THE COMPANIONS

COVER

Dear Lord, prepare our hearts this season for the
coming of the Christ Child.
Help us to put aside our own desires for things we
don’t need,
To look for the needs of others around us and give a
child a gift of joy,
To feed the hungry instead of having a lavish
Christmas dinner,
To look into the eyes of those who are not seen,
To have a humble day like the Holy Family had in
the cave,
To worship Him with our community with the joy of the season.
– Ethel Wright, SCHC

Simplicity of Life: Monday

Simplicity seems unattainable at times in my busy
life. Heavenly Father, guide me into simplicity of
life and teach me to be thankful in the simple life you
desire for me. Help me to become more Christ-like
in a more disciplined life. Help me to be a good
steward of my time and all that you so graciously
provide.
– Denise Shaffer, SCHC

Unity of all God’s People: Tuesday
Dear Lord, our brother, grant me grace to see
everyone I meet as siblings, that I may give them the
same freedom I give to my friends. Let me see them
with your eyes and love them in you.
– Donna Wessel Walker, SCHC

Social Justice: Wednesday

I read the psalms. They lament your absence, and in
the end rejoice in your presence. Here in our nation
and in the world we have injustice, cruelty, violence,
fear, arrogance, and greed. And yet, your presence
gives us hope. And, yes, it brings us joy. Be with us.
Teach us, all of us, your ways!
– Eve Webster, SCHC

Peace & Reconciliation: Thursday

Loving God, as we await the coming of your son, the
Prince of Peace, we pray for discerning hearts. Show
us ways to be peacemakers and reconcilers every day.
Teach us patience and understanding, with others and
with ourselves. We pray in his holy name.
– Melissa Buckingham, SCHC

Growth in Spiritual Life: Friday

Advent! As I try to be patient with myself and the
world, the Christmas season is pushing to be my
main focus. It’s Advent, the coming; not the it’s here.
I try to walk more slowly, drive more cautiously,
speak more intently…and to notice the journey.
– Kathy Cenatiempo, SCHC

Prayers Personal and General: Saturday

Holy One, in your Word we do not read about your
being in a hurry or being stressed about what you do
not have. Give us the desire and grace to follow your
example: to use our time, energy, and what you have
given us to feed the poor, the lonely, and the hungry.
Quieten our schedules and thoughts with the
satisfaction that you will provide us with whatever
we need to joyfully take up our cross and daily fulfill
your purposes in our lives.
– Laura Drum, SCHC

Thanksgiving: Sunday and Every Day

Beloved Lord, we remember the teachings of Christ
and how powerful prayer was in his ministry. By
your grace and mercy help us to know we are loved
by you and we, in turn, love you and our neighbors.
May we be faithful each day in this love and in
prayer. Consistency is a challenging part of our
pilgrimage on our spiritual journey. As we walk this
labyrinth of life and love, may Christ’s words both
challenge and comfort us with the guidance of the
Holy Spirit.
– Pam Lang, SCHC