National Day of Prayer

Since it is National Prayer Day, during National Military Appreciation Month, I'd like to offer these two prayers for your contemplation.

Praise to you, ever-watchful God,
for you are our refuge and strength
in every time and place.

Send your blessing upon those
who are serving our country
in the armed forces.

By your powerful Spirit,
shield them from all harm.

Uphold them in good times and bad,
especially when danger threatens.

Let your peace be the sentry
that stands guard over their lives,
so that they may return home safely.

Look with compassion on all victims of war;
ease their sufferings and heal their wounds.

Put an end to wars over all the earth,
and hasten the day when the human family
will rejoice in lasting peace.

Grant this through our Lord Jesus Christ, your Son,
who lives and reigns as the Prince of Peace,
both now and for ever. Amen.

Lord,
Hold these loved ones in your loving hands. Protect them as they protect us. Bless them and their families for the selfless acts they perform for us in our time of need. Give them courage, hope and strength. May they ever experience your firm support, gentle love and compassionate healing. We ask this in the name of Jesus, our Lord and Savior. Amen

I should have posted a warning above that if reading Catholic prayers is going to damn you for time and all eternity, whoops, sorry about that.