By Katie Beckmann Mahon, Communications Manager
This week’s “Embracing Faith” article will focus on Embracing Faith through Prayer.
“Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God.” -Philippians 4:6
February 11th marks the 28th observance of World Day of the Sick.
Since 1992, people in all countries have observed World Day of the Sick and prayed for those who are suffering from an illness, as well as their caregivers. (1)
In one way or another, all of us know individuals who need our prayers on World Day of the Sick.
Whether it’s someone who is ill or someone who is a caregiver, take a moment to pray for them on World Day of the Sick.
A Prayer for Healing (2)
God of love, ever caring, ever strong, stand by me in my time of need. Grant me the strength to hope against hope and the courage to greet each new day with peace. Renew my faith in your healing forever, and help me to put my trust entirely in you in the days that lie ahead. Watch over me in my pain and my fear. Grant me your healing and your comfort. And for those who minister to my ill body and soothe my suffering spirit, grant hearts of compassion, gentle hands and kindly words. Amen.
The Caregiver's Prayer (3)
Compassionate and healing God, help us to see your face in the faces of our sisters and brothers who are sick or injured. Guide us to reach out to them with hearts of compassion and hands which serve their needs. When they are anxious, help us to know how to reassure them. When they feel alone, help us to notice and be present. When they feel confused, help us to listen and assist in finding answers to their concerns. When they need comfort,
help us to communicate care and understanding. When they are weak or discouraged
help us find ways to refresh their spirits.
When doubt or darkness touches them,
give your Light to guide them and lift them up. Help us as caregivers to always turn to You as the source of our own strength and compassion
as we seek to serve the needs of our sisters and brothers who are vulnerable.
Amen.