THE COMPANIONS

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Now we come once more to find You

In our praying

Deepest seeking,

Hollow out

Those things binding.

Let our prayers be fixed upon You

At your willing

Holy keeping,

Free the earth

Fulfill our longing.

Lynne Nelson, SCHC

THANKSGIVING: SUNDAY AND EVERY DAY

Thanksgiving for the life and work of Jimmy Carter (1924-2024), former US President, Nobel Peace Prize recipient for his work for international peace and human rights, model citizen and humble man of God.

Roberta Nobleman, SCHC

SIMPLICITY OF LIFE: MONDAY

Generous, loving God, creator of all things, as I approach each day, I ask you to teach me discernment. Which of the tasks and ideas, dreams and duties before me should I take up? Which should I set aside in order to clear the path toward love of you and love of my neighbor? I pray for singleness of mind and heart in service to you.

Melissa Buckingham, SCHC

UNITY OF ALL GOD’S PEOPLE: TUESDAY

How does an OR become an AND

An I become a WE

I’m sitting here

You are sitting there

Help me get to you, help you get to me

Help us become a we

Together we are an AND.

Showing up is a build

An invite is a build

Welcoming is a build

Stewarding is a build

Listening before you share is a build

Be an AND not an OR.

Heal us all with an AND.

“AND Versus OR” by Jane Bowen, Discerner

SOCIAL JUSTICE: WEDNESDAY

Lord, as we strive to keep the way of the cross, we strive for the end of prejudice, racism, sexism and all the other forms of discrimination. Help us to do what Jesus would do: to feed the hungry, clothe the naked and walk humbly with those who are different from us, and seek to serve where called upon by the Spirit.

Ethel Wright, SCHC

PEACE & RECONCILIATION: THURSDAY

I thank you God for all that the North Carolina Chapter learned about how white supremacists organized to undo a functioning biracial government and economy in Wilmington N.C. in 1898. I pray that we will be able to discern how to make a difference through effective reparations to the Black community that has been so wronged by these events. Please help us to see when even today our sisters and brothers are being exploited for the sake of power and wealth and to know what to do to defend those who are being abused. I pray that we all will contribute to a solution and not just hide in fear and anxiety. I ask this in Jesus’ name.

Sally Fisher, SCHC

GROWTH IN SPIRITUAL LIFE: FRIDAY

Father God, please strengthen me to grow in spiritual maturity and deepen my understanding of You. Help me to be humble and ready to change, so that my actions better reflect Your love. In Jesus’ name I pray.

Denise Shaffer, SCHC

PRAYERS PERSONAL AND GENERAL: SATURDAY

In these times of uncertainty and upheaval, may I remain mindful that You are my anchor in the storm and that nothing the world can throw at me can change that.

Sarah Braik, SCHC