Children's Sabbath

This week people of faith throughout this country are observing Children’s Sabbath. By doing so they look deeply at their responsibility to nurture and protect children, especially those who live in poverty and are victims of our social ills. They make a commitment to action that encourages justice and inspires others to care for those who are the most vulnerable. They pray for the possibilities to sing a new song of love among the world’s children.

This week my pastoral prayer was focused on the needs of children and the concerns of their families. The following is part of this prayer:

".....Today, we know that the challenges facing children and those who care for them are many. Let your light shine into their lives. We pray for all children whose bright promise is squelched by poverty, poor child care, lack of medical attention, inadequate educational opportunities. We pray for the children who woke up this morning not knowing which motel, campground, car or shelter they are going to sleep in tonight. We pray for the abused, neglected, diseased and hunger-ravaged children everywhere. We especially remember those who are without hope as violence surrounds them and they are left without families to love and care for them. Lord, in your mercy hear our prayers.

We pray for parents who worry about what to do, for teachers who devote themselves to educating young minds, and for church, community and national leaders who make a commitment to our children’s future. Help us be the voice for children and families bound by chains of injustice and despair. Give us the courage and the energy to travel with them into your holy place. Let us sing a new song of love and care to the world’s children in the name of the one who taught us to pray…. Our Father, who art in heaven.....Amen."