A Prayer for Healing and Change in These Troubling Times

We pray for the repose of the soul of George Floyd and for Mr. Floyd's family and friends as they deal with the layers of grief, loss, hurt, anger, pain and trauma caused by his death. In this unprecedented time, we join with many throughout our country and world in condemning the systemic racism and lack of respect for human life that lead to his death.

We pray that through reflection and prayer we take action in our own lives to promote social integration. In our own neighborhoods or work settings, we look for options that can help to provide a culture of inclusion and respect.  

We support actions that will begin and continue the reduction of systemic racism and increase accountability of our police departments, cities, states and the United States government branches.

We pray for vision and perseverance to continue to address social justice issues in the months and years ahead. Through art, music, movement, drama, film, breath work and other modalities, may our souls be touched and fortified.

We pray for our youth and for families that schools, churches, youth programs and the community offer support and options for development and growth of all young people. All young people deserve to live a full adult life, and experience success in meeting their dreams and goals. Too many of our youth and young adult males die from shootings and other violence. Too many families deal with the loss of their children and young adults.

We pray that public health officials help to address health inequalities that lead to early death and disabling conditions. The Covid 19 virus has made us aware that race and underlying health conditions lead to a disproportionately high death rate for black people and other people of color.

Consistent with our United States Constitution,  we pray for hope and perseverance that long lasting governmental changes and practices will reduce social inequities. We support equality and opportunity for all people, regardless of skin color. We pray that our efforts be sustained and on-going, recognizing that we all need to be part of the actions and activities that improve the well-being of people here in the United States and across the world.

We offer these prayers through our Lord, Jesus Christ. Amen