On a typical Palm Sunday, we would gather outside the Church of St. Michael and St. George for the liturgy of the palms and Donatello the Donkey would lead us into church for the service. But this Palm Sunday is far from typical. Church School Steering Committee member Krista Jarvis put together two videos to help families celebrate Palm Sunday while sheltering at home. In the first, she tells the story of Palm Sunday for children and in the second, she explains how to create a sacred space in your home. Both videos are posted on the homepage of our website,
csmsg.org or via the links below.
A few parents asked for suggestions of appropriate prayers to say with their children that address some of the challenges we face as a result of the coronavirus.
The Church of England provided the prayers below that you may want to say with your family.
Additionally, the Episcopal Diocese of Missouri compiled a booklet of liturgies for use while congregations are not able to gather publicly for worship. This
ceremonial guide, along with services posted online at
csmsg.org, may help your family commemorate Palm Sunday, Easter, and Holy Week.
During this time of sheltering at home, Mary Beth, Amy, and members of the Church School Steering Committee are reaching out to Children's Ministry families. It is our hope that all of you are persevering through this difficult time. If there is a need we can assist with, please let us know.
A Prayer for a Friend Who is Ill
Dear God, (name of friend) is ill.
They are not allowed to go to school or come over to play.
I am sad because I miss them.
They must be feeling miserable and lonely as well.
Please be close to them.
Please be with the people who are looking after them.
Please help them to get better and to know that you love them.
Amen
A Prayer for the World
God of love and hope,
you made the world and care for all creation,
but the world feels strange right now.
The news is full of stories about coronavirus.
Some people are worried that they might get ill.
Others are anxious for their family and friends.
Be with them and help them to find peace.
We pray for the doctors and nurses and scientists,
and all who are working to discover the right medicines
to help those who are ill.
Thank you that in these anxious times,
you are with us.
Help us put our trust in you and keep us safe.
Amen
A Prayer at Bedtime
Before the ending of the day,
Creator of the world, we pray
That you, with steadfast love, would keep
Your watch around us while we sleep.
Tonight we pray especially for (names) and the people of (country or places affected by coronavirus)
Please give skill and wisdom to all who are caring for them.
Amen
A Prayer Remembering God is with Us
Lord God, you are always with me.
You are with me in the day and in the night.
You are with me when I'm happy and when I'm sad.
You are with me when I'm healthy and when I'm ill.
You are with me when I'm peaceful and when I'm worried.
Today I am feeling (name how you are feeling) because (reasons you are feeling this way).
Help me to remember that you love me and are with me in everything today.
Amen.
