ask that You would again fill those who are empty this day.

Pour out Your Spirit on all who hunger and thirst.

We pray for those who are physically hungry—whose stomachs are empty.

We think especially of the people who are facing critical food shortages;

    who are suffering the effects of malnutrition and starvation;

        and watching helplessly as loved ones die.

We pray for those who are empty emotionally—

who are lonely and long for companionship and love,

        who are caught in the grip of depression,
            or overwhelmed with grief. 

May warm memories and the love and compassion of family and friends hold all who grieve.

Hear our prayer for those who are spiritually empty—

who are troubled, but don’t know where to turn;

    who long for purpose and meaning, but don’t know where to look;
        who need You, but do not yet know You.

Hear our prayer who stand in need of the flow of your healing.

God, we praise You for Your abundant gifts in our lives.

Pour out Your Spirit on us as we engage in important conversation today.

May we listen deeply and attentively to you and to one anther.

May our conversation be seasoned with grace and love.

We thank you and praise you, O God, that however we may thirst,

whatever we may need to satisfy our souls, You offer it freely and abundantly in Christ;

So we drink deep of the living water and, as we draw from your wells, we seek to pass the cup to others

who, like us, are thirsty for your grace. We offer our prayers in Jesus’ name. Amen 

October 17th, 2021

This morning in the service, I will be praying two prayers, penned by the apostle Paul, over you as a congregation. I would invite you to receive these prayers as a blessing and an encouragement. I would also invite you to pray these prayers over others during this week. You may feel led to pray these scriptures over a family member, a friend, a fellow member of this congregation or anyone that God would bring to your mind. Let these words minister to your heart & soul as well, causing both challenge and growth.

Col. 1: 9-14

For this reason, since the day we heard about you, we have not stopped praying for you. We continually ask God to fill you with the knowledge of his will through all the wisdom and understanding that the Spirit gives,[a] 10 so that you may live a life worthy of the Lord and please him in every way: bearing fruit in every good work, growing in the knowledge of God, 11 being strengthened with all power according to his glorious might so that you may have great endurance and patience, 12 and giving joyful thanks to the Father, who has qualified you[b] to share in the inheritance of his holy people in the kingdom of light. 13 For he has rescued us from the dominion of darkness and brought us into the kingdom of the Son he loves, 14 in whom we have redemption, the forgiveness of sins.

Eph 3: 16-21

16 I pray that out of his glorious riches he may strengthen you with power through his Spirit in your inner being, 17 so that Christ may dwell in your hearts through faith. And I pray that you, being rooted and established in love, 18 may have power, together with all the Lord’s holy people, to grasp how wide and long and high and deep is the love of Christ, 19 and to know this love that surpasses knowledge—that you may be filled to the measure of all the fullness of God.

20 Now to him who is able to do immeasurably more than all we ask or imagine, according to his power that is at work within us, 21 to him be glory in the church and in Christ Jesus throughout all generations, for ever and ever! Amen.

Prayer Requests:

·       Thank you God that you comfort the broken hearted, those who have experienced great loss. Holy Spirit, be present with all in our congregation who are hurting and grieving, grant strength and peace, and the courage to move forward. Lord Jesus, we give thanks.

·       We give praise and thanks to God for His hand on Pastor Kara over these weeks of sabbatical and celebrate that she will return to her pastoral role today. Pray for His strength and peace to flow into and through her life as she returns to lead, instruct, and encourage all here at WMC. God, grant her fresh joy and a passion to serve and love as Jesus would.

Households of Faith: Praise & Prayer

 We are blessed to have frequent contact with several friends and family members and keep informed of information regarding WMC and following on YouTube.

“Be imitators of God, therefore, as dearly loved children and live a life of love, just as Christ loved us and gave himself up for us as a fragrant offering and sacrifice to God.” Eph. 5:1-2

October 13th, 2021

Let me start what will be my final “Wednesday Inspiration” writing with a few personal comments. What a privilege it has been for Gloria and me to worship and walk together with you as a body of believers over these past 4 months during Pastor Kara’s sabbatical. We give thanks to God for your welcome, your encouragement, and for His leading and presence among us. It has been a joy to minister together, to share, to learn, and to grow together spiritually.

We have enjoyed getting to know many of you very well, but also recognize that there are numbers of you here at WMC that we have never met…one of the many pains of COVID.

However, my prayer is that as you reflect on these past four months, you can honestly say that God has invited you and enabled you to grow in Him. I also pray that our times of worship and meeting together, whether in person or online, your times of conversation and prayer with other believers, or times of solitude and reflection, have all moved the needle of your spiritual tank closer toward “Full” versus “Empty”. God’s desire is that we grow and mature in Him.

May God continue to lead, grant wisdom, and pour out His blessings on you as individuals and as a church.

These are difficult days for many in our communities as well as around the world. As I leave WMC, I would like to challenge each of you to become “difference makers”; to be the hands and feet of Jesus wherever God places you and however He inspires you. Read the following prayers from Voices Together as well as the Isaiah passage and invite God to speak to you through His Holy Spirit.

VT – 1035

Christ has no body now on earth but yours;

yours are the only hands with which Christ can do His work,

yours are the only feet with which Christ can go about the world,

yours are the only eyes through which Christ’s compassion can shine forth upon a troubled world.

Christ has no body on earth now but yours.

VT – 1036

Lay one brick at a time, take one step at a time;

we can be responsible only for the one action of the present moment.

But we know that God will take them and multiply them,

as Jesus multiplied the loaves and fishes.

VT – 1029

Christ, whose insistent call disturbs our settled lives;

give us discernment to hear your word, grace to relinquish our tasks,

and courage to follow empty-handed wherever you may lead;

that the voice of your gospel may reach to the ends of the earth.

Amen

Isaiah 58: 6-9

“Is not this the kind of fasting I have chosen:
to loose the chains of injustice
    and untie the cords of the yoke,
to set the oppressed free
    and break every yoke?
Is it not to share your food with the hungry
    and to provide the poor wanderer with shelter—
when you see the naked, to clothe them,
    and not to turn away from your own flesh and blood?
Then your light will break forth like the dawn,
    and your healing will quickly appear;
then your righteousness[
a] will go before you,
    and the glory of the Lord will be your rear guard.
Then you will call, and the Lord will answer;
    you will cry for help, and he will say: Here am I.

“God, break our hearts with what breaks Yours….”

October 10th, 2021

Oh God, we come into your presence this morning with thanksgiving in our hearts and praise on our lips. We come as your children, loved and welcomed by a Holy, awesome God.

We give praise for your gift of salvation and grace, for the transforming work that you do in and through us. God, continue to shape your image in us.

On this Thanksgiving Sunday, we give you thanks for the simple things of life…. for the beauty of coloured leaves, the gift of clean water to drink, that breath of fresh air, for the gift of stars in the night sky. Thank you, God, for the gift of eyesight, the ability to hear music and the voices of loved ones. We praise you for family, for children and grandchildren, for friends and those we love. God, hear our prayers of personal thanks as we pause in your presence.

(Take a moment to pray for individuals that God brings to your mind)

God, we also give you thanks for this congregation, this body of believers that together comprise a part of the Body of Christ. What a privilege to be called by that name.

We pray today for those in this Body who are grieving…Lord bring comfort and peace through your presence. For those who are struggling with health issues, physical, emotional, or mental, God again we pray for your power to heal, to transform and to make new.

And God, where there is need, for food, for encouragement, or finances, give us the wisdom and grace to respond in love.

God, thank you for your work in and through our lives as individuals and through the ministry and presence of the church. Lord, give us together the wisdom, strength, and love to be the face and presence of Jesus in this community, to our neighbors, and in our places of work.

May this church, all who love and desire to serve you, stand up with courage, committed to follow you Jesus, committed to make a difference in our world.

God, as this church again walks a road of change, of transition, I would pray the words of the apostle Paul for each individual within this Body here.

“I pray that you, being rooted and grounded in love, may have power together with all the saints, to grasp how wide and long and high and deep is the love of Christ, and to know this love that surpasses knowledge – that you may be filled to the measure of all the fullness of God.”

May God’s will be done in and through you all!

Amen

Pastor Clare

Prayer Requests:

·       Thank you God that you comfort the broken hearted, those who have experienced great loss. Holy Spirit, be present with all who are hurting and grieving, grant strength and peace, and the courage to move forward. Lord Jesus, we give thanks.

·       Pray for wisdom for the leadership of our Christian Ed. program at all age groups as decisions are made concerning programming this Fall. May God’s will be done.

·       We give praise and thanks to God for His hand on Pastor Kara over these weeks of sabbatical. Pray for His strength and peace to flow into and through her life as she returns to lead, instruct, and encourage all here at WMC. God, place a fresh vision of your call within her heart and mind. Father, fill her with your joy.

Households of Faith: Praise & Prayer

Pray for these families that God would bless and encourage them over this Thanksgiving weekend. God, draw then close to you and may they grow to know you better.

“Give thanks to the Lord, call on His name; make know among the nations what He has done. Sing to Him, sing praise to Him; tell of His wonderful acts. Glory in His Holy name; let the hearts of those who seek the Lord rejoice.” Psalm 105: 1-3

October 6th, 2021

Thanksgiving – Yes, this is the weekend when we here in Canada celebrate a holiday we call Thanksgiving. I also realize that this day has different meanings for each individual….some see it as a great time to connect as family, enjoying wonderful food and laughter; for others it is simply a holiday from work and school. And for some it is a deeply spiritual event as they reflect on and give thanks for the work of grace and transformation that God has done in their lives.

So, what will this day we call Thanksgiving mean for you? I suspect that if we polled 10 individuals, we may receive ten different responses, or possibly 10 different responses from each person if we gave them time.

It is good to be thankful, to live with a heart of thanksgiving. Giving thanks impacts my perspective of life, my attitude toward a specific task, and yes, my attitude toward others. Does that mean it is always easy to be thankful? No, not for me anyway. And yet, over and over in scripture, God calls us to give thanks including this statement from our friend Paul, “…in everything give thanks; for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus for you.” 1 Thess. 5:18 (NKJ). How about that as a challenge for each day!

I encourage you to read the following two portions of scripture, reflect on them, and again ask yourself, “what will this day we call Thanksgiving mean for me?”. Invite God to stretch you and refine your perspectives of living with a spirit of thanksgiving. God bless you as you do this.

Psalm 100 (NIV)

Shout for joy to the Lord, all the earth.
    Worship the Lord with gladness;
    come before him with joyful songs.
Know that the Lord is God.
    It is he who made us, and we are his[a];
    we are his people, the sheep of his pasture.

Enter his gates with thanksgiving
    and his courts with praise;
    give thanks to him and praise his name.
For the Lord is good and his love endures forever;
    his faithfulness continues through all generations.

Psalm 136

Give thanks to the Lord, for he is good.
His love endures forever.
Give thanks to the God of gods.
His love endures forever.
Give thanks to the Lord of lords:
His love endures forever.

to him who alone does great wonders,
His love endures forever.
who by his understanding made the heavens,
His love endures forever.
who spread out the earth upon the waters,
His love endures forever.
who made the great lights—
His love endures forever.
the sun to govern the day,
His love endures forever.
the moon and stars to govern the night;
His love endures forever.

Yes, give THANKS! Let that thought permeate your heart and mind.

October 3rd, 2021

O God, we give you praise for each one who is a part of the Body of Christ here at Wellesley Mennonite Church. Thank you, Father, for the gifts each one brings, for the fact that as a part of the body, each one plays a crucial role, each one is a vital part. God, you have combined the members of the body “so that there would be no division in the body, but that its parts should have equal concern for each other. If one part suffers, every part suffers with it; if one part is honoured, every part is honoured.” 1 Cor. 12: 25-26. God give us the insight, compassion, and grace, so that this may become the reality within the body here at WMC.

Lord Jesus, as we again come to a time of transition as a congregation, may we keep our eyes on you. May your love flow in and through us, may we walk in step with you through the guidance of the Holy Spirt, and may forgiveness, grace, and humility become the hallmark of our character. This we pray in your holy name Jesus, for ourselves and for each other.

9 For this reason, since the day we heard about you, we have not stopped praying for you. We continually ask God to fill you with the knowledge of his will through all the wisdom and understanding that the Spirit gives,[a] 10 so that you may live a life worthy of the Lord and please him in every way: bearing fruit in every good work, growing in the knowledge of God, 11 being strengthened with all power according to his glorious might so that you may have great endurance and patience, 12 and giving joyful thanks to the Father, who has qualified you[b] to share in the inheritance of his holy people in the kingdom of light. 13 For he has rescued us from the dominion of darkness and brought us into the kingdom of the Son he loves, 14 in whom we have redemption, the forgiveness of sins. Col. 1: 9-14

Prayer Requests:

· The road of grief presents a unique challenge to each person who finds themselves on it. Thank you for your continued prayers for the many spouses, children, and family members of our church community who are grieving the death of a loved one. Do not forget these individuals but allow God’s love to flow through you as you provide both care and support. Pray for God’s peace and comfort in the life of each individual.

· Pray for wisdom for the leadership of our Christian Ed. program at all age groups as decisions are made concerning programming this Fall. May God’s will be done.

· Continue to pray for Kara as she concludes her sabbatical within the next weeks. May God provide physical and spiritual rest and renewal through His presence and place a fresh vision of His call within her heart and mind. We pray Father that you would fill her with your joy.

Households of Faith: Praise & Prayer

“Bear with each other and forgive whatever grievances you may have against one another. Forgive as the Lord forgave you. And over all these virtues put on love, which binds them together in perfect unity.”

Col. 3: 13-14

September 29th, 2021

This Sunday we will continue to focus our time together on God’s Grace as we also celebrate the Lord’s Supper together. Yes, as followers of Christ we have all experienced “Failure, Forgiveness and Grace”. God is totally able to take our failures, those times when we mess up, yes, even our acts of sinfulness, and transform them into growth, of holy learning, and righteousness, all through His forgiveness and grace.

And one of the amazing aspects of Grace is that in love, God chooses us to be a part of His family. Take a moment to read the following from Pastor Max Lucado in his book “GRACE: more than we deserve; greater than we imagine”.

My child, I want you in my new Kingdom. I have swept away your offenses like the morning clouds, your sins like the morning mist.

I have redeemed you. The transaction is sealed; the matter is settled.

I, God, have made my choice.

I choose you to be a part of my forever family.

                                                    God

Lucado also writes the following:

“To live as God’s child is to know, at this very instant, that you are loved by your Maker not because you try to please him and succeed, or fail him and apologize, but because he wants to be your Father. Nothing more. All your efforts to win his affection are unnecessary. All your fears of losing his affection are needless. You can no more make him want you than you can convince him to abandon you. The adoption is reversible. You have a place at his table.”

 All by Grace

So, you are invited to come to the table, to eat, to share, to celebrate. But then to also walk in obedience and to invite others to the table as well.

And the table will be wide. And the welcome will be wide.

And the arms will open wide to gather us in. And our hearts will open wide to receive.

And we will come as children who trust there is enough.

And we will come unhindered and free.

And our aching will be met with bread. And our sorrow will be met with wine.

And we will open our hands to the feast without shame.

And we will turn toward each other without fear.

And we will give up our appetite for despair. And we will taste and know of delight.

And we will become bread for a hungering world.

And we will become drink for those who thirst.

And the blessed will become the blessing. And everywhere will be the feast.

                                                                                       Voices Together

September 26th, 2021

Over these next two weeks, the focus of our Sunday worship will be on “Failure, Forgiveness & Grace”. Each of us has experienced failure, we have sinned, BUT God…. As we come to him with confession, He forgives and through His grace redeems and restores. Praise God.

May this be true in your heart and life.

The following prayer speaks so well to the work of God in restoring that which is broken and damaged. May God answer this prayer in each of our lives.

From all that is broken, let there be beauty.

From what is torn, jagged, ripped, frayed,

let there be not just mendings but meetings unimagined.

May the God in whom nothing is wasted

gather up every scrap, every shred and shard,

and make of them new paths, doorways, worlds. 

Amen

Prayer Requests:

·       Pray for leadership of our Christian Ed. program as decisions are made concerning programming this Fall with the uncertainties of Covid. Lord, continue to lead!

·       Grief is a difficult road and different for all who walk it. Thank you for your continued prayers for the many spouses, children, and family members of our church community who are grieving the death of a loved one. Invite God to bring these individuals to your mind; invite Him to guide as to how you may reach out with support, care and love. Pray for God’s peace and comfort in the life of each individual.

·       Continue to pray for Kara as she concludes her sabbatical within the next three weeks. May God provide physical and spiritual  rest and renewal through His presence and place a fresh vision of His call within her heart and mind. We pray Father that you would wrap your arms of love around her.

“Search me, O God, and know my heart; test me and know my anxious thoughts. See if there is any offensive way in me, and lead me in the way everlasting.”

Psalm 139: 23-24

September 22nd, 2021

Failure is very much a part of our life experience. We may have failed that first Driver’s Road Test (yes, that was me); that waterskiing attempt which ended with a huge gulp of lake water and some very sore muscles the next day; or that great Business idea that struggled to a horrible death after months of effort and money. Failure is painful. It can be discouraging and lead to a time of discouragement and depression. But it can also become a time of growth.

Yes, the reason for failure can be as simple as poor planning, a lack of giftedness, or it may be the result of sin in our lives. Our world and the scriptures are full of examples of moral failure and the consequences that result. But failure is not the end of the story. Many times, great success and significant discoveries come after multiple failures. And the same can be true regarding sin. Forgiveness and grace is available through Christ’s death on the cross and His resurrection…..what a gift!

The focus of our worship for the next two weeks, as we look to celebrate The Lord’s Supper together on Sunday Oct. 10, will be Failure, Forgiveness and Grace. God is totally able to take our failures, those times when we mess up, yes, even our acts of sinfulness, and transform them into growth, of holy learning, and righteousness, all through His forgiveness and grace.

Read and reflect on the following two examples where the disciples stumbled & failed, and how Christ responded in love.

A.     33 They came to Capernaum. When he was in the house, he asked them, “What were you arguing about on the road?” 34 But they kept quiet because on the way they had argued about who was the greatest.

35 Sitting down, Jesus called the Twelve and said, “Anyone who wants to be first must be the very last, and the servant of all.”

36 He took a little child whom he placed among them. Taking the child in his arms, he said to them, 37 “Whoever welcomes one of these little children in my name welcomes me; and whoever welcomes me does not welcome me but the one who sent me.”   Mark 9: 33-37

B.     54 Then seizing him, they led him away and took him into the house of the high priest. Peter followed at a distance. 55 And when some there had kindled a fire in the middle of the courtyard and had sat down together, Peter sat down with them. 56 A servant girl saw him seated there in the firelight. She looked closely at him and said, “This man was with him.”

57 But he denied it. “Woman, I don’t know him,” he said.

58 A little later someone else saw him and said, “You also are one of them.”

“Man, I am not!” Peter replied. 59 About an hour later another asserted, “Certainly this fellow was with him, for he is a Galilean.”

60 Peter replied, “Man, I don’t know what you’re talking about!” Just as he was speaking, the rooster crowed. 61 The Lord turned and looked straight at Peter. Then Peter remembered the word the Lord had spoken to him: “Before the rooster crows today, you will disown me three times.” 62 And he went outside and wept bitterly.

Luke 22: 54-62

[To read Christ’s response of love to Peter, read John 21]

September 19th, 2021

As we enter the Fall season this week, my prayer is that God would reveal His beauty and power to you through all that you see around you. May you know security in His love, peace through His presence, and joy in the reality of His power working in and through you.

May the Son of God, who is already formed in you,

grow in you so that for you he will become immeasurable,

and that in you he will become laughter, exultation,

the fullness of joy which no one will take from you.

VT 1057

Prayer Requests:

·       Thank you for your continued prayers for the many spouses, children, and family members of our church community who are grieving the death of a loved one. Invite God to bring these individuals to your mind; invite Him to guide as to how you may reach out with support, care and love. Pray for God’s peace and presence to reign.

·       Continue to pray for Kara as she continues her sabbatical over these next weeks. May she find deep rest and renewal through the presence of God in her life, and a fresh vision of God’s call on her life in the church

“Shout for joy to the Lord, all the earth. Worship the Lord with gladness; come before Him with joyful songs. Know that the Lord is God. It is He who made us, and we are His; we are His people, the sheep of His pasture.  Psalm 100: 1-2

September 12th, 2021

This Sunday morning as we gather for worship (whether for an outdoor service or back at the church), we will spend significant time praying for each other. We will pray for our children as they return to school, for teachers and parents, for Christian Ed. Staff and for all who serve in some capacity in the life and leadership of Wellesley Mennonite Church. We so look forward to having you join us.

The following would be my prayer for each of us as we move into this Fall season.

       May God bless you with a restless discomfort about easy answers, half-truths,

       and superficial relationships, so that you may seek truth boldly

       and love deep within your heart.

       May God bless you with holy anger at injustice, oppression, and exploitation of people,

       so that you may work tirelessly for justice, freedom, and peace.

       May God bless you with the gift of tears to shed with all who suffer from pain,

       rejection, and starvation, so that you may reach out to bring comfort

       and transform pain into joy.

       May God bless you with enough foolishness to believe that you really can make a

       difference in this world, so that you are able, with God’s grace,

       to do what others claim cannot be done.   VT 1058

Prayer Requests:

·       Thank you for praying for the many spouses, children, and family members of our church community who are grieving the death of a loved one. Invite God to bring these individuals to your mind; invite Him to guide as to how you may reach out with support, care and love. Pray for God’s peace and presence to reign.

·       Continue to pray for Kara as she continues her sabbatical over these next six weeks. May she find deep rest and renewal through the presence of God in her life.

“Devote yourselves to prayer, being watchful and thankful.” Col. 4:2

September 15th, 2021

Over the past two days we have had some good thunderstorms roll through the KW area. Last night again as we were heading to bed, the drums of thunder were loud, the lightning was flashing, and the rain was being driven against the back wall of the house. I actually enjoy a good thunderstorm, because as a child we would often sit outside on the porch of the old farmhouse and joy in the crashing and the show of lightning. But last night, as was true as a child, I had significant protection. A strong roof over my head, a solid structure around me, protecting me. There was really nothing to fear.

Not so for the disciples as recorded in Mark 4: 35-41. Read the following and sense the terror of the disciples.

35 That day when evening came, he said to his disciples, “Let us go over to the other side.” 36 Leaving the crowd behind, they took him along, just as he was, in the boat. There were also other boats with him. 37 A furious squall came up, and the waves broke over the boat, so that it was nearly swamped. 38 Jesus was in the stern, sleeping on a cushion. The disciples woke him and said to him, “Teacher, don’t you care if we drown?” 39 He got up, rebuked the wind and said to the waves, “Quiet! Be still!” Then the wind died down and it was completely calm.

40 He said to his disciples, “Why are you so afraid? Do you still have no faith?” 41 They were terrified and asked each other, “Who is this? Even the wind and the waves obey him!”

Can you feel their terror, the fear that literally takes your breath away? Have you walked in their shoes? Maybe not while in a boat on a stormy lake. Your storm involved the word “cancer” coming from the mouth of a doctor, the pink slip from an employer, or the reality that you do not have the funds available to pay the bills at month end, and there appears to be no one to help.

That is what the disciples experienced as well, yet Jesus was right there in the boat with them. “Don’t you care?,” they shouted to Jesus. And what was His response? “Why are you so afraid?” “Do you still have no faith?”

Jesus was right there; He was present, yet the disciples were still overwhelmed with fear. Yes, Jesus is right there in your life and experience today…. right now! He knows exactly what you are facing and in absolute love He says “Peace. Be Still.”

Over the past two weeks, God has brought to my mind Phil 4 again and again. “Do not be anxious about anything….pray.” “And the peace of God…. will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.”

Yes, storms will come. But Jesus is present, and He cares about you because you are His child. “Fear not…Peace be still.”

God Bless you and keep you….

September 8th, 2021

Last evening as the rain at times dumped down, at other times a gentle sprinkle, my mind slipped back to our final song of worship this past Sunday morning. Yes, you remember….”Rain Down”.

Take a few moments to read and meditate on these words:

Rain down, rain down, rain down your love on your people.

Rain down, rain down, rain down your love God of life.

1.     Faithful and true is the word of our God,

All of God’s works are so worthy of trust,

             God’s mercy falls on the just and the right;

             Full of God’s love is the earth.

2.     We who revere and find hope in our God

Live in the kindness and joy of God’s wing.

God will protect us from darkness and death;

God will not leave us to starve.

3.     God of creation, we long for your truth;

You are the water of life that we thirst.

Grant that your love and your peace touch our hearts,

All of our hope lies in you.

Rain down, rain down, rain down your love on your people.

Rain down, rain down, rain down your love God of life.

Oh, how we need God’s love to be poured out in our world. Mental stress, antagonism and frustration with others, anger and bitterness all seems to be the norm around us. But, if we truly believe that last line of verse 3 – “Grant that your love and your peace touch our hearts, all of our hope lies in you.” – then this song should become our daily and consistent prayer.

Invite God to pour His love into your heart and life in such a way that it naturally overflows to all those you connect with, from family, to co-workers, to the cashier at TIMS. And as His love “rains on you”, take the time to observe the changes in brings to those around you, and to you!

All are welcome!

“Whatever you do, work at it with all your heart, as working for the Lord, not for men.”

Col. 3:23

September 5th, 2021

Let me again encourage you to pray the following simple prayer this week as you start each day…. may you experience God’s amazing peace.

This day, God, may I dream your dreams;

This day, God, may I reflect your love;

This day, God, may I do your work;

This day, God, may I taste your peace.

                    Voices Together #313

Sometimes we struggle to know how to pray for the country of Afghanistan. We grieve for people who continue to wait, hoping to flee to safety. We cry out to you Father for the women and children that today are living in fear of the Taliban, and the repression that potentially lies ahead. We grieve for those families who lost family members in the latest terrorist bombings, both American and Afghani. We also grieve for the many who had hoped to flee their country to safety elsewhere. God, hear our cries, may your power come down and may your will be done. We also pray for those families who have been spirited to safety to a new country and homeland. Lord, may there be individuals and organizations that will step up in love and compassion, providing care as needed. And Lord, if that is a role you are calling us to fill, grant us courage and wisdom

Save us, God, from being self-centered in our prayers,

and teach us to remember to pray for others.

May we be so caught up in love for those for whom we pray

that we may feel their needs as keenly as our own,

and pray for them with imagination, sensitivity, and knowledge.

We ask this in Christ’s name. Amen              Voices Together 1000

Prayer Requests:

·       Thank you for praying for the many spouses, children, and family members of our church community who are grieving the death of a loved one. Invite God to bring these individuals to your mind; invite Him to guide as to how you may reach out with support, care and love. Pray for God’s peace and presence to reign.

·       Continue to pray for Kara as she continues her sabbatical over these next six weeks. May she find deep rest and renewal through the presence of God in her life.

“Finally, be strong in the Lord and in His mighty power. Put on the full armor of God so that you can take your stand against the devil’s schemes……”  Eph 6: 10-20

September 1st, 2021

Good morning and welcome to this first day of September. As a former teacher & Principal at the Secondary School level, September 1 always felt like the beginning of a new season.A new school year was about to begin along with a whole lot of time and energy to be given, joys and frustrations experienced….it was all part of the work. This coming weekend as we celebrate Labour Day, we will take some time on Sunday morning to consider our “work”. How does it mirror the work of God in creation? Can our work, our deeds be an offering to God? What does it look like to do all that you do in life “in the name of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks to God the Father through Him”? Col.3:17

Where do you start? Take a few minutes to read the following portion of scripture from

Col. 1: 15-20 from Voices Together #189.

Christ is the image of the invisible God. Christ is the firstborn of all creation.

Everything was created in Christ, everything in heaven and on earth, everything seen and unseen, including all forces and powers, and all rulers and authorities.

All things were created through Christ, and everything was made for Christ.

Christ is the one who was before all else, and the one in whom everything is held together.

Christ is the head of the body which is the church.

Christ is the very beginning, the first to be raised from death, so as to be above all others.

God was pleased to live fully in Christ. And God was pleased for Christ to make peace through His blood, shed on the cross, so that all beings in heaven and on earth would be brought back to God.

I invite you to pray for the many needs around the world, families in Louisiana, struggling from the effects of the recent hurricane, the many in Haiti who need assistance after the earthquake, the turmoil in Afghanistan, the elections in Canada etc., as well as for needs within our church community.

“Whatever you do, work at it with all your heart, as working for the Lord, not for men.”

Col. 3:23

August 29th, 2021

Let me encourage you to pray the following simple prayer this week as you start each day…. may you experience God’s amazing peace.

This day, God, may I dream your dreams;

This day, God, may I reflect your love;

This day, God, may I do your work;

This day, God, may I taste your peace.

                    Voices Together #313

God of every place, some of us see you today from mountains of joy and confidence,

mountains of gratitude and praise.

Some of us seek you today from valleys of grief or doubt, valleys of loss or exhaustion.

And in all places, you are there with us, nudging us onward.

When we descend from the heights, show us your presence on the ground.

When we rise from the depths, show us the light of your way.

Meet us all on the path made by Jesus.

                     Voices Together #859

God, today we lift the people of Haiti as they strive to overcome the impact of the recent earthquake. Bring healing to those who were injured; comfort those who are grieving the death of loved ones; may Your peace surround and lift those who are living in fear; Lord, protect those who are desperately working to provide care, food, and clean water to those in need. We give you thanks.

We pray also for MCEC congregations, Famille Assemblée de la Grâce , Anjou, QC and Ma Destineé, Montreal, QC, as they pray for family and friends in Haiti. Grant them courage and faith.

[You may wish to respond with a donation through MCC Canada who will be working with local partners to provide assistance where needed most.]

Sometimes we struggle to know how to pray for the country of Afghanistan. We grieve for people who continue to wait, hoping to flee to safety. We cry out to you Father for the women and children that today are living in fear of the Taliban, and the repression that potentially lies ahead. We grieve for those families who lost family members in the latest terrorist bombings, both American and Afghani. God, hear our cries, may your power come down and may your will be done. We also pray for those families who have been spirited to safety to a new country and homeland. Lord, may there be individuals and organizations that will step up in love and compassion, providing care as needed. And Lord, if that is a role you are calling us to fill, grant us courage and wisdom

Prayer Requests:

·       Thank you for praying for the other many spouses, children, and family members of our church community who are grieving the death of a loved one. Invite God to bring these individuals to your mind; invite Him to guide as to how you may reach out with support, care and love. Pray for God’s peace and presence to reign.

·       Continue to pray for Kara as she continues her sabbatical. May she find deep rest and renewal through the presence of God in her life.

Households of Faith: Praise & Prayer

“And pray in the Spirit on all occasions with all kinds of prayers and requests. With this in mind, be alert and always keep on praying for all the saints.” Eph. 6:18

August 25th, 2021

Thank you for taking the time to read these weekly “Inspiration” emails, and for your prayer as well.

I came home last evening somewhat worn and tired. You understand the feeling; you have experienced this as well before. This morning I found myself going to Isaiah 40, reminding myself of the renewing strength that God provides for us. Maybe you are in need of this renewing as well.

So I invite you to read the following portion of Isaiah 40; joy in the power and glory of God, and His gift of strength to all who hope in the Lord.

Isaiah 40

21 Do you not know? Have you not heard? Has it not been told you from the beginning?  Have you not understood since the earth was founded?
22 He sits enthroned above the circle of the earth, and its people are like grasshoppers. He stretches out the heavens like a canopy,
 and spreads them out like a tent to live in.

25 “To whom will you compare me? Or who is my equal?” says the Holy One.
26 Lift up your eyes and look to the heavens: Who created all these?
He who brings out the starry host one by one and calls forth each of them by name.
Because of his great power and mighty strength,
 not one of them is missing.

27 Why do you complain, Jacob? Why do you say, Israel,
“My way is hidden from the Lord; 
 my cause is disregarded by my God”?
28 Do you not know?
 Have you not heard?
The Lord is the everlasting God,
 the Creator of the ends of the earth.
He will not grow tired or weary, and his understanding no one can fathom.
29 He gives strength to the weary and increases the power of the weak.
30 Even youths grow tired and weary,
 and young men stumble and fall;
31 but those who hope in the Lord will renew their strength.
They will soar on wings like eagles; they will run and not grow weary,
    they will walk and not be faint.

I invite you to pray for the many needs around the world, Haiti, Afghanistan, the elections in Canada etc., as well as for needs within our church community.

“And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and minds in Christ Jesus.”

Amen!

August 22nd, 2021

Begin your times of prayer this week with the following:

Come, Holy One, work upon us, set us on fire and clasp us close;

be fragrant to us, draw us to your loveliness;

let us love, let us run to you. Amen

And:

God of every place, some of us see you today from mountains of joy and confidence,

mountains of gratitude and praise.

Some of us seek you today from valleys of grief or doubt, valleys of loss or exhaustion.

And in all places, you are there with us, nudging us onward.

When we descend from the heights, show us your presence on the ground.

When we rise from the depths, show us the light of your way.

Meet us all on the path made by Jesus.

                     Voices Together #857 and #859

Prayer for Haiti

Please pray for the people of Haiti who experienced a magnitude 7.2 earthquake on Saturday, August 14, 2021 that has resulted in significant loss of life and left tens of thousands of people homeless. Rescue work has been hampered by heavy rains brought by Tropical Storm Grace, and of course the country is still wavering from the pandemic and from the assassination of their president last month. Pray also for MCEC congregations, Famille Assemblée de la Grâce (westefag@yahoo.com), Anjou, QC and Ma Destineé (jcrheau@hotmail.com), Montreal, QC, as they pray for family and friends in Haiti. You may wish to send the congregations notes and prayers of encouragement or respond with a donation through MCC Canada who will be working with local partners to provide assistance where needed most.

Prayer Requests:

·       Thank you for praying for the other many spouses, children, and family members of our church community who are grieving the death of a loved one. Invite God to bring these individuals to your mind; invite Him to guide as to how you may reach out with support, care and love. Pray for God’s peace and presence to reign.

Households of Faith:

Pray for our Households of Faith during this next week as follows:

Pray for God’s presence to flow over their lives, that they would live in joy and peace, knowing that God is near. May His grace be an encouragement in each of their lives and may they each grow more in love with Jesus.

“And pray in the Spirit on all occasions with all kinds of prayers and requests. With this in mind, be alert and always keep on praying for all the saints.” Eph. 6:18

August 18th, 2021

Words make a difference! They can lift and encourage, they can rip down, they can spur you on, or leave you in despair. Words matter. Words can impact our emotional state, they can calm fears or can create greater anxiety.

The Word of God also makes a difference for our lives. My prayer is that over this summer you have had or have taken increased time to really dig into the Word of God. Getting to know Jesus, the Living Word, is vital for spiritual growth. It is like fertilizer for your soul.

I invite you to read the following selections of verses from John 1, as written in

 Voices Together # 235

In the beginning was the Word. The Word was with God and the Word was truly God.

From the very beginning the Word was with God.

And with this Word, God created all things. Nothing was made without the Word.

From this Word, everything that was created received its life, a life that gave light to everyone.

The light shines in the darkness, and darkness has never put it out.

The Word was in the world, but no one noticed,

even though God had made the world with the Word.

The world belonged to the Word, but its nations did not welcome the Word.

Yet some people accepted the Word; to them was given the right to be the children of God.

They were not God’s children by nature or because of any human desires;

God was the one who made them children.

The Word became human and lived here with us.

We saw the Word’s true glory, the glory of a parent’s only child,

full of grace and truth.

Prayer:

Living God, by the power of your Spirit, help us to hear your holy Word,

that we may truly understand; that understanding, we may believe;

and believing, we may follow in faithfulness and obedience,

seeking your honour and glory in all that we do, through Jesus Christ.

Amen

I invite you to pray for the many needs around the world, Haiti, Afghanistan, the elections in Canada etc., as well as for needs within our church community.

And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and minds in Christ Jesus.”

Amen!

August 15th, 2021

During this Sunday’s worship service we will be challenged to grow as we put scripture into practice, to apply it into our daily lives. Our focus will be on Phil. 4: 4-8, and we will hear from four members of our congregation as to their spiritual walk and growth as they strive to put these commands of Paul into daily action.

However, God’s desire is that all of His Word would become an integrated part of the fabric of our lives. What is it that God is teaching you? What steps is He calling you to take as you continue to grow?

Over these past months we have been challenged with the issues of injustice and racism in our world. This is not a new issue, and the following word of God spoken through the prophet Isaiah could very well apply to our lives today

Here is a portion of Isaiah 58 (you may wish to read the complete Chapter)

“Is not this the kind of fasting I have chosen: to loose the chains of injustice
    and untie the cords of the yoke, to set the oppressed free, and break every yoke?
Is it not to share your food with the hungry and to provide the poor wanderer with shelter— when you see the naked, to clothe them,
    and not to turn away from your own flesh and blood?
Then your light will break forth like the dawn, and your healing will quickly appear;
then your righteousness
[a] will go before you, and the glory of the Lord will be your rear guard.
Then you will call, and the Lord will answer; you will cry for help, and he will say: Here am I.  If you do away with the yoke of oppression,
    with the pointing finger and malicious talk,
10 and if you spend yourselves in behalf of the hungry and satisfy the needs of the oppressed, then your light will rise in the darkness, and your night will become like the noonday.
11 The Lord will guide you always;
 he will satisfy your needs in a sun-scorched land
    and will strengthen your frame.
You will be like a well-watered garden,
 like a spring whose waters never fail.
12 Your people will rebuild the ancient ruins and will raise up the age-old foundations;
you will be called Repairer of Broken Walls,
 Restorer of Streets with Dwellings.

 Prayer: (Voices Together)

Living Christ, in these times when we fear we are losing hope and feel that our efforts are futile, let us see in our hearts and minds the image of your resurrection,

and let that be our source of courage and strength.

With that, and in your company, help us face challenges and struggles

against all that is born of injustice.  Amen

Prayer Requests:

·       Thank you for praying for the many spouses, children, and family members of our church community who are grieving the death of a loved one. Invite God to bring these individuals to your mind; invite Him to guide as to how you may reach out with support, care and love. Pray for God’s peace and presence to reign.

Pray for our Households of Faith during this next week.

“Shout for joy to the Lord, all the earth….” Psalm100:1

Pastor Clare

August 11th, 2021

This coming Sunday, August 15, we will wrap up our series on Phil. 4: 4-8 with several members of the congregation sharing their experiences, challenges, and joys of putting these verses into practice. It is with this in mind that I want to focus our thoughts this morning on God’s offer of peace. Paul encourages us to not be anxious, but rather to pray, presenting our requests to God with thanksgiving. Is this easy? Sometimes yes; however, many times we choose to struggle through the situation/issue we are facing on our own strength and lose out on the amazing work of God in and through our lives. Yes, I too struggle and stumble in this area at times and need to be reminded of Paul’s encouragement and God’s promise of peace that results from my obedience.

Here is what Jesus had to say regarding the peace of God as recorded in John 14: 23-27

23 Jesus replied, “Anyone who loves me will obey my teaching. My Father will love them, and we will come to them and make our home with them. 24 Anyone who does not love me will not obey my teaching. These words you hear are not my own; they belong to the Father who sent me.

25 “All this I have spoken while still with you. 26 But the Advocate, the Holy Spirit, whom the Father will send in my name, will teach you all things and will remind you of everything I have said to you. 27 Peace I leave with you; my peace I give you. I do not give to you as the world gives. Do not let your hearts be troubled and do not be afraid.

As you walk through this day and the remainder of this week, invite the Holy Spirit to guide your thoughts, to provide the strength necessary to walk in obedience, and to then to fill you with God’s peace.

Let the following be your prayer:

O Risen Christ, you breathe your Holy Spirit on us and you tell us: “Peace be yours.”

Opening ourselves to your peace – letting it soften the harsh and rocky ground of our hearts – means preparing ourselves to be bearers of reconciliation

wherever you may place us.

But you know at times we are at a loss.

So come lead us to wait in silence,

to let a ray of hope shine forth in our world.

                    (Voices Together – #1013)

And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and minds in Christ Jesus.”

August 8th, 2021

Over the past weeks as we have looked at Paul’s commands and prodding in Philippians 4, we have reminded ourselves numerous times that we are not alone. God is present. He is there in every situation, through every issue or challenge, present in every moment of joy.

This past week as Gloria and I had a few days of rest and renewal at the lake, I again was reminded that God is present. In the calmness of “paint splashed” water at sunset; in the beautiful whirr of the hummingbirds as they came to feed; in the silent darkness of midnight…He is there.

Celebrate and rest in that awareness as you read the following.

Psalm 139

1-6 God, investigate my life; get all the facts firsthand.
I’m an open book to you; even from a distance, you know what I’m thinking.
You know when I leave and when I get back; I’m never out of your sight.
You know everything I’m going to say before I start the first sentence.
I look behind me and you’re there, then up ahead and you’re there, too—
    your reassuring presence, coming and going.
This is too much, too wonderful— I can’t take it all in!

7-12 Is there anyplace I can go to avoid your Spirit? to be out of your sight?
If I climb to the sky, you’re there! If I go underground, you’re there!
If I flew on morning’s wings to the far western horizon,
You’d find me in a minute, you’re already there waiting!
Then I said to myself, “Oh, he even sees me in the dark!
    At night I’m immersed in the light!”
It’s a fact: darkness isn’t dark to you;

night and day, darkness and light, they’re all the same to you.

We are not alone. Thanks be to God.

Thank you for being a congregation that hears and responds to God’s call through the scriptures to pray. There is power in prayer. You will note that the following requests are a repeat of last week, partially due to the fact that I have been away from the office, but more critically, due to the fact that these are ongoing issues and needs.

Pray for patience as families and individuals cry out to God for renewed strength for each new day, each new week. Pray that God will work His perfect will in His perfect time. 

Prayer Requests:

·       Thank you for your prayer support & love expressed to those of our church community who are grieving the death of a family member.

Pray that God thru the Holy Spirit, the Comforter, will minister His grace and peace to all of these individuals and their families as they have need. 

·       Pray for Pastor Kara…may God fill her with His joy and peace; may she know His presence and the gift of renewal in her heart, soul, and mind.

Households of Faith:

Pray for our Households of Faith during this next week.

Pray for their well being, for summer enjoyment, and for rest and renewal. May God’s peace and presence rest on each individual

“We are not alone. Thanks be to God.”

Pastor Clare

August 4th, 2021

Over the past four weeks we have been digging into Phil. 4: 4-8, learning, struggling, and joying in the process of understanding Paul’s commands and the experience of putting them into practice. (Before you proceed, re-read or recite Phil. 4: 4-8)

The following is a story Max Lucado shares regarding the experience of a member of his congregation.

In her short thirteen years Rebecca Taylor has endured more than fifty-five surgeries and medical procedures and approximately one thousand days in the hospital.

Christyn, Rebecca’s mom, talks about her daughter’s health complications with the ease of a surgeon. The vocabulary of most moms includes phrases such as “cafeteria food,” and “too much time on the phone.” Christyn knows this language, but she’s equally fluent in the vernacular of blood cells, stents, and, most recently, a hemorrhagic stroke.

In her blog, Christyn wrote:

This past week’s new land mine was the phrase “possible hemorrhagic stroke,” a phrase I heard dozens of times used by numerous physicians. Over and over and over that phrase filled my mind and consumed my thoughts. It was emotionally crippling.

  This past Sunday our preacher, Max Lucado, started a very fitting series on anxiety. We reviewed the familiar Philippians 4:6 verse: “Do not be anxious about anything, but in everything, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God.”

   I presented my requests to the Lord as I had so many times before, but this time, THIS time, I needed more. And so, using Philippians 4: 8 as a guide I found my answer:

  “Finally, brothers and sisters, whatever is true…” What was true in my life at this particular moment? The blessing of all family members eating dinner together.

  “Whatever is noble.”  The blessing of enjoying each other’s presence outside of a hospital room.

  “Whatever is right.”  The blessing of experiencing my two sons’ daily lives.

  “Whatever is pure.”  The blessing of all three children laughing and playing with each other.

  Whatever is lovely.”  The blessing of watching Rebecca sleep peacefully in her bed at night.

  “Whatever is admirable.”  The blessing of an honourable team working tirelessly on Rebecca’s care.

  “If anything is excellent.”  The blessing of watching a miracle unfold.

  “Or praiseworthy.”  The blessing of worshipping a Lord who is worthy to be praised.

  “Think about such things.”

I did. As I meditated on these things, I stopped the dreaded phrase “hemorrhagic stroke” from sucking any joy out of my life. Its power to produce anxiety was now rendered impotent. And when I dwelt on the bountiful blessings in my life happening AT THAT VERY MOMENT, “the peace of God which transcends all understanding,” DID guard my heart and mind in Christ Jesus. A true, unexpected miracle. Thank you, Lord.

      Anxious For Nothing – Max Lucado pg 119-120

May God encourage you with this story. But my prayer is also that God would give us the courage and strength to put these principles into practice in our own lives.

And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and minds in Christ Jesus.”

Amen!

August 1st, 2021

Over the past weeks as we have looked at Paul’s commands and prodding in Philippians 4, we have reminded ourselves numerous times that we are not alone. God is present. He is there in every situation, through every issue or challenge, present in every moment of joy.

Celebrate and rest in that awareness as you read the following. (Voices Together #922)

We are not alone; we live in God’s world.

We believe in God: who has created and is creating,

   who has come in Jesus, the Word made flesh,

   to reconcile and make new,

   who works in us and others by the Spirit.

We trust in God.

We are called to be the Church:

   to celebrate God’s presence, to live with respect in creation,

   to love and serve others, to seek justice and resist evil,

   to proclaim Jesus, crucified and risen, our judge and our hope.

In life, in death, in life beyond death, God is with us.

We are not alone. Thanks be to God.

Phil. 4:4-8

Rejoice in the Lord always, I say it again: Rejoice. Let your gentleness be evident to all. The Lord is near. Do not be anxious about anything, but in everything, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. And the peace of God which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and minds in Christ Jesus.

Finally, brothers & sisters, whatever is true, whatever is noble, whatever is right, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is admirable – if anything is excellent of praiseworthy – think about such things.

Thank you for being a congregation that hears and responds to God’s call through the scriptures to pray. There is power in prayer.

Prayer Requests:

·       Thank you for your prayer support & love expressed to those of our church community who are grieving the death of a family member.

Pray that God thru the Holy Spirit, the Comforter, will minister His grace and peace to all of these individuals and their families as they have need. 

·       Pray for Pastor Kara…may God fill her with His joy and peace; may she know His presence and the gift of renewal in her heart, soul, and mind.

Households of Faith:

Pray for our Households of Faith during this next week.

Pray that God would strengthen them with His presence, would guide them with His hand, and would encourage each as they have need.

“We are not alone. Thanks be to God.”

July 28th, 2021

Just over a week ago, Gloria and I had the privilege of visiting the St. Jacobs Market. While the plan was to pick up some pickles for canning, the list of items gathered seemed to grow. A beautiful bouquet of flowers, some fresh blueberries, new potatoes (baked potatoes with a few garnishes….what a joy) and yes, a basket of early peaches from Niagara. Can you feel the juice running down your chin?

How fortunate we are to live in a land of such plenty and variety….all kinds of fruit and vegetables to fill our tables. Yes, that experience got me thinking about the fruit that the Spirit of God desires to produce in your life and mine. The fruit of joy, peace, faithfulness and so much more.

What fruit does God desire to grow in you during this season of your life? May the following become your prayer. (Voices Together, #1028)

Nuturing God, root us in Your love and grow us up to bear

the fruit of Your Spirit:

love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness,

gentleness and self-control.

Amen

For a portion of our time together on Friday, we will read and share reflections from the Psalmist David’s prayer of praise in Psalm 145. Read and rejoice in our God.

I will exalt you, my God the King; I will praise your name for ever and ever.
Every day I will praise you and extol your name for ever and ever.

Great is the Lord and most worthy of praise; his greatness no one can fathom.
One generation commends your works to another; they tell of your mighty acts.
They speak of the glorious splendor of your majesty—

        and I will meditate on your wonderful works…….

The Lord is gracious and compassionate, slow to anger and rich in love.

The Lord is good to all; he has compassion on all he has made.
10 All your works praise you, Lord; your faithful people extol you…….

The Lord is trustworthy in all he promises and faithful in all he does.[c]
14 The Lord upholds all who fall and lifts up all who are bowed down….

17 The Lord is righteous in all his ways and faithful in all he does.
18 The Lord is near to all who call on him, to all who call on him in truth.

21 My mouth will speak in praise of the Lord. Let every creature praise his holy name
    for ever and eve

May God bless and encourage you in your walk with Him this week.

July 25th, 2021

This week I have been reminded of the issues around our world with climate change and the impact on our environment. Flooding in Europe, China and now India, forest fires across the West of North America, tornados and storms that bring devastation etc.

As such, I would encourage you to share in offering the following prayer to our Creator & Sustainer God.

Source and sustainer of life, we cherish the myriad works of your hands.

Water, earth, and sky are yours, as are all their inhabitants, wild and tame.

We thank you for creatures that nourish and serve us,

     befriend, enrich, entertain, and protect us.

May we, who are made in your image, care for them well.

And may your groaning yet wondrous creation rally and thrive,

    revealing to all who come after us your wise, redemptive,

   transforming love,

   through Jesus Christ, our Savior. Amen     (Voices Together #1009)

Phil. 4:4-8

Rejoice in the Lord always, I say it again: Rejoice. Let your gentleness be evident to all. The Lord is near. Do not be anxious about anything, but in everything, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. And the peace of God which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and minds in Christ Jesus.

Finally, brothers & sisters, whatever is true, whatever is noble, whatever is right, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is admirable – if anything is excellent of praiseworthy – think about such things.

Thank you for being a congregation that hears and responds to God’s call through the scriptures to pray. There is power in prayer.

Prayer Requests:

·       Pray for our neighbours in Barrie who have lost homes, possessions and security as a result of the tornado. Pray also for those across our country who have been evacuated due to forest fires, who have lost homes & possessions.

And as we pray, may God grant us wisdom of how we can love in practical ways.

Psalm 100

Shout for joy to the Lord, all the earth.
    Worship the Lord with gladness;
    come before him with joyful songs.
Know that the Lord is God.
    It is he who made us, and we are his[a];
    we are his people, the sheep of his pasture.

–        Enter his gates with thanksgiving
    and his courts with praise;
    give thanks to him and praise his name.
For the Lord is good and his love endures forever;
    his faithfulness continues through all generations.

Our Hope is in the Lord…

July 21st, 2021

What is it that God desires to do in and through you today? Invite Him to speak into your mind and heart; listen carefully and then choose to respond in obedience.

I appreciated this prayer as recorded in Voices Together #984….make this your prayer today (or tomorrow.)

This day, God, may I dream your dreams;

This day, God, may I reflect your love;

This day God, may I do your work;

This day, God, may I taste your peace.

For a portion of our prayer time together on Friday, we will read and share in the Psalmist David’s prayer and rejoicing in his awareness of the presence of God and the miracle of our creation. The concluding 2 verses are a beautiful prayer of submission. Can you identify with any of the feelings expressed by David written here in Psalm 139?

You have searched me, Lord, and you know me.
You know when I sit and when I rise; you perceive my thoughts from afar.
You discern my going out and my lying down; you are familiar with all my ways.
Before a word is on my tongue you, Lord, know it completely.
You hem me in behind and before, and you lay your hand upon me.
Such knowledge is too wonderful for me, too lofty for me to attain.

Where can I go from your Spirit? Where can I flee from your presence?
If I go up to the heavens, you are there; if I make my bed in the depths, you are there.
If I rise on the wings of the dawn, if I settle on the far side of the sea,
10 even there your hand will guide me, your right hand will hold me fast.
11 If I say, “Surely the darkness will hide me and the light become night around me,”
12 even the darkness will not be dark to you; the night will shine like the day,
    for darkness is as light to you.

13 For you created my inmost being; you knit me together in my mother’s womb.
14 I praise you because I am fearfully and wonderfully made;
    your works are wonderful, I know that full well.
15 My frame was not hidden from you when I was made in the secret place,
    when I was woven together in the depths of the earth.
16 Your eyes saw my unformed body; all the days ordained for me were written in your book before one of them came to be.


23 Search me, God, and know my heart;
    test me and know my anxious thoughts.
24 See if there is any offensive way in me,
    and lead me in the way everlasting.

July 18th, 2021

We repeatedly hear the call to pray in scripture. It is a vital part of the call to us as believers and followers of Jesus. What a privilege to lift individuals, situations, crises, or victories to our God in prayer and with thanks. Praying is one of the joys of being a part of the Body of Christ.

Here are a few reminders:

Romans 12:12-13

Be joyful in hope, patient in affliction, faithful in prayer. Share with God’s people who are in need. Practice hospitality.

Col. 4:2

Devote yourselves to prayer, being watchful and thankful.

1 Thess. 5: 16-18

Be joyful always; pray continually; give thanks in all circumstances, for this is God’s will for you in Christ Jesus.

Eph. 6:18

And pray in the Spirit on all occasions with all kinds of prayers and requests. With this in mind, be alert and always keep on praying for all the saints.

Phil. 4:4-8

Rejoice in the Lord always, I say it again: Rejoice. Let your gentleness be evident to all. The Lord is near. Do not be anxious about anything, but in everything, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. And the peace of God which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and minds in Christ Jesus.

Yes, God prods and reminds us to pray. Thank you for responding as such.

July 11th, 2021

Zephaniah 3:17

“The Lord your God is with you, He is mighty to save.

He will take great delight in you, He will quiet you with His love, He will rejoice over you with singing.

Psalm 95: 1-7

“Come, let us sing for joy to the Lord; let us shout aloud to the Rock of our salvation.

Let us come before Him with thanksgiving and extol Him with music and song.

For the Lord is the great God, the great King above all gods.

In His hand are the depths of the earth, and the mountain peaks belong to Him.

The sea is His, for He made it, and His hands formed the dry land.

Come, let us bow down in worship, let us kneel before the Lord our Maker;

for He is our God and we are the people of His pasture, the flock under His care.”

Phil. 4: 4-5

“Rejoice in the Lord always. I will say it again: Rejoice!

Let your gentleness be evident to all. The Lord is near.

Do not be anxious about anything, BUT…….”

As we as the Body of Christ here at Wellesley Mennonite Church come to God in prayer this week, it is my encouragement to spend some time in praise and rejoicing. Challenges do come; grieving and loss is a part of our lives; we will face hardship, yet scripture consistently calls us to persevere and here in Phil 4, Paul challenges us to “Rejoice in the Lord always”. And yes, I struggle with his use of the word “always”. But it is only in God’s strength and by the work of the Holy Spirit that I can rejoice, that I can “delight in the Lord”, even when circumstances are not what I would desire.

So, focus your heart and mind on rejoicing, giving thanks to God for all that He has done and continues to do in your life. Then, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God as well.

Prayer Requests:

·       Pray for all who grieve loss these days, whether loss through death recently or in the past, loss of relationship, loss of health, loss of job, or those who have lost focus and purpose during these days of COVID.

·       Pray for those seeking medical help, surgery or appointments, and continue to wait. Grant patience and peace, and we pray that God will bring answers at exactly the perfect time.

·       Pray for Pastor Kara that these will be days of renewal and rest, that she will be able to complete the work needed on her doctoral thesis, and that God would speak deeply into her heart and soul. We praise God for her!

A Call to Prayer

· Please pray for and with MCEC congregations, Famille Assemblée de la Grâce, Anjou, QC and Ma Destineé, Montreal, QC, as they pray for family and friends in Haiti in the wake of the assassination of President Jovenel Moise. Many in the congregations are from Haiti. Pray for God’s peace and for the safety of the Haitian people. Pray also that the violence will not setback efforts to fight Covid-19 in Haiti. Haiti is one of only a handful of countries worldwide that has yet to administer coronavirus vaccine.
 

· Pray for the country and the people of Myanmar. Amos Chin, leader of the Bible Missionary Church (a Mennonite World Conference denomination) says, “The death toll has risen to the highest level in Burma’s Kalemyo, which is suffering from the third wave of Covid. There is a shortage of oxygen for our patients. We have to supply our patients with oxygen and treat ourselves because there is no government treatment. 63 Christian pastors, including two of our pastors, have died in Kalemyo. People are suffering and dying because of the civil war and Covid.”

“The grace of the Lord Jesus Christ be with your spirit. Amen.” Phil. 4:23

July 7th, 2021

Thank you for your many prayers, your loving support, and your gracious care this past week. You have demonstrated what it means to be the Body of Christ.

However, as many of you know, the walk down the road of grief will continue and as such I would ask that you continue to lift up others through your prayer and acts of love in the weeks ahead.

May this be your prayer. (Voices Together)

God,

make me an instrument of Your peace.

Where there is hatred, let me sow love;

    where there is injury, pardon:

    where there is doubt, faith;

   where there is despair, hope;

   where there is darkness, light;

   where there is sadness, joy.

O divine Spirit,

   grant that I may not so much seek

   to be consoled as to console,

   to be understood as to understand,

   to be loved as to love.

For it is in giving that we receive;

   it is in pardoning that we are pardoned;

   it is in dying that we are born

        to eternal life. Amen

May you be an instrument of God’s peace this week, within your family, your community and your workplace. May God go before you, His presence behind you, over you, and under you…..may He hold you in His Hands.

This Friday as we gather to pray we will also look together at portions of Psalm 51, David’s prayer of confession. Thank you Lord for your forgiveness!!

Psalm 51

Have mercy on me, O God, according to your unfailing love;

according to your great compassion, blot out my transgressions.

Wash away all my iniquity and cleanse me from my sin.

For I know my transgressions and my sin is always before me.

Against you, you only, have I sinned and done what is evil in your sight……..

Cleanse me with hyssop, and I will be clean;

wash me, and I will be whiter than snow.

Let me hear joy and gladness; let the bones you have crushed rejoice.

Hide your face from my sins and blot out all my iniquity.

Create in me a pure heart, O God, and renew a steadfast spirit within me.

Do not cast me from your presence or take your Holy Spirit from me.

Restore to me the joy of your salvation

and grant me a willing spirit, to sustain me……

O Lord, open my lips and my mouth will declare your praise.

You do not take delight in sacrifice, or I would bring it;

You do not take pleasure in burnt offerings.

The sacrifices of God are a broken spirit;

A broken and contrite heart, O God, you will not despise.

May God bless and encourage you in your walk with Him this week.

July 3rd, 2021

Romans 12: 9-13

Love must be sincere. Hate what is evil; cling to what is good. Be devoted to one another in brotherly love. Honor one another above yourselves. Never be lacking in zeal, but keep your spiritual fervor, serving the Lord. Be joyful in hope, patient in affliction, faithful in prayer. Share with God’s people who are in need. Practice hospitality.

Amen

Prayer Requests:

·       Pray for those who are struggling with loneliness and fear during this season of COVID. May God grant encouragement and peace, and may the Holy Spirit open our hearts and minds to those who need our support and love.

·       Pray for all those in our church and local community who are grieving as a result of the death of a loved one over the past months or the loss of a relationship. God, wrap them in your arms of love.

·       God, for those waiting for medical treatment or an appointment, or for a second vaccine, grant patience and peace. God open the door to answered prayer and do immeasurably more than all we can ask or imagine.

Households of Faith:

·       May God also bring healing and restoration to all who have been wounded through these school experiences.

Prayer  (Voices Together)

Gracious God,

when there is nothing we can say,

we give you thanks

that your Spirit intercedes for us

with sighs too deep for words.

Loving God,

when there is nothing we can do,

we give you thanks

that you are working for good

in this world of struggle and pain.

Holy God,

when there is nothing else we know,

still we give you thanks

that nothing in life or in death,

nothing in heaven or on earth,

nothing in this world or the world to come

will ever separate us from your great love;

through Jesus Christ.

Amen

June 30th, 2021

Let me share this Prayer with you (adapted from Voices Together)

God, in our grieving

let your peace rest on the Wagler family

and all who love them.

For the fullness of life together,

for shared sorrows and joys,

for the blessing of treasured memories,

we give you thanks.

For words unwise or left unsaid,

for things done or left undone,

grant your forgiveness,

and help us to forgive.

During our time of mourning and gratitude,

comfort our hearts and strengthen our faith

as we await the day of our reunion,

in the power of the risen Christ.

Amen

I also invite you to spend time over these next days, reading and praying Psalm 23, a familiar and beautiful Psalm.

Psalm 23

The Lord is my shepherd, I shall not be in want.

He makes me lie down in green pastures, he leads me beside quiet waters,

He restores my soul.

He guides me in paths of righteousness for His name’s sake.

Even though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death,

I will fear no evil, for you are with me,

your rod and your staff, they comfort me.

You prepare a table before me in the presence of my enemies.

You anoint my head with oil; my cup overflows.

Surely goodness and love will follow me all the days of my life,

And I will dwell in the house of the Lord forever.

May God encourage you as you pray and lift others up to the Lord.

June 26th, 2021

Psalm 100

Shout for joy to the Lord, all the earth.

Worship the Lord with gladness;

     come before Him with joyful songs.

Know that the Lord is God.

It is He who made us, and we are His;

     we are His people, the sheep of His pasture.

Enter His gates with thanksgiving and His courts with praise;

    give thanks to Him and praise His name.

For the Lord is good and His love endures forever, His faithfulness continues

    through all generations.

Hear Our Prayer:

Everlasting God, in whom we live and move and have our being:

You have made us for yourself, so that our hearts are restless

     until they rest in you.

Give us purity of heart and strength of purpose,

     that no selfish passion may hinder us from knowing your will,

     no weakness keep us from doing it,

that in Your light we may see clearly,

     and in Your service find perfect freedom, through Jesus Christ,

who lives and reigns with You and the Holy Spirit, one God

      now and forever. Amen

               #343 Voices Together

The congregations of Mennonite Church Saskatchewan sit in a season of grief in the wake of the discovery of a further 751 unmarked graves near a former Indian residential school close by the Cowessess First Nation. We also join with them in lament, in solidarity with the sorrow of Indigenous neighbours and communities throughout southeast Saskatchewan and southwest Manitoba whose children were abducted to the Marieval Indian Residential School. We too grieve with those who are impacted by the news of these deaths, and we pray for all those who bear the wounds of the residential school system, as well as for those who have been retraumatized by this discovery. God bring healing to minds and hearts.

God we pray for your peace, comfort and presence in our community, in our families and in our church family. We give thanks for your leading in our lives, and rejoice in the strength and grace your provide each day.

We pray for our Households of Faith.

Oh God, hear our prayers for those in need of healing, hope and wholeness.

Oh God, we also pray for others in our church family who are in need of healing, who need your encouragement Father, or simply need the hope that comes from your presence. We pray for your healing grace and for your strength to all who today are serving as caregivers.

Oh God, we confess our need of you. Hear our prayers.

We rejoice and give thanks.

In the Name of Jesus we pray.

Amen

June 23rd, 2021

Wednesday Inspiration & Friday Prayer Link

Thank you all for your commitment to pray for others, for specific needs, for situations in their lives, and that God would continue His work in and through us all as we grow in Him.

Our focus in these upcoming Friday prayer times will be on prayers from scripture.

However, first let me share a prayer from Voices Together. May this become your heart’s cry.

O Risen Christ, you breathe your Holy Spirit on us and you tell us: “Peace be yours.”

Opening ourselves to your peace – letting it soften the harsh and rocky ground of our hearts – means preparing ourselves to be bearers of reconciliation, wherever you may place us.

But you know at times we are at a loss.

So come lead us to wait in silence, to let a ray of hope shine forth in our world.

Amen

This Friday we will again focus our time on a prayer of the apostle Paul, written to the church at Colosse. In this prayer, Paul again indicates that “since the day we heard about you, we have not stopped praying for you….”

As you spend time meditating on and reading this prayer, I invite you to substitute for the “you”, the names of people that you wish to lift up to God. You may possibly name a family member, a child, a friend or co-worker, the list could go on. Pray with intent and invite the Holy Spirit to bring the names of people to your mind.

And then give Thanks to God for what He will do in that individual’s life.

9 For this reason, since the day we heard about you, we have not stopped praying for you. We continually ask God to fill you with the knowledge of his will through all the wisdom and understanding that the Spirit gives,[a] 10 so that you may live a life worthy of the Lord and please him in every way: bearing fruit in every good work, growing in the knowledge of God, 11 being strengthened with all power according to his glorious might so that you may have great endurance and patience, 12 and giving joyful thanks to the Father, who has qualified you[b] to share in the inheritance of his holy people in the kingdom of light. 13 For he has rescued us from the dominion of darkness and brought us into the kingdom of the Son he loves, 14 in whom we have redemption, the forgiveness of sins.

May God encourage you as you pray, and fill you with His joy!

June 20th, 2021

Holy God

I have so few ways to pray,

   but you have so many ways to answer.

Keep me alert to your unpredictable answers,

   to your unexplainable surprises,

and by your grace.

make me one of those surprises,

for the sake of the One

  who taught us the surprises

    of moving mountains,

       healing touches,

          wondrous stories,

              great banquets,

                 first suppers,

                   broken bread,

                      crosses,

                         and resurrections.

   (Voices Together – #1008)

We praise you Father for the ministry of Your Church, the Body of Christ around the world.

May you move with power and might in and through the church, bringing many to a

saving knowledge of Jesus through the faithful witness of believers.

Where there is suffering and persecution, bring hope, healing, and perseverance.

Today we continue to grieve the pain, suffering and loss in our world, whether through war, terrorism, neglect, or choices made. We pray that love would overcome hate; we pray for healing and cleansing of hearts and minds; we pray that peace and justice would reign in our hearts and lives, and in our world.

We pray for our households of faith.  May each rejoice in Your presence and work in their lives. Guide, strengthen and encourage them as individuals, and as a family. Pour our Your love in their lives.

We pray for Pastor Kara as she walks through these early days of her sabbatical. Lord, grant her deep rest and renewal. Speak peace into her heart and mind and continue to use her as an instrument of Your grace.

We pray for those who have spent time in hospital this week, for those waiting appointments, surgery, or test results. Grant patience and may Your will be done in each individuals life.

We pray for caregivers, for those who today are grieving the loss of relationship as a result of death or distance. We praise you that you are a God of Comfort.

Fathers Day Prayer:

Father God, Abba Father, on this day we as your children come before you with thanks and praise. We praise you because we are fearfully and wonderfully made.

Thank you for our earthly fathers – those who gave us physical life.

Thank you for Dads who loved, played with, cared for, and lifted us – for those fathers who were, and still are integral parts of our lives. God, we pray for your blessing on their lives; may they experience your joy today.

Where absence, death, choices, or tragedy has taken a father from a child, God, may you be their Father.

Where there is hurt, pain or brokenness between father and child, bring forgiveness and healing.

Father God, bless the fathers of our congregation today; fill them with wisdom, with patience and with courage.

And above all, fill them with deep love for their children, especially in these days of Covid, these days of increased stress.

For those with elderly fathers – where the role of caregiver has reversed; God give wisdom, grace, and an abundance of love.

We give thanks for those men who have no children but cherish the next generation as if they were their own.

Thank you for their mentoring, teaching and love of others.

We also praise you for those men in our lives who have mentored us, whether in the past or yet today. May you fill them with joy.

Father, we celebrate and give you Thanks this day for our fathers.

Amen

Oh God, hear our prayers. We rejoice and give thanks that You are a God who hears and knows all our needs.

In the Name of Jesus, we pray.

Amen

June 16th, 2021

Thank you for your willingness to pray and hold others to our God. Pastor Kara reflected last week on the recent tragic act of terrorism that took place in London as well as the horrific discovery of the remains of 215 young people in Kamloops. She invited us to share in a prayer of lament which I have again included below. I invite you to use this pray as your lament, but also pray for God’s healing grace to be poured out in both of these communities and that God would bring healing.Prayer of Lament

God, we lament the damage that our silence in the face of racial violence has done,
for the sins of racism that run through our lives like so many threads in a cloth.
Forgive us for the times we have given in to our discomfort, for the times
we have forgotten our own privilege and failed to stand with our black siblings, our Indigenous, and our Muslim neighbours.
Help those of us who experience white privilege every day remember that, with our privilege,
we are imbued with the responsibility to challenge and hold one another accountable.
Give us the courage to educate ourselves, to listen well,
and to use our voices when it is most needed. Amen    (adaptation of a prayer written by Clara Weybright)

And it was out of these tragedies that I was led to bring the message for this coming Sunday, “Hate vs Love….The Battle”

Therefore, I also invite you to spend some time praying the words of the apostle Paul from Ephesians 3: 14-21. Pray this for yourself and for others that you love in your sphere of influence. As you note, I have included both the NIV and The Message version. Invite God to speak deep into your heart as you pray.

(NIV)14 For this reason I kneel before the Father, 15 from whom every family[a] in heaven and on earth derives its name. 16 I pray that out of his glorious riches he may strengthen you with power through his Spirit in your inner being, 17 so that Christ may dwell in your hearts through faith. And I pray that you, being rooted and established in love, 18 may have power, together with all the Lord’s holy people, to grasp how wide and long and high and deep is the love of Christ, 19 and to know this love that surpasses knowledge—that you may be filled to the measure of all the fullness of God.

20 Now to him who is able to do immeasurably more than all we ask or imagine, according to his power that is at work within us, 21 to him be glory in the church and in Christ Jesus throughout all generations, for ever and ever! Amen.

(The Message) 14-19 My response is to get down on my knees before the Father, this magnificent Father who parcels out all heaven and earth. I ask him to strengthen you by his Spirit—not a brute strength but a glorious inner strength—that Christ will live in you as you open the door and invite him in. And I ask him that with both feet planted firmly on love, you’ll be able to take in with all followers of Jesus the extravagant dimensions of Christ’s love. Reach out and experience the breadth! Test its length! Plumb the depths! Rise to the heights! Live full lives, full in the fullness of God.

20-21 God can do anything, you know—far more than you could ever imagine or guess or request in your wildest dreams! He does it not by pushing us around but by working within us, his Spirit deeply and gently within us.

Glory to God in the church! Glory to God in the Messiah, in Jesus! Glory down all the generations! Glory through all millennia! Oh, yes!

June 13th, 2021

Holy God, who called creation into being,

Who calls us into Christ’s church;

We thank you for the church

For the mission of the church

For the ministry of the church.

Today, we thank you for the ministry of this church,

For pastors and people who have named your name and lived your life.

We thank you for cleansing us and making us alive through the waters of baptism. We give you thanks for new life you offer us through Jesus Christ our Lord.

Thank you also for the ministry of Mennonite Church Eastern Canada – our brothers and sisters in faith:

For steadfastness over time,

For faithful witness in the struggle

For justice and peace,

                Christ of love, hear our prayers for those in need of healing, hope, and wholeness and those whose needs we carry  deep in our hearts.

We pray for all awaiting appointments or test results.

We pray for caregivers including those supporting loved ones in long term care including Aldaview residents.

We pray for all who are suffering due to covid pandemic: the lonely, the sick, the over-whelmed. We pray for the grieving. May your comfort and peace abound.

We also pray for our households of faith:

Christ of love, hear our deep lament, our deep sorrow

in response to the tragic discovery of 215 First Nation’s children’s bodies at a Residential School in Kamloops.

Hear our deep lament and sorrow due to act of terrorism and tragic loss of life of our Muslim neighbours in London.

Where hate resides may love overcome.

Where bitterness takes root, we pray for cleansing and deep healing.

Where oppression rages, we pray for peace, the blessed peace that comes from doing justice.  Lord, hear our prayer.. and show us how to respond as peacemakers…   

Spirit of guiding, continue to guide our congregation in our shared life of faith. We strive to be your faithful people.

Guide us to listen deeply and love one another generously.

Guide us with clarity as we take next steps

Guide us as we live within the tension of holding multiple understandings,

bind us together as one body, your body, bearing witness to your love

always.

Spirit of guiding, move among us

Receive our prayers those spoken and those held deep within our hearts, in Jesus’ name. Amen.

June 6th, 2021

In the past days we have bore witness to horrific violence, racism, and the devastating outcome of hatred due to one’s faith. What is our response?

Last year the birch tree on the church’s front lawn became a place where we could add our prayers in solidarity with our community and those who have suffered deeply. In light of the tragic act of terrorism in London, and in light of the discovery of 215 bodies on the grounds of a Kamloops Residential School, how are we being called to respond? Perhaps one place to begin is with lament.

Biblical lament shows us how to express deep sorrow, name suffering and cry out for God. “Laments tell the truth of the suffering that is smothering our worthiness, our dreams, our ability to work toward a better tomorrow,” writes womanist scholar Dr. Emilie M. Townes. “Naming these horrors in an unrestrained lament helps mold us into a people who respond with an emphatic ‘No!’ to the ways our nation and our communities of faith are turned into graven images of hatred and despair.”

Let us pray,

God, we lament the damage that our silence in the face of racial violence has done,
for the sins of racism that run through our lives like so many threads in a cloth.
Forgive us for the times we have given in to our discomfort, for the times
we have forgotten our own privilege and failed to stand with our black siblings, our Indigenous, and our Muslim neighbours.
Help those of us who experience white privilege every day remember that, with our privilege,
we are imbued with the responsibility to challenge and hold one another accountable.
Give us the courage to educate ourselves, to listen well,
and to use our voices when it is most needed. Amen    (adaptation of a prayer written by Clara Weybright)

My summer reading list includes the highly recommended book: “White Fragility: why it’s so hard for white people to talk about racism.” May we commit to continuing the discussion, to feel the raw edges of our discomfort, name our privilege in the world, and work for justice, in the name of Christ our Lord.

June 6th, 2021

Ever living and ever loving God,

We praise you for your loving presence with us.

Come, Holy Spirit,

take and transform our communities and neighbourhoods—

that broken people find healing;

that lonely people find love;

that oppressed people find justice;

that bitter people find peace;

that fearful people find hope.

Come, Holy Spirit,

take our world’s leaders and governments and bring renewal—

that communication can be open;

that relationships between hostile people and hostile nations be reconciled;

that a hunger for justice address the hunger for food felt by so many.

Come, Holy Spirit

Pour out your compassion, healing, and grace upon all who stand in need

of physical, emotional, or relational healing.

Hear our prayer for all who grieve, the lonely, and those struggling with mental wellness.

We pray for all caregivers including Aldaview Staff.

In response to a community request, we hold in prayer a medically fragile baby boy who is fighting a non-covid pneumonia and is currently on a ventilator. God may your breath of life fill him, restore him, renew him. Hold his family in peace we pray as they hold to hope.  

We pray for our Households of Faith.

Come, Holy Spirit,

Bless your church—

that our worship will be pleasing to You;

that prayers might change our hearts, our minds, and our lives

    instead of trying to get you to change Yours;

We pray that that our lives will make a real difference

to real people in the real world.

Open our hands that we might live generously

Open our hearts to be encouragers, always ready to build up

Rather than tear down

Strengthen us to serve in your name and act with love

Come, Holy Spirit,

fill our lives with your presence—

so that more and more every day,

all that we do and say and hope

will be an act of worship to you and an expression of love to others,

to the glory of your name.  Amen.

 This week we continue to join in prayer in response to the discovery of 215 First Nation’s children’s bodies in Kamloops.Here are resources provided by MCEC to add to the list of resources that were sent on Wednesday of this week.We pray, God have mercy. https://mcec.ca/article/13275-responding-to-the-loss-of-215-indigenous-children

peace be yours,Kara

June 2nd, 2021

Our hearts ache in response to reports of the discovery of a mass grave holding the remains of 215 Indigenous children on the grounds of a First Nations Residential School in Kamloops.How will we respond? Inshallah, a choir I have sung with recently recorded the song: Senzenina. “What have we done?”https://youtu.be/yHjpeRyZaWA
May this be our prayer… and may our lament and song move us to action.Perhaps you have hung an orange shirt in front of your home as I have.Perhaps you will add your voice to those calling on Prime Minister Justin Trudeau and the Government of Canada to recognize a national day of mourning. ..Perhaps you will consider a donation to support Residential School survivors and their families or a local Indigenous Centre such as the Seven Generation or Anishinaabe Outreach Centre. Here are several links with information

Perhaps you will want to learn more. Here are some educational resources on residential schools: 

Following in the footsteps of Jesus involves responding to injustices. Congregationally, we adopted a Land Acknowledgement Statement, engaged in a “Blanket Exercise” led by MCC and Kairos. We have read Indigenous authors….  What next steps is the Spirit of God inviting us to take. May we listen deeply for the Spirit and pray for courage and grace to respond with healing and hope.

May 30th, 2021

Creator of life, we give thanks for this spring season of cultivating and planting, growing and greening, blooming and blossoming.

We thank you for the mystery of seeds so small, dry, seemingly lifeless and yet within, holding the promise of new life.

We thank you for seeds of faith that have been sown and nurtured, through family, mentors, teachers, friends.

We thank you for diverse journeys of faith for healthy roots that hold us steady We are grateful for questions that unsettle us and invite us to go deep We are grateful that we can be dissatisfied with easy answers.

Creator of life, grow something new within us.

Christ of love,

For your parables and teachings that challenge us

For keeping company with the marginalized which has modelled a way of life For your healing touch, words of wisdom, and engaging conversations, For your self-sacrificing love that saves us and does not condemn, we offer our praise.

Redeemer of all, grow something new within us.

Christ of love, hear our prayers for those in need of healing, hope, and wholeness, and those whose needs we carry deep in our hearts.

We pray for all awaiting appointments, medical treatments, and those awaiting test results.

We pray for caregivers including those supporting loved ones in long term care.

We pray for all who are suffering due to covid pandemic: the lonely, the sick, the over-whelmed.

We also pray for our households of faith:

Christ of love, hear our deep lament, our deep sorrow

In light of the discovery of 215 Nation’s children’s bodies in Kamloops B.C.

God have mercy.

Christ have mercy.

Spirit have mercy.

Open our hearts to hear the agonized cry of traumatized people

Their call for justice

Their pain, their inconsolable grief.

May we be honest about institutional sin

And work honestly and humbly

toward reconciliation and the healing of relationships.

Spirit of guiding,

We thank you for your accompanying presence,

windy, moving, uncontained,

unbounded, all-embracing,

comforting, disrupting, transforming.

Spirit of guiding, guide our congregation on our discerning path.

We strive to be your faithful people.

Guide the Elders in their leadership.

Guide us to listen deeply and love one another generously.

Guide us with clarity as we take next steps

Guide us as we live within the tension of holding multiple understandings,

bind us together as one body, your body, bearing witness to your love

always.

Spirit of guiding, grow something new in us.

Triune God,

Creator of life

Christ of love

Spirit of guiding

You come to us in diverse ways.

Open our hearts to your presence

Open our hands to serve

Ignite within us a fire of love

Thank you for hearing our prayers which we offer

In the name of the Triune God.

Amen.

May 26th, 2021

As the rain refreshes the earth today, it is my prayer that God will grant you a refreshed spirit and renewed mind.
May God open the eyes of your heart to see the world as God sees the world – its beauty, diversity, abundance, and the sustaining presence of the Holy Spirit. May God’s refreshment seep deep into the pandemic parched places of our hearts and lives with a generous sprinkling of hope, light, and joy. May the greening be abundant and life-giving.

May 23rd, 2021

Come, O Holy Spirit, come. Come, Holy Spirit, and fill us with your love.
Open our eyes to see the renewing presence of God all around us,
in the melody of song birds, in the growing and greening of spring,
in the joys and celebrations of our lives,

in the tragedies and struggles that break our hearts.

Come, Holy Spirit, and comfort those who grieve. 
Grant all who grieve the peace that only you can bring.
Stir within us a trust in life beyond death,
as we ponder the mysteries of Christ’s resurrection
and the hope we have in new and everlasting life.

Come, Holy Spirit, and bring wholeness to the sick.
Strengthen those who are weak; heal the wounded and broken;
give rest to the weary. Comfort the anxious, the lonely. Including all those in long-term care

We pray for restored strength, patience, and peace.

May your compassion hold all who suffer due to covid – the sick, the recovering, the bereaved… the isolated….and front-line workers…  

We also pray for our Households of Faith.

Amidst fullness of life, may quietness and peace flow freely each day. Grant perseverance for ongoing virtual learning, changing work environments, and the stresses of life amidst covid 19.

Come, O Holy Spirit come, and inspire our warring world to seek peace,
to love our enemies, to commit to the common good of all.

We hold in prayer the leaders and people of Israel and Palestine and pray that a path to peace in which the dignity of all persons is upheld.  

Come, O Holy Spirit come, and ignite a fire in our dry bones,

with a passion for justice that cannot be quenched
until all of your children are loved,

until all who hunger are fed
until no one is marginalized or oppressed,
until everyone has the opportunity to thrive,
until the world is transformed and renewed.

Come, O Holy Spirit come, and revive your church.

Liberate us from complacency and apathy;
inspire us with Christ’s vision for a world reborn;
help us to recognize our gifts for ministry
and to develop and use them in service of others;
transform our hearts and our minds; fill us with love that overflows;
remind us that there is no greater calling
than to love you with all that we are
and to love our neighbors as ourselves.

Come, O Holy Spirit come, give us a glimpse of God’s kingdom
emerging around us and drawing us into the new things,

New life, new possibilities, new visions and new dreams.

It is for your kingdom that we now pray,

filled with your Spirit, using the words Jesus taught us.

Our Father who art in heaven..………. Amen

May 19th, 2021

This Sunday we celebrate the birth of the church with the outpouring of the Holy Spirit.
Let us pray:
“Lord, send the gift of your Spirit to fill this place
and myself
and the world.
Touch me with truth
that burns like fire,
with beauty
that moves me like the wind;
and set me free, Lord
free to try new ways of living;
free to forgive myself and others;
free to love and laugh and sing;
free to lay aside my burden of security
free to join your mission of justice and peace;
free to see and listen and wonder again
at the gracious mystery of things and persons;
free to be,
to give,
to receive,
to rejoice as a child of your Spirit.
And Lord,
teach me how to dance,
to turn around
and come down where I want to be,
in the arms and heart of your people
and in you,
that I may praise and enjoy you forever. Amen
(prayer by Ted Loder)

May 16th, 2021

God of resurrection life,

in this Easter season we pray with gratitude for the gift of courageous imagination.

We pray with thanksgiving for dreams that seem impossible,  –  because we have begun to believe with you, all things are possible.

Thank you for your faithfulness through changing times and changing seasons.

You are faithful through all the stages of life.

For infants and children,  we pray that they may they be guarded from evil and be nurtured in love and grace

For youth with dreams and wild imaginations,  guide them on paths of purpose that build the world you imagined for humanity from the beginning of time.

            Help them through these days of interrupted education, 

help their teachers impart knowledge wrapped with wisdom

For all who awaken to go to jobs each day we ask for strength

For those who awaken but can no longer work because they have no job.

those who endure boredom at home 

because of lock downs, or illness  give patience and peace

In silence we name those among us who suffer from illness,  those who anxiously await test results,  those who are  recovering from surgery,  those who struggle with the stress and emotional anguish of life. Help each of these imagine walking on the road to wellness.

We pray for our Households of Faith.

They are patiently waiting for summer and a time when we can be with family and friends. May your love fill their hearts and home and grant them peace.

 Lord God we thank you for your church and calling us to be part of a supportive community. Thank you for Mennonite church Eastern Canada.  May its mission and influence be multiplied.  We pray for church leaders,  for Leah Reesor Keller. Thank you for her ministry gifts.  Continue to lead her as she leads MCEC.

As your people we pray for your world.  You have called us to be peacemakers.

Though conflict often seems far away and out of our control, you have filled our hearts with images of peace where lions and lambs live together safely.

We pray for Israel and Palestine.  May all people in that land learn to live as sisters and brothers.  May children of Arabs and Jews play together in safety and one day shape a country at peace.    

These things we pray in the name of the prince of peace. Amen

(prayer by Jamie Gerber) 

May 9th, 2021

Mothering God, you conceive us, give birth to us. You claim us as your own, call us by name, and have placed a seal upon our hearts.

You are our source of nurture. Your love is patient and kind.

You smile on us,

protect us,

feed us,

give us words to say,
show us how to walk,
cheer for us in our successes,
wipe our tears when we fail or suffer.
You encourage us,

dream big for us,
and love us for who we are.

We thank you for your mothering love.

Good and Gentle God,
we pray with gratitude today for our mothers,

for those all who have mothered us,

and for all the women who have joined with you in the wonder of bringing forth new life.

You who became human through a woman, grant to all mothers the courage they need to face the uncertain future that life with children always brings.
                Give them the strength to live and to be loved in return, not perfectly, but humanly.
                Surround each with faithful support and guide them as they provide for the physical and spiritual growth and needs of their children.

                Grace mothers with joy and delight in their children to sustain them through the trials of motherhood. Most of all, give them the wisdom to turn to you for help when they need it most.

                We also pray for those for whom today is tinged with pain…… women who have suffered maternal loss, those unable to conceive, those who longed to bear children but due to circumstances feel the ache of empty arms. We pray for those who experience distance from their mothers whether physical or relational. We pray for those who mourn the death of their mothers and we pray for mothers who are mourning the loss of a child including the loss of dreams, hopes, and future. Comfort and hold each in your warm and compassionate embrace.

God of compassion , our hearts reach out to you today to hold those who are suffering, those who are grieving, the fearful, the anxious, the lonely, the isolated.  

We pray for our Households of Faith.

God, continue to draw near to all your children as we draw near to you….     We are grateful that you are the God who hears our prayers before they are even formed into words. We pray in the name of Jesus. Amen 

May 5th, 2021

Today, May 5 is the National Day of Awareness for Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women and Girls (MMIWG).
The Ontario Native Women’s Association (ONWA) honours all Indigenous mothers, daughters, aunts, sisters,
grandmothers, nieces and cousins. On this day of national importance we can honour the MMIWG by embracing and supporting community healing. What part of community healing will you take part?
As Anabaptist we strive to walk in the shoes of peace with our actions and our words.
Perhaps your commitment to peace will involve researching the “REDdress Project” inspired by Jamie Black.
Perhaps you will feel nudged to learn more about Canada’s history including Indigenous Peoples’ history in Canada.
Perhaps you will consider the societal and familial impact of violence against women.
We hear God’s call to seek justice, to work for peace, reconciliation, and restoration. What is your response?
May our journey of faith with Jesus lead us to honour all of life, build connections, nurture relationships, embrace diversity, and participate in the healing of creation. Amen

May 2nd, 2021

God, we are thankful for the gift of your calling on our lives, for the gift of faith that urges us to keep hoping, keep striving, toward your kingdom.

There’s so much to lament in this world, to get upset about, to worry us. Will there be enough hospital beds? Will the vaccines arrive for us? What about others? How are businesses doing? What about the kids and the teens and the young adults – we’re tired of the disruption of learning, and life! We can only imagine what it’s like in places where life is insecure to start with. God hear our prayers for healing, for provision, for wise leadership, for daily struggles, and for the time ahead. We pray for patience, and we pray for energy.

Our hearts reach out to hold those who are suffering, and those who are grieving.

We pray for those whose needs we carry in our hearts.

Amidst many challenges, open our eyes to see as you see, God. Fill us with compassion and wrap us in your care. Open our lives to serve your kingdom, even as we are receiving your love and care as your children, ourselves. May the love that flows into us, flow out as well.

We also hold our Households of Faith in prayer.

Continue to be with all our loved ones in long-term care as well as their caregivers. Grant them strength and patience for the living of these days.

May we believe in your kingdom ways, God, to the extent that we have the courage to actually implement them in our lives. May our hearts and our hands, our words and our actions, line up, as we strive to live lives of integrity and purpose.  

All this, and the unspoken prayers on our hearts we pray in the name of Jesus, who taught his disciples to pray: Our Father, who art in heaven, hallowed be your name. Your kingdom come. Your will be done on earth as it is in heaven. Give us this day our daily bread, and forgive us our trespasses, as we forgive those who trespass against us. Lead us not into temptation, but deliver us from evil. For thine is the kingdom, the power, and the glory. Forever and ever. Amen. (thanks to Jane Kuepfer for offering today’s prayer)

April 25th, 2021

Good Shepherd, within your embrace we are safe and secure. Within your embrace we know that we are precious in your sight. Within your embrace we feel the warmth of family, relationship and belonging. Within your embrace we grow and are nurtured together as one flock, the people of your pasture under your loving care and protection.

Good Shepherd, within your embrace we find comfort and healing. We bring to you those who are weak, or struggling with physical, mental or spiritual health. We pray that your comfort will enfold all who grieve. We pray for deep measures of peace as well as restored strength.  You are the great healer, and we pray for healing of mind, body, and spirit for those we now name in the silence of our hearts……..

We pray for our households of faith.

We pray for strength and wisdom for each new day.

We pray for continued good health and for family bonds to be strong with love, laughter, and fun.

Good Shepherd, within your embrace we find justice. We bring to you the brave voices who cry out for freedom, those prepared to stand up and be heard without counting the cost. We pray for those who have been marginalized or suffer due to their race, skin colour, gender, or faith.

Good Shepherd, within your embrace we find life in you. As your resurrection people we join with you in your mission of restoration for all creation. You have made us stewards of the earth’s resources. May we do our part to protect, to restore, to further life rather than destroy it.

Good Shepherd, within your embrace we find peace. We bring to you those without homes, those who are displaced due to war, refugees wandering this earth in search of a home. We pray for all victims of violence and for all those who have dedicated their lives for the search for peace and reconciliation.

Good Shepherd, within your embrace we find our true identity as your beloved children. Continue to lead us. Continue to feed us. For we need your help from day to day…..  we pray in the name of Good Shepherd who laid down his life that we might have life in abundance. Amen

April 21st, 2021

Tomorrow April 22 is Earth Day. In praise and thanksgiving for Creation offered to each of us by our Creator, let us call to mind how we depend on and care for our common home:

  • How do we return to the Earth the love, care, and sustainment we receive from it?
  • How can we better attend to the needs of one another through our attention to creation?

Let us pray,

God, Creator of All, we offer our prayer in gratitude and humility that we might heed your call to care for one another through our care of the least, the lowest and the most vulnerable of all your blessed creation. Grant, we pray, the courage to speak on behalf of the soft soil under our feet, the running and still waters, the warmth of the sun on our face, and all the crawling, flying and swimming creatures you love. May our courage to speak translate into actions that protect our planet – so that our children and their children might enjoy the fruits of what we sow. In your name, we pray…

WMC Missions Committee encourages us to take action this week, caring for creation in our own neighbourhoods.

April 18th, 2021

Risen Christ, the light of your love shines on, illuminating the places where you are present.  As disoriented and bewildered disciples pondered the stories of your appearance, you penetrated the darkness of their fear and doubt with your word of peace.  You showed them the marks of evil and violence that pierced your hands and your feet. You opened their minds to understand how through your death you defeated evil and death. Increase our understanding, we pray. Open our minds and hearts to receive you.

Bring to us O God, a sense of your living presence as we go into this new week. Renew in us the faith you want us to have, the faith that is not afraid to reach out in your name, the faith that assures us you are walking with us and will provide all that we need for the living of these days…

All-knowing God, you know our hearts, you know our needs, you know the deep sufferings of the world….

We pray for our world’s suffering amidst global pandemic. Strengthen front-line workers, grant patience as vaccines are rolled out, comfort the grieving, and strengthen the weak. Grace us with deep patience and resilience for this continued hard journey. May the sound of your steps by our side grant us strength and courage.

Compassionate God we pray for all who grieve. May our Easter faith which proclaims death and suffering is never the final thing, be a source of solace and hope.

Listening God, hear our prayers for all who stand in need of hope, healing and wholeness.

Hear our prayers for those whose needs we carry deep in our hearts.

We also pray for our households of faith.

May your love and care surround them day to day.

May each day be filled with deep joy, contentment and gratitude.    

Eternal God, as your gathered and scattered body, guide us each day. Deepen our awareness of places that are shimmering with your grace, compassion, your presence of peace. May we be bold to join you in your mission. Lord Jesus, help us each day to bear witness to your name and to do that which you are calling us to. We pray in your name. Amen.

April 4th, 2021

In the joy and hope of this Easter morning,

we raise our Alleluias with fullness of heart.

Christ is Risen! Love is stronger than Death!

Alleluia!

In the joy and hope of this Easter morning,

we welcome you, risen Christ into our lives.
We welcome your resurrection for it is
life changing, life giving, and life sustaining.
We welcome the hope it brings to the world.
We welcome the joy that breaks through all darkness.
We welcome the empty tomb

for we know that it means you are alive, amongst us and within us.

In the midst of our Easter morning praise and hymns,

we know there are those who are bewildered and sad.

We pray for those who suffer from anxiety, loneliness, and fear.

We pray for all who stand in need of healing, hope, and wholeness and those whose needs we carry deep in our hearts …………..

We give thanks for your healing grace and celebrate. We pray for deep measures of comfort and patience amidst many adjustments.

Hear our prayers for our loved ones in long term care and families providing support safely distanced.

We pray for our Households of Faith. We pray that your love and grace will surround each one and that their lives will be filled with peace and deep joy.

We pray for those places and peoples in our world

where death and domination rule,

where imperial powers ignore the poor,

where war never ends,

where covid infections continue to rise

where children are hungry,

where parents grieve because they cannot provide,

where violence rages and death abounds senselessly.

We pray for those held hostage to addiction and chronic illness that debilitates.

In the joy and hope of this Easter morning,

we realize the depth and breadth of what it means

to be your Easter people.

For we are the ones who are called

to go into the places in our lives and world

to work for justice and life for all in your Creation.

It is up to us to bear witness to the promise of resurrection,

to hold those in despair,

and believe for them,

that Love is stronger than death.

In the joy and hope of this Easter morning, O God,

give us the courage to bear witness to and share your living Love

in every corner of our lives,

so that your peaceable realm will be so,

here on earth, as it is in heaven.

In the name of the Risen Christ, we pray,

Alleluia! Amen.

March 31st, 2021

As we follow Jesus into Holy Week, we sense the rush of the crowds and seek the deep, steady current of God’s steadfast love, calling us to deep hope in the One who comes in the name of the Lord.

God of passion and life,
this is a week of
conflicting emotions,
We have come to a bend in the river, a turning
in the narrative,
a juxtaposition of celebration
and impending sorrow.

We too feel the strangeness
of life sometimes weighed
down with the stresses of
pandemic life, yet dotted
with joy and hope.
We pray for moments
of relief, for times of
pleasure in life even
in the face of challenge.

Like a river in spring
that sometimes overflows
her banks, flooding the
surrounding lowlands,
may love and joy overflow
in the low places
in our lives. May we
delight in your never
ceasing goodness,
bubbling and dancing
like water flowing over rocks and obstacles.

Pull us deeper into your
current of life,
a river that is wide
with mercy and justice,
a river that carries
the full range of emotion,
a river that ebbs and flows
but never ceases.
Amen
(prayer by Wendy Janzen Burning Bush Forest Church)

Have a blessed Holy Week,
Pastor Kara

March 28th, 2021

               It is relatively easy for us to find someone to go and gather palm leaves to spread in the church today. And we can easily find music and a few good words to help us to remember and re-enact Palm Sunday. We remember how quickly we change. How fickle we are, how we pledge our devotion one moment and turn our backs the next. We go from shouting “Hosanna! Save Us!” to “Crucify Him.”

 We declare that we love our neighbors and then we turn our backs on the homeless and hungry in our communities. We speak up for change and justice in one breath, and then continue unjust practices in daily lives by what we consume and the needs we ignore.

What if we knew the imminence of the danger that accompanies You or sensed that the authorities were watching us as we worship, as they watched You. What if You arrived, inviting us to really lay down something important to us to acknowledge Your arrival? How then, Jesus, would we meet You today. And what would we spread before You? And how would we regard humility from the One we hope will save the world?

On this Palm Sunday, Jesus give us hope. Help us to see how and where You enter our world today, and what You ask us to lay at your feet, and how we may welcome You in.

Listening God today we raise our “Hosanna’s!” “Save us!”

God of healing and wholeness, we confess our need for you today. Hear our prayer for all who stand in need of healing, hope, and wholeness and those whose needs we carry deep in our hearts …………..

Hear our prayers for all who grieve.

Hear our prayers for our loved ones in long term care and families providing support safely distanced. 

We pray for those struggling with anxiety, loneliness, mental illness, and loved ones who support them.

We pray for patience as we wait our turn for vaccination. Comfort all affected by covid, the sick, front-line workers, government officials, and those who grieve.

Hear our prayers for our Households of Faith.

As we journey Holy Week, draw near to us as we draw near to You. Amen  

March 24th, 2021

During this 5th week of Lent, like a seed that falls into the earth, we are called to deep growth. We are invited to release the attachments that prevent us from growing and producing fruit. We ask God to free us and renew us in the deepest part of ourselves – the soil of our hearts.
Let us pray:

Mothering God,
who created Earth
and formed
rhythms and seasons
and cycles:
I celebrate the
coming of spring once again.

As the warming sun
melts frozen earth into
mud and snowdrops bloom,
emerald moss invites me
to lay down my head
and listen to earth’s heartbeat.
Give me pause here,
God of mystery,
to stop and ponder
what lies beneath.

Do not let me turn away
from examining the unseen
places deep within.
What secrets are hidden there?
What wisdom have you planted,
what seeds of
transformation are just waiting
for the right conditions?

Make of me a fertile soil
where spring’s eternal
lessons of regeneration
might take root and grow:
death is not the end
of the story, but rather
the place of new beginnings.
Amen
(by Wendy Janzen Burning Bush Forest Church)

March 21st, 2021

Gracious God,
we come to you this Lenten season acknowledging our brokenness –

We name that which confines us:
prejudice buried,
fears and mistrust that weight us down,
distorted self-protection,
breaking us, breaking you.

We bow our hearts before you,

we come seeking you,

seeking to go deep, seeking growth, seeking to be made whole.
For you, God, put your love within us;
you wrote it on our hearts, that we may be your people.

Listening God, hear our prayers for those who weep,
those who are struggling from lack of
clean water
healthy food,
quality, affordable health.

Hear our prayers for global suffering due to covid pandemic, especially the most vulnerable and marginalized who bear the brunt of inequitable systems.

We pray for world government leaders and pharmaceuticals charged with timely and wise response. We pray for patience as we wait out turn for vaccination.

Compassionate God, we pray for our Asian brothers and sisters and all who have experienced racial violence.

We pray for all who experience violence due to gender.

We confess our biases that insight violence and division.

We come to you seeking to be made whole.
For you, God, put your love within us;
you wrote it on our hearts,
that we may be your people.

Compassionate God,
God of love,
We come to you tired and pandemic weary,
yearning for peace and harmony and refreshment.

Hear our prayers for all who grieve.

Hear our prayers for loved ones in long term care and their families providing support safely distanced.  

We pray for those struggling with anxiety, relational pain, loneliness, mental illness, and loved ones who support them.

We pray for our Households of Faith.

Lord Jesus, you taught your disciples that unless a grain of wheat

falls into the earth and dies it remains just a single grain,

but if it dies it bears much fruit;

as we prepare our hearts to remember your death and resurrection,

grant us the strength and wisdom to serve and follow you,

this day and always. Amen.

March 17th, 2021

As we live into week 4 of Lent, deep in the wilderness we hear God’s call to deep healing.
The wilderness confronts us with our vulnerability and exposes our wounds and
our needs. We are called to deep healing by trusting in God, who calls us in love.

Let us pray:
This has felt like
a year in the wilderness
O God.
A year of wandering,
sometimes utterly lost,
often alone,
facing challenges we
weren’t prepared for.
There have been thorns
and snakes
and wild animals,
dark moonless nights,
endless days,
and clouds of dread,
disorientation, and danger.

A year already,
of wandering
far away from
what was familiar,
of wondering
what lies ahead.
God, in this wilderness
save us. Remind us
Wild Christ, that wilderness
can be a place of ferment,
introspection, prompting
insight and transformation.
Teach us that
facing our fears is often
a remedy for our malaise.
Restore a sense of wholeness.
Heal our wounded spirits,
Reorient our lost souls.
Rescue us from trouble
and inject us with hope. Amen
(prayer by Wendy Janzen, Burning Bush Forest Church)

March 14th, 2021

God of healing and wholeness, we confess our need for you today.

We need your love and your grace. We need hope restored.

We need to be reminded that you work on behalf of those you love, constantly, powerfully, completely.

Forgive us for trying to fix our situations all on our own.

Forgive us for running all different directions and spinning our wheels to find help when true help and healing must be found first in You.

Forgive us for forgetting how much we need you, above everyone and everything else.

Compassionate God, we come to you and bring you the places we are hurting. You see where no one else is able to fully see or understand.

You know the pain we’ve carried. The burdens. The cares.

You know where we need to be set free.

We ask for your healing and grace to cover every broken place.

Every wound. Every heartache.

Hear our prayers for all who grieve.

Hear our prayers for our loved ones in long term care and for families providing support safely distanced.  

We pray for those struggling with anxiety, loneliness, mental illness, and loved ones who support them.

Listening God, hear our prayers for our Households of Faith.

All-powerful God, thank you that you are able to do far more than we could ever imagine. Thank you for your Mighty Power that acts on behalf of your children. We reach out to you and know that you are restoring and redeeming every place of difficulty, every battle, for your greater glory.

Thank you that you will never waste our pain and suffering.

We love you. We need you today and everyday in Jesus’ name, Amen.

March 10th, 2021

Tomorrow, March 11 marks the one-year anniversary since the World Health Organization (WHO) declared a global pandemic.
How will you reflectively and prayerfully mark this significant date? Will you light a candle? Observe a few minutes of silence?
Just as celebration is so vital for our wellbeing, so too is lament, reflection, and prayer.
Sarah Bessey offers a prayer as we mark one-year of pandemic:

God, you hold our memories of this past year in your capable hands.
I imagine you’re weaving the moments that have shaped us into what will be a beautiful quilt, bringing all of the collective grief and the individual sorrow, the small delights and ordinary goodnesses, the moments we were afraid and angry alongside the moments when we felt joy and contentment, all stitched together with your grace for it all.
Wrap us up in the warmth of your love, knowing we are held, beloved, worthy just as we are in this moment.

We have been living in an apocalypse, Jesus, a true unveiling: help us to see clearly ever after this.
Help us to name and remember what we have lost, what we have gained, and where we saw you at work in this broken and beloved world. Help us to be gentle with ourselves and with each other, we’re still not done yet.
Help us to see the world more clearly and to love each other more particularly.

May we rest in that imaginary quilt of the totality of this year, be held by your grace,
your love, your faithfulness, and your tenderness with us.
May we always find you in the small ordinary things of our lives.
May we always see the world as it is now and always, and love it all the more for the very things that break our hearts.

And because I am who I am and I just can’t help it, Jesus, would you give us unexpected hope today?
May we be surprised with a moment of joy, a good meal, a deep breath, a bit of beauty.
May our roots go down deep into your marvellous Love. May we bear fruit even in times of famine.
May we be small outposts of truth and love together.
May we read good books, be gentle with our wounds, text a friend, or simply go for a walk with You.

May we know you in the silence, in the exhaustion and anger, in the grief and joy,
and in our humanity which you blessed and called good. And we ask for an end to the suffering
and for your justice to roll down, your healing to mend us, your love to hold us all even when we are in peace.
We love you. Amen.

March 7th, 2021

The apostle Paul addressed the church of Ephesus saying:

“I pray for you constantly, asking God,

the glorious Father of our Lord Jesus Christ,

to give you spiritual wisdom and understanding,

so that you might grow in your knowledge of God.”( Ephesians 1:16-17)

Holy Wisdom,

with a word you breathed creation into being

waterways and forest lands

starry skies and pasture places

snow capped mountains and soaring eagles.

The heavens declare your glory; the firmament reveals your wisdom….

We hear your invitation Holy One to go deep into wisdom…

And so we pray for your wisdom to discern your ways and path for our own lives.

We ask for your wisdom to discern how to live peaceably and justly with those we meet, live with, work with, drive our roads with, wait in line with, and worship with.

We ask for your wisdom in the difficult situations and barren places we may face as we go through life.

We ask for your wisdom in dealing with injustices in our world and courage to act in ways that bring restoration, healing, reconciliation. Forgive us when our actions create divisions, marginalize, and cause harm.

We ask for wisdom for our leaders in our world, our country, and our communities.

We ask for wisdom for those charged with rolling out vaccinations and for administrators creating policy amidst covid pandemic.

We ask for wisdom for our church leaders, worldwide and local.

We ask for wisdom for our congregational leadership and staff  – as they lead, serve alongside one another and faithfully strive to further your vision and mission.

We ask for your wisdom as we reach out to those in need in our communities and in our world.

We ask for wisdom as we minister to those who are lonely, isolated, loved ones in long term care and those we hold in our hearts ………

                We hold our Households of Faith before you God asking that you meet them at their deepest places of need. Bless them in their work, in the rest, day to day with joy and peace.  

                Holy Wisdom, enlighten us, transform us, guide us, and inspired by wisdom bring new life, new hope, new vision. We offer our prayers in all the holy names of God. Amen

March 4th, 2021

As we live into this week’s Lenten theme: “Deep in the woods: called to deep commitment” we offer our prayer:

Creator of all,
Tree of LIfe,
Spirit among us:
as we wander deeper into the
wilderness of this season,
searching for paths among the
woods, be our companion
along the way less travelled.

The forest is calling us:
come. Come, stand among us.
Come where light and shadow dance
as branches sway with the wind.
Come in wonder and worship, you
powerful and powerless,
come, children and elders,
come, from all directions,
come, learn the secrets of life:
dormancy and growth,
interconnection and community,
rootedness and reaching upward.

We confess our devotion to independence,
our belief we can go it alone, and
our me-first mentality.
Heal us from our short sightedness
so we might see the forest for the trees,
recognize our dependence on you
and our interdependence with all life
from mycelia to majestic pines.

Shelter us, O God, in the safety
of your strong branches.
Nourish and strengthen us, but
keep us humble of heart.
Tune our ears to your timbered voice,
and tune our hearts to praise.
Amen.

Have a beautiful day,
Kara
(prayer by Wendy Janzen, Burning Bush Forest Church)

February 28th, 2021

Covenant-making God, we give you thanks for the example of Abraham & Sarah and for all our forefathers and foremothers who have gone before us –

for those who waited in patience for your promises to come to pass –

for those who lived in hope while around them it seemed to be only darkness,

for those who forgot their own selves in their desire to obey your commands and respond to your call upon their lives.

 Gracious God, walk with us this Lenten season, as we practice self-examination and look seriously at our resistance to talk about suffering, the cross and about sacrifice; our reluctance to give up the things of this world – to risk our reputations, our comfort, and our security for the sake of following you.

Transforming God, make us bold in our faith as we live into deep commitment. Through self-sacrificial love and self-denial, help us make visible to all our brothers and sisters the reality of your power and care – that power and care that is so often made evident when we confess our weakness – and so often concealed from others when we are strong….. 

                Compassionate God, we pray for those whose needs we hold deep in our hearts….

members of our congregation who are facing health challenges, awaiting surgery, or treatments.

We hold in prayer our loved ones including family members in long-term care and residing in assisted living.  We pray for those who are grieving……

all those struggling with mental health challenges, isolation, anxiety, and their families

We pray for front-line and essential workers,

teachers, students and administrators rolling out ever-changing policies

and all those who are facing struggles, challenges, and emotional or relational pain…

               We also pray for our households of faith.

Listening God, we also pray for ourselves, asking for the stamina and resilience to continue this covid journey. Many of us are weary. We miss our family and friends. We miss routine and freedoms and yet we are aware that we each have an important role to stop the spread of infection. Continue to journey with us, providing enough patience, and strength, and bright hope. Refresh us for the journey ahead. Draw near to us as we draw near to you. We ask in Jesus’ name. Amen 

February 24, 2021

As we continue to live into this Lenten’s theme “deep calls to deep” we are reflecting upon how God calls us to go deeper in our relationships.
Let us pray,

From the depths
of our souls we call out
to the Source of all being;
deep calls to Deep,
hear our cries.
We are born of water,
watery wombs hold us
then spill us out into
this world of light.

At times – like now – it is easy
to feel like life has us
in over our heads.
We are treading water and
growing very weary.
The vastness of the sea,
with no shore in sight,
waves and storms,
sea monsters, real or imagined,
all threaten us.

Buoy us, O Presence.
Preserve us from the storms,
have compassion on us,
embrace us with mercy.
Hold us, so that we might stop
our striving, at least for a bit,
catch our breath,
regain our strength,
find hope in our waiting.
Calm our weary souls
that we might find true rest.

And,
when the time is right
invite us to dive beneath
the surface,
down to the deep,
and discover the
treasure that awaits.
Amen.
(prayer by Wendy Janzen, Burning Bush Forest Church)

February 21st, 2021

Almighty Creator, Loving God,

                Every rainbow reminds us that you are in control of the earth, of nature, of the seasons, and of the end. Your Spirit enriches the earth with the gift of life to all creatures, including all the varieties of birds and animals. Help us to care for the environment so that the earth is a healthier place to live for our children and all the generations who follow us. Help us to live like the humble earthworms who leave the soil richer and more fertile after using it, so that your name is then respected and honoured by all peoples.

                We thank you for your Son, our Lord Jesus, who has taken all our sins, especially those we are ashamed of from our past, and paid for them on the cross even before we were born. Renew us to be more humble and loving like he is, so that we can be walking advertisements for you wherever you lead us in the coming weeks.

                By your Holy Spirit, help us to swim in and enjoy the waters of our baptism in the way that surfers love to live in the waters and ride on the waves each day. Let us live with a good conscience along with all your people who flock to the living waters on the shore of eternity, as we anticipate the resurrection we share with our Lord, Jesus Christ.

In your grace draw near to:

– those who are suffering due to isolation, loneliness

– those in need of healing.

– those who are in long term care and for those who can’t give company to a loved one in long term care.

We also pray for our households of faith.

               May the peace of God and the comfort of the Holy Spirit surround, enfold, and hold all.

Send your Spirit to strengthen your children as they travel like backpackers over the earth, moving on each day a little closer to their permanent home with Jesus in heaven.

                Bless the work of those who minister to the sick and dying, to the people who are depressed and to those who want to give up on life here in your world. Watch over those who work in dangerous occupations to make the world a safer place for us to enjoy.

                Thank you for filling our deepest hunger with the bread of life, Jesus himself. Quench our deepest thirst through the wine of his suffering, which was too deep for us to drink. We watch in wonder and praise as we focus on him during this Lenten season. In these days draw us closer to the one who died for us, for his sake. Amen.

February 17th, 2021

Today, Ash Wednesday marks the beginning of Lent with its call to turn toward the cross and follow Jesus to death and new life.Today many Christians around the globe, including Anabaptists will be marked with the sign of the cross with ashes and receive the words “ashes to ashes, dust to dust.”This ritual is an act of repentance and a reminder of our own mortality. Our worship theme for this coming season is “Deep calls to deep.” In the coming weeks we are invited to go deep and to live deeply.This Friday and each Friday during Lent you will receive a “Lenten Guided Prayer”  which includes many options for reflection and prayer. It is my prayer that we will experience spiritual nourishment as we engage with Scripture and listen for God. You may want to take time for silence today to consider what other spiritual practices help you to go deeper with God and with one another.  In preparation for Sunday’s worship, please gather 6 stones which will represent our prayers for this season. We will be invited to participate in a reflective ritual during our worship service. May this season be rich with inspiration, listening, growth, self-reflection, and more.  As we begin our Lenten journey together, here is an Ash Wednesday Blessing by Jan Richardson

Blessing the Dust: For Ash Wednesday

All those days
you felt like dust,
like dirt,
as if all you had to do
was turn your face
toward the wind
and be scattered
to the four corners

or swept away
by the smallest breath
as insubstantial—

did you not know
what the Holy One
can do with dust?

This is the day
we freely say
we are scorched.

This is the hour
we are marked
by what has made it
through the burning.

This is the moment
we ask for the blessing
that lives within
the ancient ashes,
that makes its home
inside the soil of
this sacred earth.

So let us be marked
not for sorrow.
And let us be marked
not for shame.
Let us be marked
not for false humility
or for thinking
we are less
than we are

but for claiming
what God can do
within the dust,
within the dirt,
within the stuff
of which the world
is made
and the stars that blaze
in our bones
and the galaxies that spiral
inside the smudge
we bear.

– from Circle of Grace: A Book of Blessings for the Seasons

February 14th, 2021

Holy One,

we come before you,

many of us feeling like we have climbed just a part of the mountain,

and there is so much more of a climb left to even get to point

to dream that we might be dazzled by what is Divine.

                Lord, listen to your children praying……..

Holy One,

our loads are heavy with worry,

we are in the midst of a global pandemic and we don’t know when it will end.

Our loads are heavy with regret for words spoken, actions taken, and for things left undone that called for our attention.

Our loads are heavy with fatigue due to disrupted work schedules, virtual classrooms, isolation, and loneliness.

Our loads are heavy with despair for all in the world that is hurting, in danger, in bondage and more.

Our loads are heavy with illness and concern for loved ones who stand in need of healing, hope, and wholeness……

We hold in prayer those who grieve. May Your comforting presence surround them and hold them in peace.

We pray for strength for mind, body, and spirit.   We also pray for our loved ones whose needs we name ……..  

We also pray for our households of faith.

Lord, listen to your children praying……….

Holy One,

we trudge ahead, following you,

sometimes stumbling, sometimes stammering,

but with each step clinging to hope and praying…

breathing hard, hearts pounding, and yes,

even some of us nimble and skipping.

Release us from our need for tent building and pounding in stakes

that we may live vulnerably, open to your gentling and transforming love.

On this journey as our eyes are opened to see you as Savior and Lord,

help us to also see ourselves and one another through your eyes of grace,

to see all that is beautiful, beloved, worthy, called.

And may we in faith follow where you lead and be transformed with each step through Jesus our Lord. Amen

February 10th, 2021

February is Black History Month and so we offer our prayers…….

We bring ourselves into your presence, O God. To you we offer our prayers, our praise, and our supplications.

This month, we celebrate Black History Month and honor the culture of our brothers and sisters. We remember the legacy of those who came before us – who not only paved the way but carried the bricks on broken backs that then built that road. We remember the songs, stories, and fiery hope of old men and little girls, granny midwives and marvelous musicians, great orators and leaders, entrepreneurs and innovators – those who are earth-tone brown, black as night, fair like the sands of Egypt. We are kings and queens. We are descendants of royalty.

Lord, when it’s too hard living, we remember you are the great “I am” and our source of strength and purpose for each new day. Help us in our advocacy efforts to honor you with our work for justice, healing, and peace in our day. Help us as we labor for the end of hunger. Help us to stay educated and active as we read the unacceptable statistics that point to the fact that 1 in 4 African-American households is food-insecure as compared with 1 in 10 of white households, and that more than 1 in 3 African-American children live in food-insecure households compared to 1 in 7 white children.

God, help us to value diversity beyond variety. Help us value diversity with a vision for a progressive future that acknowledges our strength together as well as the power, creativity, ideas, and part that we all bring when we are all welcome – to come to the table and taste and see that the Lord is good.Help us labor on until we all can sing, for good and right reasons: Oh happy day! Amen. (Prayer by Kierra Stuvland)

February 7th, 2021

Sheltering God, we long for the day when all people will live in justice, love and peace.

We confess that the ways of justice often sound foreign to our ears.

We ask your forgiveness.

We pray from the comfort of luxurious homes while others live in the cold without a roof.

We pray with bellies well fed and nourished when many go hungry.

Yet too easily we throw up our hands  – feeling helpless and hopeless,

carrying guilt, because we don’t know how to fix the troubles of our world.

So we pray, free us from guilt and move us to gratitude and generosity.  

Thank you for the warmth of our furnaces,     

the aroma of dinner and the security of solid walls. 

Thank you for MennoHomes and other agencies that work for justice by providing affordable housing. Continue to bless them in service to our communities.

Thank you for our government leaders, 

give them courage to serve the poor and not the popular.

            We give thanks for health care workers,

            Protect them as they risk their own health for the healing of others

            Thank you for teachers, and parents with students learning from home,

            For creative planning and perseverance in patience these past weeks

–  thank you.

            As many schools  re –open tomorrow may reunions be joyful,

may classrooms be caring,

                        And may kindness for our fragile humanity be shared by all.

Thank you for this congregation, 

for healing prayer offered for one another,

for kind words shared,

for support arriving at just the right time   … all of these are gifts shared in your body, and given by your spirit to build us up as your people.

A people who long for the day

when all people will live in justice, love, and peace.

Hear our prayers for our Households of Faith for this week.

We offer all our prayers including those not yet formed, in the name of Jesus. Amen

January 31st, 2021

Lord Jesus, friend and companion, your first and lasting acts of healing, teaching, and restoring reveal to us the deepest desires of God and you invite us to take the leap of faith and join with you on the journey of discipleship. Embolden us as your disciples of healing and hope and hear our prayers.

We pray for all nations that lie under darkness and oppression; where governments are corrupt, justice rare, abuse rampant, and the weak and the poor have nowhere to turn for hope. We pray for the ministries of Mennonite Central Committee, Mennonite Disaster Service which our dollars support. May these agencies and others be your channels of compassion, justice, practical aid, reconciliation, and peace.

We pray for people in all places who are affected by disease including covid 19. Protect front-line workers and our most vulnerable loved ones in long-term care or congregate settings. Grant wisdom to scientists and pharmaceuticals who continue to develop and roll out vaccines. Cast out the evil spirits of greed, inequitable practices, and selfishness. May compassion, equality, collaborative relationships flow generously.

God of life, we pray for households and places where food is scarce and hunger is deep. Bless the ministry of Wellesley’s Food Cupboard whose calling is greater than providing food; whose calling includes build healthy community.

God of compassion, hear our prayers for those who suffer due to neglect, illness, sorrow, grief or anger. Heal our bodies and the deepest places of our hearts and set us free from pain and disappointment that keeps us bound and robs us of fullness of life.  We pray for families supporting loved ones from a distance due to covid restrictions and we pray for those awaiting treatment or surgery.

                We also pray for our Households of Faith. We pray for continued health, contentment day to day, and meaningful connections with family and friends.

God of the church, we pray for the ministries of MCEC, the ministries of this congregation, its leadership and continued faithful stewardship. In response to your great gifts, we yearn to be generous people, freed from the fear of scarcity but rather living abundantly in your grace. Be with us today as we take steps to further the vision you have graced us with as your holy and called people.

God of the journey, give us strength and wisdom for each daily decision which contributes to a lifetime of faithful discipleship. Grace us with your peace, your hope, your joy, and your love and may we be generous to share these your gifts in Jesus name. Amen  

January 27th, 2021

We are trusting that 2021 will usher in a season of healing. Watching for signs of light that break through the darkness, we give thanks that vaccines have been approved and are being distributed amongst our most vulnerable and front-line workers.
Let us pray:
Loving and compassionate God,
Lord of all health and wholeness,
we are fearfully and wonderfully made.
Thank you for your miracle of healing.
You gift our bodies with incredible means of protection and repair,
immune systems that shield and heal us,
wounds that heal, bones that knit, tissues that repair themselves.
Thank you for your miracle of healing.
You gift our world with plants and herbs that cure our diseases.
They provide our medicines and pain killers,
They form the basis of our antibiotics and antiseptics.
Thank you for your miracle of healing.
You gift us with the wonder of preventative health.
Masks that protect us and others from infection.
Water and soap to cleanse our hands and the surfaces we touch.
Thank you for your miracle of healing.
You gift us with the power to reconcile and be reconciled.
Ways to bridge bridges and not walls,
Ways to listen and learn and seek forgiveness for the wounds we have inflicted.
Thank you for your miracle of healing.
(pause as you bring to mind times when you have experienced God’s healing presence.)
Scripture readings: choose from the following:
Psalm 139, Exodus 1: 22-27, Matthew 8: 14-17, James 5: 13-16.
This Sunday’s worship text is Mark 1: 21-28
(pause to pray for those who are in need of healing.)
God of health, God of wholeness, God of love,
Heal our bodies, Heal our souls, Heal our spirits, Heal our world.
May we embrace this week knowing we are touched by the God who heals. Amen
(this prayer was adapted from a resource from godspacelight.com)

January 24th, 2021

God of Life, we are the church united as we pray from different locations,
connected through something more marvellous than technology–
your Spirit filling us with life and hope and vision.

We come before you with thanksgiving.

Thank you for the many kindnesses we have experienced
in this time of physical distancing:

neighbours connecting with one another,

some households learning about togetherness,
others learning new quieter rhythms.

Thank you for the joy of good food, the beauty of music.

this winter season which delights with its 

Pink-hued sunsets, icy patches for skating, and the brilliance of cardinals.

We thank you for sustaining life deep in the root systems of barren trees which in due season will bring forth new life… In this winter season, we give thanks there is new life even now that waits to be….  

As we offer our thanks we also come together with lament;

this virus has caused so much loss of life around the world.
So many suffer, so many families grieve,
10 months in and we are weary and we don’t know when it will end.
We lament the financial burdens of this pandemic,
and that it has fallen heavily on the poorest,
with inequalities standing out more sharply than usual.

We lament the loneliness and fear experienced

amongst the most vulnerable especially those who reside long-term care.

We lament that children are not in classrooms,

and how deeply they are missing their friends and routines.

Listening God, we pray for front-line and essential workers.

Keep them safe and strong, fill them with extra measures of compassion

As they care for the sick and families at a distance.

Strengthen parents who are home schooling while juggling work loads.

We pray for government officials and local health units

working hard to get immunizations into people’s arms.

Grant us all the grace of waiting our turn,

the grace of gentleness amidst challenging time, the grace of loving kindness toward one another.

We pray for our congregational leadership, treasurers,

And Stewardship and Finance committee as

we prepare for our annual financial meeting next week.

Generous God, we thank you that you have unleashed

generosity amongst us in order to further your mission.

We pray your blessing upon the ministries of this congregation

and the finances that support each one.  

May we be wise stewards of all that you have blessed us with.

God of comfort hear our prayer for the sick, the weak, the lonely, the grieving and all who stand in a place of need. And all of our loved ones who reside in long-term care or congregate settings. Keep them safe, encourage their spirits, protect them and surround them with loving kindness.  Grant grace and strength to their families at this difficult time.  We pray for those whose needs we carry in our hearts. We pray for families supporting loved ones from a distance due to covid restrictions. May connections be meaningful and care run deep.

                We also pray for our Households of Faith.

                Fill their hearts and home with your love and grace and encourage them each new day. Keep them safe and well.

                Encourage them we pray as they look forward to the time when they can be together again with family and friends. Keep them safe and well.

Fill them with peace and care for them and their family as they cope with school and work. Keep them safe and well.

 Jesus, walk with us this week. We trust in you, because you have been with us, showing us the faithful path in good times and bad, We are grateful you are faithful to remain with us. Amen.

January 20th, 2021

“Abide in my love and you shall bear much fruit” (John 15:5-9)

This year’s “Week of Prayer for Christian Unity” focus includes these words of Jesus, spoken prior to his passion.
It is the great desire of God, expressed by Jesus, that we might come to him and abide in him.
Jesus waits for us tirelessly, hoping that, united to him in love, we will bear fruit that will bring life to all.
Faced with the difference of ‘the other’, we risk withdrawing into ourselves and seeing only that which separates us.

As we pray let us remember the call of Christ. May we turn to his love, to Jesus who is the centre of our life
for the path of unity begins in our intimate relationship with God.

In peace let us pray: Lord, you are the vinedresser who cares for us with love. You call on us to see the beauty of each branch united to the vine, the beauty of each person. And yet, too often the differences in others make us afraid. We withdraw into ourselves. Our trust in you is forsaken. Enmity develops between us. Come and direct our hearts toward you once again. Grant us to live from your forgiveness so that we may bear good fruit and praise your name. Amen

Here is a link to access further resources for “The Week of Prayer for Christian Unity.”
https://www.weekofprayer.ca/2021-wpcu-resources

January 17th, 2021

Holy One,  Father of Christ who asked the disciples,

“What are you looking for,” and who offered the invitation to “Come and See,”

open our hearts to what you reveal and give us the courage to follow. 

By Your Spirit aid us in our journey,

so that like John, our words and deeds point to the Lamb of God. 

For those who are suffering, let us point to Christ through comfort. 

For those who are hungry, let us point to Christ through bread. 

For those in the grip of despair, let us point to Christ through hope.

Lord God, you call your people to tasks we would not ourselves choose. Give us the grace to love you enough to follow when you call.  You know our weakness and have promised to give resources for that which you ask of us. We praise you for your generous care. Like Samuel, let us say “Here I am.” God of surprising light, here we are.  

Lord God, hear our prayer for all who stand in need of healing, hope, and wholeness. We pray for our loved ones in long-term care, front-line and essential workers. Keep them safe and strong in mind, body, and spirit. May strength be renewed, may hope burn bright, may comfort and peace abound.  We pray for all who grieve. May God’s comfort surround them at this time of loss. We pray for those awaiting diagnosis, surgery, or treatment. Grace each one with strength for the journey and a wide circle of support. For needs named and for those we hold deep in our hearts, we offer our prayers……

We also pray for our Households of Faith.

 Lord God, we are surrounded, with people who need to hear the gospel story, people who need to meet the one from Nazareth, Jesus our Lord.  As we worship virtually and live deeply into this time of being the church in the community, may we reach out and care generously. Make our words and actions gracious and inviting. Like Philip, let us say, “Come and see.” God of surprising light, here we are.  Amen  

January 13th, 2021

In follow-up to this past Sunday’s scripture – Jesus’ baptism – and in response to unsettledness and violence in the world, here is a prayer offered by Nadia Bolz Weber:


God, You once tore open the heavens and descended as a dove upon Jesus and a dirty river full of repentant people. I don’t want to tell you how to do your job, but now would be a good time to tear open the heaven and send down that dove again.

Send your Holy Spirit to stir up repentance in your people:

Who would rather double down than admit we were wrong; Who fill with pride at being one of the few who “know the real truth”; Who only manage to point to others and never ourselves, (and are maybe a tiny bit grateful for the obvious, overt racism, violence and xenophobia of others since it conveniently takes the spotlight off of our own)

I pray that you send your Holy Spirit comfort your people:

Who are grieving our dead; Whose rightful rage might be corroding the edges of our hearts – because those hearts are still needed elsewhere; Who have had to break up with abusers or draw boundaries with unstable people in the past and know in our bodies how ugly this all gets; Who have joyous news they feel they cannot share; Who are trying (and failing) to still love those who voted differently than themselves; Who literally or figuratively find themselves (yet again) sweeping up the detritus of others’ racism, violence, and ignorance

Send down that dove, Lord, but help us look to the needs of our neighbor and not to the escape hatch of heaven to find her. Amen

January 10th, 2020

God of new beginnings and endings and all moments in between be with us this coming year. Through the waters of baptism you name us beloved – you confer our identity as your beloved children. May this identity grow and be shaped richly as we journey with you. May ‘beloved’ flow to the deep places of our hearts and being and may we embrace deeper understandings of our identity. May we be open to how you reveal yourself to us and shape and transform us as your holy called people.  

As we embrace this new year beginning, may we relearn lament and strive for joy. May we show up with courage and faithfulness for our lives and our callings as your people. May we be restored and renewed, the wilderness places becoming our cathedral and our altar.

As we embrace this new year beginning, may we say good-bye to the things that do not serve us – the selfishness, the fear, the illusions of control, the bitterness, the doom-scrolling, the self-pity, the martyr complex, the us-and-them fire stokers.

As we embrace this new year beginning may we say hello to wisdom, to kindness, to justice, curiosity, wonder, goodness, generosity, possibility, peace making.

As we embrace this year we pray for the sick, those who grieve, and those struggling to hold onto hope amidst isolation and loneliness.

We also pray for our Households of Faith.

Good and gracious God, throw open the doors of our lives to the disruptive, wild, healing Holy Spirit. May this be a year of unclenched hands and new songs, of vaccines and reunions, of good food and laughter, of kind endings and new beginnings. May we be given a mustard seed of faith knowing it will be enough. All this we pray in the name of Jesus. Amen.

January 6th, 2021

Today is Epiphany, an occasion to celebrate that the Light of the World has come!
It is my prayer that the light of God and the peace of Christ be with you all.

Due to provincial lockdown we are spending more time in our homes than ever before.
As we embrace this New Year, it’s challenges and opportunities, here is a special house blessing for the year:
God who is Three, God who is One,
Give blessing to the house that is here.
Bless it from roof to floor,
from wall to wall, from end to end.
May your Spirit alone dwell within these walls,
to bring joy and laughter to all who enter here.
We call upon the Sacred Three
to save, to shield and surround this home.
The circle of God around it,
The peace of Christ within it,
The life of the Spirit above it,
this day, this night and every night.
May the Triune God be the guardian of this place.
Peace be here in the name of the God of love.
Welcome be here in the name of the Christ of peace,
Joy be here in the name of the Spirit of life.
God who is One, God who is Three,
Bring light for the day and rest for the night
We call upon the Sacred Three
to welcome, guide and nurture all who enter here.
The circle of God, around friend and stranger.
The peace of Christ within guest and host,
The life of the Spirit above all who stand at the door,
this day, this night and evermore.
(adapted from a blessing in Celtin Daily Prayer)

January 3rd, 2021

Lord, as we begin a new year we remember what has gone before and we anticipate new beginnings. Like the wise men on their journey, we face uncertainty about what is to come. As we move into the unknown, help us to learn from the lessons of yesterday, and fill us with a vision of what we can be as we move forward.

            We ask that you keep the Advent candles of Hope, Peace, Joy, and Love burning in our hearts. Above all, help us to continue to be drawn to the light of the Christ candle, which reminds us that You are the light of the world and in You there is no darkness.

            Lord, shine Your light into all those places where we experience anxiety, worry and despair. Bring us your comfort and your peace.

            Shine Your light into all places of conflict and tension – in families, in friendships, in workplaces, in our communities, and among nations. Bring us to forgiveness and reconciliation.

            Shine Your light of love upon all those who stand in a place of need. We pray for all who grieve. Bring them to wholeness.  

We pray for our households of faith. We pray that your peace and joy will surround each one whether at work or at rest, in their relationships and in their homes. Bring them to gratitude and contentment.

Help us to walk boldly into the future, knowing that You are our Light. You are Emmanuel – God with us. Amen
(prayer provided by Diane Peters)

December 27th, 2020

Holy One, born in a manger, Word become flesh, we rejoice in your coming.

                We rejoice that you came to save, not with might and power but through vulnerability and love.

                In this dark season, thank you for Christmas, and the gift of a child of hope.
                We rejoice for news so good it still rings out through voices around the world speaking of good tidings of great joy which shall be for all people.
            We rejoice that people around the world each day are loving their neighbor, opening their door, sharing what they have, trying to find a way to live in peace.
           We rejoice that the best laid plans of those who sow hatred and fear, will come to nothing. We rejoice that your angels tell us to “Fear not.”
                Today we rejoice that hope lives even in places designed to be hopeless; hope ringing out and over every wall, rising up in refugee camps, walking through locked prison doors, simmering in the hearts of those brought low, rising up in the laughter of children who have no home and no citizenship. We pray that your gift of hope will surround and uphold the lonely, isolated, sick and the suffering.   

We pray for all of our loved ones in long-term care. May they know the love of God and the love of family and friends. Grant deep measures of patience, we pray.

We pray for all impacted by covid: the sick, the suffering, the grieved, front line workers, health care and essential workers. May hope burn bright for those receiving treatment or awaiting surgery.

We pray that the comforting presence of God will surround all who are missing loved ones this Christmas.

We pray for our households of faith.

We pray for deep relationships of love and joy especially at this challenging time.

This Christmas open us to your gift of revolutionary hope, and your new ways of seeing and being. Where there is judgement in our families and relationships, bring acceptance. Where there are grudges, your sweet release. Where love has faltered, renew it like the dawn. Let hope be born again in our humblest, darkest places as we join with the angels in their song of joy, “Glory to God in the highest, and on earth peace to all .” Let this be our benediction, let this be our song. Let rejoicing be on our lips and in our hearts: “Hallelujah, Christ is born!” Amen

December 24th, 2020

Dear Friends,
This year’s Christmas season is unlike any other and yet there is still so much to celebrate.
“I bring you good news of great joy for all the people: to you is born this day in the city of David a Savior, who is the Messiah, the Lord.” (Luke 2: 10-11)
May our hearts make room to receive Jesus and in response to God’s gift of Love, may we cherish the ones we love and share that love abundantly. As we celebrate the birth of Jesus, may you always know that the love of God and the light of Christ is with you.
Wishing you a blessed and safe Christmas and a New Year filled with hope, peace, joy, and love.
With a pastor’s love,
Kara

Here is the link for our Christmas Eve Service: https://youtu.be/PfNQeAhY5vU

A Prayer for Christmas Eve…..
Holy One,
Prince of Peace,
though scattered in body, we are united in your love.
Though separated by distance, we are together in your Spirit.
Though uncertain of the future, we are
confident of your presence with us,
held within our hearts like the sturdiest
and most surprising of mangers for a bed.
Shine your light this night and into all the
dark nights to come.
Shine your light into ICU’s and vaccination rooms
into grocery stores and crowded warehouses
into food banks and homeless shelters
into long-term care and supportive living
into homes that feel too quiet and homes
where the yelling doesn’t stop.
Shine your light
into Zoom reunions and long-awaited phone calls;
into contactless deliveries and virtual hugs;
into physically distanced check-ins and homemade gifts
into all that is possible when the usual becomes impossible.
Shine your light, O Jesus Christ,
Shine it within us so that all might see. Amen

December 20th, 2020

Our souls cry out with a joyful shout that the Lord of our heart is great;

and our spirits sing of the wondrous things that you bring to the ones who wait.

Revealing God, may Mary’s song be heard throughout the ages,
drowning out the din of consumerism during this season of celebration.

May it be heard by the victims of violence in Ethiopia and Eritrea
May it ring in the ears of the traumatised, refugees without homes in search of safety.
May it sing in the hearts of marginalized, the impoverished, the hungry and the homeless…
Revealing God, may Mary’s song be an earworm song of hope
for all standing strong for land rights, and for all who are crying out for an end to discrimination and oppression due to skin colour. May it be the rally cry of peace for the war-weary of the world. Revealing God, may Mary’s be a song that stirs reverent fear in the hearts of those who abuse power, those who seek to enrich their own coffers at the expense of the poor and the needy.

We pray Mary’s song nourish hope in the hearts of fearful, the isolated and the lonely. May it nourish comfort for all who grieve.

May healing grace surround the most vulnerable amongst us, especially those in long term care. We pray for all impacted by covid: the sick, the suffering, the grieved, front line workers, health care and essential workers. May hope burn bright for those receiving treatment or awaiting surgery.

We pray for our households of faith, may God’s gifts of Advent hope, peace, joy, and love fill their hearts and home.

May Mary’s song be the melody that guides our paths. May the joyful promises of justice and overturned powers fill our hearts to overflowing action including– giving generously, serving self-sacrificially, loving wholeheartedly.

Holy One we pray that we might be bold with our ‘yes’ in response to your invitation to participate in your unfolding mission of restoration of all creation, and your plan of salvation.

As we await your coming, nurture and nourish all that waits to be birthed.

We pray with confidence knowing nothing is impossible with you. Amen

December 16th, 2020

A blessing for the third week of Advent:
Light of Life,
we light candles this season, not simply out of tradition or coziness,
though there’s that,
but because we believe in the Light
that shines in the darkness,
restoring all that is lost and broken,
relegated to shadow, forgotten, or desecrated.
Restore us to wholeness – to our state of original blessing,
to be bearers of your light and goodness.
Restore Earth to wholeness – to her state of blessedness and sacredness,
vital, fruitful, balanced.
Restore the threads of the web of Life – once strong but now frayed
from lack of attention and care, consumerism, and poor theology.
Restore our joy in life – bring laughter
to our lips, beauty to our eyes,
and deeper bonds to our relationships.
We pray as those who sense your presence among us
in light and dark, now and always Amen
(written by Wendy Janzen)

As we anticipate a very different Christmas this year and as many struggle with loneliness, isolation, or anxiety, WMC Elders wish to make available once again two panel discussions which were prepared earlier this year. It is our prayer that this resource will give voice to your feelings and experience and offer you practical help as we continue to find our way. Please feel free to share this resource with friends or family in need of care and encouragement.
https://youtu.be/r4MfAktqBAM

December 13th, 2020

Lord our God, you have revealed yourself as One

whose desire it is to bring justice, peace, and joy to all people.

In a world that turns away from and participates in injustice,

You cast your eyes on the destitute, the poor, and the wronged;

You have called us to follow you, to preach good news to the poor,

to proclaim release for the captives, and recovery of sight for the blind,

to set at liberty those who are oppressed, and to proclaim the time of your blessing.

Lord our God, be present with your church as we respond to your call.

Open our eyes to those in need, especially the lonely and the isolated.

Fill us with compassion for refugees and immigrants who seek safe refuge

Fill us with mercy for those who struggle with addiction and mental illness, or bear the weight of abuse in its many forms..

Fill us with gifts of caregiving for the sick, those who suffer pain whether in mind, body, or spirit……

May your healing grace surround the most vulnerable amongst us, especially those in long term care. We pray for all impacted by covid: the sick, the suffering, the grieved, and all health care and essential workers. May hope burn bright for those receiving treatment or awaiting surgery. Comfort the hurting, encourage the weary, grant full healing and restoration to broken bones and tired spirits. May the hope of gentle healing and the gift of accompaniment of family and friends be a deep source of comfort for all who grieve.

God of peace hear our prayers for our Households of Faith. We pray for continued good health, patience for this journey, and energy and joy for the task of parenting. We give thanks for health and the gifts of love and joy in their work, their rest, and recreation. Keep their families safe and in your watchful care. We pray for days filled with meaningful connections, work, and loving relationships. May the peace of God surround our households of faith.

Lord our God, fill us to overflowing with joy. No earthly thing can ever give us complete joy. Our joy comes from you. The same joy that flooded the hearts of the shepherds, the angels, the wise men, the hosts of heaven, and Mary and Joseph, is the joy that still has the power to overwhelm hearts with rejoicing. Through the gift of joy, lead us, strengthen us, give us courage that we may share bread with the hungry, extend and receive hospitality, and generously share our resources with all who stand in need. We offer our prayers in the name of Jesus who taught us to pray, Our Father………….… Amen

December 9th, 2020

First Coming by Madeleine L’Engle

He did not wait till the world was ready,

till humanity and nations were at peace.

He came when the Heavens were unsteady,

and prisoners cried out for release.

He did not wait for the perfect time.

He came when the need was deep and great.

He dined with sinners in all their grime, turned water into wine.

He did not wait till hearts were pure.

In joy he came to a tarnished world of sin and doubt.

To a world like ours, of anguished shame he came, and his Light would not go out.

He came to a world which did not mesh,

to heal its tangles, shield its scorn.

In the mystery of the Word made Flesh the Maker of the stars was born.

We cannot wait till the world is sane to raise our songs with joyful voice; for to share our grief, to touch our pain, He came with Love: Rejoice! Rejoice!

We are 9 months into global pandemic.
We are preparing for Christmas and have embarked on the 2nd week of Advent.
L’Engle eloquently captures the essence of Advent and how Jesus did not wait until the world was stable to come. He came at such an unsettled time as this.
Advent lays bear the world’s pain and personal pain…. without which there would be no reason for God’s coming. No reason for angels singing. No reason for prophets preaching. No reason for magi seeking. No reason for hoping and imagining and living toward a new world.
As a congregation we began 2020 with a worship service during which a number of congregants shared their hopes for WMC for 2020.
We were hoping for: the church to be relevant, caring (congregation and community), open doors, meet and exceed budget, find peace, belonging, family. We wanted a place of wonder where we could ask questions. Acts of service were named as the foundation for the big things we hope for: peace, reconciliation, gratitude, purpose, contentment.
Our youth also shared their hopes. Wellesley Township’s Climate Emergency was on their mind. They hoped for less paper, less waste, more recycling, and the elimination of single-use plastics.
Today we are holding onto the hope of a vaccine, stability and more…..
As we consider hope, may we reflect upon this: “When we get to the other side of this pandemic, what do we want to say that we have done?”
Are we hoping to just survive? Maintain what is? Or, do we want to say we have thrived? What do you/we want to say you/we have done?????
Let us pray:
God of life, source of hope we await the new thing you are doing… in our hearts, in our homes, in our congregation, in our communities, and in your world. You come to us amidst our doubts and fear, amidst pandemic and uncertainty. You come, a light in the darkness. Open the eyes of our hearts to your presence and fill us with courage to follow where you lead us. Amen.

May hope, peace, joy and love be the candle on your Advent journey,
Kara

December 6th, 2020

God of peace, hear our prayer for peace;
the peace of the earth, felt bodily,
our feet on this good ground,
our eyes towards the stars;
the peace of fellowship, around us,
fellow Jesus followers joining together to worship.

God of peace, hear our prayer for people working together to care and to comfort, to heal,
making sure that no one is forgotten.
There is so much peace to celebrate, gifts from your hand and gifts of love:

neighbours checking in on one another, mask wearing and safe distancing, the peace of snowflakes falling, the peace of a candle’s flicker.

God of peace, hear our prayer for places where we still need peace: hear our prayer for all who are in pain, facing sickness, including all impacted by covid.

God of peace, hear our prayer for the most vulnerable amongst us, especially those in long term care. May hope burn bright for those receiving treatment or awaiting surgery. Comfort the hurting, encourage the weary, grant full healing and restoration to broken bones and tired spirits. May the hope of gentle healing and the gift of accompaniment of family and friends be a deep source of comfort for all who grieve.

God of peace, hear our prayers for our Households of Faith. We pray for their wide circle of family whom they will not be with this Christmastime for the sake of everyone’s health. May comfort and understanding run deep and may they find meaningful ways to celebrate this season.

God of peace, rain down peace in our hearts, in our homes, in our land, and in your world. Rain down peace in the places in our world where violence rages;we think especially of Ethiopia and Eretrea, gun violence on city streets, homes where people are hurt by those they love. We want peace to grow, we want to be your ambassadors for peace. Show us this week how we can make a difference, through our presence, through our resources, through our prayers.

God of peace, the angels came with a message of peace on earth so long ago;
that message still echoes, it still calls our name. May we hear the angels song anew. Receive all of our prayers in the name of Jesus, the Christ. Amen.

December 2nd, 2020

Greetings on this bright December morning!

We have embarked on the Road of Advent.
This past Sunday we lit the candle of hope and all have been encouraged to create an Advent wreath at home so we can encounter the ritual of candle lighting together.
At a time when we are not altogether, our rituals remind us that we are held in the wide embrace of God’s love and hope.
This year we are standing in need of hope. Advent invites us to name our needs and deepest yearnings.

Feel free to reflect upon these questions:
I feel hope when………………
I witness the in-breaking of hope………………….
I need hope to light the path of ……………..

Let us pray:
God of hope, who brought love into this world,
be the love that dwells between us.
God of hope, who brought peace into this world,
be the peace that dwells between us.
God of hope, who brought joy into this world,
be the joy that dwells between us.
God of hope, the rock we stand upon,
be the centre, the focus of our lives
always, and particularly this Advent time. Amen

November 29th, 2020

God that you would rip open the heavens and come down, and make the mountains shudder. But isn’t this season about tinsel decorations and excess?O God that the sun would become dark, the moon no longer give its light, the stars fall from the sky, and the planets be shaken. But isn’t this season about lights twinkling in the streets and consumerism?O God, that we would see the Christ coming in the clouds, with great power and splendour. This, O God is the hope we’re looking. This is the promise of something better. We can’t wait!

O God, but now we must wait, keep watch, stay alert, not knowing when the time is coming. Come, Lord Jesus. We wait for the arrival of this hope, we look for the signs of the inbreaking of your presence.

O God, you keep coming to us in the small, and the vulnerable, in unexpected ways…. In each act of love, in each expression of patience and kindness, in our generous giving, justice-doing, and peace-making……. May we seek your face this season, seek your presence, and offer our worship.

O God, we pray for peace in Ethiopia and Eritrea. We pray for our African brothers and sisters weighted down by violence, displacement, and fear. Come, Lord Jesus Come.

O God, we pray for all who stand in a place of need. We pray for those suffering due to emotional pain, physical pain, relational pain…..May your healing grace surround the most vulnerable amongst us, especially those in long term care.

May hope burn bright for those receiving treatment or awaiting surgery. Comfort the hurting, encourage the weary, grant full healing and restoration we pray. May the hope of gentle healing and the gift of accompaniment of family and friends be source of comfort for all who grieve.

O God hear our prayers for our Households of Faith.

O God, as we journey the road of Advent may hope draw us into a future of opportunity not yet seen, into restoration that even now in silence is unfolding, may hope draw us into renewal and new life.

O God, you came down in flesh that we might have love, that we might have peace, that we might have joy, that we might have hope and that we might have life. Halleluiah forever more. Amen.

November 25th, 2020

This Sunday marks our journey into Advent. Advent, as with human life begins in the dark.
This Sunday we will light the first candle of Advent – the candle of hope – and kick off our worship series: “On the Road….”
Advent One, we are “on the road of readiness.”
What does readiness look like for you? How might we prepare to receive the One sent to save us?
Getting ready for Advent, all are invited to create an Advent wreath for your home.
This Advent and Christmas season will look very different and yet there are rituals, including lighting Advent candles that draw us together.
All are welcome to join Friday prayer at 11:30 during which time we will reflect upon the meaning of Advent, our intentions for this season that leads to Bethlehem and the manger, and we will offer our prayers.

The following is an Advent prayer inspired by the Celtic tradition:
Come, Lord, awaken us to Your presence.
Dispel the darkness of night.
Come, Lord, awaken us to Your presence.
Cure the deafness of our ears.
Heal the blindness of our sight.
Come, Lord, awaken us to Your presence.
Open the mouths that are dumb.
Kindle Your warmth in our hearts.
Come, Lord, awaken us to Your presence.
Make us aware of You.
Come, Hope of the world, Prince of Peace, King of glory.
Into our world of darkness,
Into our places of strife,
Into our troubles and weakness
Come down, come in, come among us.
Into our joys and celebrations,
Into our homes and to our loved ones,
Into our neighbourhoods and cities,
Come, down, come in, come among us.
To those who are in need,
To those who are in sickness,
To those who are in despair,
Come down, come in, come among us
that we might love You and our neighbours
for the sake of Your Kingdom and in Your Name. Amen

November 1st, 2020

Holy One, you are our God and we are Your people,
and we are grateful that You have claimed us as your own.
You have set us in the company of your people across generations,
among those who have made bold witness to Your goodness, Your truth.
Your faithful accompanying presence opens up new futures
where we see no way forward.

Holy One, You know the places in our hearts where we are afraid:

afraid of a future we cannot control
afraid of losing health and independence
afraid for the well-being of our children

Holy One, You know the places in our hearts and bodies where there is pain and suffering:

be with the sick and those awaiting surgery or treatment

be with the lonely, the lost, the least,

be with all impacted by covid 19 including caregivers and administrators, and scientists

be with all who grieve. Surround the broken hearted with deep comfort, immeasurable love, and gentle care. Comfort all who grieve, we pray.

Holy One, You also know the places in our hearts where there is joy and delight and inspiration

Thank you for the beauty of creation

for all things pumpkin-spiced

the chill in the air as seasons turn

and the warmth of the fire

Holy One, we are your people on a journey.

Pour out your grace and peace upon all who stand in a place of need for healing, hope and wholeness.

We also pray for our Households of Faith.

Holy One, write the stories of all your people deep into our hearts
so that we may learn to trust you beyond our fears.
Give us hearts and minds and spirits
ready to trust and follow wherever your Spirit leads,
confident that you will not lead us beyond your loving embrace.
We ask in the name of the One who taught us to pray: Our Father ………….

Amen

October 28th, 2020

Greetings!
This past weekend I joined nearly 200 members from Mennonite Church Canada for an on-line study conference: “Table Talk: Does the church still have legs?”
It was inspiring and invigorating to listen, engage, and wrestle with questions about the church’s identity, mission, purpose, etc. especially during this challenging time of covid pandemic. Something I appreciated was Sara Wenger Shank’s observation concerning what church is NOT. She said:
“The church is not:
a membership list
a white Swiss German or Russian Mennonite Church
a black, Chinese, Ethopian or Karen church
an efficient, well-organized, smartly structured institutional church,
a holier than thou, separate from the world, tribal church.
Of course, we have aspects of all of the above in our ways of doing church – but none of these are what defines our identity as the church.”

How do you define the church.. the identity / purpose / mission of the church?
At this time when programs are being re-imagined, when we worship in-person and from home at the same time, when social gatherings are limited, we are invited to consider: “when this is over, what kind of congregation do we want to be? What do we want to say we have done? What is God’s calling for us now?”
May we wrestle deeply with these questions, listening for God and listening to one another.
peace,
Kara

October 25th, 2020

On this day we are all experiencing varied needs for healing. Let us offer our prayers for forgiveness, for healing and comfort:

Lord of life, we bow our hearts before you.

Mend broken relationships we pray, comfort those who live with mental distress and are in any trouble. Strengthen those who suffer and hear their prayers. Grant to everyone in distress mercy, relief, and refreshment; through Jesus Christ our Lord. Hear us, O Lord of life.

Lord God, give mercy to those struggling at this time of COVID pandemic. Grant to all who are providing care for those living in hospitals, retirement residences, long term care facilities and at home, understanding and patience to support those who feel fear; through Jesus Christ our Lord. Hear us, O Lord of life.

Lord God, pour out your healing grace on all who are sick, the injured or disabled, that they may be made whole. Grant to them a willingness to accept the support of others who care for them and awareness of Your presence; through Jesus Christ our Lord. Hear us, O Lord of life.

Lord God, give to those who are dying peace; surround their loved ones with strength and comfort; uphold those who are grieving by the Holy Spirit; through Jesus Christ our Lord. Hear us, O Lord of life.

Lord God, we remember before you the homeless, the destitute, and all who have none to care for them. Help them to know the love of your Son, who for our sake became poor. Grant that we may follow Christ’s lead in showing them love; through Jesus Christ our Lord. Hear us, O Lord of life.

Lord God, in this broken world where many are fighting for their right to be heard, valued and respected including Canada’s First Nations people, open our minds to the truth that you have created all. Grace us with voices to advocate and speak Your truth.. We pray for all victims of sexual violence, those who have caused harm…through Jesus Christ our Lord.  Hear us, O Lord of life.

Lord God, draw your Church together, into one great company of disciples, following Jesus Christ, serving in his mission to the world and together witnessing to God’s love across the street and around the world. Give us courage to share the gospel message; through Jesus Christ our Lord.

Hear us, O Lord of life as we offer prayers for one another: Pour out Your healing and grace upon all those in long-term care. We also pray for those awaiting surgery or treatment.

We also pray for our Households of Faith.

We pray for deep measures of patience.

Lord God, you have heard the prayers of your faithful people. You are the Lord who does wonders. Grant us faith to believe; through Jesus Christ our Lord. Hear us, O Lord of life as we pray as you taught us:

Our Father…………….

Amen.

October 18th, 2020

God with us, thank you for your presence in the dawn that comes every morning and in the darkest of our nights. There is no place we can go where you are not already present there. Open the eyes of our hearts to your grace that abounds each day and for all the ways you provide for us – enough strength and compassion, enough courage and kindness, enough faith and resilience.

We give you thanks for your son Jesus Christ,
for his sacrifice for us and for his teaching.
Help us to grasp resurrection; to understand its power,
to see its force at work in our world,
thawing the hatred within us, melting our hearts, birthing new life, transforming our human landscape.

As your disciples travelling the Emmaus Road, we too do not always recognize you;
Thank you that you walk with us in both the big events of our lives and the world,
and in the everyday events too.
Thank you that you are walking with your church,
as decisions are made, as safety protocols are implemented, as we discern leadership needs, and as we wrestle with what it means to be the church in this season of pandemic when we are not altogether. Through our very lives may we be witnesses to your healing presence, your reconciling presence, your ways of peace.

God with us, we thank you for your presence in doctor’s offices, clinics and hospitals. Thank you for your presence in classrooms, university residences, and places of business.

Thank you for your presence with the sick, with those at the moment of death,
and with those left behind to grieve. We hold in prayer those whose needs we carry deep in our hearts. We also pray for our households of faith: May their lives be filled to overflowing with love, peace, and relationships of support. We are grateful that we are not alone on this Emmaus Road.

Thank you for the ways your presence is revealed through the ministries of the House of Friendship: when the hungry are fed, when the homeless are provided shelter, when support and friendship is provided for those struggling with addiction.

Illuminating God, we wait for the moments where you are suddenly revealed
in the every day and painful moments of our lives,
where we say, wonderingly, “It is the Lord!”
Thank you for the times we catch sight of your kingdom come,
in the person of Jesus Christ, who taught us to pray…… Our Father

October 15th, 2020

Warm greetings!
O give thanks to the Lord, for God is good;
God’s steadfast love endures forever.” Psalm 107:1

A new week has dawned following a very different Thanksgiving weekend!
I hope you experienced deep thanksgiving and that you are continuing to live into thanksgiving. Thanksgiving arises from our ability to recognize blessing and it is furthered through articulation and through action. Offering our thanksgiving to God and living into thanksgiving transforms individuals and communities.
Thanksgiving is the power that moves us from scarcity to abundance, from isolation to restoration, from violence to peace, from fearing differences to acceptance.
In what ways do you experience the transforming power of thanksgiving?
In what ways do you live out thanksgiving through your actions?
At this challenging time when fears can swell and we are navigating much change, let us live into thanksgiving for all of God’s good gifts!

“O give thanks to the Lord, for God is good; God’s steadfast love endures forever.”

October 11th, 2020

The following prayer is offered to the church by Carol Penner (with adaptation)
“Stumbling towards Thanksgiving”

God, in this hard year, we’ve been stumbling towards Thanksgiving.
There has been lots to trip us up;
a pandemic, economic meltdowns, social isolation,
injustice on so many fronts: #BlackLivesMatter, #MeToo,
and the ongoing call for justice for indigenous peoples.
Not to mention hurricanes, forest fires and climate change…
and this is not even including the everyday sorrows
that haven’t let up for one minute!
We wouldn’t wish this year on anyone!
And so on this Thanksgiving, we stumble on the words,
and we need to take some deep breaths now to pause
and consider what we are thankful for… [ pause ]

We do have things to be thankful for.
Thank you for life, for bringing us here this far.
Thank you for those who have sacrificed to help others;
health care and essential workers, teachers,
and everyone who has toiled overtime to make a difference.
Thank you for your provision;
the good earth has yielded up its bounty,
that there is food in grocery stores,
even if we sometimes do have to line up for it.
Thank you that this fall season still delights:
the taste of the crisp delicious apple,
the gold of grain pouring out of the combine,
the fragrance of the damp leaves,
the sound of geese honking their way south,
the feel of cool wind and the sun still warm on our skin.

Thank you that we are your children, welcomed, loved, and embraced.

God of hope, we need your help to get through the coming year.
Help us find a vaccine: we need it soon,
we need it for everyone; and we need it to work.
In the meantime, help our communities pull together;
forgive us when we are irritated and judgmental
of the choices other people are making.
Give us all patience as we wash our hands for the millionth time,
as we mask up, as we make hard choices not to mingle and socialize in person.

God of healing and wholeness we hold before you those whose needs we carry deep in our hearts.

Hear our prayers for this week’s Households of Faith.

On this Thanksgiving day, we set our eyes on Christmas,
The world is waiting desperately for an angelic message
of good tidings of great joy for all people.
We are waiting for you to be born again,
born again in this pandemic year, born again in our hearts, in our world.
We know you are coming, and so on Thanksgiving

we pray with thanksgiving, in Jesus’s name, Amen

October 7th, 2020

“We remember the fish we had in Egypt, the cucumbers, the melons, the leeks, the onions, and the garlic.” (Numbers 11:5)

As we approach Thanksgiving, many of us have food on our minds: turkey & dressing, mashed potatoes, cranberries, pumpkin pie. But leeks and onions? Not so much!
Two years after the exodus, vegetables were on the minds of the Israelites. There was much complaining. Their request was strange. They weren’t facing an imminent threat, Pharaoh’s army, starvation, or thirst. Egypt was years behind them.
Before dismissing the Israelites’ longing for cucumbers as mere whining, do you hear a deeper longing: a longing for home?
Our 8-year grandson recently declared, “I don’t like 2020!” Earlier in covid he was missing sleepovers.
What are you missing as we journey this unknown season? In what ways does 2020 feel like a wilderness journey?
It’s important to be attentive to our longings, especially when our Thanksgiving celebrations will look different this year.
For the Israelites, their longings were really the longing for home, whether back in Egypt or in a strange new world.

Prayer:
God with us, in the wilderness, your people learned that their real home wasn’t in a particular place. It was in your heart.
Help us to find our home there, too. Amen

No Friday Prayer this week. See you next Friday!

Holding you in prayer,
Kara

October 4th, 2020

God of grace, together we turn to you in prayer, for it is you who unite us:
you are the one God – Father, Son and Holy Spirit –
in whom we believe,
you alone empower us for good,
you send us out across the earth
in mission and service in the name of Christ.

We confess before you and all people:
We have misused and abused creation.
We have wounded one another by divisions.
We have often failed to take decisive action
against environmental destruction, poverty, racism,
homophobia, xenophobia, and war. We are not only victims but also perpetrators of violence.

In all this, we have fallen short as disciples of Jesus Christ
who in his incarnation came to save us and teach us how to love.
Forgive us, God, and teach us to forgive one another.

God, hear the cries of all creation,
the cries of the waters, the air, the land and all living things;
the cries of all who are exploited, marginalized, abused and victimized,
all who are dispossessed and silenced, their humanity ignored,
all who suffer from any form of disease and sickness including covid
and from the crimes of the arrogant
who hide from the truth, distort memory
and deny the possibility of reconciliation.
God, guide all in seats of authority
towards decisions of moral integrity.

We give thanks for your blessings and signs of hope
that are already present in the world,
in people of all ages and in those who have gone before us in faith;
in movements to overcome violence in all its forms,
not just for a decade but for always;
in the deep and open dialogues that have begun
both within our own churches and with those of other faiths
in the search for mutual understanding and respect;
in all those working together for justice and peace –
We thank you for the good news of Jesus Christ,
and the assurance of resurrection.

We offer our prayers for those in need of healing, hope and wholeness.

We also pray for our Households of Faith.

Open our hearts to love to see that all people are made in your image,
to care for creation and affirm life in all its wondrous diversity.
Transform us in the offering of ourselves
so that we may be your partners in transformation
to strive for the full, visible unity
of the one Church of Jesus Christ,
to become neighbours to all,
as we await with eager longing
the full revelation of your kingdom come on earth
as it is in heaven.
All this we pray in the name of Jesus who prayed that may be one.
Amen

September 30th, 2020

Today is Orange Shirt Day, the day everyone is encouraged to wear an orange shirt to honour the Indigeneous children who were sent to residential schools in Canada and to learn more about the history of those schools. Orange Shirt Day began in Williams Lake B.C. in 2013 at the Joseph Mission residential school commemoration event at which time survivor Phyllis Webstad told the story of her shiny new orange shirt taken away from her on her first day of school at the Mission.

As a congregation we have taken some steps together to learn about Canada’s history including the Residential School experience. A “Blanket Exercise” guided us through the story of our Indigeneous neighbours. WMC Book Clubs have read and discussed “Indian Horse,” “The Reason You Walk,” “The Orenda.” In December 2019 the WMC Board approved the following Land Acknowledgement Statement:

“We acknowledge with gratitude that we are worshiping on the traditional territories of the Anishnabe, the Haudenosaunee, and the neutral peoples.
We give thanks for the First Peoples who called this land home and for all the ways they cared for the land.
We give thanks for all who have made this land home. For fertile fields that have fed generations, for waterways that have provided food, and for trees that have sheltered and borne fruit, we give thanks.
As Anabaptists we strive to walk in the ways of peace, reconciliation, and justice with all peoples and God’s good creation.”

As we wear our orange shirts today and reflect upon our land acknowledgement statement which emerged in response to Canada’s Truth and Reconciliation recommendations, may we continue the journey of learning and unlearning, listening, responding, and walking in the ways of peace, reconciliation, and justice with all peoples and God’s good creation.

September 27th, 2020

Holy One, in whose love we live and move, we bow our hearts before you.

The beauty of autumn landscapes, bounty of crops, and tartness of apples reveal your goodness and how you hold all of creation in your loving and sustaining hands.

Holy One, your desire is for shalom – wellness and wholeness for all creation,

You yearn for our wellbeing, emotional, relational, spiritual, physical

We pray for a world rocked by conflict and war;
a world that lives uneasily in a climate of fear

We pray for a world that thinks less of others than of self;
a world where division between nations, race, religion,
neighbour, and family leads to distrust and divisions.

We pray for a world that is short on gratitude,
too busy to enjoy this world you have created,
too preoccupied with living to appreciate life.

We pray for a world ravaged by COVID, injustice, racism and institutional oppression.

We pray for a world where spiritual wellness is sought through things which do not satisfy or quench the deeper yearnings of the heart: love, belonging, connection.

We pray for a world groaning due to overuse and mis-use of natural resources and for all the ways our life-styles contribute to climate change.

We pray for our needs for healing, hope and wholeness.

We pray for the sick, those waiting surgery dates, those who have received a hard diagnosis.

We pray for those who wait for strength to be restored, those who are lonely and isolated.

We pray for Inspiring Minds here in Wellesley amidst outbreak.

We also pray for our Households of Faith.

Holy Listening One, may your love and care restore the broken places of our world,

our lives, our communities, our hearts.

May your love flow as a life-giving stream for the restoration of all creation.

Quench the parched places of this world and our lives with peace, with hope, and with joy.

Amen.

September 23, 2020

“For everything there is a season, and a time for every matter under heaven:
a time to be born, and a time to die;
a time to plant and a time to pluck up what is planted;
a time to release and a time to embrace……” (Ecclesiastes. 3: 1-8)

Fall has arrived in all her glory! Trees have begun to turn shades of crimson, orange, and gold. Apple trees are ripe with fruit and farmers are busily harvesting corn and beans. We are on the cusp of a new season. Summer blossoms have been kissed by frost. Daylight hours are shortening. Fall scents fill the air and the flavours of fall dance on our tongue.
What autumn sights and sounds and smells capture your attention and create a sense of awe, praise, thanksgiving?

Spiritual writer Joyce Rupp reflects upon lessons learned in the seasons of the year. She suggests each season teaches us by her natural turning about the fine art of loss and new life.
Find a quiet spot today. Take several slow, deep breaths to settle your body and calm your mind.
Be open to the Holy Spirit’s nudgings and reflect upon the lessons of autumn: releasing and embracing, letting go and new life.
Invite God’s Spirit to show you what has served its time.
What is God’s Spirit inviting you to let go in order for new life to emerge?
May God’s grace be abundant as we continue to journey this holy path.
For everything there is a season… a time to release; and a time to embrace.
Pastor Kara
* There will be no Friday prayer this week. See you next Friday!

September 20, 2020

God, as your people through all generations, we too have known Your generosity and love, and have experienced Your care and provision. You call us to extend Your love to the world around us—to care for others as deeply as we care for ourselves. And so we bring the needs of our world before You now.

Lord, hear our prayer.

We pray for those who do not have what they need in order to survive;

those without enough food to eat, or shelter to keep them warm;

those without employment, or enough money to pay their bills;

those without access to medical care, or medicine to keep them healthy

including migrant workers.

We pray for those who have more than enough to meet their needs,

but who continue to feel empty inside;

who struggle to find meaning and purpose in life,

who numb their pain through substances or other destructive behaviours

We also pray for our households of faith for this week.

We give thanks for the generous ways they share their gifts and lives amongst us. May their lives be blessed by love. May each day bring joy and fulfillment.

We pray for safe travels. May these days be gentle.

We also pray for all who are battling life-threatening disease or injury, those who are living with chronic pain or facing death.

We pray for all affected by covid, the sick, the grieving, the fearful.

God of the first and the last, and all those in between, Your grace and generosity is extended to all.

You call us to faithful discipleship, to work together with one mind and one purpose, to reach out in love to those in need.

Strengthen us so that we might live in a manner worthy of the Good News we have received, offering our lives to the building up of Your upside-down kingdom, where the last are first, and the first are last, and there is grace enough for all.

All these things we pray in Jesus’ name who taught us to pray:

Our Father…

September 16, 2020

Wednesday greetings,

Today’s inspiration comes to us from Lillian Daniel, a spunky pastor whose writings I enjoy and find inspiring.

Do not be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your minds, so that you may discern what is the will of God – what is good and acceptable and perfect. – Romans 12:2 (NRSV)

Relationships are a constant and continual renegotiation. What you say on your twelfth birthday, your retirement date, or wedding day may not be your plan ten years later. And yet, to the other person, it can be a total surprise. They defend the old plan, saying, “You can’t change your mind now. That was not what we agreed.”

“You said you wouldn’t go back to work until the kids were in junior high,” says the mom with the more-than-full-time job, to her husband in charge of the everyday chaos at home. “Yes, but four years into this, I feel differently,” he says. “Don’t lock me in.”

In an unhealthy relationship, we do lock each other in. We hold each other hostage to some past version of ourselves, cutting down each other’s dreams.

“How are you going to cook for the homeless, when you don’t even cook at home?”

“You wanted to go to law school. You can’t change careers at your age.”

“You want to sing songs from the 18th century? This family doesn’t have time for you to pursue your own amusement.”

But it’s cruel to tell another person that they are not allowed to change their mind. It’s terrible to feel boxed in to a previous version of yourself.

Renegotiating isn’t easy. But the heart of the gospel is this: everyone gets to grow and change. Discerning the will of God isn’t about doing whatever you want or making the other person do whatever you want. Discernment disrupts our best-laid plans.

Prayer:

When the next negotiating session begins, remind me “God is still speaking.” And not only to me.

Amen.

September 13, 2020

Gracious and Gentle God we give thanks for coming to earth in flesh to dwell amongst us and to teach us how to live and how to love. We give you thanks for the power of your love revealed in Jesus.… love to help and heal when nothing else can, love that lifts up and liberates when nothing else will. Having been blessed by the power of your love, we want to freely give what we have been freely given.

Let your healing love be known this day by all who suffer physically, distress of mind, agony of spirit, or brokenness of relationships. Let your forgiving love be known this day – we ask for forgiveness for harm we have done to one another and to your creation. Forgive us our debts as we forgive our debtors. Reveal the power of your love and bring new life to all.

Let your intimate love be known today we pray, by all who feel forgotten or lost, and all who are walking in the dark valley of despair. We pray for all suffering due to covid – the sick, the grieving, the under-resourced, and front-line workers.

May your gracious presence provide comfort and strength. We pray for our households of faith. May their lives be filled with love, health and joy. Reveal the power of your love and bring new life to all.

Let your fierce love this day redress the wrongs of all who suffer exploitation, injustice, abuse, neglect, or violence. Amidst global black lives matter movement we pray that the voice of the voiceless be honoured and that racism and systems of oppression be dismantled. Reveal the power of your love and bring new life to all.

Let your nurturing love today encourage families as a new school year is launched. Grant energy and joy, safety and peace. Let wisdom fill educators, support staff in their important roles. May places of learning whether in-person or virtual classrooms be safe. Let your strengthening love uphold congregational leaders amidst decision making and rolling out health and safety protocols.

Reveal the power of your love and bring new life to all.

Let your reconciling love today gather together where divisions are deep. Make your church aware of the fellowship and mission of the one, universal body of Christ. Reveal the power of your love and bring new life to all.

Thank you for hearing us, loving God. With the whole body of believers, we want to love, praise and serve you and transformed by the power of your love in whose name we pray.

Amen

September 9th, 2020

My Lord God, I have no idea where I am going.
I do not see the road ahead of me.
I cannot know for certain where it will end.
Nor do I really know myself,
and the fact that I think I am following your will
does not mean that I am actually doing so.
But I believe that the desire to please you
does in fact please you.
And I hope I have that desire in all that I am doing.
I hope that I will never do anything apart from that desire.
And I know that, if I do this,
You will lead me by the right road,
though I may know nothing about it.
Therefore I will trust you always
though I may seem to be lost
and in the shadow of death.
I will not fear, for you are ever with me,
and you will never leave me to face my perils alone.

Amen

September 6, 2020

Good and gracious God, here we are standing at a threshold.

A new church year lies before us.

A new school year lies before us.

The fall season including cooler days and autumn flavours lies before us.

You join with us at this threshold of new opportunity, as routines change and as congregational ministries and programs are launched anew. You join with us amidst the unknowns, the possibilities, each step of the journey.

You join with us and accompany us, providing strength and vision to step forward into familiar and unknown places to further Your mission.

At this threshold we give thanks for opportunities to serve, to worship, to teach, to learn, and to grow. Continue, we pray to make all things new. Give us courage and humility to faithfully follow You wherever you lead.

Bless Your church, amidst the challenges of this season and amidst creative out-of-the-box thinking. Make us bold to release that which has served its season and fill us with courage and vision to embrace the future you have prepared for us. We pray for wisdom, grace, and open hearts. We pray for the ministries of this congregation, congregational leadership and staff and ask your blessing upon all we do in your name. We pray for Leah Reesor-Keller as she begins her new position as MCEC Executive Minister. Direct and guide her.

Hear our prayer for those who stand in need of healing, hope and wholeness. Hear our prayer for those suffering due to emotional, relational, physical or spiritual pain. Hear our prayer for all impacted by covid, the sick, the grieving, health care providers, those waiting to return to work. May Your embrace of love be wide and strong.

We also pray for our Households of Faith. May their days be filled with meaning and purpose, their home a place where love dwells.

Good and gracious God giving thanks for all Your good gifts and Your promise to be with us, we offer all our prayers in the name of Jesus the Christ.

Amen

August 30, 2020

God, You are a God of compassion and love.

Daily, we experience your care and provision.

You answer our prayers and meet our needs— often in ways we could never have dreamed possible.

We praise You for Your faithful love toward us.

Because we have known Your love, we come to You with confidence, offering our prayers for the world that You love.

We see so much pain and suffering.

so much violence and poverty, despair and unrest.

It’s easy to feel overwhelmed by the needs around us.

But we continue to bring our prayers to You in faith, because we know that nothing is impossible for You.

You are the God who rained down bread from heaven, and made water flow from a rock in the desert; the God who resurrected Jesus Christ from the dead, and who brings new life and hope to all who believe.

We pray for those suffering the effects of recent natural disasters including raging fires and Hurricane Laura.

We pray for people everywhere without food, without water, without shelter, without hope.

We pray for the regions of our world caught up in violence and threats of violence:

We pray for those crying out for justice, and those suffering amidst rioting.

We pray for those who live with serious illness, those with chronic pain, those without access to proper medical care, those for whom treatment is no longer an option, and all who are suffering due to covid.

We pray that God’s Spirit of peace and restoration be poured out.

Merciful God, You sent Your Son, Jesus Christ, to show us a different way to live— the way of deep humility and obedience.

You’ve called us to love one another, and to work together with one heart and mind, balancing our needs with the needs of those around us.

Give us courage to follow faithfully, and with integrity— with actions that bear witness to the words we speak, and worship that overflows into our daily tasks and relationships—so that our lives will bring glory and honour to You. Amen.

August 23, 2020

Gracious God, in love You created us, and in love You sustain us, day after day.


So it is with confidence that we bring our prayers to You, knowing that You hear us, and will respond.

We offer our prayers for the world you love.

We pray for those who find themselves in bondage: those oppressed by governments or economic systems, those enslaved by personal addictions.

We pray for those who struggle to raise their children in the midst of violence or poverty; those who can only stand by and watch as their sons or daughters die of starvation or malnutrition, of preventable disease, or from gang violence.

We pray for those who refuse to participate in violence or injustice, who courageously stand up for what they know is right, regardless of the personal consequences.

We also pray for those who oppress others, who are unable to break free from cycles of violence and anger, who are no longer able to empathize with their victims.

We pray for all who suffer this day, whether physically, emotionally, spiritually or relationally.

May Your presence surround and sustain each one, so that they may know your love and live.

We also pray for our Households of Faith.

We pray for all who are affected by covid, the sick, the grieving, front-line workers, and scientists racing to produce a vaccine.

Finally, God, we pray for ourselves—members of Your Body here on earth.

Break down the barriers that divide us from one another.

Unite us as one. Grant us compassion and humility in our relationships.

We pray earnestly, “God what do you want us to do?”

Forgive us when we focus on human stuff, and not on the desires of your heart.

Release the gifts You have given to each one, so that in us and through us Your kingdom might come and Your will be done, on earth as it is in heaven.

Amen.

July 26, 2020

GOD over the last week we have witnessed your presence in the weather and in our environment. We
have seen your power in the winds and the rains. We are also starting to reap the benefits of what we
have sown in the garden. Again another reminder that your creation is alive and abounding in our
environment and world. Despite these troubled times with COVID we do not have to look far for signs
of your presence.

I am reminded about the time that you were in the boat with the disciples and the seas became wild.
You calmly rebuked the seas and things returned to normal. Much like the disciples we get anxious,
confused and a host of other emotions. I am sure that in this time of Pandemic we have all felt a gamut of emotions. We need to recognize that they are real and raw. We may feel like the disciples that our boat is rocking and waving and there is no end in sight other than potential peril. There appears to be no concrete answers yet in this time of Pandemic. For every question asked it brings up 2-3 more questions which may make us feel even more confused. And yet your presence, love and
encouragement are all around us. I pray that as followers of you we look for you and name our fears
and then recognize you have sent us support. I know I have felt it in this past week in our vegetable
garden, in the fierceness and then calmness the storm last Sunday, in the rivers that run calm and then fast when running over rapids, in the tiny yet colourful birds that land on a stalk of grass, in the beautiful sunsets and colourful skies.

God forgive us when we lose sight of your presence all around us and become self-centred, nervous and anxious. In this time of Pandemic challenge let’s lift our eyes and look for the signs that are truly all around us. When we do see these signs I think we can actually find strength to forge on as well as be servants of you again.

Thank you God for being beside us and calming our raging seas. Thank you for your presence in
everything around us when we finally lift our eyes and look. My prayer and challenge for all of us is that we take the time to look for and identify God’s presence and love that is all around us.

May we take the time to look…..God Bless .

June 21, 2020 (Father’s Day)

Happy Father’s Day!

During this time of pandemic we have been using the “Take our Moments and our Days” app and have been enriched through Scripture, sharing, and prayer. Since Pentecost our guided prayer has been based on the Lord’s Prayer.
The following is a prayer from a Friday gathering.
Let us pray,

Rejoice in the Lord always. The Lord is near.
Do not worry about anything, but in everything with thanksgiving
let your requests be made known to God.

God of open hands, we bring our prayers to
you as acts of love for you and for our neighbours.
Lord, hear our prayer.

You provide for all our needs from your bounty.
We pray for ourselves and those dear to us ……..
Lord, give us today our daily bread.

You work wonders in surprising places.
We pray for our community and for our neighbours (add your prayers)
Lord, give us today our daily bread.

You furnish abundance even from very little
We pray for the church in all places, that we may reflect your faithful love. (add your prayers)
Lord give us today our daily bread.

You send forth your Spirit, a breath of renewal and hope.
We pray for the world, for those in need (add your prayers)
Lord give us today our daily bread.

We offer you other concerns we carry in our hearts (add your prayers)
Lord, give us today our daily bread.

God of grace and glory,
you fling the stars into the heavens;
you see every sparrow fall.
Deepen our trust in the mystery
of your power shining through Christ Jesus,
that we may live your love for the world.
In the name of the one who taught us we pray:
Our Father…………

Amen

June 17, 2020

Good morning!

These past months have held many challenges as well as opportunities as we have responded and adapted amidst a global pandemic.Through congregational conversations over the past months a number of concerns have been voiced. In response, WMC Elders have planned for a series of virtual panel discussions. While these offerings will not address all that we carry, they are a platform to provide information as well as prompt further discussion.

Here is a note from Dan Lebold, WMC Elder and facilitator of our first panel discussion:

From input from our WMC family we (WMC Elders) have begun to put together Virtual Panel discussions around how COVID has affected us. The first of these Virtual Panel discussion topics is “COVID and Finances.” Jamie Gerber joined the panel and provided some very informative answers to financial questions posed to him during the COVID crisis. As many of you know Jamie currently works in the financial industry and has some insights from that perspective. Jamie has also been a pastor for 17 years and looks at finances from a faith perspective as well. Thank you to Jamie for his valuable financial/ faith input and energies in being a part of this first Virtual Panel Discussion. We trust you will find it relative and informative for these challenging times. Stay tuned for further Panel discussions.“

June 10, 2020

Events in the past weeks have brought the discussion of racism, white privilege, injustice, and more, to the forefront.
As followers of Jesus we have committed to the journey of formation and transformation as Christ’s disciples. The journey of transformation is complex. Spiritual transformation involves learning. Spiritual transformation also involves un-learning and re-learning.
Glennon Doyle in her latest book “Untamed” writes, “In America, there are not two kinds of people, racists and nonracists. There are three kinds of people: those poisoned by racism and actively choosing to spread it; those poisoned by racism and actively trying to detox: and those poisoned by racism who deny its very existence inside them.”

Spiritual transformation is the ongoing journey of growing in awareness of the unredeemed parts that reside deep within. May the Spirit’s gentle presence abide with you/us as we listen, learn, examine, recognize,repent, and are transformed through the power of God’s Spirit….
Let us pray,

I have only a few words
in this feeble prayer.

I am listening.
I am learning.
I am examining myself.

I am trying to recognize
how the system of racism
lives in and through me.

It’s like a tangled up ball of yarn.
I untangle one layer only to encounter another.

Until it’s all untangled, the yarn cannot
be knit, the potential of the yarn
is compromised.
(Prayer by Rev. Terri C. Pilarski)

May 27, 2020

This Sunday we celebrate Pentecost (Acts 2: 1-21). Often at Pentecost we concentrate on the power of the wind that swept in,  the power of the Holy Spirit that caused people to speak in other tongues, or we focus on Pentecost as a foundational event in the life of the Christian church. Another focus to consider is the power of the Holy Spirit to transcend difference. After the outpouring of the Holy Spirit, a large crowd began to gather outside. In that crowd were Jews and people from many nations: Greeks, Arabs, Romans, Africans, and more. Each of the people in the crowd could understand the conversation in the upper room in their own language. On that day, the Holy Spirit transcended multiple layers of differences to accomplish God’s many purposes.

Where do you witness the power of the Holy Spirit transcending differences? What are barriers that you can name that cause separation? What are the costs? As we anticipate Pentecost may we be bold to pray that the Holy Spirit will transform our hearts and minds. May the Holy Spirit reveal to us in deeper ways, God’s many purposes and may we be strengthened to join in God’s mission.

        Holding you in prayer, Kara

May 20, 2020

This week’s reflection comes from Delores Schwartzentruber, one of the Elders of WMC.

To begin today’s reflection I have a story to share.  Visiting my mother-in-law Martha, on speaker phone from the sidewalk  as we looked at one another through her window of her apartment, she shared some of her struggles after returning from hospital and being in the middle of 14 days of quarantine.  She told me how the other day, feeling particularly low, she had  reached for a blank lined book that she had in her possession and felt she should write down some of her feelings.  There in the front of the book she discovered  a small square piece of paper written by her late husband Gerald. It was a reflection of his feelings with words of comfort and assurance of how the Lord provides for our needs. These words felt like they were raining down on me from above as the raindrops were starting to literally rain down.  Martha received exactly what she needed when she read his words. I stood in the rain of this holy moment and thanked God for his marvelous presence.   

What are your stories of God’s comfort and assurance at a time when you needed it? Did they come at a time or form that surprised you? How do we open our eyes to see, our ears to hear, our hearts to feel and be attentive to his loving care?  What holy moments have you been attentive to in these days of physical distancing and isolation? While it might be easy to see God in the midst of extraordinary circumstances, it is sometimes difficult to detect him in the ordinary events of our lives.  But that is exactly where you and I live.  Wherever you are God is with you.

 Delight yourself in the Lord, and he shall give you the desires of your heart.  Commit your way to the Lord, trust also in him, and he shall bring it to pass. (Psalm 37: 4-5)

Let us Pray:  Give us the eyes to see, the ears to listen, the heart to feel, and the hands and  legs to join in your good work.  May we be attentive to all the blessings you rain down on each one of us even in unexpected ways.  May we be ready and expectant to be surprised even in the ordinary events of our lives. Amen

May 13, 2020

Compassion asks us to go where it hurts, to enter places of pain, to share in brokenness, fear, confusion, and anguish. Compassion challenges us to cry out with those in misery, to mourn with those who are lonely, to weep with those in tears. Compassion requires us to be weak with the weak, vulnerable with the vulnerable, and powerless with the powerless. Compassion means full immersion in the condition of being human.” (Donald P. McNeill, Douglas A. Morrison, and Henri J. M. Nouwen, Compassion: A Reflection on the Christian Life (New York: Image Books, 1983), 3-4.  

Joyce Rupp in her book Boundless Compassion: Creating a Way of Life suggests that in today’s society it often seems as if cruelty is more extensive than kindness. Would you agree with Rupp’s assertion?  Where do you bear witness to compassion? How are you met with compassion?  

Broken, wounded, violent, divisive, fearful – these are some descriptors of our current global situation. Our world stands in desperate need of compassion – for compassion to be activated. The world and our wounds will not heal without it. Rupp writes, “Only with compassion at the core of humanity’s lived experience will we be able to approach one another with true respect and dwell in peacefulness.”

Let us pray:  Give us compassion and humility in our hearts O God. Let us be kind, gentle, generous, loving, and giving wherever we go. Amen.

Holding you in prayer as God enfolds us with compassion,   

Kara

May 6, 2020

Friends,

What have you been noticing around home these past weeks? During this pandemic when many of us are spending far more time at home as we self-isolate what are you seeing with fresh eyes? Perhaps its birds at the feeder. Perhaps you have a deeper appreciation for growing and living things outdoors. While spotted windows and cob webs may catch our attention, consider the  sights that cause you to pause and reflect. One of our neighbours has been pruning fruit trees over the past weeks. I’ve noticed the gentle tending of branches, crucial spring work to promote a bountiful crop of fruit.

In John 15 we read “I am the vine, and my Father in the vine grower. He removes every branch in me that bears no fruit. Every branch that bears fruit he prunes to make it bear more fruit. Abide in me as I abide in you. Just as the branch cannot bear fruit by itself unless it abides in the vine, neither can you unless you abide in me.” (John 15: 1-2,4-5)

What spiritual practices enable you to abide in God?. What practices deepen your awareness to God’s loving presence, God’s yearnings, God’s invitation? The Quaker tradition values silence. Indeed, worship often includes 1 hour of communal silence. Does music draw you into the presence of God? A walk in nature? Deep breathing? Journalling?

As we journey deeply into this unknown season and dwell in the liminal space between an ending and a new beginning, may we strive to abide in God. May God nourish our spirits. May God reveal to us that which needs pruning. May God’s Spirit enliven us with new growth as God continues to shape and form us as the people of God. 

Let us pray:

Lord of the

one true

Vine,

in you we

live and move

and have our being.

We are your branches

spindly and slight and fragile.

Prune us,

though gently.

We want to bear more 

of your fruit. Amen

(adapted by Anne Osdieck)

May 3, 2020

This is the day the Lord has made. Let us rejoice and be glad in it!Uplifted by the promised hope of healing and resurrection, we join with the people of God in all times and all places praying for our needs, those of the world, and the church: 

May healing continue to be gentle. Let us pray for comfort and peace in the coming weeks in order to determine next steps. We hold in prayer those with ongoing health concerns and the vulnerable.
Let us continue to pray for all those who grieve. The grief journey is complicated when we are not able to gather as a community. May God’s comfort be wide and deep, holding us all.
We pray for all our long-term care residents. We also pray for all front-line and essential workers. May they be well-protected, kept safe, and encouraged. For parents who are juggling home-schooling, working from home, and uncertainty, may peace abound. 
Let us pray for comfort and good recovery. Health crises are compounded these days when loved ones can not gather around.  May peace and strength and hope prevail.  
For our needs, fears, concerns, and for all suffering due to Covid 19, we offer our prayers in the strong name of Jesus.

Happy Birthday to all!         

Entrusting all of our prayers to the wide embrace of God love Lord hear our prayers. Amen.

April 29, 2020

“How long, O Lord? Will you forget me forever?  How long will you hide your face from me? How long must I bear pain in my soul, and have sorrow in my heart all day long?” (Ps. 13:1-2). 

Over one third (50 or so) of the psalms are lament. Lament frequently occurs in the Book of Job: “why did I not perish at birth, come forth from the womb and expire?” (Job 3:11). Prophets also cried out to God such as Jeremiah: “Why is my pain continuous, my wound incurable?” (Jer. 15:18). The Book of Lamentation expresses the confusion and suffering felt after the destruction of Jerusalem by the Babylonians. Jesus himself lamented in the Garden of Gethsemane, crying out: “Abba, Father all things are possible to you. Take this cup away from me!” (Mark 14:36). And in agony on the cross Jesus cried out words of Psalm 22: “My God, my God why have you forsaken me?”

Lament is a faithful prayer. Amidst global pandemic and the deep sufferings of the world, lament gives voice to the present reality that things are not right and we need God to heal us, save us, deliver us. In the past weeks we hear the rising cry: “How long will physical distancing continue?” “How long until the economy re-opens?” “How long until children return to school?” How long until we can come together physically for worship.. return to work…….?

Where do you hear “how long?” For what do you cry out to God:”How long O Lord, how long?” 

Something significant happens in the psalms of lament that is worth taking note. In psalms of lament a shift occurs. A transition unfolds. In the psalms we see how lament turns to praise. For example in Psalm 13: “but I trusted in your steadfast love; my heart shall rejoice in your salvation. I will sing to the Lord, because God has dealt bountifully with me.” (vs 5-6).

Let us be bold in our prayers, bringing our struggles to God. We need space for lament. Some of us looked forward to graduation and prom. Others looked forward to milestone celebrations, birthday parties, travelling, a June wedding. Lament is real and lament is a faithful prayer. As Easter people we live with the hope of resurrection. Sitting in the darkness of Good Friday is also part of our spiritual journey. 

What are you missing the most these days of lock down? Who are you missing? What loss are you grieving deeply? Today as you offer your prayers, name before God the very depths of your heart, your pain, your questions, your fears, your grief. And when you have laid all bare, listen for the voice of God. Be attentive to how your prayer turns to praise for God’s steadfast love and goodness.

May God who receives our thanksgivings as well as lament, draw near to us as we draw near to God.

love and peace be yours,  

Kara

April 22, 2020

Greetings all!

It is Earth Day…. and today is also Admin Assistant Day! Please take the opportunity to express your appreciation!  

How are you marking Earth Day today?  As we stay in these days, some are enjoying a quieter pace of life. Some are enjoying  outdoor space at home and God’s good creation. Many are delighting in spring blossoms, the budding of trees, birds at the bird feeder, or baby chicks growing. Some of us may be grumbling due to wintery winds. Creation is springing to life and we celebrate God’s faithful and sustaining presence. 

During this season of disorientation we are invited to be attentive to how we are being changed. What is growing within you?  What potential is budding? What fruits of love are ripening? Our spiritual transformation unfolds through reflection, quiet listening for the Spirit of God, and surrender. In what ways is God meeting you in this season, caring for you, encouraging you, growing new life in you?  As we soak in the beauty of all that is coming to life, let us be attentive to what God is saying to us? How do we want to live when the pandemic has passed and we can be together again?  Let us be prayerful and open to God’s invitation. 

Let us pray:

O Great Love,

Divine Presence,

we rejoice in

our Mother Earth

who births us,

nurtures us,

sustains us,

and collects us 

back into her bosom

when our life

is done.

Forgive us for our 

greediness, our

selfishness, our

short-sightedness, our

messiness.

For we have made a 

mess beyond measure.

Let the energy of 

the sunrise

the mystery of 

a butterfly,

the beauty of 

spring flowers,

the fragility of

endangered species,

the toxicity of        

polluted waterways,

the barrenness of

scorched earth

bring us to our knees.

And there, on

our knees,

may we be humbled

to see the earth

with new eyes.

May we be humbled 

to see ourselves

as humus.

May we be humbled 

to recognize we

are but part of an 

intricate web of creation,

a sacred reciprocity

of belonging.

Break open

our hearts

to love as you love.  Amen

(written by Wendy Janzen) 

April 19, 2020

God of resurrection power,
you called your Son out of the tomb
and in so doing, called the whole creation into new life.
Even now, you call us to join your way of resurrection,
you lift our eyes and raise our hearts,
you transform our minds and renew our spirits.
Bring us once again into awareness of your presence,
that we may offer you our worship and our very lives,
and be nourished for your kingdom’s work.
Hear our prayers which we offer in the name of the risen Christ….

Let us also pray for our neighbours, Maple View Mennonite Church as they were accepted as full members of the Ontario Conference of Mennonite Brethren Churches in late February. The Maple View congregation expresses appreciation to us as brothers in sisters in Christ and they look forward to continuing as partners with us in mission. As WMC, we also express deep appreciation for the many friendships and family connections between our congregations and for all the ways we have been blessed by these relationships. May God’s Spirit continue to be poured out on the Maple View congregation as they minister and bear witness to the Risen Christ.

We also pray for MCEC Leadership and all who gather on-line this coming Saturday for the Annual Church Gathering. At a time when the church cannot meet in person, we pray for wisdom in decision making, clarity of vision to live into God’s future, and we pray that love and grace will be generous and full. We also pray for the congregations that will be received as provisional members into MCEC, giving thanks for their gifts and their unique contributions to the wider church.

We entrust all our prayers including those we hold deep within to Jesus our Wounded and Risen Christ,
Amen

April 12, 2020

Lord Jesus, you were dead but now are alive,

and the promise of life in all its fullness is made real.

At this time of celebration

let our hearts overflow with joy.

Give us hope and strengthen our faith,

knowing you are with us always,

Alleluia!  Alleluia!

We thank God for the gift of new life!! 

For prayers that have been named and for those we offer on our own, 

we entrust all, in the name of the Risen Christ, Jesus our Lord.

Amen! 

April 12, 2020

The Lord is risen!

The Lord is risen indeed!

Let all creation declare:

The Lord is risen indeed!

An Order of Service is attached.

May God bless our worship this day!

Easter Blessings,

Kara

April 10, 2020

On Good Friday, the earth waits in silence.

The world trembles before God’s throne.

On this day we see and feel the immensity of God’s love and the depths of our humanity.

An Order of Worship was emailed to you yesterday which included instructions for preparation for communion. 

May God be present with us as we journey to the cross and gather at the table.

peace be yours,

Kara

April 8, 2020

Read Matthew 26: 27-56 and 1 Corinthians 1:18

Today I’m sharing with you my own morning devotion which was written by a Georgia Atlanta Pastor.

“A  friend recently went back on her word and I felt betrayed. How dare she!

After all, people are supposed to be unfailingly consistent and keep their promises. Integrity is doing the right

thing even when no one is watching. Honesty is the best policy. All that.

But the honest truth is I don’t always ‘walk the talk’ when it comes to living all that. None of us do. We routinely lie, mislead and misrepresent. In doing so we betray ourselves, our values, our relationships, our God. If you deny that you lie, well, you just did.”  

‘One of you will betray me,’ might be the biggest understatement of Holy Week. Jesus doesn’t mention which disciple he has in mind. He doesn’t have to. Jesus was talking about all of them. The betrayal didn’t only come when Judas handed Jesus over to the authorities with a kiss, it happened when the disciples denied they would ever betray Jesus. Their denials flew in the face of Jesus’ teaching that humility and repentance are more blessed than boasting and self-righteousness. 

What makes the week holy is not our pretensions to innocence. What makes this week holy is the invitation to confess our betrayals and be forgiven.” 

Let us pray:

Lord God,

We tremble to think

that it was one of Jesus’ own friends who betrayed him.

One who sat by him who broke bread with him.

Give us strength, we pray

to walk faithfully with Jesus,

even when the road we walk is rocky.

and when the message of the cross seems like foolishness

and even when we feel betrayed.

Give us strength, we pray.

You Lord, are always faithful.

We stumble, we become lost,

but you are steady and sure.

Give us grace to endure our troubles,

and reveal to us the glory of your kingdom,

through your son, Jesus Christ who lives and reigns with you and the Holy Spirit.

Amen

April 7, 2020

As we journey deeper into Holy Week, read Matthew 26: 36-46 and Hebrews 5: 5-7.

As you re-read these Scriptures slowly and prayerfully, be attentive. Is there a word, a phrase, an image that stands out for you?

Is there a statement from Jesus or action by the disciples that resonates with you or touches discomfort? 

Imagine being present in the Garden of Gethsemane. What do you hear? What do you feel?   

Sit with all that stirs and captures your attention. What is the Spirit of God revealing to you, saying to you? 

As we accompany Jesus on the path of suffering, offer a prayer for the sufferings of the world.  

Let us pray,

Holy One, 

The message of the cross is difficult to take.

How can death give way to life? How can weakness be strength?

Yet your word says that Jesus, being God,

took on human flesh

and suffered the worst kind of death.

How can this be?

This message is indeed difficult to take.

But your foolishness is wiser than our wisdom

Your weakness is greater than our strength.

Help us to know that none of us can boast before you.

It is only in Christ Jesus that we can boast.

In his name, we ask you to help our unbelief

that we may love you, and walk in the way Jesus taught us

In his name we pray, Amen. 

Pastor Kara Carter

April 6, 2020

Friends, as we journey into Holy Week…..

A reminder that we will gather Thursday April 9 at 11:30 a.m through ZOOM for prayer. You can download the app: “Take our Moments and our Days: An Anabaptist Prayer Book” at no charge on your phone. I will send out the ZOOM link on Wednesday – please watch for it. If you have any technical questions, Bob Veitch has offered to give you a hand. Please contact him. 

As we anticipate Easter Sunday worship please be on the look-out for sightings of new life emerging.

As we enter Holy Week we are journeying right up to the edge of suffering.

Read Matthew 21: 10-17 and John 12: 1-8

Holy God,

Six days before his death, your son sat with Lazarus,

whom he had raised from the dead,

and ate dinner with his friends.

Once again, your gospel tells us, Martha served,

and Mary knelt at Jesus’ feet

to anoint them with costly perfume.

The disciple who was about to betray him

said that was a waste.

He didn’t care about the poor, really –

he just wanted to fill his own pockets

and make Mary feel ashamed.

Holy God,

often we cannot discern what is best:

when to pour out costly perfume for your sake,

even if the world thinks it a waste,

when to be busy serving,

or when to rest at your Son’s feet and learn.

Give us ears to hear you and eyes to see

for the sake of your Son, Jesus Christ

in whose name we pray. Amen

During these days of physical distancing, how is God’s Spirit nudging you to pour out costly perfume? In what ways is God’s Spirit prompting you to reach out and serve? May we be attentive to the movement of God’s Spirit as the shadow of the cross lengthens.

May God’s peace hold you,

Kara

April 5, 2020

The following is a prayer offered the church by Carol Penner. This prayer has been adapted to include congregational prayer needs.

Let us pray,

On this Palm Sunday, things are different.

No children waving palm branches in processions,

no collective singing of hosannas, loud hosannas,

no exultant crowds, here or anywhere.

The streets are quiet.

What resonates is the image of you, Jesus,

weeping over Jerusalem,

crying for a people surrounded by enemies,

who do not know the things that make for peace.

Our tiny, lethal enemy is invisible to the naked eye.

We jump when people cough,

we eye each other suspiciously,

not knowing where the danger is lurking.

We fear for all the vulnerable,

and we fear for ourselves. 

We ask God that you will protect all who tirelessly are working in the health care field. Keep them well and strong.

For loved ones who have been infected by coronavirus and for those who wait on test results,

for needs shared publicly and for those we hold deep within, we pray……  

As our lives are overturned,

and restrictions are put in place,

it’s not business as usual

and economic worries are added to the mix.

Anxiety settles like a dense cloud

over all the world.

We need you more than ever, Jesus.

You arrive humbly, unnoticed by many,

cheered by some.

You arrive in the early morning cars

of health workers showing up for their shifts.

You arrive on eighteen wheels as truckers

unload groceries and essential supplies.

You arrive by public transit as scientists

head to their labs day in and day out,

searching diligently for a virus vaccine.

You arrive on foot as neighbours

deliver meals to seniors stranded at home.

You arrive in the ricochet of signals off satellites,

as cyberspace messages of love circle our globe;

millions reaching out to say,

“Are you OK? I miss you.”

God, hear our prayer

from the lonesome valleys

of this world wide pandemic.

Open our hearts to the possibility

that today is the day of our visitation;

you walk triumphantly through closed doors,

meeting us when others cannot come.

Accept our solitary hosannas,

and gather us together in prayer:

“Blessed is the One

who comes in the name of the Lord.”

Amen

April 5, 2020

“Hosanna!

Blessed is the one who comes in the name of the Lord!

Hosanna in the highest heaven.”

May God who receives our loud hosanna’s, bless our worship this day!

peace be yours,

Kara

April 3, 2020

Friends,

Today was our first ZOOM prayer gathering. How good it was to be together! It was extra good to see your faces!

All are welcome to join us for our next gathering: Thursday April 9 at 11:30 a.m.

I’ll be sending a ZOOM link early next week.

You can download the Anabaptist Prayer Book “Take Our Moments and Our Days” app on your phone at no charge. And if you don’t download the app you’re still welcome to join a time of Scripture and prayer. 

If you have questions about connecting with ZOOM or had trouble connecting this morning, please contact Bob Veitch. He has offered to help you!

One of the Scriptures provided for us today, Psalm 91.

“Those who dwell in the shelter of the Most High and abide in the shade of the Almighty say to the Lord: ‘ My refuge, my stronghold, my God in whom I trust… God will conceal you with his pinions, and under his wings you will find refuge. You will not fear the terror of the night nor the arrow that flies by day, nor the plague that prowls in the darkness……”

It is my prayer that the assurance of God’s care and protection will hold you steady.

Adding to our Prayer of Examen of these past days, here are further questions to take to prayer:

When did I feel most alive today?

When did I most feel life draining out of me?

When today did I have the greatest sense of belonging to myself, others, God?

When did I have the least sense of belonging?

May God’s gentle Spirit provide you with all the peace, and hope, and joy, and love you need for each and every day. 

love & prayers,

Kara 

April 2, 2020

Warm greetings on this bright spring day!

Amidst the greening of spring we proclaim resurrection has come and will come again!!

Yesterday I invited us to pray the Prayer of Examen, an ancient prayer practice that invites us to be attentive to God’s presence in our day.

Today I am offering some new questions as we continue to pray:

When did I give and receive the most love today?

When did I give and receive the least love today?

Again, you may want to light a candle and be still as you take time to reflect on these questions. Be attentive to what comes to mind.  Perhaps jot down your thoughts. Being still helps us to be attentive to all that we’re carrying, our hopes and fears, strengths as well as struggles. Don’t push away feelings that arise, be with them, be curious, and be grateful you can name them.

God is with you and loves you!

Please note below the link or phone info to join together for a ZOOM prayer time tomorrow morning at 10:30 a.m.

If you have a computer with  built-in camera use the link to zoom in live! For others, call in -, you won’t see us but we will be able to hear each other.  

It’s the first Sunday of April this week. What celebrations do you have to share? We want to celebrate with you!!

What burdens or concerns are you carrying for which you want prayer.

We haven’t tried a mass ZOOM yet so let’s give it a try!!! 

For our prayer time, please download the Anabaptist Prayer Book app – if you can’t, no worries!!!

Looking forward to joining with you face-to-face and praying together.

love & prayers,

Kara 

April 1, 2020

In their book Sleeping with Bread: Holding what gives you life, the authors share the following story.

“During the bombing raids of World War 2, thousands of children were orphaned and left to starve. The fortunate ones were rescued and placed in refugee camps where they received food and good care. But many of these children who had lost so much could not sleep at night. They feared waking up to find themselves once again homeless and without food. Nothing seemed to reassure them. Finally, someone hit upon the idea of giving each child a piece of bread to hold at bedtime. Holding their bread, these children could finally sleep in peace. All through the night the bread reminded them, ‘Today I ate and I will eat again tomorrow.”

Last week we tried out breath prayers with Scripture. We were also invited to try writing our own.

This week, we try another prayer practice: the prayer of examen, another ancient prayer that helps us to be attentive to God’s presence and goodness. The prayer of examen focuses on two questions. 

For today the two questions are:

1. For what moment today am I most grateful?

2. For what moment today am I least grateful? 

You may want to light a candle and be still as you take time to reflect upon these questions. Be attentive to what comes to mind.  Perhaps jot down your thoughts. Being still helps us to be attentive to all that we’re carrying, our hopes and fears, strengths as well as struggles. 

When you get in touch with what you are grateful for, give thanks to God. When you discover something you are not grateful for name it, feel it, and appreciate that you are not denying it. Be reminded that God is with you. 

This prayer practice can be done individually or as a family. As you gather around your dinner table you may want to consider asking these two questions and share your responses with one another. What wisdom might spill from our children as we hold space for their responses?

May God continue to draw near to us as we draw near to God with our gratitude and our needs.

peace be yours,

Kara   

March 28, 2020

A blessing for you for this time of “social isolation.” A Blessing for Solitude by John O’Donohue from his book Benedictus.
“May you recognize in your life the presence,Power and light of your soul.May you realize you are never alone,That your soul in its brightness and belonging,Connects you intimately with the rhythm of the universe.May you have respect for your individuality and difference.May you realize the shape of your soul is unique.That you have a special destiny here.That beyond the facade of your lifeThere is something beautiful and eternal happening.May you learn to see yourselfWith the same delightPride and expectationWith which God sees you in every moment.May we all feel blessed and strong during this difficult time.

My prayers are with you,Kara

March 27, 2020

Today as we continue to pray our breath prayers we also pray with lament and hope. 

Together we raise our song with resolve: “I will hold the Christ-light for you in the night time of your fear.”

Consider lighting a candle each day for a specific person or situation.

Where is hope needed most? For yourself? For your family? For our world? 

“It feels like things are not ok

And this ‘thing’ will never go away

Life all around is caving in

And no-one knows where to begin

‘What-ifs’ and fears are on the rise

And nobody’s able to disguise

The sadness of this sudden change

To life, a routine; it’s strange

But sit a moment with that thought

Forget the things that you’ve been taught

For awhile there’s no rat race

A slower life put in its place

We suddenly have the space to stop

The cusp of spring still breaks its sleep

Our birds return to trill and cheep

And hope and kindness start to bloom”

(author unknown)

As we practice necessary social distancing, may our prayers draw us near to God as God draws near to us with hope and love.

holding the Christ-light for you, 

Kara 

March 26, 2020

Greetings all,     

My apologies to those of you who are receiving this twice today. I am still getting the “bugs” out of the group email.

On Tuesday we explored the ancient spiritual practice of “breath prayers.” Using Scripture we inhaled and exhaled deeply in order to be present and grounded at this tumultuous time. 

What Scripture (s) were you drawn to? Did you experience peace? hope?  

To further our “breath prayer” practice I have provided a guide to help us go deeper with God.

1. Sit comfortably, close your eyes, and remember that God loves you and you are in God’s presence.

2. Imagine God calling you by name, asking “(Your name), what do you want?”

3. Answer God honestly with whatever word or phrase comes from deep within you.

4. Choose your favorite or most natural name for God.

5. Combine your name for God with your word or phrase to form a brief prayer that flows smoothly.

Examples:

What I Want 

Peace

Love

Guidance

Name for God

God

Jesus

Eternal Light

Possible Prayer

Let me know your peace, O God.

Jesus, let me feel your love.

Eternal Light, guide me in your way.

Repeat the prayer for a few minutes, allowing the words to settle into a regular rhythm. If more than one idea arises, you may need to ponder what the deepest desire of your heart is. A helpful question to ask is, What do I want that will make me feel most whole? In creating your own breath prayer, you might take several days of reflection to discover what is best for you. Be patient, and let the words emerge from your deepest longings. When you have discovered your prayer, begin to practice it at different times during the day. You might pray it before you get out of bed in the morning or prior to retiring for the day. You may pray it when you are out for a walk.  You could breathe and pray when you become anxious, frustrated, or bored. 

Breath prayers remind us that praying is as natural as breathing.

Let us pray,

Kara

March 25, 2020

“When we call out for help, we are bound more powerfully to God through our needs and weakness, our unfulfilled hopes and dreams, and our anxieties and problems than we ever could have been through our joys, successes, and strengths alone. .” writes Brian McLaren in his book Naked Spirituality.

Today let us respond to MCC’s call to prayer and Pope Francis’ invitation to join globally, praying the Lord’s Prayer at noon. It is my prayer that as we pray we may be bound more powerfully to our God. 

God’s people globally pray the prayer Jesus taught his disciples in many languages and many versions. Perhaps pray the version that feels most at home for you and then pray an alternate version today. For example, the Lord’s Prayer which comes to us from the New Zealand prayer book. 

Praying with new language, be attentive to that which catches your heart’s attention. Is there an image that is prominent? What names for God resonate for you? Be curious. Be attentive. Be open. 

We offer our prayers today to God, trusting God the Creator, Redeemer, and Sustainer hears us when we pray and will respond with love and grace.  

Eternal Spirit, Earth-maker, Pain-bearer, Life giver

Source of all that is

and all that shall be

Father and Mother of us all

Loving God, in whom is heaven

The hallowing of your name 

echo through the universe.

The way of your justice be followed

by the peoples of the world!

Your heavenly will be done by all

created beings

Your commonwealth of peace and 

freedom sustain our hope and come

on earth

With the bread we need for today,

feed us,

In the hurts we absorb from one

another, forgive us,

In times of temptation and test,

strengthen us,

From trials too great to endure,

spare us.

From the grip of all that is evil,

free us.

For you reign in the glory of the power that is love now and forever.

And all God’s people said, Amen!!

God’s peace be yours,

Kara 

March 24, 2020

“Cast all your anxiety on God, because God cares for you.”  1 Peter 5:7

          It is an anxious time as non-essential businesses are poised to shut down tonight. Anxieties related to finances, our health and that of our loved ones….. the list of concerns is long.  We are uncertain about many things as our Lenten journey continues. Amidst the uncertainty my heart is warmed to hear how we are adjusting daily. Today, I received an email with photo attached showing a face mask that had just been sewn. Further supplies are on order and response to urgent need is under way. In a  phone call earlier today, a congregant shared how she placed notes in her rural neighbour’s mailboxes asking that email addresses be shared with the hope neighbours could become connected at this uncertain time. How delighted that neighbours responded and are connecting.   

     How did you reach out today with your heart, with your words, with compassion where you could not touch?. Our loving actions are a way to counter anxiety and fear. Prayer also helps to keep us centered and present.

       The practice of “breath prayers” is an ancient form of prayer. A breath prayer is as simple as choosing two short lines to meditate upon. Inhaling deeply with one short phrase and exhaling through second, can help keep us grounded and conscious of God’s presence with us during this uncertain time. Drawing upon Scripture, here are some options:

Inhale: Humble and gentle One,

Exhaule: you are rest for my soul   (Matthew 11. 28-30)

Inhale: True Vine and Gardener,

Exhale: I abide in You   (John 15)

Inhale: Nothing can separate me

Exhale: from the love of God   (Romans 8: 38-39)

Inhale: Be still

Exhale: and know that I am God    (Psalm 46:10)

Inhale: On earth

Exhale: as it is in heaven   (Matthew 6:10)

Inhale: I will not be afraid

Exhale: for You are with me (Psalm 23)

May we draw near to God as God draws near to us for the living of these days. May we continue to reach out to one another as God in love reaches out to us. 

Inhale:  Peace of Christ

Exhale: guard my heart   (Philippians 4:7)

Amen, 

Held in prayer,

Kara     

March 23, 2020

This morning as we pray for one another, our neighbours, and our world, let us be assured and comforted knowing the Lord is near. 

Rejoice in the Lord always: again I will say, Rejoice. Let your gentleness be known to everyone. The Lord is near. Do not worry about anything, but in everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known to God. And the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus. ” 

(Phil. 4: 4-7)

Beneath this morning’s blanket of snow, lies a spring that waits to blossom in all her beauty. What lies in wait within you? What seed is growing with new dimension? Following a fallow season, bulbs emerge from the cold earth with new life. Seeds need to crack open for new beauty and new life to appear. What’s growing within you with possibility?  As the song writer pens, “Unrevealed until its season something God alone can see.”       

A Morning Offering:

I bless the night that nourished my heart

To set the ghosts of longing free

Into the flow and the figure of dream

That went to harvest from the dark

Bread for the hunger no one sees

All that is eternal in me

Welcomes the wonder of this day,

The field of brightness it creates

Offering time for each thing

To arise and illuminate.

I place on the altar of dawn:

The quiet loyalty of breath,

The tent of thought where I shelter,

Waves of desire I am shore to 

And all beauty drawn to the eyes.

May my mind come alive today

To the invisible geography

That invites me to new frontiers,

To break the dead shell of yesterdays,

To rise being disturbed and changed.

May I have the courage today

to live the life that I would love,

To postpone my dream no longer

But do at last what I came here for

And waste my heart on fear no more. 

(by John O’Donohue, To Bless the Space Between Us p, 9)   

May God’s peace hold you and all you love. 

The Lord is near!

love & prayers, 

Kara

March 21, 2020

“Resurrection Christ,you germinate seeds ofnew life in the burned andbarren places in our world,and in the brokenness of our lives,growing beauty, hope, and loveon delicate stems rising up from the ash.”

– poem by Wendy Janzen, Pastor St. Jacobs Mennonite Church:

May God hold you and all you in love in peace, hope and love,

Kara

March 19, 2020

Friends,At this time of social distancing we draw near to God as God draws near to us in love.I am sharing this meaningful prayer which was shared with me by a congregant earlier this morning.Let us pray, 

Lockdown

 Yes there is fear.

Yes there is isolation.

Yes there is panic buying.

Yes there is sickness.

Yes there is even death.

But,

They say that in Wuhan after so many years of noise

You can hear the birds again.

They say that after just a few weeks of quiet

The sky is no longer thick with fumes

But blue and grey and clear.

They say that in the streets of Assisi

People are singing to each other

across the empty squares,

keeping their windows open

so that those who are alone

may hear the sounds of family around them.

They say that a hotel in the West of Ireland

Is offering free meals and delivery to the housebound.

Today a young woman I know

is busy spreading fliers with her number

through the neighbourhood

So that the elders may have someone to call on.

Today Churches, Synagogues, Mosques and Temples

are preparing to welcome

and shelter the homeless, the sick, the weary

All over the world people are slowing down and reflecting

All over the world people are looking at their neighbours in a new way

All over the world people are waking up to a new reality

To how big we really are.

To how little control we really have.

To what really matters.

To Love.

So we pray and we remember that

Yes there is fear.

But there does not have to be hate.

Yes there is isolation.

But there does not have to be loneliness.

Yes there is panic buying.

But there does not have to be meanness.

Yes there is sickness.

But there does not have to be disease of the soul

Yes there is even death.

But there can always be a rebirth of love.

Wake to the choices you make as to how to live now.

Today, breathe.

Listen, behind the factory noises of your panic

The birds are singing again

The sky is clearing,

Spring is coming,

And we are always encompassed by Love.

Open the windows of your soul

And though you may not be able

to touch across the empty square,

Sing.  Amen

 Pastor Kara Carter

March 18, 2020

Dear friends,

“Do not fear, for I have redeemed you; I have called you by name, you are mine.

When you pass through the waters, I will be with you; and through the rivers, they shall not overwhelm you; when you walk through fire you shall not be burned, and the flame shall not consume you.

For I am the Lord your God, the Holy One, your Savior. ….. you are precious in my sight, and honoured, and I love you. Do not fear, for I am with you.: (Isaiah 43: 1-5)

The prophet Isaiah’s word came at a time when God’s people were in exile. They were far from home including distanced from their place of worship. They were fearful and despairing whether their God had abandoned them. Into that wilderness time of uncertainty, fear, and displacement, God spoke words of love, hope, and the assurance of Divine faithful accompaniment.

These past days I have drawn comfort and strength through Isaiah’s prophetic message. As God’s people, we are assured that as we journey this pandemic wilderness season, God is with us. God holds us in a wide and strong embrace. God the Good Shepherd’s rod and staff are our source of comfort and strength (Ps. 23).

“Do not fear” – we hear this over and again throughout Scripture. While fear is a natural human response we need not be overcome. When we pass through that dark valley of fear, we are assured God is with us, loves us, and will bring us home.

We are living in an extraordinary time. We are holding our loved ones close to our hearts. We are concerned for our health and our global brothers and sisters especially the aged and vulnerable. Daily life has been disrupted. Children are home from school. Universities and colleges have ceased in-person classroom teaching. Recreation facilities and others have closed. Large gatherings have been banned. Changes in our work places are evolving day to day. Economic volatility creates uncertainty. Some of our congregational family members are in self-quarantine. Others are dealing with significant health issues including awaiting transfer for rehabilitation. Our hearts and love are extended to those who gather at hospice. In this extraordinary time be assured good people of God, “God is with us!!”

Last evening WMC Board met for an on-line email meeting along with Jane Kuepfer (SRC chairperson) and Grant Nafziger (Elders chairperson). WMC leadership and staff are learning new and creative ways to meet and I am delighted to share with you that last evening’s “experiment” was a success! I give thanks for WMC leadership!

Yesterday morning Premier Doug Ford announced a state of emergency for the province of Ontario. MCEC denominational leadership followed up, strongly encouraging the cancellation of all congregational activities (worship services, Lent services, in-person board meetings, etc.) until March 31. WMC Board believes cancelling all in-person gatherings is a faithful response for this time. While we cannot meet together at  

this time, ministry continues. We continue to be the church!

To keep you informed:

Staff Relations Committee has been in contact with all WMC staff. Work situations have been evaluated and adjusted to fit with current realities.

I will be working primarily from home but available by phone and email (cell 519-749-5008 or kara@wellesleymennonite.ca).

Susan will be working mostly at the church with doors locked for safety. She is available by phone and email and will continue to look after invoices, offering, Info Sheet and other communications (519-656-2700 or office@wellesleymennonite.ca)

Clare will work exclusively from home. Jeanette will continue to clean the church and use time not needed for usual weekly tasks to clean more deeply and disinfect.

At this time of disruption, please pray for our staff and consider email and phone calls with words of encouragement and care.

Last evening the Board approved the formation of a “Pandemic Response Team.” This team’s primary agenda will be to monitor the situation, inform congregational leadership, and communicate, including offering recommendations. This vital team includes: Dan Lebold (519-504-1550), Delores, Schwartzentruber (519-504-7475), and Betty Ann Glauser (519-656-3582 from 7-9 pm).

Worship Committee has been in conversation over the past days, exploring a number of options for on-line worship. Further details will be forthcoming.

Because expenses are ongoing, please consider how best to continue regular givings. Stewardship & Finance offer a number of options:

1) drop cheques off in the outdoor mail box when Susan is in the office

2) write out your cheques and date for the Sundays that we are closed

3) etransfer: office@wellesleymennonite.ca

4) contact a Stewardship and Finance for cheque pick up

Care Team encourages us to consider how we can help each other at this time. By getting groceries or calling people who live alone we can show the love of Christ to those around us. We serve a loving God and we have a living hope in Christ Jesus. Let us cling to this sure steadfast anchor of the soul (Heb. 6:19) and encourage others to find refuge in God, our sure and present help in times of trouble (Ps 46). At

At this time, we have an opportunity to be the church in new ways. While we cannot be physically present we can still connect through phones calls, emails, or video chats. Let us check in regularly with our neighbours and one another.

At this time of “social distancing” may we draw near to God as God draws near to us. “Do not be afraid” says our God “I am with you.”

With a pastor’s love,
Kara

March 13, 2020


Dear friends,

Recent news about the spread of coronavirus disease (COVID 19) has raised concerns for many of us for the well-being of people across the globe including potentially our own communities and neighborhoods. On Wednesday March 11, the World Health Organization (WHO) declared a pandemic.

In response, let us join in prayer for all who are affected by this disease. May God be with those who grieve, are ill, isolated and afraid, and the many first responders and people involved in medical and emergency care. We pray specifically for the people of China, South Korea, Iran, Italy, and other nations where the disease is spreading rapidly. May we together express support for our global neighbors and communities, that racism and prejudice be confronted among us. Let us also pray for world leaders that responsive policy be grounded in compassion and justice rather than fear and protectionism.

Let us also pray that we may resist allowing our fear to overwhelm us. We trust in “God with us,” and in the revelation of God in Christ Jesus who spoke often in the Gospels, “do not be afraid.”

It is important to be informed about risks and precaution at this time. While the Region of Waterloo reports that risk to residents remains low, there are a number of ways we can protect ourselves and others.  

Region of Waterloo Public Health and Emergency Services release regular community bulletins including precautions to prevent the spread of germs and viruses:

·         Wash your hands often with soap and water for at least 20 seconds. If soap and water are not available, use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer.

·         Avoid touching your eyes, nose, and mouth with unwashed hands.

·         Avoid close contact with people who are sick.

·         Stay home when you are sick.

·         Cover your cough or sneeze with a tissue, then throw the tissue in the trash.

·         Clean and disinfect frequently touched objects and surfaces.

Wellesley Mennonite leadership want to ensure best practices in our worship and community life together, especially for the sake of those most vulnerable to this and other diseases.

Concerning specific worship practices, the following changes are being implemented:

 ·         Greeting one another in ways that does not include shaking hands or embracing is strongly encouraged.

·         Hand sanitizer is readily available in and around our worship and gathering spaces for everyone’s use.

·         Staff Relations Committee is following up regarding cleaning and disinfecting surfaces according to local health guidelines in our public spaces of worship and gathering, especially washrooms, door handles, light switches, kitchen surfaces.

·         Worship Committee has made a decision that microphone will not circulate throughout the congregation during sharing time. Additionally, offering plates will not be passed through the congregation. Rather, congregants are invited to bring their offerings forward during worship.

·         Conversation regarding best practices for Good Friday communion preparation and serving is ongoing.

·         In addition, appropriate food safe practices, including thorough hand washing, washing of dishes, careful preparing and serving of food and beverages will be followed for all gatherings.

·         Conversation is underway regarding providing electronic links to join worship services or meetings via video conferencing.

·         Food and drinks will not be shared.   

It is my hope and prayer that our appropriate concern for public health and well-being in our communities does not diminish our full and enthusiastic participation in worship and community life together. We trust in God’s continuing care for all in response to this health challenge before us.

May God bless us this Lenten season as we anticipate Easter celebration.

Yours in Christ,

Pastor Kara

March 31, 2020

Friends,

While some of us are feeling the fullness of over stuffed days, others are struggling with isolation, loneliness, and depression.

Wherever you find yourself today, whatever you are feeling today, we pray together with confidence knowing we are not alone.  

Loving God,

our minds have much too much time these days…..

Help us to leave our fear and 

anxieties with You

that the living water you give us

might fill us with refreshing peace.

This day, let our hearts be fed by thankfulness…..

Let our heads be fed by a sense of solidarity……

for we are not alone

but rather are surrounded

by a great cloud of witnesses

and filled with the healing power of Your Holy Spirit.

Thanks be to you, O God. Amen

(this prayer was written by my friend Presbyterian Pastor Gwen Ament).   

May God’s peace hold you and your loved ones,

Kara