Praying Each Day in May
MAY I come into your presence, Father, and ask that you help me to be as trusting and close to you as many little children are with their parents. May my life today reflect that you rejoice in my company. May I rejoice in yours. Let us pray: On this day, Lord, we can celebrate many achievements of humanity as a whole, but never let us forget that each and every individual needs to be held in respect. We pray today for the unemployed and for those unable to work, and we ask you to give success to the work of our hands. Amen. http://angelwinks.ca/images/iq/qcteddy385.jpg Quote:
All that I am; Come let us go up to the Lord; I am with you for ever (all who labour); I give my hands; Lord, make me a means; Lord of all hopefulness (verse 2 refers to labouring); Make me a channel; Peace, perfect peace; Take my hands; Thank you for fathers This is an excerpt from the page of this date in ‘Praying Each Day of the Year’, a 3-volume book by Nicholas Hutchinson, FSC. |
Let us pray: God our Father, open our eyes to see the vision that you have for each of us, and lead us to grow in confidence in who we are, and in the faith that you call each of us by name. Show us how to live in such a way that we respect and accept others for who they are, and do not judge them as we ourselves do not want to be judged. Inspire us to be generous in praising others and in showing appreciation for their achievements. Amen. http://www.angelwinks.ca/iq/quick44.jpg |
Let us pray: Lord Jesus, we read in the Gospels that you brought healing and acceptance to many people, In your love stretch out your hands and touch me and bring healing and wholeness in my life. Amen. Quote:
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Let us pray: O God, we are conscious that many centuries of blindness have blinded our eyes so that we no longer see the beauty of your Chosen People. Across the centuries our Jewish brothers and sisters have lain in the blood which we drew or caused to be shed by forgetting your love. Forgive us for the curse we falsely attached to their name as Jews. Forgive us for crucifying you a second time in their flesh. For we knew not what we did. Amen. https://encrypted-tbn0.gstatic.com/i...Z1p6BhKuGrClsw |
Let us pray: Lord, lead us to be peace-makers, building connections between individuals, focusing on what unites people rather than on what separates us and highlights our differences. Lord, it’s easy to harm relationships; instead, give us the power of your Spirit that we may build up and make new the bonds between people. Amen. http://angelwinks.ca/images/iq/qc2bearsblanket.jpg |
“We all have ideals, and as we have grown up we have the choice whether to pursue them or to give them up. If we pursue them we may not attain them. At times we may wonder whether there is any point in the pursuit, because of the sacrifices involved. “We need to strive to achieve more and more, not for purely selfish motives, but because of the recognition of some higher purpose. The aim is to move with the greatest possible freedom towards the realisation of the best within us. This is the quest of a lifetime, and sport plays only a small part in it.” Let us pray: Lord, each of us has different talents and abilities. We ask you to inspire us to discover and develop the best within us. Lead us to be both humble and generous in praising others for the good use of their talents. Amen. http://angelwinks.ca/images/iq/qcgirlwdande.jpg |
One of the world’s greatest musicians, Ludwig van Beethoven, began to lose his hearing when he was only 26. This was particularly tragic for someone so gifted in using sound as music. When he realised he could not be cured of his deafness, he wrote the following prayer. As we hear his words, we can pray for those who are going through difficulties at this time: O God, give me strength to be victorious over myself. O guide my spirit and raise me up from these dark depths, so that I may fearlessly struggle upward in fiery flight. For it is you alone, Lord, who understand me and can inspire me. Amen Quote:
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We’ll use as our prayer today some words written by Pope Paul VI (the sixth) about 25 years later: Lord, God of peace, we thank you for the hopes, the efforts and the achievements which your Spirit of peace has inspired in our days - stirring up love where there was hate, sympathy where there was suspicion, care where there was indifference. Open our minds and our hearts even more to the specific demands which love for others makes upon us, so that we may be more truly makers of peace. Remember, God of mercies, those who are oppressed, those who are suffering and dying for the birth of a world in which all people will be more truly a single human family. May your kingdom come for all people of every race and language - your kingdom of justice, of peace, of love, and may all the earth be filled with your glory. We make our prayer through Jesus Christ, the Prince of Peace. Amen. https://encrypted-tbn0.gstatic.com/i...Mk7iocOGfEeXNQ |
A Muslim once said: “At night you Westerners see thousands of stars in the sky. We Muslims see only a few stars - and God.” Let us pray: God of all nations and all people, inspire us to live in your presence each day. On our journey through life lead us to choose the right direction, and show us how to respect and value others, even if we do not agree with them. May we find other people as willing to help us as we are willing to help them. Amen. http://www.animated-gifs.eu/phone-24...stars/0031.gif |
Let us pray: We know, Lord, that throughout our lives each of us will experience problems and difficulties. Give us courage and strength at those times and prevent us then from looking only at ourselves. Keep our vision wide so that, even in times of difficulty, we may still be of help to others. Help us not to be bitter towards people or situations, but empower us to take the initiative and break the cycle of hatred, bitterness, and evil actions. Help us to transform the difficulties that come our way into opportunities for personal growth and service of others. Amen. http://angelwinks.ca/images/greeting...tingspod61.jpg |
Tomorrow, 12th May, is the anniversary in 1935 of the start of “Alcoholics Anonymous”. Two men in New York began to support each other to stay sober. “Alcoholics Anonymous” - or “A.A.”, as it is often known - has small group meetings in many towns each week. Those who feel they have a drink problem are welcome to attend group meetings, where everyone is anonymous. No one is ever charged money to attend. Members encourage and support one another to live a day at a time. A.A. has “12 Steps for Recovery” from alcoholism. Some people who don’t have alcohol problems still find A.A.’s 12 “Steps for Recovery” to be a good guide when times are difficult. The ‘12 Steps’ include the following: - Realising and admitting that I am powerless over my problem, and have made a mess of my life; - believing that only a Power greater than myself can make me better, so handing my life over to God’s care; - taking responsibility for what has gone wrong in the past, and admitting my mistakes to God and to one other person; - asking God to remove my inner problems of character, and bring me healing. We’ll use as our prayer today some words used every day by A.A. members. This prayer is often said together at their group meetings. Let us pray: God, grant me the serenity to accept the things I cannot change, courage to change the things I can, and wisdom to know the difference. Amen. http://www.kingjamesbibleonline.org/...imothy_1-7.jpg |
Let us pray: Lord, remind us that, along with our rights, each of us has duties and responsibilities towards others. Amen. http://angelwinks.ca/images/nostalgi...algicpod95.jpg |
May 13 Let us pray: Lord, we pray for justice and peace in our world. We pray, too, that those who use violence as a weapon may be touched by the reaction of people who have been hurt by violence. Influence each of us, Lord, to bring justice and peace to our own part of the world this day. Amen. http://angelwinks.ca/images/nostalgi...algicpod97.jpg |
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John Baptist De La Salle was declared the Patron Saint of teachers on this day in 1950. 300 years ago, John Baptist De La Salle encouraged teachers to look upon their students as individuals, rather than as a group. He talked of people needing to “touch hearts”. “Touching hearts” is about acknowledging and relating with people as individuals - helping each person feel that they are noticed and matter, and are significant and special. A personal approach or reaction can make all the difference to an individual, showing that someone is “bothered enough” to care. Someone today can be made to feel “worthwhile” if I call them by their name. I can show human warmth and concern today if I acknowledge individuals with eye-contact, a nod, a smile, or a word. I can “touch someone’s heart” if I set out to remember what the person says or does. At another time I can repeat those personal details, showing that someone cares enough about them to remember. I can build up people today if I help them to experience success or meaning in their lives, and feel good about themselves. I can help raise someone’s self-esteem today if I show that I respect and appreciate that individual and bear in mind their own special circumstances. Someone today can feel valued if I invite them to become part of conversation, to become part of what is going on; setting out to make sure people feel included rather than excluded. I can “touch hearts” today if I compliment individuals. Let us pray: Loving Lord, inspire me to bring out the best in others and “touch hearts” by being welcoming and generous and always positive in attitude, showing individuals that they matter and are important. May those who are part of my life this day treat me in the same way as I treat them. Amen. http://angelwinks.ca/iq/qcprayforpeace3.jpg Quote:
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Let’s pray in silence for a moment for all who are going through great difficulties… (pause… ) Let’s pray in silence that we may be people who support and encourage others… (pause … ) Let’s think in silence for a moment of two people to set out to encourage today… (pause…) http://www.kingjamesbibleonline.org/...hians_6-19.jpg |
In 1863, the “Football Association” was founded, to set out clear rules for the game and to distinguish it from rugby football and other similar games. With the foundation of the Football Association, the game began to be called “association” or “assoc”, giving the word “soccer”, which at first was a slang word. In May each year the Cup Final is held at Wembley. After the First World War it became a tradition for community singing to take place at the Football Cup Final at Wembley. King George V (the fifth) suggested that a hymn be included, and “Abide with me” was chosen. It is still sung before the Cup Final every May. The words were written by Henry Lyte in the fishing village of Brixham in Devon, where he had been the vicar since the age of 30. His words are particularly touching because he wrote them whilst dying of T.B. - tuberculosis. On the 4th September 1847 he said goodbye to the congregation of his church. He had been given early retirement because of his chronic health. In his last sermon he preached about the time when two disciples were walking along a road towards a village called Emmaus. Jesus had been killed a few days before, but now he joins them and walks beside them. He is risen from the dead. At last they recognise him and say to him: “Stay with us. It is nearly evening.” Henry Lyte took this theme and wrote his hymn as he walked by the sea. He heard the ebb and flow of the tide and, for the last time there, he watched the sun set. The following day he was to go abroad on the advice of his doctor, who had told him that in a drier climate he might live a little longer. And so he wrote “Abide with me” (meaning “stay with me”), “it is fast becoming evening.” As he wrote his words, Henry Lyte also thought of his own life coming to a swift end. No earthly helpers or comforts could make much difference to him. 2 months later, on his way to sunny Italy, he died in Nice, France. His last words were “Peace, joy,” as he pointed his hand towards the sky. The words of his hymn we’ll make our prayer today. We can use our imagination and place ourselves on the seashore as the sun is setting. We listen to the words of his hymn as the prayer of this sick man who knew he was at the “evening” of his life, about to die from tuberculosis - but at peace with himself: Abide with me, fast falls the eventide; the darkness deepens, Lord, with me abide. When other helpers fail, and comforts flee, help of the helpless, O abide with me. Swift to its close ebbs out life’s little day; earth’s joys grow dim, its glories pass away; change and decay in all around I see; O thou who changest not, abide with me. I need thy presence every passing hour; what but thy grace can foil the tempter’s power? Who like thyself my guide and stay can be? Through cloud and sunshine, O abide with me. I fear no foe with thee at hand to bless; ills have no weight and tears no bitterness. Where is death’s sting? Where, grave, thy victory? I triumph still, if thou abide with me. Hold thou thy Cross before my closing eyes; shine through the gloom, and point me to the skies; heaven’s morning breaks, and earth’s vain shadows flee: in life, in death, O Lord, abide with me. http://www.angelwinks.ca/images/angel68.jpg Quote:
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Let us pray: Lord, I ask for the gifts of knowledge and wisdom and understanding. What I pray for I intend to work at, so that I may be someone with an open mind, a thirst for knowledge, and a wisdom that makes good use of my knowledge and experience. I know that any gifts are useless if I do not also have love and concern for others, and so I ask that you inspire me to live in such a way that I am caring and compassionate and promote understanding between people. May others respect me, Lord, as much as I respect them. Amen. http://angelwinks.ca/images/angelpod.jpg A prayer that keeps on giving. This Angel picture will change daily! |
Let us pray: Lord, most of us will not become well-known or be written about because of great achievements, but we will be known and loved for our attitude and the smaller ordinary things that we do that make our part of the world a better place. Inspire us, Lord, each day, to find joy in giving as well as in receiving, and lead us to act justly, love tenderly, and walk humbly with you, our God. Amen. http://www.kingjamesbibleonline.org/...pians_4-13.jpg |
Let us pray: My True Father, I set my hopes upon You alone, And I only ask You, God, For my Soul salvation. Let Your Holy Will Be my strengthening on this way, For my life without You is a mere empty moment, And only serving You leads to Eternal life. Amen! prayer for the soul - st. agapit of pechersk - 11th century http://www.angelwinks.ca/images/love37.jpg |
Let us pray: Lord God, I can think of some of the chemicals my body is made of and the way the different cells of my body interact, but I know how much more a human being really is. I pray that I may always appreciate the wonder of the human body, mind and spirit. I pray for good health, an enquiring mind, and a spirit that seeks all that is good, knowing that I will only be fully at rest and in peace as I live in your presence. Amen. http://www.angelwinks.ca/images/butterfly10.jpg |
‘Les Misérables’ is one of the world’s most popular musicals. The Finale includes these words: “To love another person is to touch the face of God.” The first part of our prayer is based on a prayer written by Victor Hugo, the author of ‘Les Misérables’: Let us pray: We who weep come to you, Lord, because you always share our sorrow. We who suffer come to you, knowing that you cure. We who are afraid come to you, because you smile on us. We share in your life because you share ours and so we know, God of love, that “to love another person is, indeed, to touch your face”. May we live in your love forever. Amen. http://angelwinks.ca/images/angel3l.gifhttp://angelwinks.ca/images/angel3r.gif An alternative prayer: Lord, may people be as ready to give me a break, a chance, and let me make a new start, as I am ready to be generous to others. Forgive me my faults in the same way as I forgive and accept other people. Amen. Quote:
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We bring before the Lord those who have recently been baptised or confirmed - or who are about to be - that they may be true to themselves and may live their faith in a genuine and credible way. Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer. We pray for our families and friends that the power of the Holy Spirit may be in our lives, so that we may live fully with his gifts of wisdom and understanding, of knowledge and right judgement, of courage and reverence, and of wonder and awe in God’s presence. Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer. Let’s pray for those about to sit exams, that nothing may prevent them from doing as well as they deserve. Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer We pray for all in the mass media - in TV, radio, films, newspapers, advertising and the Internet, that they may be guided by good principles and the best motives. We pray for wisdom ourselves that, amidst the influences and pressures around us, we may make good decisions and grow in wisdom and character each day. Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer. This is an excerpt from the page of this date in ‘Praying Each Day of the Year’, a 3-volume book by Nicholas Hutchinson, FSC. https://encrypted-tbn3.gstatic.com/i...zkxZjRSIHbnEfg May all I say and all I think be in harmony with Thee, God within me, God beyond me, Maker of the Trees. north american indian - chinook |
One of life’s great lessons is this: we’re never sure just how things are going to turn out. We’ll live a good life if our attitude is always positive - determined to make the best of all situations that come our way. Let us pray: Lord Jesus, you promised to be with your people always, and so we know that you are with us in good times and bad. Nothing that ever happens to us can separate us from your love. Help us always to be positive in our attitude that we may seek and find the best in people and in situations, and so draw good out of all that happens to us. Amen. http://www.animated-gifs.eu/phone-24...cters/0005.gif |
Let us pray for God’s protection, using a prayer of St Columba, written 1400 years ago: Be a bright flame before me, Lord. Be a guiding star above me. Be a smooth path below me. Be a kindly shepherd behind me - today, tonight, and forever. Amen. http://www.animated-gifs.eu/phone-24...cters/0040.gif |
We’re going to listen to three one-sentence quotes: The American poet, Walt Whitman, who died on this day in 1892, said: “In the faces of men and women I see God.” The musical of ‘Les Misérables’ has these words in its Finale: “To love another person is to touch the face of God.” A Church document says that “The human person is the clearest reflection of God among us.” Let us pray: Father, God of love, as I come to recognise you in the faces of those people you have placed into my life, I ask that I may grow as the loving person you call me to be. Amen. http://angelwinks.ca/images/iq/qcyoungangel310.jpg |
Let us pray: God our Father, when times are difficult, I ask for courage and determination. When there is hostility between people, lead me to see the best in people and in situations, and give me the gift of making peace. Remove from me whatever contradicts your love that I may share more fully the Good News of your love. Amen. Quote:
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On this day in 1982 Pope John Paul II started his Visit to Great Britain. Later in the day he met many sick and disabled people and gave them the Sacrament of the Sick. Only a year after being shot and seriously wounded, he spoke to those who were ill or disabled: “I myself have had a share in suffering, and I have known the physical weakness that comes with injury and sickness. It is precisely because I have experienced suffering that I am able to affirm with evergreater conviction that nothing at all can ever separate us from the love of God. “Dear friends, there is no force or power that can block God’s love for you. Sickness and suffering seem to contradict all that is worthy, all that is desired. And yet no disease, no injury, no infirmity can ever deprive you of your dignity as children of God. “We often find in the Gospels the loving bond of affection between Jesus and the sick or disabled. We believe in Christ’s healing love, and we reaffirm that nothing will separate us from that love. Surely Jesus wishes to say: ‘Be clean; be healed; be strong; be saved.’ “ Let us pray: Lord Jesus, we read in the gospel that you spoke individually to many people and said: “Be cured”; Lk 513 “Get up and walk”; Lk 524 “What do you want me to do for you?” Mt 2032 “Of course I want to cure you: be healed”; Mt 83 “Let what you want be done for you”; Mt 929 “Receive your sight”; Lk 1842 “Receive back your hearing”; Mk 734 “Young man, arise”; Lk 715 “Go, your son will live”; Jn 450 “Go, your faith has saved you.” Mk 1052 Knowing that you are present in our midst, we ask you today to touch each one of us individually and bring us your healing of body, mind and spirit. Amen. http://www.kingjamesbibleonline.org/...ians_10-31.jpg |
What really counts is the effort we put into something to make it our own best. My “success” and “achievement” can only be measured against my own potential. Let us pray: Lord, I ask that you inspire me always to do my best - not comparing myself with others, but only with myself. Lead me, Lord, to discover and use my own talents to the full. May I live in such a way that I help others to experience success. Inspire me to be generous in praising others for the good use of their abilities - looking not so much at the degree of achievement but at the effort put in. Amen. http://angelwinks.ca/images/nostalgi...lgicpod112.jpg |
On his Visit to Britain in 1982, Pope John Paul II spoke in Glasgow. The Pope said that Jesus offers a new way of living: “to be gentle, generous, simple, and above all, sincere; to avoid being arrogant, fault-finding, or self-seeking. The disciples of the new Kingdom must seek happiness even amidst poverty, deprivation, tears and oppression. To aim for the Kingdom requires a radical change in outlook, in mentality, in behaviour, in relationships with others. Jesus offers a new way of life… He has a specific task in life for each and every one of us. Each of us is hand-picked, called by name by Jesus.” This is an excerpt from the page of this date in ‘Praying Each Day of the Year’, a 3-volume book by Nicholas Hutchinson, FSC. Let us pray: Lord Jesus, you call us friends and you call each one of us by name. May your Holy Spirit be fully alive in us that we may truly appreciate and love ourselves, and so more readily value and serve others. When we experience sorrow or the loss of someone, give us courage and support that we may better encourage others who share the same kind of experience. Lead us to act justly and fairly, helping people to see the best in one another, so that those who have fallen out may be reconciled and live in peace. May we learn always to be genuine and sincere, avoiding arrogance and doing others down, treating other people as the equals that they are. Bless us when times are hard, and walk with us as the Good Shepherd who leads and protects. Amen. http://www.animated-gifs.eu/phone-24...cters/0025.gif |
Let us pray: God our Father, I pray that I may live in such a way that I choose wisely each day, and take responsibility for the choices that I make. Inspire me to use for good my education and all the challenges that I will face, that I may grow more fully human, and do good to those around me. Teach me to discern good from evil that I may grow in integrity of character and develop a true sense of values through following Jesus, your Son and our Brother. Amen. Quote:
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