Prayers For Our Country

Today we pray for all those who are sick and dying, the grieving, and those in the healing professions. And as we ask for both wisdom and courage to navigate both our politics and pandemic, we share this Prayer for Putting on a Mask, composed by The Right Reverend Richard Bott who is the current Moderator of the United Church of Canada. May it strengthen our resolve and connection with our neighbors, whenever we wear our masks, and our awareness of the love and generosity of others when we see them wear theirs.

Creator,
as I prepare to go into the world,
help me to see the sacrament
in the wearing of this cloth –
let it be “an outward sign
of an inward grace” –
a tangible and visible way
of living love for my neighbours,
as I love myself.

Christ,
since my lips will be covered,
uncover my heart,
that people would see my smile
in the crinkles around my eyes.
Since my voice may be muffled,
help me to speak clearly,
not only with my words,
but with my actions.

Holy Spirit,
as the elastic touches my ears,
remind me to listen carefully –
and full of care –
to all those I meet.
May this simple piece of cloth
be shield and banner,
and each breath that it holds,
be filled with your love.

In your Name
and in that love,
I pray.

May it be so.
May it be so.

Amen.