Journal of Sacred Work

Let us join in community to offer our prayers for our caregivers, our dear neighbors without distinction and all who are impacted by these devastating fires, including the animals and all of creation.

God of compassion, you are our refuge and our strength, our sure rock in the midst of every difficulty, the light which pierces every darkness, and an anchor of hope for those who contend with despair. May those who have lost loved ones find solace, those injured find healing, and those displaced find shelter and support. Guide and bless the hands of those providing aid, and grant resilience to all communities as they navigate through this difficult time. We pray for a swift recovery and a renewed sense of hope, knowing that even in the darkest moments, there is still light to be found.

We ask your blessing on all our caregivers and families, especially those whose lives have been disrupted by the fires through displacement and evacuations. May their work be guided by grace and strength and may they feel your healing presence. Help us to respond with generosity in prayer, in assistance, in aid to the best of our abilities. Keep our hearts focused on the needs of those affected, even after the crisis is over.

God, You are in the still small voice,
The gentle whisper that follows
May our ears always hear
May our hearts always cry out for one another
May our hands always reach out to one another
And may we always walk like you walk
In solidarity with those who suffer
And so reflect your presence and comfort.

“We do not choose when tragedy occurs, nor where, nor what feelings are brought to the surface as we handle this challenge. In this heartbreak what we carry forth is our humanity in newly revealed form—our hearts tender and delicate. Within this complex, hard time, may your heart be cradled in the balance to strengthen in resolve, and hold fast to the seed of tenderness that allows for the experience of love. May you be comforted in being human, while knowing in its very essence being human is exceedingly hard. Know that you are not alone. Let us heal and balance together.
May you find solace here in the collective human experience and regeneration of affection.
May community hold, tend, and comfort you in love.”
Blessed be. Amen. (Vanessa Titang)

Note: These various Prayers are adapted from Xavier University Resources, Jesuits Resources, Catholic Relief Services, and Unitarian Universalist Church.

Shared Liz Sorensen Wessel
Drawing by ~liz