A Prayer for our Congresswomen

Posted on by Rev. Cleo Graham


Dear God,
Today, on this momentous day in our country’s congressional history, I am reminded of Mary, Holy Mother of Jesus, Son of God whose time and place was a fulfillment of prophecy. She received God’s call and accepted her assignment to give birth to the Divine. She was fearless, compassionate, patient, enduring, introspective and confident. Her works continue to inspire and unite people throughout the world.
Today, as each congresswoman takes her rightful place in leading our nation I pray she will recognize the voice of the Divine and use divine wisdom in her decisions. I pray she is steadfast and enduring, united and uniting in the causes that will strengthen our nation. I pray God’s Grace in her life, healthy stamina and restful sleep. May God’s Light shine on and in her. May God bless her to be a beacon of hope, peace, love and a path for freedom, justice and equality for all. Many will park and pray at 1:11 pm for her and for all who serve our nation. In Our Savior’s Name. Amen.

About Photo

https://www.readingthepictures.org/2013/01/the-new-congress-women-and-a-cultural-change-that-profound/

A New Year Prayer

Posted on by Rev. Cleo Graham

I am convinced there is a God somewhere, everywhere and always present.
Prayer for the New Year 2019

Gracious God, as I look upon 2018, I’m thankful for your spiritual hand that guided me to and fro. You never you let go of me. There were times when I was troubled by some of the things I heard and saw in the world you created. I was saddened by those who passed and yet, your presence and promises gave me hope. Some of my choices stole my joy and made me weary. There were times when I couldn’t complete what you inspired me to do in 2018.
O God, I parked and prayed at 1:11 pm and throughout the day. You reminded me to “Be Still and know that You are God.”
Almighty God, thank you for carrying me, holding and comforting me while I regained my strength. Thank you for your Peace as I remember those who have passed. Thank you for your Grace, your Gift of unmerited favor. Without question, you Almighty God are life and love in its fullest and untampered form.
Help me to see your Light through the darkest clouds, beyond the walls of injustice and over the tattered bridges, built to join all God’s children as one body. Help me to make better choices, to be a better steward of time and resources that you have graciously given me. At the end of each day, lead me to restful sleep. For this past year, filled with tests, trials, and triumphs I thank you. For blessings in the new year full of mysteries and promises, I thank you. For life, love, and presence, I thank you. In Christ’s name, I pray. Amen.

Christmas Blessings

Posted on by Rev. Cleo Graham

http://bible.com/97/luk.2.13-14.msg

A Prayer for a Blessed Christmas
Almighty God, with a reverent heart, we give thanks, honor and praise to you for your great love in the gift of your Son. We pray for “A Blessed Christmas and New Year!” Gracious God with a grateful heart we receive your gift and share this gift of love. Help us to do your will, follow in your ways remembering your call to make, “Peace on earth, good will toward all.”

In Your Holy Name I pray. Amen.

Advent at Trinity Theatre

Posted on by Rev. Cleo Graham

WAITING back stage. WATCHING televised show. SINGING on stage at Trinity Repertory Theatre. ADVENT! We Wait, Watch, and Share the story. He’s coming! The CHRIST CHILD comes again. He awakens our spirit! O Come, O Come Emmanuel, God with us.

When you sing you pray twice!

Let us sing and Park and Pray at 1:11

O come, O come, Emmanuel

And ransom captive Israel

That mourns in lonely exile here

Until the Son of God appear

Rejoice, rejoice, Emmanuel

Shall come to thee, O Israel

 

O come, Thou Rod of Jesse, free

Thine own from Satan’s tyranny

From depths of Hell Thy people save

And give them victory o’er the grave

Rejoice, rejoice, Emmanuel

Shall come to thee, o Israel

 

O come, Thou Day-Spring

Come and cheer

Our spirits by Thine advent here

Disperse the gloomy clouds of night

And death’s dark shadows put to flight

Rejoice, rejoice, Emmanuel

Shall come to thee, o Israel.

Paul Lawrence Dunbar

Posted on by Rev. Cleo Graham

“Sometimes the sun, unkindly hot, My garden makes a desert spot, Sometimes a blight upon the tree Takes all my fruit away from me; And then with throes of bitter pain Rebellious passions rise and swell; And so I sing and all is well.” — Paul Laurence Dunbar.L

Almighty God,

Thank you for coming when my heart aches from my swelling desires, my heart feels pressed, distressed, burdened by inflated needs. But God, Thank you for answering prayers and blessing me. I will praise you in song, I will thank you in deed, and I will praise and thank you no matter what I need.

A Choir of Candlelights

Posted on by Rev. Cleo Graham

Wait! What do you see? A Star? Red, white, blue and green? A wooden Cross? A chandelier? Candlelights, sunlight and our reflections? A Choir of witnesses?

Yesterday, we prayed as we lit a candle for each state that experienced incidents of mass gun violence in 2018. We prayed for our nation and world.

Did you know that as of August 2018 there were 268 incidents of mass gun violence in the USA? https://www.gunviolencearchive.org/charts-and-maps

Imagine, our nation held numerous Prayer Vigils and devoted more than 275 days praying for peace, comfort and an end to Gun Violence. God hears our prayers. God is still speaking. Are we still listening?

Candlelights eventually fade yet, a prayer is like an endless flame. We are called to pray without ceasing.

What if we lit a candle daily?

Today is Advent, a time to wait, watch,

When you Park, and Pray at 1:11 pm try lighting a candle.

Light a candle, watch it, hold it and imagine you’re holding a prayer. Ask God to “give you this day your daily bread” in other words fulfill your needs.

Seek the Great Light of God and allow that light to enter those dark places in your life and the lives of others.

A Prayer at 1:11 pm

God of life, Light of the world,

God of Peace and Protection.

Your presence is profound,

Your work is beyond our imagination,

You do impossible things,

Your joy is our strength,

You fill us with Your grace,

You give us ways to conquer our fears,

You heal our brokenness.

You lead us out of our wilderness.

Help us to be a candlelight in the midst of darkness.

Help us to wait, watch and listen for you,

As we listen for your guidance.

Teach us to trust and obey

Guide our feet, O Lord,

Restrain the hands that harm us,

Arrest the wicked hearted,

Strengthen the weary ones, O God.

Transform cruel and misguided minds.

May Your light burn bright in our lives.

In Your Holy Name. Amen

Thanksgiving Meal Blessings

Posted on by Rev. Cleo Graham

Dear Prayer Partners,

I am sharing these Thanksgiving “blessings, prayers, and invocations from diverse traditions, for meal times, gatherings, and grateful living” which I found on Gratefulness.org
— Read on gratefulness.org/resource/thanksgiving-meal-gratitude-blessings/

Praying your Thanksgiving is a time of gratefulness and abundant blessings.

Agape,

http://www.parkandprayat111.com

The Sower and the Planter

Posted on by Rev. Cleo Graham

God, we thank you for Light, water, seeds and a harvest of earthly blessings. We thank you for challenging us to trust you as we experience growing pains. We thank you for your Word and your promises. Help us to be steadfast as good stewards caring for your creation. Help us to be strong and wise, patient and faithful as your servants who trust you to fulfill your plan for us. God of justice, love and mercy, may we walk humbly with you today and always. In your Holy Name, Amen.

Jesus’ Prayer for Protection

Posted on by Rev. Cleo Graham

“And now I (Jesus) am no longer in the world, but they are in the world, and I am coming to you. Holy Father, protect them in your name that you have given me, so that they may be one, as we are one. While I was with them, I protected them in your name that you have given me. I guarded them, and not one of them was lost except the one destined to be lost, so that the scripture might be fulfilled. But now I am coming to you, and I speak these things in the world so that they may have my joy made complete in themselves. I have given them your word, and the world has hated them because they do not belong to the world, just as I do not belong to the world. I am not asking you to take them out of the world, but I ask you to protect them from the evil one.” John 17:11-15 (Scroll down to continue)

Norman Rockwell

Let’s Park and Pray at 1:11 daily for protection, peace and justice for all.

“God, deliver us from evil.”

We remember with heartfelt agony those who perished in the midst of acts of hatred, bigotry and disregard for life.

“God, deliver us from evil.”

We remember with sadness the fatal shooting of two unarmed Black patrons in a Kentucky grocery market.

“God, deliver us from evil.”

We remember with deep concern for our former Presidents, leaders and public officials whose lives were threatened with hateful rhetoric and makeshift bombs.

“God, deliver us from evil.”

We remember with grief the 11 worshippers who were gunned down and 6 injured at the Tree of Life Synagogue in Pittsburgh Pennsylvania.

“God, deliver us from evil”

We remember sinners and saints who touched our lives.

God, protect us from hostile acts and disregard for life.

“God, deliver us from evil.”

We remember acts of loving kindness.

We remember God, who calls us to love one another.

God, Love Divine, who welcomes our expressions of love.

We seek the Most High, the all Wise, Protector and Healer.

We vote, speak and stand in solidarity with our brothers and sisters.

We park and pray at 1:11 pm for all our neighbors.

We cry out and we rejoice in the Lord of Life!

God, whose presence anoints and lifts our spirit.

Merciful God, who delivers us from evil.

“For thine is the kingdom power and glory for ever.” Amen

Overcoming Evil

Posted on by Rev. Cleo Graham

I stepped on a thorn and I screamed, “ouch!” Then, I said, “I hate you!”

I crushed beautiful flowers and I said nothing. Yet, some of us have reacted the

same way in our relationships.

A bruised word, an evil thought, evil ways and deeds.

Sometimes it seems hard to overcome evil. But, we can overcome evil.

Evil is unlike the sweet aroma emanating from these beautiful flowers.

Evil stinks!

Sometimes it’s hidden but it never goes undetected.

It seems to be everywhere ! But, it is not.

There is a remedy.

Let’s seek Divine wisdom:

Almighty, Merciful and Wise Spirit, thank you for the gift of your presence.

Lately, evil seems so pervasive in our society.

It’s heartbreaking to mourn the loss of innocent lives who are hated for the image you created them.

It’s hard to understand massacres like the Tree of Life Synagogue and other places of worship where people gather to pray.

It seems difficult to overcome evil.

Yet, many of us are inspired by your word and your ways. You give us guidance and solace in the midst of our pain.

When we pray the Lord’s Prayer, we ask you for daily bread, physical and spiritual food to fulfill our needs. We ask you to “Forgive us our trespasses (sins).” We pray, “Deliver us from evil.”

You remind us and equip us to “do justice, love mercy and walk humbly with our God.” Micah 6:8

“Do not be overcome by evil, but overcome evil with good.” Romans 12:12

We pray for the victims. We seek ways to comfort our wounds.

Help us pray for the thorns in our lives?

Help us pray for those who crush flowers?

We are called,

To do good. Simply do good.

Help us Almighty One

To be good. To be profoundly good.

Love Supreme, you are good! All the time!

Help us to answer your call.

We prayer in our Savior’s name. Amen.

God Help Us

Posted on by Rev. Cleo Graham

Let us Park and Pray at 1:11 pm daily

“God of all wholeness and peace, our world yearns for your presence.  We call out to you day after day, wondering why we do not see you and why we feel so abandoned.  And yet, time and time again, you remind us that we only need to look around us to find you.  Help us to look with clarity and compassion into the faces of your children, no matter how unimportant they might seem, so that we might find you there.

Help us to see you in the faces of those who mourn.  As news breaks of the deaths of seven children and many others suffering from a virus outbreak at a health center in New Jersey, United States, remind us of the deep pain of those around the world who have experienced the loss of a child.  Open our ears to listen and open our arms to comfort.

Help us to see you in the faces of those who suffer.  As we hear about inhumane conditions in the prisons of Madagascar and the forced “re-education” of Uighur Muslims in China, fill us with a thirst for justice for all people who are abused due to poverty, gender identity, and all other vulnerabilities.

Help us to see you in the faces of those who are being affected by disasters.  As a major hurricane makes landfall in Mexico keep survivors of all disasters, both natural and human-made, safe from harm, and help us to keep them in our hearts.

Help us to see you in the faces of those we consider our enemies.  As the President of the United States threatens to withdraw aid from countries that allow refugees and asylum seekers to travel across their borders toward the United States, remind us of the humanity of all people, regardless of their skin color, language, and country of origin.  Remind us that everyone, from the most powerful leader of a nation to the most vulnerable and impoverished of refugees, is a beloved child of God.

Help us to see you in the faces of all who are grief stricken, discouraged and ambivalent by the recent Pittsburgh Synagogue Massacre, where hatred dominated. You remind us we are all made in the image of God.  Remind us of our connection to all of your children as members of your universal family.  Fill us with your love and compassion, so that we might act as your hands, feet, and voices in the world.  Make your presence known and felt in all places, so that your kingdom might grow to the ends of the earth.”

Amen.

“World In Prayer” Adapted

http://worldinprayer.org/

Where Are You at 1:11?

Posted on by Rev. Cleo Graham

It was 1:11pm when Rev. Dr. Kathy Henry prayed a blessing for our meal at my Sacred Heart Academy High School Reunion. It was amazing, unplanned and timely.

I have been indoors, outdoors, in stores, restaurants, in the pool, and even overseas in a ship.

I’ve been blessed to be with some of you in body and spirit at 1:11 pm. Thank you for being a prayer partner.

The other day, Earnest Cox, a spiritually gifted musician, educator, administrator and I prayed at 1:11 pm.

Sometimes, I happened to pray at incredible places such as a 111 address.

One day, I was in a hurry to find a parking space on a crowded street. I pulled into the last space. An amazing thing happened.

Friends! I “Parked and Prayed at 1:11pm.” and I was behind a 111 car! As I caught my breath, I expressed my thanks for signs of God’s presence and nudges.

Please, Pray with me.

Dear Lord, thank you! Your Gracious Loving Spirit, watches over our going out, our coming, our joys, frustrations, sorrows and victories. Bless our intentions and hear our prayers when we Park and Pray at 1:11 pm, whenever and wherever we pray. In our Savior’s name. Amen

A Prayer Calendar

Posted on by Rev. Cleo Graham

Are you tongue tied or uncertain about what or how to pray. Try this Prayer prompt calendar. There’s a difference Prayer theme each day. Remember, Prayer is about your heart, your intentions and your desire to have a relationship with Spirit.

Prayer is about PEACE

Presence with God

Entering God’s presence

Asking, Answering and Allowing God

Calling, Connecting & Communicating God

Expecting God

Seek God’s Guidance so you may.

Let us pray.

God help me to

“Be joyful in hope, patient in affliction, faithful in prayer.” Romans 12:12 *

In my Savior’s Name. Amen

On Her Knees

Posted on by Rev. Cleo Graham

img_0914Recently, I was inspired with hope by what I saw and experienced. I was the guest pastor at the St. Peter’s Church (Iglesia de San Pedro) in Samana, Dominican Republic, the historical church home for the descendants of enslaved and free African-Americans who left the United States on or after 1824. My sermon, based on the Gospel of Matthew chapter 5 verses 14-16 focused on this theme, “You are the light of the world!” (“Eres La Luz Del Mundo!”), a powerful message.

When I arrived early at the church before worship something caught my attention. It was before people arrived and drenched by the torrential rain. I paused at the entrance of the church. My eyes were immediately drawn to a woman dressed in white and situated on her knees, praying, as if she was begging. I saw her forehead firmly pressed against one of the steps leading to the altar. She laid before the cross as a beacon of light illuminating rays of hope, mercy, justice, compassion and more. I imagined one beam of light piercing through doors. Doors that separate children from their parents. Closed doors that separate us from discovering truth and bearing witness. Tsunamis, devastation, and other challenges. I imagined she carried a heavy load, a burdensome bushel filled with painful memories. She could not bear to stand with such a weight of injustices, a culmination of pain and insurmountable suffering. The light within her shined through her and called me and others to pause as we entered the sanctuary. She lifted her head and her knees. Her face shined like a newly minted coin. Light shined in her face and faces throughout the church beamed with expectations. The Glory of God shined affirming the presence of the Holy One, Source of Light.

Let us Pray Merciful God, Thank you that we can bring our pain, sorrow, doubts, fears, frustrations, disgrace, joys and triumphs to you. We leave our concerns on your thrown of grace. We look to you Almighty and Powerful God to empower us with wisdom and might to overcome the storms in our lives. We pray knowing that your blessed assurance gives us hope and renews our strength. Your loving kindness equips us to be your hands, heart and feet throughout this world. Shine your Light on us and in us so we may be a light in the spiritually dark places in our world. Bless us with your Light as we do the challenging work you have called us to do. We pray on bended knees, with outstretched hands, standing, sitting or simply in the stillness of our being. Loving God, hear our prayers. In our Savior’s Name. Amen.

Power in Peace

Posted on by Rev. Cleo Graham

Park and Pray at 1:11 pm

“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 ‭‬‬

Almighty God, as each day begins, help me to be aware that there is power in the peace that you give me. Help me to hold onto this power and peace. Merciful God, help me to resist any temptation, apathy or tendency, that may cause me to relinquish it. O God, I call you at 1:11 pm and I prayerfully look to you to renew my power, refresh, restore and maintain my peace and my neighbor’s peace. At the end of the day, may I rest and sleep in peace and gratitude for the gift of power and contentment in Your Holy presence. In my Savior’s name. Amen.

Search Me,

Posted on by Rev. Cleo Graham

“Search me, God, and know my heart; test me and know my anxious thoughts. See if there is any offensive way in me, and lead me in the way everlasting.”
Psalm 139:23-24 NIV

LET’S PARK AND PRAY AT 1:11 pm

Search me, O God – deep within,

Know me – my heart, mind and soul,

Test me – examine me,

Know me – know my anxious thoughts,

See me – see my ways,

Lead me – Your way.

Receive me – my heart, my prayer,

and the prayers of those in need.

Praying in the Savior’s name. Amen

Aretha, Beauty, Virtuous & Excellent

Posted on by Rev. Cleo Graham

Dear God, thank you for blessing us with Aretha Franklin. Her gifted voice and powerful spirit continue to edify your name. Your teachings about love, respect, righteousness and more are woven in her songs. Her music represents a tapestry of life. Holy One, thank you for inspiring and equipping Aretha with a powerful voice, an instrument of love, peace, and healing. There’s no sitting still when Aretha, the Queen of Soul’s voice is heard. Her spirit filled voice propels us to rise, hold our heads high, reach beyond the sky. We remember her manner of praise in her life and song as an extravagant and awesome gift!

Thank you Almighty God for Aretha, who experienced your holy presence early and throughout her life. Her music reflected the times in which we live. Times when we shed tears and laughed with her! Aretha, the Queen of Soul, often grounded us in your Supreme Love, a Divine Love. Aretha’s life and her songs are also reflections of our joys and sorrows. Queen Aretha reminded us in her life and in her passing that still waters run deep. In the midst of troubled waters, there is hope. You are One Lord of all who is the Bridge, the Way Maker, the everlasting Savior who gives us Life, Breath, Pulse, and Passion. Aretha means Beauty; Virtuous; and Excellent! She lived her life as the Queen of Soul, who ministered to many souls. Aretha, the Queen of Heart whose music still tugs on our heartstrings. Aretha, gone but never forgotten.
Eternal God, receive her into your everlasting peace. In our Savior’s name. Amen.

image_557509650880833

Say a Little Prayer

Posted on by Rev. Cleo Graham

I Say A Little Prayer

During the 1980’s I had the esteemed privilege to care for former Prisoners Of War or POWs while employed as a Nurse Practitioner at the VA Medical Center. I admired those POWs who represented less than 10 percent of my panel of 900 veterans. During my encounters with them I saw evidence of their bravery, humility, tolerance and gratitude. I listened as they shared their war stories. I examined their battle scars and assessed their intrinsic vulnerabilities. I found in them the highest form of resilience and perseverance. As we honor Senator John McCain, a former POW, whose life, sacrifices, contributions and legacy remind me of the former POWs in my care. McCain approached his terminal illness and poor prognosis like his military battles. Love for his family, friends, country and service dictated the course of his life. Like the former POWs in my care, John McCain charged into the battlefield of life each day to fulfill a greater mission, chart a more stable course, defend our freedoms and renew our hopes. He will be missed.

Although we are still recovering from the loss of Aretha Franklin, Queen of Soul, a mighty pillar, powerful spirit and a compelling witness! I imagine her greeting John with an inspirational song of praise and prayer profound enough to rock the heavens. Imagine hearing them sing this prayer. Imagine singing it with them in spirit.

“The moment I wake up. Before I put on my makeup I say a little prayer for you.”.

Imagine singing this prayer and praying for one another.

“I Say A Little Prayer”
The moment I wake up
Before I put on my makeup
I say a little prayer for you
While combing my hair now
And wondering what dress to wear now
I say a little prayer for you

Forever and ever, you’ll stay in my heart
And I will love you
Forever and ever, we never will part
Oh, how I love you
Together, forever, that’s how it must be
To live without you
Would only mean heartbreak for me

I run for the bus, dear
While riding I think of us, dear
I say a little prayer for you
At work I just take time
And all through my coffee break time
I say a little prayer for you

Writer(s): BACHARACH BURT F, DAVID HAL

Is It You O God?

Posted on by Rev. Cleo Graham

God, it’s me, I need you. Please meet me. I’ll show up at 1:11 pm. by the tree.

A Prayer at 1:11 pm

In the morning when I rise I hear the birds sing, I see sunshine. I feel the dawn of a new day. Is it you O God?

Show your presence in the midst of today’s news. Gracious God where are you when leaders attempt to demean and demoralize your people?

Merciful God make your presence known when displaced children cry for their mother whose trauma is disorienting and unbearable. Almighty God show up in the bureaucratic swamp and rescue those who live in violent prone areas. Set the captives free, release the victims of mass incarceration.

Holy One, grant justice and free the spirit of natives and slave descendants who are still bound to a master. Creator God release new seeds, rain down cleansing water and a fresh anointing of your oil and daily bread. Fill us with your presence in every step, every space, every breath and every heart beat. Loving God, give us a new song that leaves a lasting impression.

May we be like trees, they stand firm against the winds and trying times. O God, settle us down so we may experience your loving presence. Lord hear our prayers.

We Glorify you and we pray without ceasing in our Savior’s Name. Amen

Are You Hot & Thirsty?

Posted on by Rev. Cleo Graham

Lately, it has been so hot! Scorching temperatures, hot topics, heated conversations and shifting emotions. We look for relief in cool places. Still, we are hot and thirsty. We call on our Creator to fix it! Oh Lord, soothe our bodies and quench our thirst.

Let’s Park and Pray at 1:11 pm this pray by the Psalmist

“You, God, are my God, earnestly I seek you; I thirst for you, my whole being longs for you, in a dry and parched land where there is no water. I have seen you in the sanctuary and beheld your power and your glory. Because your love is better than life, my lips will glorify you. I will praise you as long as I live, and in your name I will lift up my hands. I will be fully satisfied as with the richest of foods; with singing lips my mouth will praise you. On my bed I remember you; I think of you through the watches of the night. Because you are my help, I sing in the shadow of your wings. I cling to you; your right hand upholds me. Those who want to kill me will be destroyed; they will go down to the depths of the earth. They will be given over to the sword and become food for jackals. But the king will rejoice in God; all who swear by God will glory in him, while the mouths of liars will be silenced.” Psalm‬ ‭63:1-11‬ ‭NIV‬‬

http://bible.com/111/psa.63.1-11.niv

Prayer for the elections in Zimbabwe, July 30, 2018 | Gifts in Open Hands

Posted on by Rev. Cleo Graham

There is a week until the elections in Zimbabwe. Please pray for this so beautiful, so battered country. The world rejoiced with citizens dancing in the street in Harare last November when Mugabe left office. His near-endless violent incumbency in office did little to change the repressive white-minority-led leadership that preceded it. God’s people live…
— Read on giftsinopenhands.wordpress.com/2018/07/23/prayer-for-the-elections-in-zimbabwe-july-30-2018/

Thank you Maren Tirabassi for this post

It’s 1:11 p.m! Where Are You?

Posted on by Rev. Cleo Graham

It’s 1:11 p.m! Where are you praying?

It was a sunny day when I parked under this tree to pray at 1:11 p.m. Here’s what happened.

After praying I looked down and the ground was covered with blackberries!

I looked up at the trees above my head and I snatched a handful of this sweet fruit.

I looked up at the trees above my head and I snatched a handful of this sweet fruit.

I stayed under the covering of these beautiful trees and I enjoyed these gifts.

I embraced the sunlight that pierced through the branches. I stayed and prayed.

Lord, I give thanks with a grateful heart for our time together. Thank you for your grace. Your blessings are unconditional and your love is boundless. Your Fruits of the Spirit nourishes the body, mind and spirit. Lord help your spiritually malnourished children receive you and use your food according to your will. Bless all with a constant flow of compassion for all your children. May serving you with passion be our first and last meal of each day.

Parking and Praying at 1:11 p.m. in our Savior’s name. Amen

Calling All People

Posted on by Rev. Cleo Graham

This Norman Rockwell painting reminds me of a portrait of humanity and what we are called to be. Then, I watched one ant carry a bread crumb to a community of ants. I wonder what inspired this creature to share with others. I understand we are so much higher than the creatures we crush daily. But, lately I’m concerned about why some of us do not feel connected with those who are hungry, thirsty, desperate and whose lives are threatened. We are called to “do unto others as you would have them do unto you.”

Let us Park and Pray at 1:11 pm

God you call us, your children to be righteous, kind and loving. Yet, some of us behave like you don’t exist or your Word doesn’t matter. God, help us to do better and be better people. There is an urgent need in our country and world to protect and support the most vulnerable among us, our children. Please God, please help us to help the migrant children who showed up at our borders.

A Prayer for TA1

Posted on by Rev. Cleo Graham

A Prayer For Together as One

Gracious God,

Draw near to those who are burdened and oppressed, promising that you hear their cries and you see their troubles.

Draw near to those who are divided and undecided, promising you hear their confusion and you see their frustration.

Draw near to your Church that we may together unite as One courageous people, promising to be the beloved community and Children of God.

This we pray in the name of the Triune God.

Amen.

Pastor Cleo

http://www.Parkandprayat111.com

I AM NOT CRAZY!

Posted on by Rev. Cleo Graham

Some days when I’m super busy and alone I might express my thoughts out loud. Yes, I’m alone and I’m talking out loud. Does that mean I’m crazy? Am I crazy if I repeat out loud this excerpt of the MESSAGE version of Isaiah 43:1-4?

I’m not crazy! I’m not talking out loud to myself. I believe our ever present God never leaves us. So we are never alone even if we feel isolated. We are not talking solely to ourselves. God is here.

Sometimes, after parking and praying at 1:11 pm I look around me. I may see the numbers 111 on a vehicle, house, placard, or image. Many of you and I happen to be together at 1:11 pm. It’s been an awesome gift to Pray with you at 1:11 pm. I feel it’s an affirmation of God’s presence. God is truly present and God hears our prayers.

Let’s Park and Pray at 1:11pm

Almighty and Everlasting God, I’m crazy about you. God, I thank you for your presence in our lives. Gracious God, you are the gift that keeps giving and loving us. Help us to find you in the congested and noisy places in our world that often demand our attention. Help us to recognize you in the places and spaces in our daily walk with you. Merciful God, give us eyes to see your works, ears to hear your voice, and a heart to feel your presence. Bless us with a mind to discern your will, hands, feet and passion to do your work. Lord, anoint us with faith and power to withstand the powers of darkness. Be a Light unto our path so we may walk in your righteous ways.
In your Holy Name we pray. Amen

God’s Presence, Power & Purpose

Posted on by Rev. Cleo Graham

It’s amazing what we miss when we fail to simply park and pray at 1:11pm.

There are signs of God’s Divine presence, power and purpose all around us. God’s creation is filled with signs that we can see, feel, touch and hear. God speaks to us in many ways. God wants to be in our lives.

Sometimes I barely say a spoken word when I pray. When I park and pray at 1:11pm outdoors, I listen to the sounds around me. I am reminded of this great hymn “How Great Thou Art!” It becomes a chant in response to burdens I’m carrying. “How Great Thou Art!”

In the midst of your inner challenges try chanting “How Great Thou Art!” Look around you and imagine the branches of the trees clapping. Listen to the birds sing and the sounds of squirrels running across the grass. Feel each mighty breeze brush against your back as if you grow wings. There’s a power that stirs within us as and offers a blessed assurance that God knows our joys and our tribulations.

For many years, I searched for God’s presence and I wanted to strengthen my relation with God. This is what I discovered. First, believe God is present. Second, believe God can and will fulfill your needs. Third, believe in the power of prayer and then, Pray. My life changed as I became aware of God’s presence.

Let us pray.

Almighty God you make your presence known day and night. You are the Light that pierced through dark clouds, trees and landscapes. You meet us at the crossroads of our lives. You call us to “Be still and know that I Am God.” You remind us to call on You and ask for “Amazing Grace.”

Thank you Lord. Thank you for being patient with us. Thank you for picking us up when we fall down. Thank you for holding our hands and at times carrying us when our burdens weigh us down.

Have mercy O God! Lord forgive us. God, renew, strengthen, guide and bless us. Bless our neighbors near and far. Shine your light on us and in us. Give us your everlasting peace.

God teach us to pray.

Amen (Let It Be).

Where’s the Glory?

Posted on by Rev. Cleo Graham

For I reckon that the sufferings of this present time are not worthy to be compared with the glory which shall be revealed in us. ROM 8:18 KJV

Is our suffering worthy of or equal to the glory which will be revealed in us?

It seems as though when we are tied up with our burdens, worries, and pains, a stuffiness and a stiffness sets within us that prevents us from achieving revelation of glory.

When we focus entirely on our suffering we strengthen our appetite for worry.

Focusing on our suffering clouds our way going forward.

When we worry we feed our suffering. Moving from worry to glory requires us to release our burdens to God.

Glory is revealed when space is opened within our heart and mind to receive it.

Let Us Park and Pray

Holy One, God of all righteousness and glory. Release in us your glory. Move in us the glory of your presence. Live in us Oh God. Reveal your glory now and evermore.

Help us oh God to recognize and receive your grace and mercy. Merciful God, release our burdens and help us overcome our suffering. Fulfill our desire for peace in the valley, in the storms and on the mountain tops of our lives. May the glory of the Lord rise upon us. Praying in our Savior’s name. Amen

Come With Me

Posted on by Rev. Cleo Graham

http://bible.com/111/mrk.6.31,33.niv

It’s 1:11 pm. Time to stop. Park and Pray. Rest in God’s presence.

Dear Lord,

Thank You for inviting me to rest in your presence. Thank you for calling me to a quiet place with you. Thank you for guiding me to a quiet place.

For in your presence I find peace. Lord, in your presence I find silence. In your presence I find rest for my weary body, mind and soul.

Lord, save a place for me.

Help me to hear your call in the midst of so many voices and places. My Lord, you patiently wait for me as I learn to stop, to park in the midst of your presence. I sit at your feet and release my burdens. You hear my prayers. Lord give me ears to hear you and strength to walk with you. Help me to be in your presence daily.

Oh Lord, I cherish my time with you. I come to glorify your name. I come to rest in your presence. I come to receive your peace. I eat your Bread of life. I rest with you. I am restored. I go in peace.

I pray in Your Holy Name. Amen.

Posted on by Rev. Cleo Graham

bible.com/114/jhn.16.33.nkjv

Lord we need your peace. We are thirsty for your peace. Yet, in the midst of our tribulations we are double minded. We try our ways only to fall back down the slippery slope. It pulls us apart from you. Lord, God draw us close to you and never let us go. Bathe us in your peace. Fill our cups, O Savior Divine. Stay near, feed us and drink with us. We shall drink your peace with gladness. We give thanks for your everlasting Peace. In Your Holy Name we Pray. Amen.

Biologist affirms Park and Pray at 1:11 pm

Posted on by Rev. Cleo Graham

Again, Dr. Matsumoto affirms the power of prayer and praying. Lloyd encourages others to “parkand pray at 1:11” with us.

Rev. Cleo Graham's avatarWelcome To Park and Pray at 1:11 PM

matsumoto-700

“Everyday prayer is a cleansing and healing spiritual experience”  Dr. Lloyd Matsumoto
http://www.ric.edu/biology/Pages/newsMatsumoto.aspx 

Several months ago, Dr. Lloyd Matsumoto, a renowned RI College Professor of Biology, sent the following Blog for Park and Pray affirming it as an everyday prayer that “is a cleansing and healing spiritual practice.”  He retired, June 2017 after 34 years of service. Dr. Matsumoto is a remarkable liver transplant recipient, whose method of transplant contributed to the advancement of science. Matsumoto joined a clinical trial at Massachusetts General Hospital, and he became one of three patients to participate in an experimental method of organ transport.  Lloyd and his wife Terry are members of Beneficent Congregational Church United Church of Christ. IMG_1361Dr. Lloyd Matsumoto appreciates the power of prayer through his own personal experiences and relationship with God. His high risk surgeries and significant medical and surgical challenges didn’t change his commitment to pray daily. Lloyd believes God’s grace and…

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Living Water

Posted on by Rev. Cleo Graham

A river baptism in the South, depicted in a postcard that was mailed in 1912. Source: Black Postcards

“When all the people were being baptized, Jesus was baptized too. And as he was praying, heaven was opened and the Holy Spirit descended on him in bodily form like a dove. And a voice came from heaven: “You are my Son, whom I love; with you I am well pleased.”” Luke‬ ‭3:21-22‬ ‭NIV‬‬

Let Us Pray

Lord we thank you for the opportunity to bathe in the beauty of your holiness. We thank you for Mother Earth, her rich fragrance, her cleansing and soothing waters that refreshes and renews us.

We thank you Almighty God for washing our stains and pouring out blessings we hope to receive. Yet, we hardly conceive and believe that we will achieve these gifts. For we are blessed by your presence and blessed because of your loving grace.

Thank you Father for sheltering us from the storms that threaten to drown us and overtake our hope. Thank Merciful God for carrying us through murky waters when our fear is high and our confidence is low.

O Lord baptize us in the spiritual waters that are present and part our life journey. Fresh water, still water that sits on the waste and rubble that weighs us down.

Holy One, restore our faith and trust in the unseen Divine Spirit that parts the seas, hems the high tides and guides us above the turbulent waves in our lives. Gracious God we pray for all who are grieving, all who are fearful and all who need assurances that we are not drowning. Just as we are lowered into unknown waters, we rise drenched, we rise with fresh eyes and we rise as if out of the womb.

We open our mouths and cry out ABBA! MaMa! ABBA! We cry Alleluia!

Through our tears we awaken as drenched souls ready to live for your glory. With our wet bodies we claim our purpose and connect with Your will. We are determined to live as your servants. Servants of the Most High God!

Glory to God! Glory to God! To God Be the Glory! In Jesus’ Name we pray. Amen.

From Mess to Message

Posted on by Rev. Cleo Graham

imageIn 2005, I was a mess, bedridden by excruciating back pain, I published my first book. From Mess to Message is a poetic understanding of the hidden healing messages of pain and suffering. Now, many years post failed back surgeries I found peace in my book’s messages in the midst of chronic back pain complicated by bilateral sciatica. I accept pain as a part of my healing. It is a circumstance and not what defines me. I’ve learned to live through the journey while thanking God for the pain and the promise to heal me in a deeper and wholesome way.

Pray No More

Posted on by Rev. Cleo Graham

Pray No More
Imagine our children are safe in school,
Imagine disturbed people receive the help they need,
Imagine guns are limited and used sensibly,
Imagine no more tragedies, no more violence,
Believe it is possible! Park and Pray at 1:11 pm.

IMG_3851

Cross My Heart!

Posted on by Rev. Cleo Graham

IMG_3848.jpgFebruary 14, a day when hearts bloom faster than flowers. Forget the cold-hearted ruggedness of winter blues.

Resist the desire to over-indulge in chocolate hearts, champagne, teddy bears, fake diamonds and prickly roses.

Avoid those red-hot tempers that play hide and seek as Lent, a Holy Season emerges with fresh ashes and renewed hope.

Lent, a time when many of the faithful will give up something (alcohol, bread, candy, etc.,) or make a pledge to do something (serve, feed, follow, pray).

Lent, a time marked by anxiety and serenity as many wrestle with the desire and need to make spiritual changes in their lives.

“Cross my heart!” We declare the truth that puts flesh on bones.

“Cross my heart!” We make promises that are often too hard to keep for forty days.

“Cross my heart!” We accept ashes on the forehead or hands thus, acknowledging our mortality.

“Cross my heart!” We proclaim a commitment that shakes and awakens us.

“Cross my heart!” We acknowledge Jesus’ truth, promises, and love that never dies.

Let us Park and Pray 

God of Love and Light, as we enter this first of forty days of Lent, hold and carry us, as our senses are shaken and awaken.

Reconciling God, settle our disputes. Revive and renew us.

Almighty God, you call us to remember the burning palm branches, the blessed ashes, smudged hands and foreheads, and to seek forgiveness for our sins.

Forgiving God, have mercy on us.  Give us a clean heart and a renewed spirit. We need humility and strength to go without, do without and live without, all, which binds our heart, mind, and spirit.

Loving God, as we travel along life’s journey, help us to celebrate self-love, agape love, and Divine love. Help us remember God’s love for us,  Jesus, the Christ, the Divine, the Lamb of God in whose name, we pray. Amen.

 

 

A Prayer for New Sisters

Posted on by Rev. Cleo Graham

New sisters share a special place in the heart of the Divine One. The first glance, grin, touch, hug, and kiss are gifts they share. New sisters’ eyes trace each other’s hair, brown eyes, smooth cheeks and lips. They imagine what features resembles mom’s face. New sisters inform us about new beginnings. Their story gives a family new meaning. God’s grace is present as a covering for New Sisters. God’s love guides New Sisters through their newborn relationship and inspires us to pray for them.

“I praise you because I am fearfully and wonderfully made; your works are wonderful, I know that full well” Psalm 139:14.

Let Us Pray

God your handiwork is awesome and your creations magnificent!

Thank you for mothers and fathers, sons and daughters and all who bring meaning to our family life. Thank you for the many expressions of love between sisters and their siblings. Teach new sisters and brothers to live together peacefully and lovingly share their unique gifts with each other. Set their sights on glorifying so envy and strife will not overcome them. Just as Mary and Martha were different, let not our differences divide and separate us from your love and one another. Help new sisters embrace your loving care as seeds for one day becoming loving parents . Hold us near and dear to you, O God. We pray in Jesus Name.

““Free at Last! Free at Last!”

Posted on by Rev. Cleo Graham

God grant that right here in America and all over this world, we will choose the high way; a way in which men will live together as brothers. A way in which the nations of the world will beat their swords into plowshares, and their spears into pruning hooks. A way in which every man will respect the dignity and worth of all human personality. A way in which every nation will allow justice to run down like waters, and righteousness like a mighty stream. A way in which men will do justly, love mercy, and walk humbly with God. A way in which men will be able to stand up, and in the midst of oppression, in the midst of darkness and agony, they will be able to stand there and love their enemies, bless those persons that curse them, pray for those individuals that despitefully use them. And this is the way that will bring us once more into that society which we think of as the brotherhood of man. This will be that day when white people, colored people, whether they are brown or whether they are yellow or whether they are black, will join together and stretch out with their arms and be able to cry out: “Free at last! Free at last! Great God Almighty, we are free at last!”” from “”Thou, Dear God”: Prayers That Open Hearts and Spirits (King Legacy)” by Martin Luther King Jr, Lewis V. Baldwin, Julius R. Scruggs

http://a.co/enWnYtW

Negativity, Forgiveness, and Resisting Evil by Nicholas Hutchinson

Posted on by Rev. Cleo Graham

God our Father,
may no-one’s negative actions ever overpower my determination to choose to live in a positive way.

I know that to forgive someone
can be far from being an easy option, and I know that forgiveness isn’t somehow pretending that something wrong hasn’t happened.

Instead it is being generous, Father
– as your Son showed in his dying words – in being willing to release the other person from what natural justice demands should be ‘punishment’ for wrong-doing.

Isn’t this, Father, what is meant by “your mercy” and what we are to do in being called to “be merciful” ourselves?

For what I have done wrong, Father,
forgive me to the extent that I am generous and gracious in forgiving – or truly hoping to forgive – those who have done wrong to me.

Empower me to break the cycle of any hatred, resentment or bitterness, always resisting evil and conquering it with goodness.

Bring your healing and peace and wholeness into the lives of those I pray for, and into mine. Amen

Snowbound? Park & Pray at 1:11 pm

Posted on by Rev. Cleo Graham

“Be Still and know that I AM God.” Psalm 46:10 Sometimes we are forced to be still. Today, I stand before a weeping window of snowflakes. I pray “God Almighty, thank you for your constant loving care. Comfort all who are suffering and experiencing challenges during this storm. Relieve pain, distress, sorrow and fear. Reduce our vulnerabilities especially keep safe all who must travel, live and work in unsafe conditions. Have mercy, O God as we weather yet, another storm in life with you by our side. Praying in Jesus’ Name. Amen

Happy New Year!

Posted on by Rev. Cleo Graham

I pray to God I will:

Pray for you as I would have you pray for me.

Help you as I would have you help me.

Forgive you as I would have you forgive me.

Love you as I would have you love me.

Thank you as I would have you thank me.

Thank God, love God, seek God’s forgiveness and help. Pray always in Christ’s Name. Amen.

Happy New Year!

O Christmas Tree!

Posted on by Rev. Cleo Graham
O Christmas Tree
I wrote this O Christmas Tree song 2015 after I selected my Christmas Tree. No matter what’s going on in our lives, I find the touch and smell of a freshly cut pine tree gives a lasting impression. Will you sing it with me?

A Grateful Heart

Posted on by Rev. Cleo Graham

God, thank you for
Creating us

Loving us
Caring for us
Anointing us
Bearing with us
Being patient with us
Carrying us
Delivering us
Educating us
Forgiving us
Giving us
Helping us
Investing in us
Joining us
Keeping us
Leading us
Making us lie down
Never leaving us
Opening doors for us
Blessing us,

Making us leap with joy!

Emmanuel! God is with us!