In spite of the chaos that unfolds in Washington, D.C., this week, we invite everyone to pray for the country, for leaders, for global citizens and for all of creation.
The very first verses of Scripture, Genesis 1:2, inform the three Abrahamic traditions: “The Divine Spirit breathed over the waters of chaos and brought forth a new creation.” Encouraged by this promise that a new creation can come from chaos, we pray:
O Divine Spirit, come! Breathe over these waters of chaos. Stir our hearts and minds that we might embody a vision that is worthy of you and your call to honor the dignity of all of creation.
A vision of who we are as a people, grounded in community and care for all, especially the most marginalized.
A vision that cares for Earth and heals the planet.
A vision that ends structural racism, bigotry, and sexism so rife now in our nation and in our history.
A vision that ensures hungry people are fed, children are nourished, immigrants are welcomed.
O Spirit, breathe in us and our leaders a new resolve…that committed to this new promise, we will work together to build a national community grounded in healing, fearlessly based on truth, and living out of a sense of shared responsibility.
In the name of all that is holy, O Spirit, bring out of this time of global and national chaos a new creation, a new community that can – with your help – realize this promise that we affirm today.
With profound hope, may this be so.
Amen.
—Simone Campbell, SSS, slightly adapted from “Seeking the Divine in the Darkness: Braving this Time with Courage and Wisdom,” Network Connection, 3
(To see Sister Simone deliver this prayer, visit networklobby.org/2020dnc.)
—Ann Jackson, PBVM, Prairiewoods spiritual services coordinator