We mourn her passing. We celebrate her life. We remember her opinions, her acts, and her compassion. Justice Ruth Bader Ginsburg was a Notorious Rapper, a mighty force, and a voice with a bullhorn message.
She was a righteous and precious Pearl of Hope.
A Mustard Seed who grew beyond her challenges. Thank God for her presence during our lifetime.
Well done good and faithful servant. Notorious R.BG., she fought, and she won the hearts of many. She’s blessed with rest and with a fulfilled promise of peace eternal.
Farewell to Justice Ruth Bader Ginsburg. We will remember you among the Pearls of Hope shining ever so bright.
There’s a flag within me
A flag within you
True patriotic red, white, and blue
Freedom
Justice
Equality
Democracy
Harmony
These ideals mark
our collective reality …
Flags waving high
Arms extended to the sky above
Flag draped low
Citizens appreciate the freedoms
they have grown to love and know
From Ground Zero to Ground Hero
Living memorials to the deceased
Funeral pits are grave sights
Charitable acts erase or ease
enduring pain and grief…
People are seeking a life worth completely living
People are seeking a shift away from previous norms
People are working to establish a higher sense of right
People want relief from the recent shocking storms
Flaunting this emblem conscientiously is one response
to the massive tragedies
By providing thoughts of comfort, solace, faith or a chance to trace our heritage’s grace
These journeys must be made today
As streams of tears flood innocent faces
We focus our deeds of courageous acts
helping the beseiged with our hands and our hearts
Aiding those who are in need
Yet duty’s call cannot replace
The afflicted lives dissolved by ashes laced
with weapons of hate and mass destruction
Victim’s families will never see or touch
the cherished lost ones who are treasured so much…
Flags marking street corners are reminders of pride
As people march humbly, walk soberly, or somberly ride
In or to parades, memorials, vigils and funerals
Some pause to ask questions wanting, pleading to know why
while shedding endless cries
Flags of hope, courage, bravery and strength
Flags of valor distinctly marking this day forward
As people hold on to victory’s crest
certain the flag’s precepts will move everyone onward
But onward to what place? What place and where?
The public has stopped to ask these imperative questions sbecause they sincerely care…
Our little lives, our big problems—these we place upon Your altar!
The quietness in Your temple of silence again and again rebuffs us:
For some there is no discipline to hold them steady in the waiting,
And the minds reject the noiseless invasion of Your spirit.
For some there is no will to offer what is central in the thoughts—
The confusion is so manifest, there is no starting place to take hold.
For some the evils of the world tear down all concentrations
And scatter the focus of the high resolves.
We do not know how to do what we know to do.
We do not know how to be what we know to be.
Our little lives, our big problems—these we place upon Your altar!
Pour out upon us whatever our spirits need of shock, of life, of release
That we may find strength for these days—
Courage and hope for tomorrow.
In confidence we rest in Your sustaining grace
Which makes possible triumph in defeat, gain in loss, and love in hate.
We rejoice this day to say:
Our little lives, our big problems—these we place upon Your altar!
Written by Howard Thurman,Theologian, Preacher Teacher & more
Merciful God, we crave your kind of patience. We long for your peace. We look forward to a steady stream of Your truth blowing like a breeze gently laid across our nation. May it be as common as the air we breath.
We pray one day soon all that fails to shield us from the brutal forces of hatred, racism and injustice will be removed. We will come face to face before Your judgement and gracefully adjust our ways to Your desires for us.
Oh Sacred Heart, help us to see the truth as You made it, and live righteous, faithful lives that You fashioned for us. May the beauty of Your creation disrupt the lives of those who spread seeds of dissension and who inflame harmony.
Help us recognize and receive Your Gift of Grace and passion to embrace a renewed spirit.
Holy One, shine a light of new reckoning for anxious hearts, and healing for troubled souls.
Protect and Bless us with freedom to live, breath and have our being among the righteous. We offer our praise and thanks to You, O God.
There are times when our burdens ar greater than our blessings.
Thank God, for teaching us to pray.
Thank you for answering our prayers.
Let us pray:
Gracious God, thank you for your unfailing love.
Thank you for your promise of peace and compassion.
Thank you for the many ways you show up in our lives.
We are humbled by our relationship with you.
O God, whose power is greater than we can imagine.
Lay Your hands upon the soul of our nation.
Inspire love for one another as spiritual siblings.
Guide us through these challenging times.
Strengthen our faith and bless us with grace.
In our Savior’s Name. Amen
Love,
Your Children
“Though the mountains be shaken and the hills be removed, yet my unfailing love for you will not be shaken nor my covenant of peace be removed,” says the Lord, who has compassion on you.” Isaiah 54:10 https://www.bible.com/111/isa.54.10.niv
Lord, lead me in your righteousness because of those who wait to ambush me, remove the obstacles in the way in which you are guiding me! Ps 5:8 NET
Let Us Park and Pray at 1:11 pm
I do not ask, O Lord, that life may be A pleasant road; I do not ask that thou would’st take from me Aught of its load. For one thing only, Lord, dear Lord, I plead: Lead me aright— Though strength should falter, and though heart should bleed— Through peace to light. — Adelaide A. Procter.
Remembering Rep. John Lewis, his Call, his names, the seeds he sowed and the plants that grew in our nation. A Living Sacrifice.
Wikipedia John Lewis 2/21/1940-7/21/20
His name was John. I called him the Blessed Gardener. Yet, many called him these other names and attributes:
A Bridge and a Builder
A legendary Icon”
“Lion of the Civil Rights”
Extraordinary
“The Conscience of Congress”
A Moral leader
A Sharecropper’s Son
A Cotton Farm Boy
A Loving brother, father, uncle, cousin and friend
A Widow wedded to the Promise of freedom and justice for all
A Hero
A Georgia Congressman
A Change Agent
A Movement
Peaceful, Nonviolent, Hero
An Architect of the march
A Bridge in troubled waters
A Champion, Protester, Agitator, and Support for innocent Gun violence victims
A “Good Trouble Maker” who sat down and called his colleagues to Sit In and change Gun Violence legislations
A Force who sat at forbidden lunch counters.
A Prisoner for nonviolent protests who stood up for Voters Rights, Civil Rights, Human Rights, Liberty, and the welfare and dignity of all people.
An Advocate, an Idol and Icon of the Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. teachings
“A Voice to the Voiceless” MLK III
A Giant of the Civil Rights Movement
A Broken Skull, Scarred
A Fearless Survivor of the 1963 March on Washington
A Beacon of Hope, an Inspiration
A Titan, A Good Man
An Icon of Anerican History
A Promoter of public service, civic education, leadership, peace and good troublemaking
A Hero and now Legend
Devoted to his faith and country
Let us Park and Pray at 1:11 pm and remember Congressman John Lewis who was a Living Sacrifice.
Park and Pray at 1:11 pm:
Holy One,
We called Congressman John Lewis many names. We pinned on him many attributes. You called him and fashioned him for our times.
God, we thank You for his life and his works. Thank You for calling him, inspiring and equipping him to do the hard work. May his seeds of love and nonviolent protest flourish. May his life inspire generations to serve You and heal our nation and world according to Your ways and as You will.
“As earth’s flowers need Heaven’s sun and dew — so our lives need Heaven’s grace and love to make them what they should be.”
Let’s Park and Pray at 1:11
O God, our heavenly Father, Mother, we need Your blessing and help. We are blind, and cannot see where to set our feet, and we need to be led by the hand of One who knows all the paths. We put our hands in Yours this day. Show us the way, for You know its every step.
Tell us what You would have us to do. You have a plan for our day’s life. There are things You have set down for each one of us to do. May we find these things, and may we have grace to do them all.
Keep us from being so absorbed in our own plans and schemes, that we cannot take Your plan and do Your will. If sometimes it is hard for us to take Your way, if it breaks into our cherished hopes and desires help us always to say, “Thy Will be done.”
We ask You to give us grace to live today as we should live. Life is not easy for us. Our burdens are heavy. There are temptations at each step.
Help us to speak only the words that will minister grace to those who hear.
Help us to be honest in all our business transactions.
Help us to be thoughtful and kind to all we meet.
Help us to be a strength to many. Let us be a discourager to none.
Please bless all of our work today. Without your blessing, there can be no true profit.
As earth’s flowers need Heaven’s sun and dew — so our lives need Heaven’s grace and love to make them what they should be.
Breathe on us , as we bow here at Your feet, and fill us with Your Spirit as we go forth. Then we shall be blessed, and be ready for a day of love and peace and joy.
We ask all these favors, with the forgiveness of our sins, in the name of our Savior. Amen.
I saw this rainbow in the sky. It reminded me of God’s love.
I see many shades melting together as one shining illumination. It’s arc is bending toward love.
Let’s Pray……..>~~~~~~~~>
To the Holy One,
To the God who puts rainbows in the sky and colors our path with shades of lightening and mercy.
Destroy all lethal viruses and corruptnatures.
Cleanse our spirits with a fresh coat of life giving love. Purify every breath, every drop, and every earthly being. Create in us a clean ❤️ and a renewed spirit.
Make us feel free to walk along the paths of life, to touch, sing and dance together again.
Satisfy us with your Holy presence. Protect us from harm and disarm our fears.
Dear God,
Help us!
Uncover what’s hidden behind our masks.
Help us O God!
Breathe with a fresh understanding.
Yes, uncover hatred, racism and tainted privilege.
You’ve removed the masks and allowed many to breathe.
No more of “you can’t…but I can!”
O God, Light of the world. You’ve torn off the mask and awakened the dead. Unbound Lazarus is awake and without his mask!
Holy One! Shine your Light!
Illuminate a path for healing, reconciliation, recovery and renewal .
Magnify Peace! Righteousness !
Love Divine, Merciful Savior,
Help us inhale your love.
Help us resolve our country’s history of slavery, racism, innocent blood shed, and bigotry.
Help us resolve the ways we are complicit and complacent.
Many eyes are now open to the horrors of racism and racial divide that’s designed to overpower those who suffer and endures the torment.
It’s more than a nightmare.
It’s so much about conquering, overpowering and fear.
Remove the masks! Reveal the scars, purulence and abscess.
Debridement! Dig deep!
We need a Debridement!
Remove the dead and the infected parts!
Dig deep into America’s history of slavery. Extract the false narratives. Remove the rotten wisdom? tooth!?!
A root canal. Explore and extract all that is rotten and full of pain.
Dear God,
Hear our prayers.
Help us understand when unarmed Black and Brown men, boys and women are a threat greater than a gun.
Please God, have mercy!
Black Lives Matter to You God!
Black Lives Matter to us!
Black Lives must matter to All!
Time out! Time out!
Time without masks that hides our sins.
No more cover up.
No more covering our noses and avoiding the stench of racism.
God help us!
Take off our masks and witness what’s hidden.
Almighty God,
Shine a light on evil practices of racism, injustice and priveledge .
Merciful God,
Take off all masks!
Shine Your Holy Light on a righteousness path.
God help us!
Take off the masks! No coverups!
Shine a floodlight on our past, present and future.
May Your goodness and mercy follow us all the days of our lives. O that we may be a place for healing and renewal. Let us go. Give thanks, O God.
It is you Lord, and, you alone who heals and preserves us. Please, take this prayer into consideration.
We ask that you flood our hearts with a love that overflows with joy for justice and admiration of those who seek peace.
Let all of us hear your call to holiness, and those who are willing, answer this call; purging old ways and adopting practices of discipline that leads to greater faith.
Lord, help us live in ways that serve your purpose, so that the brokenness of the world can be mended and we can see a new day with new possibilities.
“Lamb of God, who takes away the sin of the world!” (John 1:29 NIV) Give us life without harm, injustice, brutal attacks, death threats, unlawful arrests, grief and other misery. Lamb of God who takes away the sins of the works give us peace, your love and your blessed assurance that racism will end.
Let’s us hold our breath at 1:11 pm for 9 seconds.
Then, let us pray.
We lift our eyes to the hills from where comes our help. Our help comes from you, O God. We look to you, O God, for help and strength. We know your eyes are upon us. Almighty God, there’s none like You.
We are lost without You, O God. God, You created us in your image and likeness. But, some people have become hardened, inhumane, wicked, racist, and unashamed. Their behavior rips through the health, spirit, and soul of our nation.
God, we watched George Floyd’s painful death at the hands of intense hatred. It’s breathtaking to watch a man’s life painfully slip away at the hands of a Law Officer or police. His death opened many eyes and united many voices.
We pray, “O God, Have Mercy!” Comfort and support Mr. Floyd’s family! Bring peace, justice, and righteousness!
We hold our breath as we remember the deaths of many other innocent Brown and Black Brothers and Sisters. We can hardly breathe through the flood of tears. O God, how much longer must we bear witness to the wickedness and suffering of your people?
God, give us ears to hear from you. Speak to us O God, loud and clear. O God, stay near. We will not fear. O, God! Watch over us. O God, have Mercy on us!
Look upon us, O God. We pray, release the chains and untie the noose around us. No more running, no more hands up, and no more faces pressed against the ground. We shall no longer be bound by separate set of laws.
Give us freedom and justice. God,end the murdering of our innocent brothers and sisters. How long shall we hold our breath and wait?
O God, set us free. Lord, have Mercy! Mercy, O God! We can’t breathe! But You, O God, can see all things and do what seems impossible. Deliver us from evil, O God. O God, help us to hold on, march on, speak out, live on, and embrace your will. We can “Be Still,” and restless.
You alone are God are Holy.
We will hold our breath as You O God, guide us through the valleys of changes America desperately needs. God, bless us with Grace and Mercy!
Even though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I will fear no evil, for you are with me; your rod and your staff, they comfort me.” Psalm 23: 4 There are many aspects of the pandemic that are difficult and challenging. As a result of these dynamics, many people are suffering in so many ways. Their heartaches profoundly touch us. We also look forward to consoling those in our communities who have lost jobs or are facing financial uncertainty. We celebrate the courage and the dedication of front-line health care and nursing home staff, grocery store workers, and others now recognized as essential. We remember with gratitude those who work every day to care for the vulnerable and marginalized. We seek systemic policy changes to create a safety net under those struggling with hunger and homelessness and those who have to choose every day between work and their safety.
Amid all these circumstances, each day, we read the growing number of those who have died. Deaths that are often experienced through great suffering and fear and separated from the direct presence of loved ones. The rising number of deaths can be so overwhelming and yet, a constant factor in our daily lives. However, we can quickly become numb and can begin to only see the end as another number to track before moving on.
We are asking our Southern New England Conference United Church of Christ (SNECUCC) clergy and laity and the wider community to participate in a daily discipline of prayer for those who died due to COVID-19 and to support the families and loved ones who are grieving their loss. As God’s beloved children, we are asking in prayer to lift them to God’s eternal care and comfort.
The method of practicing this discipline is an existing prayer ministry called “Park and Pray at 1:11 PM,” started and developed by Rev Cleo Graham in 2015. We are encouraging others to participate in “Park and Pray at 1:11 PM” as a spiritual practice of daily prayer by stopping to pray at 1:11 PM each day. For additional information, you may refer to the website. www.parkandprayat111.com.
Please consider joining us in this daily discipline of prayer by first dedicating yourself to set your alarm to pray each day at 1:11 PM, and then going further to encourage those in your congregation, family, and friends to join with you in prayer.
“Surely goodness and mercy shall follow me all the days of my life, and I shall dwell in the house of the Lord forever.” Psalms 23:6
Rev. Scott Spencer, Pastor Woodridge Congregational Church
Let us Pray:
(You may use your own prayer or the suggested prayer below)
Almighty God, we humbly park and pray at 1:11 PM. In your Holy presence, we imagine lighting a candle. For there’s no place, we’d rather be than in your presence. God, we come before your presence with praise and thanksgiving, We come as privileged people who can go to God in prayer, to receive God and for God to welcome us.
“What a fellowship, what a joy divine to lean on the everlasting God.”
Bread of Life, Breath of Life, Light of the World, and our Hope eternal. Thank you for your sinless sacrifice to redeem us and restore us to a right relationship with you O God. We seek your guidance, your healing power, and the blessings of your Holy Word and protection.
We call on You O God to: Forgive us for disconnecting our lives and separating from you. Forgive us for failing to seek you during these difficult times. We seek forgiveness for our sins and we ask you to make us whole again. God, we pray the world may know you, hunger, and thirst for you.
We pray for our homes, our families, our friends, and neighbors. We especially pray for our children who are missing schools and friends. We pray for children who will experience Confirmation, Baptism, and other milestones in new ways.
May the glory of God’s Peace rise above any strife, neglect, disharmony, and bitterness. —– We pray for a united church that seeks Christ, his wisdom, his word, his will, and his ways.
We pray for (Names) those who are unemployed. Gracious God, build new employment.
We pray for (Names) who are sick and distressed, especially all who are affected by the Covid-19 virus may they experience your healing.
We pray for (Names) those grieving from a loss. May they experience your Comfort, O God.
We pray for (Names) those who have died. May the end of each life journey celebrate in the kingdom of God’s eternal home.
We pray for (Names) those who are financially burdened and unemployed that they may experience your Grace, O God.
We pray for all who keep us safe, that all will practice social distancing, barrier protection, and social isolation as protective measures warrant. Relieve the stress associated with loneliness and solitude.
Merciful God, help us to unite in prayer this day and every day. Strengthen our faith and renew our daily commitment to prayer. O God, we glorify your name as we Park and Pray at 1:11 PM.
Before we turn the page let’s park and pray at 1:11 for Ahmaud
God, You who formed his inward parts; You, Almighty God knitted him together in his mother’s womb. We praise you, for he was fearfully and wonderfully made. Wonderful are your works.” Psalm 139:13-14.
Dear God, your eyes beheld his unformed substance. In Your Book were written all the days that were formed for him. A precious gem, a work in progress and a life that tragically ended.
Merciful God, comfort his family, friends, community and world, shaken and awakened again by the stench of evil. Hear our prayers.
Almighty Healer, search all who are wicked. Give them a clean heart, a renewed spirit, and a mind that rejects evil and delights in goodness.
May the Light of your Holy presence be our Guardian and Protector. Thank You for promising to love us, give us grace and eternal peace.
unhandlin’ things
just lettin’ go
of all those things
I think I knew or know
‘bout love, life, livin’
& naggin’ cravins’
I’m no wannabee
bein’comfy in
my own brown skin
unhandlin’ things
for now, ‘tis good
to just be here
in the now, not the should
gonna kick up my feet
& read a book
not a “how-to” book
somethin’ funny & good
be lazy as hell
no one bet-not say nothin’
sleep as late as I want
even eat in bed often
gonna swim in a lake
with my clothes off, too
not for exercise
but for sensations brand new
gonna shop at the mall
not for a “minimizer” bra
or a tummy-thinnin’ girdle
or a “sliminizer” dress
somethin’ simple, but loud, will do
long as it’s comfortable
share with my hubby
a ton of love
give to my family
go beyond and above
get on a plane, go
to who knows where
get on a train, go
to who dares care
just stroll, crack jokes, ease
my way through crowds
talk soft, talk junk
talk loudly, talk punk
doing whatever
I damn well please
Spirit of the living God breathe Light, life, and healing in our lives. Almighty, strengthen our endurance. As we enter the Sanctuary of Your love, build our spiritual relationships with you, and your children.
Let this be the fast that connects us in spirit. Keep us safe. Let us tap into your Power that’s beyond our finite imagination. Help us use this power to serve You and Your will, O God.
Let us bear witness to the gift of faith. O Lord, grow the seeds of caring and compassion within me..
Let’s call You, O Holy Lover, the Great Stream of Light, the Almighty, and the Creator.
Let’s Park and Pray at 1:11 pm., by pressing the reset, and calming the toxic impulses.
We pause, fast, give and stretch our spiritual muscles. We open space for You are Holy, Almighty, a Love Supreme and the Beam of Light pulsating throughout darkness.
We pray, Lord, have mercy on those who are sick, separated, in harms way, and without a place to stay. Help us overcome invisible attacks, losses, feeling flatlined by heartbreaks and heartaches.
We give thanks for our loved ones, especially those who are no longer with us. Help us to live peacefully without them.
Help us to love, comfort and care for one another. Help us to do and to be our best. To trust You, O God will do the rest.
Let us park and pray at 1:11 pm.
Pray these words, “As You will O God, as You will.”
The story in Beauty Beyond Bones captured the pulse of my prayers for NYC and other communities that feel flatlined by the Covid-19 pandemic. The author of the blog, a resident of New York City, said, “NYC flatlined.” The NYC that I know and love is a vibrant, bustling, spirited city fueled by the lifeblood of her people. Beauty Beyond Bones wrote about a current Pandemic view of NYC where empty streets, closed businesses and the uncharacteristic silence of a city mourning the loss of many people. I wondered if NYC flatlined. I’ve heard a variety of opinions from my NYC relatives and friends. Most people agree NYC streets are quiet, relatively empty and stillness penetrates the air. Yet, I find stillness can be a strength.
Imagine a race without shoes and a clear path. Imagine addressing Covid-19 without preventative teaching, testing, treating and tracking.
As a former NYC resident I imagine her pulsating through this second tragedy in two decades. Several years after 911 the city was filled with tension and restless anticipation of another tragedy. This is certainly an indescribable time in our country’s history. My heart goes out to anyone who lost loved ones. Sending my deepest condolences. I hope all who suffer find relief, healing, comfort and peace.
We are called to separate from friends and loved ones during crushing times in our lives. Many learned to pray and plead for God’s presence in ERs, waiting rooms, ICUs and wherever Social Distancing dictates. NYC is getting ready for this next sprint where she presses on toward the mark of her higher call. If, NYC and any community shows up for the race toward less contaminated fields without their shoestrings tied they could experience flatlines instead of a finish line. The prospects for success are shady without essentials such as, protective equipment, tests supplies and the means for processing Covid results.
NYC and other communities struck by the Covid-19 virus may appear lifeless or flatlined due to the numbers of deaths and sickness. It’s difficult to rebound when so many people are still sick and dying. But, the pulse of life is present and daily recovering. Many thanks for the nurses, doctors and others on the front lines rescuing patients and sacrificing their lives to do so. Let us pray they receive the highest praise by giving them a higher measure of preparation,k and tools to meet the challenges. We can prayerfully wrestle with this pandemic and win while we also embrace the hope of saving lives and our livelihoods.
During my years as a Critical Care Nurse in a New York City Hospital I wore clogs because shoestrings were not dependable in a busy surgical ICU. I cared for many patients including Arthur Ashe during his first Open Heart Surgery. He was young, robust, and vibrant. The standard of care was not compromised or threatened by a lack of equipment or supplies for patients and providers. I recall changing my mask more often during one shift than current nurses do in days.
In some ways, NYC resembles the heart. It’s always beating, pulsating, contracting, and relaxing. Prolonged relaxation without contractions may lead to lethargy. Lethargy May feel like you’re flatlining. Exercise such as marching in place may reduce that feeling, and add cardiovascular benefits. There are other risk factors.
One of our best weapons against disease
Friends, the tenets of Florence Nightingale’s days during the Crimean War saved lives. She instituted hand washing and reduced infections and the hospital’s death rate by two thirds according to her 1860 publication, “Notes on Nursing.”
“I solemnly pledge myself before God and in the presence of this assembly, to pass my life in purity and to practice my profession faithfully. I will abstain from whatever is deleterious and mischievous, and will not take or knowingly administer any harmful drug.” (Florence Nightingale)
My faith inspires me to practice speechless praying while examining patients in my clinic. I would pray as I passed my stethoscope across a patient’s chest years before attending seminary and becoming an ordained pastor. The gap between Practitioner and Pastor was a wilderness experience. Some patients sensed my prayers and welcomed the feeling of calm and peacefulness.
If you or someone you know experienced the death of a loved one from this Covid-19 Virus then, feeling flatlined may describe your feelings. Give your self time to grieve. Others should stay in touch with you.
Love never dies. It grows deeper.
As a Nurse, I couldn’t fully process the deaths of my patients until midnight, the end of my shift. During my walks from the hospital to my NYC apartment I experienced NYC as a city that never sleeps. The pulsating skylights seemed to affirm these thoughts. “I did your best, and I trusted God to do the rest. Peace Be With You.”
These days, I write prayer prescriptions(RX) for anxiety, fear, grief, hopelessness, sadness, isolation, insecurities and more. Prescriptions (RX) are free, without risks or adverse effects, and known to benefit all. Prayers are powerful. I call the Higher Power, the Holy One, God, more often these days. “Jesus Christ, Son of God, have mercy on…(add name).
Let’s breathe and pray.
Spirit of the living God breathe Light, life, and healing in our lives. Almighty, strengthen our endurance. As we enter the Sanctuary of Your love, build our spiritual relationships with you, and your children.
Let this be the fast that connects us in spirit. Keep us safe. Let us tap into your Power that’s beyond our finite imagination. Help us use this power to serve You and Your will, O God.
Let us bear witness to the gift of faith. O Lord, grow the seeds of caring and compassion within me..
Let’s call You, O Holy Lover, the Great Stream of Light, the Almighty, and the Creator.
Let’s Park and Pray at 1:11 pm., by pressing the reset, and calming the toxic impulses.
We pause, fast, give and stretch our spiritual muscles. We open space for You are Holy, Almighty, a LoveSupreme and the Beam of Light pulsating throughout darkness.
We pray, Lord, have mercy on those who are sick, separated, in harms way, and without a place to stay. Help us overcome invisible attacks, losses, feeling flatlined by heartbreaks and heartaches.
We give thanks for our loved ones, especially those who are no longer with us. Help us to live peacefully without them.
Help us to love, comfort and care for one another. Help us to do and to be our best. To trust You, O God will do the rest.
Let us park and pray at 1:11 pm.
Pray these words, “As You will O God, as You will.”
God, your love broke through death’s dark tomb and opened the path for Jesus’ resurrection. Praise God! Jesus is Risen!
Almighty God, open wide the doors of your people’s hearts to receive the transforming power of the Holy Spirit. Praise God! Jesus is Risen!
We remember the life-giving words and ways of Jesus Christ, Savior, Redeemer, Healer, and Deliverer. Hear our Easter prayers. Calm our deepest fears, and dry our grief stricken tears.
Merciful God, mend our broken lives. Heal all manner of diseases, especially sickness due to the Covid-19. Help us to live into a new normal. God, we are eager to please you and grateful for the many ways you are present.
God, we thank and praise you. May the power of your love rise within us. We park and pray at 1:11 and celebrate, Jesus is risen! We shall rise too! In Jesus name we pray. Amen.
Almighty God, we are parked in our homes, away from businesses, schools, churches, merchants, family, friends and foes. We are parked and now we pray.
Lord, we call on you to help us. We need your supernatural power to overcome the Coronavirus and it’s impact in our world.
Your Holy power is greater than any strength we can ever imagine.
Merciful God, increase our ability and stamina to withstand the risks of sickness and sorrow.
I lift up my eyes to the hills from where will my help come? My help comes from the Lord. Ps 121:1
Our eyes are upon you, O God. Here our prayers and have mercy on us, we pray.Almighty God, speak peace, calm the raging seas within and around us. We are parked in shelters, institutions and communities. Lord, arrest the forces of this horrific virus. Bend stubborn attitudes, disingenuous behaviors and injustices that threatens to interfere with medical care.
We are your people. We hear your call. We are parked and we pray.
Loving God, we look up to you for our help and strength. We depend on You. Holy Mother comfort and feed us. Holy Father protect us from harm. Holy One, breathe on us.
Unite us as your children.
Answer our prayers.
You have our attention.
Give us Your Grace, Peace, Healing, Love and more.
Have Mercy on us. Lord, we are parked now and we are praying now at 1:11, morning, noon and night. We cry ABBA! Hear our prayers.
In your Holy Name. Amen.
Next Prayer: The Prescription
“If my people who are called by my name humble themselves, pray, seek my face and turn…then I will hear from heaven and forgive…heal their land.” 2 Chronicles 7:14
“Peace I leave with you; my peace I give to you. I do not give to you as the world gives. Do not let your hearts be troubled, and do not let them be afraid.” John 14:27
Pray this simply powerful prayer at 1:11 pm with me in spirit.
Master Gardener, I heard some folks complain about the weeds in our gardens that ever so often wrap around our tongues, hands and feet.
Weeds interfere with our ability to be at peace and give peace.
Many struggle to release these weeds, roots of entanglement that kill the peace that you give us.
As one vice is released another one stands up against many of us.
It’s a constant battle to be free and at peace.
Master Gardener, hear our prayer.
Holy One, release all who are bound and at war.
O Merciful Peacemaker, prune our gardens.
Magnificent Lighthouse, shine your Divine Light on all who fear.
Shower your people with your Holy peace.
Thank You O God for giving us your everlasting peace.
In Your Holy Name we pray. Amen.
Remember God’s Promise
“Peace I leave with you; my peace I give to you. I do not give to you as the world gives. Do not let your hearts be troubled, and do not let them be afraid.”
To the God who does extraordinary things through ordinary people. Give us peace.
To the God whose power is bountiful. Let not a virus prevail. Spread your love, O God.
To the God who moves mountains, raised the dead to life and heals all manner of diseases, conquer our fears and all that breaks our body, mind, and spirit.
Holy Spirit, that permeates every cell within us, cleanse whatever is spoiled. Strengthen whatever is vulnerable and protect whatever is healthy.
Bless us with a common love for you and one another.
“GodBless America!” I wonder what the speaker understands about this request. Listen carefully while saying this powerful prayer request out loud. “God Bless America!”
It often appears at the end of politically charged speeches. In this context, it may sound like a command, demand, or mandate rather than a prayerful request. Practice saying, “God, bless America.”
These words spoken with humility are a supplication, petition and prayer. Try saying, God, bless… The comma offers a way for us to practice pausing, parking, and praying. We reflect on our thoughts before proceeding.
“God, Bless, “allows us time to turn our attention away from ourselves and towards Spirit. The comma positions us to PARK. Commas will enable us to stop the excess chatter in our mind and lay our thoughts in our hearts. When we park at the thrown of Grace, we connect with the Holy One. We are fully present with God.
Many of us wouldn’t begin our phone conversation by saying, “Diane, give me” or “Martha bless me!” We usually give a greeting or say a welcoming statement. “Good Morning John, how are you? I hope all is well.” We check in with one another.
Try saying, “Good Afternoon, God! Thank you for taking my call.” Then, “God, I am not satisfied with…” Or, “God, I am thankful for what you did…” Then ask, “God, Bless America.” Our prayer ends with a powerful affirmation of faith that indicates God is the source of power. Therefore, say, “I pray in Your Holy Name.” Finally, consider ending your prayer with “Amen,” or “So be it,” or “According to God’s Will.”
I believe God answers our prayers. I hope you will recognize God’s answer as a blessing. God often gives us what we need, and when we need it. Let’s Park and Pray at 1:11 pm this prayer:
Almighty God, we thank you for your omnipresence. Thank you for the many ways you share your unconditional love with us. God, keep us healthy in body, mind, and Spirit so we may live according to your will and ways. Give us hope for our future and patience to endure and overcome our troubles. Heal our brokenness. Bless us with your truth as the source for our wisdom and decisions. Forgive our sins and help us to recognize and overcome our transgressions. May we live each day to satisfy you and to receive your favor. Merciful God, we pray in our Savior’s Name. Amen.
Merciful God, Who calls us the Most Valuable Players, have mercy on the Bryant family and all who are suffering due to lives lost in the recent helicopter crash.
We remember Kobe as one who expressed love for us through his gifts to unite people. Basketball was a tool which helped him reach so many of us beyond the bleachers. He dreamed, he lived successfully, shared his goodness and he showed mercy on those in need.
Our sadness intersects with the storm in our country’s democracy. For we are reminded that one who plays the game of life fair and square wins our hearts.
When the clock runs down and the Holy One says “well done,” come home my daughters, my sons, my loved ones, “it is finished.” We are called to that eternal place where life is everlasting. Well done Kobe! You’ve finished your assignment.
“Blessed are the pure in heart, for they will see God.” Matthew 5:8
Happy New Year! Welcome to 2020! Let’s begin this year by praying this pray for one another. “May the Lord Bless You and Keep You.” Amen.
My prayer 🙏🏾 for you
Reflection
Imagine, this new year is like your empty picture frame. How will you fill it? What image will you lay between the smooth glass and the rough background that will hold and support the image of your future?
Let’s Park and Pray at 1:11 pm:
Creator God, there are times when life seems like a collage of tangled moments, tasks and frosty dreams. Thank you Almighty God for walking with us and shining your Light on our path. Praise You for we are “fearfully and wonderfully made.” Help us to avoid undoing your handiwork. O Lord “Bless us and Keep us.” In Thy Holy Name. Amen
What gifts will you give and receive this Christmas?
Consider devoting a specific time of the day to pray. I chose 1:11 pm as a time to park my mind, body and spirit at God’s weigh station for refueling. Try pressing the reset in your day and life.
Imagine giving God thanks. Prayerfully, thanking and praising God in word, song, dance and deed.
Ask God to bless someone.
Pray someone’s chains are released and they are no longer bound by sickness, debt, fear, addiction and pain.
Please pray with me
God, I give thanks with a grateful heart. Give thanks to the Holy One.
I welcome the gifts that Jesus Christ, Savior, Healer, Redeemer offers us.
I pray that our Christmas and New Year will be filled with Love, Joy, Peace & Hope.
Praise You O God for breaking the chains in our lives and setting us free indeed. Lord receive our prayers in Your Holy Name. Amen
Thank you Beneficent Church Liturgical Dancers (see video)
Led by Faith Stuckey :
Stacey Grasso, Faith Stuckey, Christopher Washington Jr., Destiny Washington, Nevaeh Washington and Aisha.
Dear God, thank You for the priceless gift of prayer. You keep giving us so much in return. Merciful God hear us as we park and pray at 1:11 pm. Bless us with a glorious Christmas and a spirit filled New Year. Inspire our spiritual siblings to park and pray at 1:11 pm. We pray for (names). In Christ’s Name. Amen
President Lincoln said, “I’ve been driven many times upon my knees.” I wonder how many of us have been driven upon our knees? If so, then what?
Let’s Park & Pray at 1:11
Merciful God, we are reminded that President Lincoln was driven upon his knees and humbly sought your guidance. Inspire those who declared an oath to serve You and country to humble themselves before your throne of grace.
Inspire our Leaders to be righteous, forgiving and just.
Receive our prayers, wherever and whatever our persuasions may be.
Standing, sitting, falling on bended knees, or lying faced down with outstretched hands, we pray our best from our hearts.
When we pray, “God bless America!” Help us to know that You bless us in unexpected ways.
Give us this day as our daily Bread and deliver us from evil. We pray in Your Holy Name. Amen
Very Truly I tell you, unless a grain of wheat falls to the ground and dies, it remains only a single seed. But if it dies it produces much fruit. Jn 12:24
Sometimes death comes in threes. First, my Auntie Dottie left us peacefully. Her prayers calmed storms, moved mountains of doubts, healed, blessed and renewed our faith. She loved and lived to please Jesus. The Holy Spirit was her constant companion.
Evangelist Dorothy Redd Faithful Servant
Second, Barbara Whatmough, my creative Prayer Partner whose art, songs and thoughts created a tapestry of divine glory to God. She embraced a peaceful sleep where “the Heavens declare the glorified God.” Psalms 18:1
Barbara Whatmough
Third, Cynthia Corry, my delightful and dependable helper suddenly went up to yonder. She often stayed behind to help pick of the pieces of our Good Friday Service, Luncheon for the Homeless and Fellowship Hour. Her smile was like a candlelight burning and leaving a trail of sweet calm.
Cynthia Corry
Let’s Park and Pray at 1:11
God of Grace and Mercy, thank you for the gift of life and the promise of eternal peace. Make your presence known to us as we mourn the loss of our loved ones and also celebrate their home-going. We park and pray at this moment in Your Holy Name. Amen
And ye therefore now have sorrow: but I will see you again, and your heart shall rejoice, and your joy no one taketh away from you. – John 16:22
Lord Have Mercy! Have Mercy, O Lord! When school bells stopped ringing When voices are silenced by gunshots When innocent lives are stolen, When there’s terror and fear. We need You O Lord! Trouble is near. Lord Have Mercy! O God, Who moves the hands of clocks, Who jumpstarts and awakens a sluggish heart, Who fills lungs with air and restores each breath. Eternal God, with us in life and in times of death. We park and pray at 1:11, for lives lost and broken families. Lord Have Mercy! Put away the weapons and remove the rage Disarm those who harm and fail to protect, Who lack humane dignity and respect, Lord, we pray for those injured, in pain and suffering.
The Rev. Dr. H. Daehler Hayes Nov. 16, 1936 – Sept. 27, 2019
Dear God,
Like a candle that burns all day and night, Rev. Dr. Daehler Hayes’ memory is a beacon of hope that shines bright.
There’s so many stories about Pastor Daehler.
He made us laugh. He gave encouragement and warnings seasoned with Grace. Thank God, for Pastor Hayes, especially for all that he offered the people of Haiti.
Daehler often gave good advice and a lasting impression.
He was God’s Servant, our Friend, a Hero, Leader, Pastor, Shining Star and most of all a Blessing.
Merciful God, comfort his family, and all who grieve.
Thank you Almighty God for the promise of eternal peace.
In our Savior’s Name. Amen
An Interfaith Service of
Remembrance and Thanksgiving October 26, 2019 at 11:00 am
Central Congregational Church UCC
O God, who will take his place? Who will take the place of one who was wrapped in courage?
Courage cannot be bought or sold
Outgoing friendly, socially confident
Understands issues and remedies
Reliable well grounded, dependable
Attitude feelings, moods are stable
Grateful family legacy, service, living
Empathetic to grassroots’ needs
Let us continue to park and pray.
Dear God, we park and pray giving thanks for Representative Elijah Cummings, his life, his gifts and all that he shared with so many of us. He showed himself as a man with a tremendous amount of courage despite having many hardships and obstacles. He will be sadly missed.
O God, who will take his place?
Send forth one who is willing to give time, talents and treasures.
One willing to work hard for You and in Your name.
One who loves to do justice, loves mercy and who loves to walk humbly with You, Almighty God.
We give thanks. We receive Your grace and mercy knowing Elijah’s work is done. His rest and eternal peace has begun. In Your Holy Name. Amen
“I think now we have to pray for his health,” Ms. Pelosi told reporters afterward. “This was a very serious meltdown on the part of the president.” She said Mr. Trump seemed “very shaken up” by the cascade of criticism.
Mr. Trump said it was the other way around. “Nancy Pelosi needs help fast!” he wrote on Twitter. “She had a total meltdown in the White House today. It was very sad to watch. Pray for her, she is a very sick person!”
(The N.Y. Times, 10/16/19)
Let Us Park and Pray at 1:11
Almighty God, America’s leaders are publicly asking us to pray for their adversary. It seems odd given their tense relationship.
A Call to Pray is an amazing request from our leaders. Surely, God, You inspired them. You’re up to something! It’s always good!
Loving God, we thank you for those leaders who are willing to receive the love, hope, peace and renewal that You offer.
Thank You for Leaders who are faithful and forgiving. Leaders who exercise humility, possess integrity, honor, civility and love for You, our country and humanity.
Merciful God we pray for healing for those who struggle with their ethical, moral, impulsive decisions and behaviors.
We pray for our leaders whose decisions seriously impact lives in detrimental ways.
We pray for those who have meltdowns and who refuse to enter into the places where God may guide them.
Lord, God we pray for our country’s leaders, especially those who occupy the highest offices in our nation. Help them to be truthful and transparent.
Great God, help us make America great for all people. May all recognize Your undeniable power to answer all prayers as we pray:
Our Father who art in heaven. Hallow be Your name. Your kingdom come. Your will be done on earth as it is in heaven. Give us this day our daily bread. Forgive us our sins as we forgive those who sinned against us. Lead us not into temptation. Deliver us from evil. For thine is the kingdom, the power and the glory forever. Amen
What if you’re on your way to an unfamiliar destination. Maybe you’re fearful about getting lost, being alone and abandoned.
Do you feel like you are under watchful eyes?
The Psalmist reminds us:
“The Lord will watch over your coming and going both now and forevermore.” Psalms 121:8
Prayer is a way to acknowledge and accept the Lord’s help.
There are many ways to Park and Pray. You may find yourself parked or sitting on a bench at a bus stop. Maybe you’re willing to stop wherever you may be at 1:11 pm.
At the bus stop you see bystanders, strangers and an onslaught of traffic racing around a rotary. You hear a melody of horns, tires screeching, babies crying and a host of multilingual conversations. You are distracted and confused by the commotion. Your peace of mind diminishes.
Yet, Spirit calls you to mindfully withdraw from the crowds and enter into a sacred space where God waits for you.
You lift up your eyes to the hills and you ask, “Where will my help come?” You are reminded that your help comes from the Lord. (Ps121:1)
So, you to embrace the Light and you feel the presence of the Divine. It’s as if a breeze gently touches and guides you. Feel the raindrops extinguish your doubts and shower you with calmness.
You’re on your way and you’re not alone.
“The Lord will watch over your coming and going both now and forevermore.” Psalms 121:8
Let’s Park and Pray
Almighty God, thank you for waiting and watching over me.
Thank you for awakening me to your presence and for walking with me.
Forgive me for doubting your presence and your promises to love me and never leave me.
Lord, strengthen my faith and renew my hope. Help me to discern your voice, your messages and your will.
Holy Spirit inspire me with passion and patience to prayerfully watch, wait and walk with You always.
Holy one, may I always know your presence, especially when I am lost, feeling hopeless and abandoned at the crowded bus stops in our lives.
Receive my prayer in the powerful name of my Savior. Amen.
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Friends, no matter where you are along life’s journey join us in spirit. Park and Pray at 1:11 pm with us.
Check the menu tab for your name on the prayer list and for additional prayers.
As we prepare for a new school year, may it be a fresh start for all.
We give you thanks for those who have the gifts to teach, preach, reach out, encourage and grow leaders.
We pray for all children, students, teachers, administrators and all who promote and support the learning experience. Keep us safe and bless us with your Peace daily.
We praise you Almighty God, for in the midst of fear and brokenness there is the Light of your presence shining on and through us.
Give us eyes to see your work, ears to hear your still speaking voice, hands and feet to spread your Love, Joy and Peace.
Give us each day our daily bread as a fresh start and renewed strength for our journey.
Receive our prayers O God in our Savior’s name. Amen 🙏🏾.
Drawing by Adelya who hears through her eyes, hands and heart.
O God, I hear you speak through the message in 1 Thessalonians 5:12-24.
You call us to do better and to be better people. To unite in Spirit and to be mindful of your holy presence. Boldly, we lift our eyes to the hills, the heavens, and beyond. Our help comes from you, O God. O God Help Us! Recognize those who work hard on our behalf. Those who encourage and guide us to do your will. May we appreciate and share our loving affection for them. O God Help Us! Get along with one another. Inspire us to do our part to help our neighbors in need. O God Help Us! Be patient with each person, attentive to individual needs, and to be careful that we don’t snap at each other. Help us to look for the best in each other, and do our best to bring it out. O God Help Us! Pray without ceasing; giving thanks to You, O God in times of troubles and blessings. O God Help Us! To embrace your Spirit, Words and Love. To go where You lead us and spread your Peace. O God, the Almighty One who makes us holy and whole, unite us in body, mind, spirit and soul. In Christ’s Name. Amen
I struggled with naming the title of this Reflection but writing the Prayer was a breeze.
Remember the movie, “Guess Whose Coming to Dinner?”
Do you remember the guest, the handsome Sydney Poitier, a poised, smooth, and debonair Black man who won the hearts of many?
Yes, but, it didn’t happen without a struggle.
Someone boldly invited him to dinner. Eventually others welcomed him.
He wasn’t the boogeyman or the big bad wolf who planned to “huff and puff and blow your house down.”
The guest was already equipped to be a friend, a neighbor, a worker and lover. The folks around the dinner table had to change their perceptions and ways.
Today, we are faced with unexpected guests.
We are challenged to reach across our tables and invite an immigrant father, mother, child and family to dinner. Pray with them and for them.
We are called to do our best.
Trust God will do the rest.
Let us Park and Pray at 1:11 pm
Almighty God we look to You for guidance as we struggle with a humanitarian crises involving guests who are seeking a refuge from life threatening situations.
We are grounded by Your Spirit, Word and Love. Bless us with the means and ways to honor justice and welcome our guests to a bountiful table.
Inspire us to welcome an asylum seeking immigrant family. Equip us with the tools to address their most urgent needs. Bless them with the righteous desires of their hearts.
Gracious and Merciful God we thank you for making room for us at your table. We are grateful to be Your guests and servants. Feed all who hunger and thirst for righteousness.
O Holy One feed us until we want no more. Until we can say and believe that, ” The Lord is my Shepherd I shall not want.”
It’s 1:11 pm 🛑.
Image and embedded 
Almighty God, we are parked in our homes, away from businesses, schools, churches, merchants, family, friends and foes. We are parked and now we pray.
Merciful God, increase our ability and stamina to withstand the risks of sickness and sorrow.
Almighty God, speak peace, calm the raging seas within and around us. We are parked in shelters, institutions and communities. 
Lord, arrest the forces of this horrific virus. Bend stubborn attitudes, disingenuous behaviors and injustices that threatens to interfere with medical care. 
Holy One, breathe on us. 
Let not this day and these moment’s be John’s last,
