Prayer is at the heart of everything we do
Prayer is offered liturgically in our churches at times of worship, but prayer is also something we do as individuals in church, at home, at work, and at play.
Focus church this month
Colaton Raleigh
We give thanks for:
- Faithful congregation
- The PCC and its care of the building, churchyard and finances
- Our organist
- The recent Christmas Carol Service and the wonderful sense of community worshipping together
We pray for:
- God to raise up two people to serve as churchwardens
- For members of the congregation struggling with the effects of older age
- For the good news of God’s love coming to us through Jesus to be heard in the village and wider parish community
Prayer focus: Mental Health
we pray:
for the courage and confidence to speak to someone if we are worried about their mental health. Help us to be good listeners, listening without judgement and letting people speak at their own pace. Guide us to know our limits and to help people be safe.
for a healthy approach to the news and how to not become overwhelmed by events beyond our control. May we find or indeed create opportunities to listen to differing opinions in a respectful and open way.
for those particular vulnerable to mental health issues – those who work alone or in stressful jobs, those working away from family, and those working in dangerous situations or conflict zones.
that we might be careful in how we name mental health issues so a not to devalue the symptoms people may be suffering. Having off days is part of the human condition, but depression or chronic anxiety are very different things.
for greater understanding of mental health issues and an end to the stigma attached. We pray for responsible use of language in our media and pray for an end to stereotyping and discrimination.
for anyone today feeling depressed, anxious, suicidal, lonely or unworthy of love. may they find support, help and encouragement as well as experiencing kindness and compassion.
