Wednesday Prayer for the World
APRIL 26, 2023
Caring for Earth and All of Creation
Introduction
Though we officially celebrate Earth Day on April 22, it is important to remember that we are called to be mindful that every day is Earth Day. The theme of Earth Day 2023 is “Investing in our Planet.” Each day we are called to make a conscious effort to care for, and recognize the sacredness of Earth and all of creation.
Song - Sacred the Land – Rufino Zaragoza
(Refrain) Sacred the land, sacred the water, sacred the sky, holy and true.
Sacred all life, sacred each other; all reflect God who is good.
All praise be yours through Brother Sun, bearing a likeness of You Most High One.
Sister Moon and Stars who are precious, splendid, ride your glorious sky.
(Refrain) Sacred the land, sacred the water, sacred the sky, holy and true.
Sacred all life, sacred each other; all reflect God who is good.
Brother Wind and Air that pervades, vary their moods to sustain all you made.
Sister Water, useful and pure, lowly, freely sharing her life.
(Refrain) Sacred the land, sacred the water, sacred the sky, holy and true.
Sacred all life, sacred each other; all reflect God who is good.
Focus for Our Prayer – Ecology Examen from the Congregation of the Sisters of St. Joseph
We give thanks to God through whom, with whom and in whom all creation is wonderfully made. Where did I experience God’s presence in creation today?
We ask for the grace to experience creation as God does- in all its interconnection and union, its splendor and suffering. Where and how do I see the beauty of creation? Where and how do I see and hear the cries of Earth and the poor?
We ask for the grace to look closely to see how our life choices affect creation and all who are poor and vulnerable. What challenges or joys do I experience as I recall my care for creation? How can I turn away from a throwaway culture and stand in solidarity with creations and all who experience poverty?
Silent Prayer
We ask for the grace of conversion of heart towards integral Ecology, embracing ecological justice and reconciliation. Where have I fallen short in caring for the whole of creation—the human community and all beings? What can I do to be open to a conversion of heart?
We ask for the grace to reconcile our relationship with God and all of creation and to stand in solidarity through our prayer and actions. How am I being called to repair my relationship with creation and make choices consistent with my desire to be one with the whole of creation?
We offer our prayer for Earth and all who are vulnerable. Considering all I have reflected on, how can my prayer support efforts for a better world.
Silent Prayer
Song - Sacred the Land – Rufino Zaragoza