National Day of Prayer
Today, the First Thursday in May, is the National Day of Prayer. Since I was at the diocesan clergy conference this week, I did not have opportunity to plan a special service, but I encourage all of you to remember our nation in prayer. In this year’s Proclamation for the National Day of Prayer, President Biden said,
"Throughout our history, prayer has been an anchor for countless Americans searching for strength and wisdom in times of struggle and sharing hope and gratitude in seasons of joy. In public reflections on life’s many blessings and in quiet moments during life’s most difficult trials, Americans of nearly every background and faith have turned to prayer for comfort and inspiration. Prayer is a sacred right protected by free speech and religious liberty enshrined in our Constitution, and it continues to lift our spirits as we navigate the challenges of our time."
I highly recommend the use of the Prayers for National Life as found in the Book of Common Prayer (BCP pp. 820-3) or simply pray the Collect for the Nation (BCP 258):
Lord God Almighty, you have made all the peoples of the earth for your glory, to serve you in freedom and in peace: Give to the people of our country a zeal for justice and the strength of forbearance, that we may use our liberty in accordance with your gracious will; through Jesus Christ our Lord, who lives and reigns with you and the Holy Spirit,
one God, for ever and ever. Amen.
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