I wrote this prayer three years ago and through Google searches it has brought many readers to this page. It's a prayer I use at Memorial Day exercises conducted by the town I live in and so it's phrased to be as inclusive as possible of all who might be present. On Memorial Day my parish will celebrate Mass in our own cemetery where, of course, our prayer will be offered through, with and in Christ the Lord. This year I've received a number of requests to use this prayer in parish bulletins and online as well. It's offered today for those who are planning Memorial Day prayer services. I'll repost on Memorial Day, May 30.
Memorial Day Prayer
In the quiet sanctuaries of our own hearts,
let each of us name and call on the One whose power over us
is great and gentle, firm and forgiving, holy and healing…
You who created us,
who sustain us,
who call us to live in peace,
hear our prayer this day.
Hear our prayer for all who have died,
whose hearts and hopes are known to you alone…
Hear our prayer for those who put the welfare of others
ahead of their own
ahead of their own
and give us hearts as generous as theirs…
Hear our prayer for those who gave their lives
in the service of others,
in the service of others,
and accept the gift of their sacrifice…
Help us to shape and make a world
where we will lay down the arms of war
and turn our swords into ploughshares
for a harvest of justice and peace…
for a harvest of justice and peace…
Comfort those who grieve the loss of their loved ones
and let your healing be the hope in our hearts...
Hear our prayer this day
and in your mercy answer us
in the name of all that is holy.
Amen.
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