​April 20, 2026
“Very truly I tell you Pharisees, anyone who does not enter the sheep pen by the gate, but climbs in by some other way, is a thief and a robber. The one who enters by the gate is the shepherd of the sheep.” (John 10:1-2)
Loving God, humble us each day we walk the earth. Remind us that we are here for a time and time will continue. Help us to see the past and recognize what has been accomplished, what should never happen again, and what believing and having hope have resulted in. We search out your love and acceptance and are humbled that you give it freely and without judgment. Help us to be the best versions of ourselves that you know we can be. In Jesus’ name we pray. Amen.
 
April 21, 2026
“The gatekeeper opens the gate for him, and the sheep listen to his voice. He calls his own sheep by name and leads them out.” (John 10:3)
Living God, as believers, we are asked to trust that the Trinity is very alive in our world. Help us to hear your voice in the noise of living. Guide us with whispers in the wind, to do good things and make big changes towards equity and justice. We ask you, as Shepherd, to be a louder voice in our lives when we cannot hear you. Push us into big and bold things, making a lasting impact while we are here. In Jesus’ name we pray. Amen.
 
April 22, 2026
“When he has brought out all his own, he goes on ahead of them, and his sheep follow him because they know his voice.” (John 10:4)
Eternal God, on this Earth Day, help us to feel closer to our natural environment and call us to be outside. May we take a walk and name the things we see that we are grateful for. May we take inventory of the things we take for granted. May your hope abide deeply within us that we can make changes to systems and things we’re complacent about, so we can help Mother Earth heal. Help us to sing with the birds, to bask safely in the sun, to jump in puddles, and to share love with all living things. In Jesus’ name we pray. Amen.
 
April 23, 2026
“But they will never follow a stranger; in fact, they will run away from him because they do not recognize a stranger’s voice.” (John 10:5)
Hope-filled God, call our name and speak to our hearts every day. We pray we hear you and feel your presence surround us, especially in the tougher days of life. We pray we are doing the right things in our world and ask you to move us in the right direction if we’re not. You ask us to share our light and love in the world, but sometimes that is hard. Sometimes we’re pushed to our limits and we can’t go back. God, forgive us. Help us to move past the guilt and into the light. May we take those moments to learn and to grow. In Jesus’ name we pray. Amen.
 
April 24, 2026
Therefore Jesus said again, “Very truly I tell you, I am the gate for the sheep.” (John 10:7)
Caring God, thank you for being our guide and our opening to a better way of living. Thank you for your care and compassion you have for each of us, as sheep and as humans. Thank you for the gifts of community, laughter, music, freedom to gather as a religious community, and the assets placed in our care. Help us to nurture all of these. Challenge all of us to go beyond the limits of understanding the world as we know it and into the world as you might want us to discover. In Jesus’ name we pray. Amen.
 
April 25, 2026
“All who have come before me are thieves and robbers, but the sheep have not listened to them. I am the gate; whoever enters through me will be saved. They will come in and go out, and find pasture.” (John 10:8-9)
Parenting God, Saturdays are for praying for families and on the 25th of each month we also pray for loved ones who have passed and those they left behind. We pray for families who lost children and all who lost someone extremely close to them. We pray for all who grieve within transitions of employment, housing, or relationships. We live in a world that can be heavy, and we pray that everything can be balanced with the simple chuckles of hope within the young ones around us. We pray for parents especially, who cannot monitor every access point for their children to keep them safe. May we be a strong community to support and assist. In Jesus’ name we pray. Amen.
 
April 26, 2026
“I am the gate; whoever enters through me will be saved. They will come in and go out, and find pasture. The thief comes only to steal and kill and destroy; I have come that they may have life, and have it to the full.” (John 10:9-10)
Praise-worthy God, as we gather for worship, empty our hearts and minds to be present with you. Carry our burdens so we can praise you fully for all the goodness in our lives. Thank you for being our Shepherd and Guide. Thank you for your love and grace. For the things we need to be saved from, help us to see your way, truth, and light. May we always help others to find hope, to see goodness, and to share compassion. In Jesus’ name we pray. Amen.

​April 13, 2026
They were talking with each other about everything that had happened. As they talked and discussed these things with each other, Jesus himself came up and walked along with them; but they were kept from recognizing him. (Luke 24:14-15)
Loving God, there are times when we are walking with Jesus and we don’t recognize him. We may not even recognize ourselves. Help us to tap into who and what you call us to be and to live fully into it. Yes, that means we might be more quirky, nerdy, clumsy, or imperfect, but you simply ask us to be authentic. God, give us courage to be fully ourselves and to do our best to make the world a better and brighter place. In Jesus’ name we pray. Amen.
 
April 14, 2026
He asked them, “What are you discussing together as you walk along?” They stood still, their faces downcast. One of them, named Cleopas, asked him, “Are you the only one visiting Jerusalem who does not know the things that have happened there in these days?” (Luke 24:17-18)
Living God, your love reaches beyond this time and place, and even beyond our understanding. Help us not to put you and what we can be into a limited box. May that which we dream of, hope for, and live for, inspired and infuse us with passion and love for justice and community. Keep us connected to our communities so we can see where we need to put our energy and your light. In Jesus’ name we pray. Amen.
 
April 15, 2026
“What things?” he asked. “About Jesus of Nazareth,” they replied. “He was a prophet, powerful in word and deed before God and all the people. The chief priests and our rulers handed him over to be sentenced to death, and they crucified him; but we had hoped that he was the one who was going to redeem Israel. And what is more, it is the third day since all this took place.”  (Luke 24: 19-21)
Eternal God, there are times when we reminders of your love and sacrifice for us and the world. Jesus died not just for us, but for all people. He died so that we could see the truths of the world and in hope of us doing better. I pray that his short life not be lived in vain and that his teachings sit deep in our hearts, more than ever today. Help us to care for each other, to respect one another, and to believe in the best of each other. In Jesus’ name we pray. Amen.
 
April 16, 2026
“In addition, some of our women amazed us. They went to the tomb early this morning but didn’t find his body. They came and told us they had seen a vision of angels, who said he was alive. Then some of our companions went to the tomb and found it just as the women had said, but they did not see Jesus.” (Luke 24:22-24)
Hope-filled God, we pray that the Bible’s stories bring light and hope into our lives. We think of those who may have second-guessed the women when they said Jesus was alive. How was that information received? How were the women treated? But more importantly, what has happened in our world where our default may be mistrust or judgment? God, we pray you are in our hearts and souls, softening the hardened parts of them. Grant us your grace and light. In Jesus’ name we pray. Amen.
 
April 17, 2026
As they approached the village to which they were going, Jesus continued on as if he were going farther. But they urged him strongly, “Stay with us, for it is nearly evening; the day is almost over.” So he went in to stay with them. (Luke 24:28-29)
Caring God, I pray that we invite Jesus, even when we don’t recognize him, to stay with us. I pray that we might recognize something beautiful inside all people. Help us to look for the good in each other, and to trust that you will care for them and us all our days. As the weekend begins, help us to rest and play safely and share your light with all around us. In Jesus’ name we pray. Amen.
 
April 18, 2026
When he was at the table with them, he took bread, gave thanks, broke it and began to give it to them. Then their eyes were opened and they recognized him, and he disappeared from their sight. (Luke 24:30-31)
Parenting God, as we pray for children and families today, we pray that our world opens our eyes to see bullies and bullying. We pray that bullying ends in our schools and is taken more seriously than before. We pray that parents have the tools and the hearts to see what we can do to change the behaviours in our homes, schools, playgrounds, and workplaces. Help us here at High Country U.C. to see how we can be active in ending bullying. Help us to be your love and light unto all who come our way. In Jesus’ name we pray. Amen.
 
April 19, 2026
They got up and returned at once to Jerusalem. There they found the Eleven and those with them, assembled together and saying, “It is true! The Lord has risen and has appeared to Simon.” (Luke 24:33-34)
Praise-worthy God, we give thanks for the risen Christ. We give thanks that which we think is an ending is just a beginning. Help us to live into the idea of resurrection in everything that comes our way. Help us to set aside fear and hesitation and to live into dreams, hope, and your vision. We commit to living our lives for you, O God, even as imperfect as we are. Help us to take each step in our days, with light and love. In Jesus’ name we pray. Amen.

April 6, 2026
That evening Jesus’ followers were together. The doors were locked, because they were afraid of the Jews. Then Jesus came and stood among then. He said, “Peace be with you!” (John 20:19)
Loving God, we give thanks for the resurrection of Christ and the divine mystery that surrounds it. We give thanks that light, love, hope, and justice will always win. Help us to believe more deeply in our hearts all that we learn in our faith. Where we have questions, encourage us to ask and grow within them. Loving God, may Your Word, Your Son, Your Spirit live on in all of us today and all our days. In Jesus’ name we pray. Amen.
 
April 7, 2026
When he had said this, he breathed on them and said to them, “Receive the Holy Spirit. If you forgive anyone his sins, they are forgiven. If you don’t forgive them, they are not forgiven.”  (John 20:22-23)
Loving God, help us to live as Easter people. May we be the ones who always hold onto hope, but also bearers of hope. This means having the courage to forgive others in hopes of deepening relationships and connections. It may be difficult to do it all at once, but help us to pick the pieces apart, to see things from another perspective and try to empathize. God, somethings may not be forgivable in our eyes and hearts, so help us to start with the things we know are possible and we trust that you will help us with the rest. In Jesus’ name we pray. Amen.
 
April 8, 2026
Thomas (called Didymus) was not with the followers when Jesus came. Thomas was one of the twelve. The other followers told Thomas, “We saw the Lord.” (John 20:24-25)
Loving God, sometimes it feels like we miss out on events or experiences because of, well, just life in general. We don’t hear why Thomas wasn’t with the others at that time, but we do know he was missed. Jesus always seems to find the lost sheep, no matter how far they’ve strayed or if something is keeping them away. We give thanks that you are with us, always looking for us, and bringing us back into the fold. May we remember this, especially if we’re missing being around a church family. Time is just a marker, not the whole timeline. Bring us back to your love and light all our days. In Jesus’ name we pray. Amen.
 
April 9, 2026
But Thomas said, “I will not believe it until I see the nail marks in his hands. And I will not believe until I put my finger where the nails were and put my hand into his side.” (John 20:25)
Loving God, in our world many of us walk and live by faith alone. Some of us have had experiences we cannot deny about your presence. I pray that those who question their faith and wonder why we follow someone we never knew can grow to understand who Jesus truly was and is and what his life stood for. May his teachings on loving and serving others remain at the forefront of who we are and that we too are not afraid to fight for justice and equity in our world. God, may we follow and believe in the Christ you shared with us in all our days. In Jesus’ name we pray. Amen.
 
April 10, 2026
Then he said to Thomas, “Put your finger here. Look at my hands. Put your hand here in my side. Stop doubting and believe.” (John 20:27)
Persistent God, we pray for hope in our world. Help us not to always rely on signs that you are present and at work, but to trust. Help us to not hesitate in believing impossible things can happen, but to work into the hope you entrust us with. We pray that Jesus’ core being is set so deeply in us that we can navigate the world with peace and love while also working to make heaven possible here on earth. God be with us. In Jesus’ name we pray. Amen.
 
April 11, 2026
Then Jesus told him, “You believe because you see me. Those who believe without seeing me will be truly happy.” (John 20:29)
Loving God, as we pray for children and families today, help us to notice some amazing things. Some children know Jesus so deeply even before we start sharing stories about him. Help us to live into the divine mystery that is within that. May families be encouraged to come to church, to make noise, be messy, and make our home their home. May they know they don’t walk alone as parents, that we understand many of the struggles that come with raising children. Help us to be your love and light unto all who come our way. In Jesus’ name we pray. Amen.
 
April 12, 2026
Jesus did many other miracles before his followers that are not written in this book. But these are written so that you can believe that Jesus is the Christ, the Son of God. Then, by believing, you can have life through his name. (John 20:31-31)
Loving God, help us to live as Easter people. Help us to reframe endings as new beginnings, unexpected negatives into positive opportunities, and walls into places we can display fine art. The world is tough as it is, and I pray that as we gather together in church, that we can lift each other up, help each other to reframe the negatives, and live into the hope, love, light, and possibilities that arise. God be with us all in spirit and in health. In Jesus’ name we pray. Amen.

​March 30, 2026: Holy Monday
Jesus entered the temple courts and drove out all who were buying and selling there. He overturned the tables of the money changers and the benches of those selling doves. “It is written,” he said to them, “‘My house will be called a house of prayer,’ but you are making it ‘a den of robbers.’” (Matthew 21:12-13)
Loving God, we think of how we are called to live out Christ’s ministry and purpose in our world. Help us not to hoard our resources but to share them. Help us to share our buildings for meaningful purposes. Remind us of the blessings we receive as we give to others and the world. God, help us to be good stewards of our faith. God be with us. In Jesus’ name we pray. Amen.
 
March 31, 2026: Holy Tuesday
Then Jesus told them, “You are going to have the light just a little while longer. Walk while you have the light, before darkness overtakes you. Whoever walks in the dark does not know where they are going. Believe in the light while you have the light, so that you may become children of light.” When he had finished speaking, Jesus left and hid himself from them. (John 12:35-36)
Loving God, may we think of all those who share their light with the world and let them know the difference they are making in our lives. Give us energy, compassion, and patience to share your light through all our days. God be with us. In Jesus’ name we pray. Amen.
 
April 1, 2026: Holy Wednesday
Then Satan entered Judas, called Iscariot, one of the Twelve. And Judas went to the chief priests and the officers of the temple guard and discussed with them how he might betray Jesus. They were delighted and agreed to give him money. He consented and watched for an opportunity to hand Jesus over to them when no crowd was present. (Luke 22:3-6)
Loving God, when we think of journeying with our faith, help us to think of ways we might be betraying Jesus. There may be lies we tell, things we don’t do, people we don’t help, compassion and patience we don’t share. Whatever it is, I pray that we are mindful and hopeful to change our hearts and our ways. God, thank you for your forgiveness and grace in all our days. In Jesus’ name we pray. Amen.
 
April 2, 2026: Maundy Thursday
While they were eating, Jesus took bread, and when he had given thanks, he broke it and gave it to his disciples, saying, “Take and eat; this is my body.” Then he took a cup, and when he had given thanks, he gave it to them, saying, “Drink from it, all of you. This is my blood of the covenant, which is poured out for many for the forgiveness of sins. (Matthew 26:26-28)
Loving God, for the gift of Jesus’ life, we give thanks. We give thanks that he lived to show us the way and that the stories remain to teach us and remind us what that looks like. We wish he didn’t have to die and maybe wonder what the rest of his days might have looked like. But for the life he lived, thanks for healing, saving, teaching, sharing, loving, and caring for the world. God be with us. In Jesus’ name we pray. Amen.
 
April 3, 2026: Good Friday
Later, knowing that everything had now been finished, and so that Scripture would be fulfilled, Jesus said, “I am thirsty.” A jar of wine vinegar was there, so they soaked a sponge in it, put the sponge on a stalk of the hyssop plant, and lifted it to Jesus’ lips. When he had received the drink, Jesus said, “It is finished.” With that, he bowed his head and gave up his spirit. (John 19:28-30)
Loving God, today is a sad day in the life of church life. Our leader dies and people don’t stop it. May we sit with the story today and look at where we might see similar events in our world. God, if there is something we can do, push us to do so. God be with us. In Jesus’ name we pray. Amen.
 
April 4, 2026: Holy Saturday
Joseph took the body, wrapped it in a clean linen cloth, and placed it in his own new tomb that he had cut out of the rock. He rolled a big stone in front of the entrance to the tomb and went away. Mary Magdalene and the other Mary were sitting there opposite the tomb. (Matthew 27:59-61)
Loving God, today we sit in the time between – the time between death and resurrection. Today I think of all those who have died throughout my life and how they touched my life. Jesus has changed my life in so many ways and I vow to follow him all my days. I pray that his light, strength and persistence will forever be within me. God be with us all. In Jesus’ name we pray. Amen.
 
April 5, 2026
Then go quickly and tell his disciples: ‘He has risen from the dead and is going ahead of you into Galilee. There you will see him.’ Now I have told you.” (Matthew 28:7)
Loving God, we give thanks today that we learn that Jesus’ life never ended the way we expected it to. Thank you for his life and light alive in our world today and in all our days. We give thanks for the hope that comes with his resurrection. We can hope for more than what the world gives, hope beyond limitations of our own minds and skills, and hope in knowing that we can change the world. We just need to believe and do. In Jesus’ name we pray. Amen.

​March 23, 2026
Then the Jews said, “See how he loved him!” (John 11:36)
Ever-Loving God, today I pray that we feel your love around us. I pray that your kindness, compassion, forgiveness and grace are felt deeply, realizing that you love us no matter what. Your love comes without conditions and always with hope. Thank you for crying with us, for laughing and walking with us, and for standing firm with us when we need your strength. May your light carry us through all our days. God be with us. In Jesus’ name we pray. Amen.
 
March 24, 2026
But some of them said, “Could not he who opened the eyes
of the blind man have kept this man from dying?” (John 11:37)
Today is International Day for the Right to the Truth Concerning Human Rights Violations and for the Dignity of Victims
Loving God, the history of our world is full of human rights violations that were normalized in their time. Some abused their power, some chose evil over good, and many suffered or died. As we learn the truths of history, help us to be mindful of context but to also not give into the mindset that it was okay for the time. Guide us to speak and stand up when someone is being harmed in any way, so that history never repeats itself in these ways. God, push us into goodness, equality and equity, and for a love that we long to understand. In Jesus’ name we pray. Amen.
 
March 25, 2026
Jesus wept. (John 11:35)
Loving God, on the 25th of each month we think of those we have lost and those who are grieving. Remind us that you are with us in comfort and peace and that our loved ones are no longer suffering. May they be the guardian angels we need as we live out our days. Help us to live with their hearts and values through our days. And God, help us to normalize talking about those who have passed away. Just because they are gone from our sight, doesn’t mean they have left our hearts and lives. May they live forever in the saying of their names. God be with us. In Jesus’ name we pray. Amen.
 
March 26, 2026
On the first day of the Festival of Unleavened Bread, the disciples came to Jesus and asked, “Where do you want us to make preparations for you to eat the Passover?”  He replied, “Go into the city to a certain man and tell him, ‘The Teacher says: My appointed time is near. I am going to celebrate the Passover with my disciples at your house.’” So the disciples did as Jesus had directed them and prepared the Passover. (Matthew 26:17-19)
Loving God, I hold the traditions and rituals of our faith close to my heart. Jesus is celebrating his traditions and rituals in community while knowing his earthly life was coming to an end. We give thanks for celebrations and his participation within them. We give thanks for the communities that embrace him along the way. May our hearts embrace Jesus through all the ups and downs of life, even when things are especially hard. God be with us. In Jesus’ name we pray. Amen.
 
March 27, 2026
And while they were eating, he said, “Truly I tell you, one of you will betray me.” (Matthew 26:21)
Forgiving God, we thank you for the times when we fall short of the hopes and dreams you have for us. Thank you for the gift of Jesus and that he knows our hearts so deeply. Thank you that he walks with us and lives within us, even when we’re not at our best. Thank you for this story, as Jesus still sat and ate with someone who betrays him. You are a God of second chances, giving us many opportunities to do and be better. May we take advantage of those opportunities to learn and grow and to be better as a community. God be with us. In Jesus’ name we pray. Amen.
 
March 28, 2026
While they were eating, Jesus took bread, and when he had given thanks, he broke it and gave it to his disciples, saying, “Take and eat; this is my body.” (Matthew 26:26)
Creating God, Thank you for the gift of family and the gift of this beautiful Earth. We pause today to honour Mother Earth in Earth Hour today. Help us to slow down, to listen, and to remember what truly matters. Bless our families with love, patience, and unity. Teach us to care for one another with kindness and grace. And as we sit in Earth Hour, renew in us a light as we commit to protect and cherish your creation. God be with us. In Jesus’ name we pray. Amen.
 
March 29, 2026: Palm Sunday
A very large crowd spread their cloaks on the road, while others cut branches from the trees and spread them on the road. The crowds that went ahead of him and those that followed shouted, “Hosanna to the Son of David!” “Blessed is he who comes in the name of the Lord!” “Hosanna in the highest heaven!” (Matthew 21:8-9)
Omnipresent God, as we remember Jesus’ entry on Palm Sunday, fill our hearts with joy and humble praise. May welcome you not just in words, but in the way we love, serve, and forgive. May we be eager to share your love and light with all who live in darkness or despair. May we walk with you this Holy Week, faithful and full of hope. God be with us and we will be with you always. In Jesus’ name we pray. Amen.

​March 16, 2026
Some claimed that he was. Others said, “No, he only looks like him.” But he himself insisted, “I am the man.” (John 9:9)
Loving God, when we are blinded by the world, open our hearts so we can see the world through your eyes and with your heart. Guide us with compassion and kindness. Help us not to just see a person for the moment they are having, but for the person they are. Help us to lift each other up, to be stronger as a community, and to help each other learn and grow along the way. God be with us. In Jesus’ name we pray. Amen.
 
March 17, 2026
He replied, “The man they call Jesus made some mud and put it on my eyes. He told me to go to Siloam and wash. So I went and washed, and then I could see.” (John 9:11)
Fun-Loving God, today many are celebrating St. Patrick’s Day. We pray that everyone celebrates in a responsible way. May we surround ourselves with safe people and create meaningful memories. May we find something green to wear and some fun and frivolity in our hearts. God, thank you for a day to share joy with each other. In Jesus’ name we pray. Amen.
 
March 18, 2026
“Where is this man?” they asked him. “I don’t know,” he said. (John 9:12)
Loving God, through Lent we’re looking at the life and stories of Jesus. This week we focus on his ability to give a blind man sight. Today, we reach the end of the story where the man was asked where Jesus is. He replies, “I don’t know.” I pray that we have an answer to where Jesus is if anyone asks us. I pray Jesus is forever in our hearts and in the people we see wherever we go. I pray that we have no doubt that Jesus is alive in our world, doing amazing things through and with us. God be with us. In Jesus’ name we pray. Amen.
 
March 19, 2026
“Lord,” Martha said to Jesus, “if you had been here, my brother would not have died. (John 11:21)
Loving God, we give thanks for the stories that take us to places you have been before. We offer our thanks for the story of Raising Lazarus and the wonderings it brings to our souls. Where we think about the people we want to bring back, help us to think of those still living that we can help to ‘bring back to life.’ Be it in Spirit, hope, or love, encourage us to lift each other up out of darknesses wherever possible. God be with us. In Jesus’ name we pray. Amen.
 
March 20, 2026
Jesus said to her, “I am the resurrection and the life. The one who believes in me will live, even though they die; and whoever lives by believing in me will never die. Do you believe this?” (John 11:25-26)
Loving God, today is the International Day of Happiness, and I pray there is some sunshine to help our souls feel brighter and warmer today. God, whether we believe or not, I ask you to help our curiosity and to read more, learn more, and do more about our faith (what we believe in and who we are called to be). May we feel a sense of something more in this world that we can work together with to leave behind a better place. God be with us. In Jesus’ name we pray. Amen.
 
March 21, 2026
When Jesus saw her weeping, and the Jews who had come along with her also weeping, he was deeply moved in spirit and troubled. “Where have you laid him?” he asked. “Come and see, Lord,” they replied. Jesus wept. (John 11:33-35)
Loving God, be with all our families and young ones. I think of those who have changed so much due to mental health illnesses, disease, or addiction and how we long to have them return to their former selves. Sometimes it’s not possible. But help us to share hope in all places and with all people. That little light we share from within might be the only thing that helps to keep someone going. May we make that an intentional practice in our daily lives. God be with us. In Jesus’ name we pray. Amen.
 
March 22, 2026
“Yes, Lord,” she replied, “I believe that you are the Messiah, the Son of God, who is to come into the world.” (John 11:27)
Loving God, today is World Water Day and as Jesus is the living water, help us to be intentional with our water use and preservation. We pray for all who live without clean water and for all who are helping communities to have access to it. Thank you for bringing Jesus into our world, for saving us from ourselves, and for sharing unconditional love and hope. Be with us as we worship today and be in us as we hear Your Word. In Jesus’ name we pray. Amen.

March 9, 2026
He told her, “Go, call your husband and come back.” “I have no husband,” she replied.  Jesus said to her, “You are right when you say you have no husband. The fact is, you have had five husbands, and the man you now have is not your husband. What you have just said is quite true.” (John 4:16-18)
Loving God, another Monday is upon us and we return to fasting if we take a break from doing so on Sundays. As we read through the verses above today, remind us that God knows our hearts and our truths. Help us to confess the things within us so God can hear us admit what is already known. By saying it aloud to God, our hearts and souls can be reconciled and move forward for forgiveness, healing, and growth. God, remind us that your love is greater than our faults and that you take those bits and make something great from them. God be with us. In Jesus’ name we pray. Amen.
 
March 10, 2026
Yet a time is coming and has now come when the true worshipers will worship the Father in the Spirit and in truth, for they are the kind of worshipers the Father seeks. (John 4:23)
Holy God, we give you thanks for the journeys of faith we are on. We may be on different paths or at different points, maybe even off the path a little, but here we are. Whether we are curious, devoted, passionate, or questioning (or all of these), know that we long to see and hear you in our lives. We are small blips in the universe and in time, and we pray we can be put to something meaningful that lingers long after our time has passed. In Jesus’ name we pray. Amen.
 
March 11, 2026
Then Jesus declared, “I, the one speaking to you—I am he.” (John 4:26)
Grace-filled God, grant us the gift of knowing when you are present. May we see you in someone or something we encounter each day. May we hear your Spirit whisper within our hearts, nudging us along the way. May we feel your encouragement and love, especially when we are down on ourselves. I pray that no one feels alone and they sense Jesus walking with us. God of great compassion, thank you for your forgiveness, grace, and mercy and I pray that we can share the same with others in our own lives. God be with us. In Jesus’ name we pray. Amen.
 
 
March 12, 2026
His disciples asked him, “Rabbi, who sinned, this man or his parents, that he was born blind?” “Neither this man nor his parents sinned,” said Jesus, “but this happened so that the works of God might be displayed in him.  (John 9:2-3)
Creating God, thank you for highlighting these verses in the Bible today. We may have been taught that when something ‘is wrong’ or ‘different’ in us, that we or our ancestors have sinned and this is the punishment. I pray that you help us to refer to these words when something befalls us or someone we love. You create us and say “it is good,” regardless of what society thinks. May we recognize that everyone is fully human, even if they are different in body or mind. We are called to be community, and we are greater when we work together to meet all our needs with love. God be with us. In Jesus’ name we pray. Amen.
 
March 13, 2026
As long as it is day, we must do the works of him who sent me. Night is coming, when no one can work.  (John 9:4)
Loving God, these words remind me that we are only here for a time. That timeline is unknown. These words are great to reflect on, not just today, but many times throughout the year and our lives. What will our generation be known for? How will we be seen? What questions might future students ask about us? What haven’t we done and why? What have we accomplished and why? I pray that we don’t take each day for granted and that we can be intentional about helping our communities shine. God be with us. In Jesus’ name we pray. Amen.
 
March 14, 2026
After saying this, he spit on the ground, made some mud with the saliva, and put it on the man’s eyes. “Go,” he told him, “wash in the Pool of Siloam” (this word means “Sent”). So the man went and washed, and came home seeing. (John 9:6-7)
Loving God, today I wonder: What if we truly did everything you ask of us? What divine things could happen in our lives and our communities if we all did as you commanded? “Love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your mind. And love your neighbour as yourself.” As we pray for families today, help us to remember that You call us to love ourselves, and all Your children. Help us to be good stewards of your light and love. Break open the walls of our hearts and minds so we can understand what you ask of us. God be with us. In Jesus’ name we pray. Amen.
 
March 15, 2026
His neighbors and those who had formerly seen him begging asked,“Isn’t this the same man who used to sit and beg? (John 9:8)
Life-Changing God, may your glory be shared through the changes you help us make in our lives. I pray that your light is shared easily in all the good things that go on, but also through the trials and struggles in our lives. With the gift of free will, the world around us shapes and impacts us in body, mind, and spirit. I pray that, though you don’t intervene, your presence is felt through all our trials. Thank you for your love and grace. In Jesus’ name we pray. Amen.

​March 2, 2026
The wind blows wherever it pleases. You hear its sound, but you cannot tell where it comes from or where it is going. So it is with everyone born of the Spirit.” (John 3:8)
Loving God, help us to be mindful of your Spirit around us. May we wonder when the wind blows by, or when something brushes our skin. As we journey through Lent, give us strength to stand firm in our Lenten practices, knowing you are with us. And God, urge us to make time to sit in silence and to be fully present with you each day, however that looks for each of us. God be with us. In Jesus’ name we pray. Amen.
 
March 3, 2026
For God so loved the world that he gave his one and only Son, that whoever believes in him shall not perish but have eternal life.  (John 3:16)
Loving God, thank you for loving our world. Thank you for not giving up on us and guiding us along the way. Thank you for Jesus being born and his stories available for all to learn from. Help us to dust off our Bibles and to read words that will touch our hearts and/or challenge us to do something. God, thank you for giving us the challenge of helping instigate change in our world today and for years to come.
In Jesus’ name we pray. Amen.
 
March 4, 2026
For God did not send his Son into the world to condemn the world, but to save the world through him.  (John 3:17)
Loving God, we may come to prayer today wondering, “what does it mean to be saved?” We live into your grace, working into what your forgiveness looks like in our lives, and how to institute your eternal love and care for all. Is it okay, O God, to wonder what ‘being saved’ looks like for each of us? I pray that in the silent moments we take with you, we can discover what it is for our individual lives and our communities. Thank you O God. God be with us. In Jesus’ name we pray. Amen.
 
March 5, 2026
 When a Samaritan woman came to draw water, Jesus said to her, “Will you give me a drink?”  (John 4:7)
Loving God, Jesus met many people in his short lifetime. He did not care who they were, but whose they were. He did not discriminate one community or another but called his disciples to go and share their light to all. As the landscape of our communities change, help us to remember that we can sit and be with all people. We can learn and grow from our experiences, our differences, and the things we’re most passionate about. May we remember that we are all your children. God be with us. In Jesus’ name we pray. Amen.
 
March 6, 2026
 Jesus answered her, “If you knew the gift of God and who it is that asks you for a drink, you would have asked him and he would have given you living water.”  (John 4:10)
Loving God, when we sit with the holy, help us to know you. When we thirst for something more, help us to see you. When we live divinely human lives, help us to remember that we carry your light, purpose, grace, forgiveness, mercy, and compassion with us. May we never take a moment for granted and may we share your love with everyone we encounter. God be with us. In Jesus’ name we pray. Amen.
 
March 7, 2026
Jesus answered, “Everyone who drinks this water will be thirsty again, but whoever drinks the water I give them will never thirst. Indeed, the water I give them will become in them a spring of water welling up to eternal life.” (John 4:13-14)
Loving God, we pray for children and families today and pray that they long for deeper connection with you O God. If we are a place to do that in, may it be so. We know families are busy and there is a lot going on, even on Sunday mornings, but may they know we are here. They are welcome, even if it’s been a long time since we saw them. Give them the strength, resources, and energy to get through all they have going on in their lives. God be with us. In Jesus’ name we pray. Amen.
 
March 8, 2026
The woman said to him, “Sir, give me this water so that I won’t get thirsty and have to keep coming here to draw water.” (John 4:15)
Loving God, we gather for church this morning and I pray that you wake each of us with a sense of curiosity. Maybe we’ll wonder what the message will be. Maybe we’ll wonder who we will see in the pews. Whatever our wondering is today, I pray that we know our church is a sacred place of safety, comfort, and community. A place where we can laugh, cry, grow, and wonder together. Thank you, O God, for the gift of worshiping safely and comfortably together. In Jesus’ name we pray. Amen.

February 23, 2026
Jesus answered him, “It is also written: ‘Do not put the Lord your God to the test.” (Matthew 4:7)
Loving God, help us to see temptations for what they are. May we recognize the things we need and focus on what is healthy for ourselves and each other. May we work together to resist temptation and to lift each other up, especially through Lent. Give us hearts of generosity and may we be graceful with ourselves. God be with us. In Jesus’ name we pray. Amen.
 
February 24, 2026
Jesus said to him, “Away from me, Satan! For it is written: ‘Worship the Lord your God, and serve him only.’” (Matthew 4:10)
Loving God, temptation is all around us and I pray that you have rooted us in your strength and your will to keep us on track. For my Lenten practice of boundaries, it is challenging as I love all the people and catching up. I pray that through Lent, normalizing ‘respecting time’ for all of us becomes easy. As one who likes to ramble, may I be gracious when someone says the same to me. God, be with us as we learn and grow. In Jesus’ name we pray. Amen.
 
February 25, 2026
 Then the devil left him, and angels came and attended him. (Matthew 4:11)
Loving God, as we live out our days, remind us that angels are all around us. For our friends who are mourning the loved ones who have passed, may they feel our support around them. When we need comfort, support, strength, or help, we pray that they are there in our time of need. Grant us permission to say out loud “that was hard” or “this is hard” so that when we get through it, we can also acknowledge that we did it. And when we do get through those moments or tasks, help us be good to ourselves and tend to our souls so we can be ready for what comes next. God be with us. In Jesus’ name we pray. Amen.
 
February 26, 2026
 Nicodemus came to Jesus at night and said, “Rabbi, we know that you are a teacher who has come from God. For no one could perform the signs you are doing if God were not with him.” (John 3:2)
Loving God, today we take time to reflect. What has happened in our lives or around us that we can name were clearly driven by or gifts of God? The birth of a baby, the colours in the sky, the changed life of someone who was near death, etc. Whatever it is, help us to remember that you are here but also within each and every one of us. May we be bearers of your light, love, and divine intervention. God be with us. In Jesus’ name we pray. Amen.
 
February 27, 2026
 Jesus replied, “Very truly I tell you, no one can see the kingdom of God
unless they are born again.” (John 3:3)
Loving God, maybe we are challenged by the wording of being born again. Maybe we’re intrigued. Help us to know that each time we grow and learn, when we try something new or are uncomfortable with a change, there is a newness being born within us. You call us to be bearers of good news and that is an action, not just a word. Help us to share you in all that we do, in the struggles of growing and learning, and in being uncomfortable when trying something new. God be with us. In Jesus’ name we pray. Amen.
 
February 28, 2026
Jesus answered, “Very truly I tell you, no one can enter the kingdom of God unless they are born of water  and the Spirit. Flesh gives birth to flesh, but the Spirit gives birth to spirit. (John 3:5-6)
Loving God, your Spirit is set in our hearts at birth. As we pray for children and families today, help us to remember to tap into that Spirit. May we live with the liberating freedom that comes with following the Spirit and letting go of things beyond our control. As the living water of the earth is all around us, it is also within us. It sustains us and nurtures us, keeping us alive in the physical form. But your Spirit, O God, keeps us alive in our souls. I pray that we are infused with your passion and energy in all our days. God be with us. In Jesus’ name we pray. Amen.

March 1, 2026
You should not be surprised at my saying, ‘You must be born again.’ (John 3:7)
Loving God, on the first of each month we think about Truth & Reconciliation and the history of our Indigenous brothers and sisters. God, this is a space where we have a lot of learning, understanding, and growth to do. We are only given what is currently known and yet, more information continues to come to the surface. My heart aches that anyone suffered harm at the hands of another, simply because they thought themselves as better. I pray we truly learn the histories and compassionately start living as one diversely rich community. And may all who need support, get it in very appropriate ways. God be with us. In Jesus’ name we pray. Amen.

​February 16, 2026
The Lord your God is with you, the Mighty Warrior who saves. He will take great delight in you; in his love he will no longer rebuke you, but will rejoice over you with singing. (Zephaniah 3:17)
Loving God, on this Family Day, we pray that folks have permission to take time to be with their loved ones. We pray they can rest and play. Be in our hearts and spirits and wash any darkness or negativity from us. May we bask in the sunshine of your love. God, help us to be present, loving, and compassionate. And may we be open to trying something new. God be with us. In Jesus’ name we pray. Amen.
 
February 17, 2026
He said: “In my distress I called to the Lord, and he answered me. From deep in the realm of the dead I called for help, and you listened to my cry.” (Jonah 2:2)
Loving God, today is Shrove Tuesday (Pancake Tuesday/Fat Tuesday). It’s the day we can bask in the glory of anything good and savoury as we consider what we might fast from during Lent. I pray that we can think of fasting from something that takes us from you, O God. Maybe it’s something that distracts us, maybe it’s a feeling in our hearts that we know is not you, or maybe it’s something that we find we might be too attached, even addicted to. God be with us. In Jesus’ name we pray. Amen.
 
February 18, 2026
When you fast, do not look somber as the hypocrites do, for they disfigure their faces to show others they are fasting. Truly I tell you, they have received their reward in full. But when you fast, put oil on your head and wash your face, so that it will not be obvious to others that you are fasting, but only to your Father, who is unseen; and your Father, who sees what is done in secret, will reward you. (Matthew 6:16-19)
Loving God, today we officially begin Lent. It is the season where we prepare our hearts and recall the stories of Jesus’ journey to the cross and his death. Remind us that we can break our fast on Sundays, but only Sundays. Help us to be intentional and find meaning in these next few weeks. Where we feel weary or overwhelmed in life, may we take time to breathe throughout the day. God, guide us and guard us as we walk the path with you. God be with us. In Jesus’ name we pray. Amen.
 
February 19, 2026
Then Jesus was led by the Spirit into the wilderness to be tempted by the devil. (Matthew 4:1)
Loving God, I pray that the things we are fasting from are challenging but not impossible. We think of temptation and all that surrounds us. Buy more. Do more. Be more. Compete. Climb. Be Better. Feel better. Let us put all these aside and be present to your calling. Today, help us to remember that we are enough. That we are perfectly imperfect. That we have what it takes to be the best selves that we are. And where we struggle, nudge us to get back on the path. Help us, O God, to fight mob mentality in everything we do, so we can listen and live into your call. God be with us. In Jesus’ name we pray. Amen.
 
February 20, 2026
After fasting forty days and forty nights, he was hungry. (Matthew 4:2)
Loving God, today I wonder what I hunger for in my day, and in my life. I think about how many days I have left on earth and what my legacy will be. I know you are with me, that you don’t hesitate to push me into uncomfortable places, but I pray what we accomplish creates meaning and spreads hope. I pray that whatever people are hungering for, that they can name it and find it. Help us to listen deeply to each other and to hear your voices within them. God be with us. In Jesus’ name we pray. Amen.
 
February 21, 2026
The tempter came to him and said, “If you are the Son of God, tell these stones to become bread.” Jesus answered, “It is written: ‘Man shall not live on bread alone, but on every word that comes from the mouth of God.’ (Matthew 4:3-4
Loving God, as we pray for families today, help us to learn what they are doing during Lent. May we engage them and share what we’re doing and keep checking in. I pray that through Lent, we can create greater bonds between our ages while we learn and grow together. God, where we have opted not to give something up during Lent, help us to remember when we have and the result of it. God be with us. In Jesus’ name we pray. Amen.
 
February 22, 2026
Again, the devil took him to a very high mountain and showed him all the kingdoms of the world and their splendour. “All this I will give you,” he said, “if you will bow down and worship me.” Jesus said to him, “Away from me, Satan! For it is written: ‘Worship the Lord your God, and serve him only.’” Then the devil left him, and angels came and attended him. (Matthew 4:81-11)
Loving God, today is the first Sunday in Lent and we have permission to break our fast. If we do so, may we be intentional and mindful of what that looks like. Help us to reflect on the feelings that arise and maybe what these first few days have felt like. As we gather as your church, be present in our Annual General Meeting and in any decisions we make. Help us to share hope, to infuse hearts with encouragement and excitement, and to live out your will for us all our days. God be with us. In Jesus’ name we pray. Amen.