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The ELCA is the first North American denomination to declare itself a sanctuary church body. As a sanctuary church, the ELCA is committed to serving and supporting migrant children and families in communities across the country. Pray that we and our faith communities, moved by the Spirit, will see welcoming people not as a political issue but as a matter of faith.

Pray that, in the midst of the questions, distractions, hesitancy and opposition we experience in daily life, we will remain focused on the good news of Jesus Christ and on encouraging one another to share the gospel and do good in the world.

Lutheran outdoor ministry leaders are joining with their ecumenical peers and partners in Lake Junaluska, N.C., for the Great Gathering conference. Pray for their time together, that they might build relationships, discover each other’s gifts and equip vital ministries to meet the emerging needs of God’s people.

Remember people who have served or are currently serving in the military, and give thanks for their service and sacrifices. Pray for military chaplains, caregivers, congregational and synod programs, and special ministries that care for veterans and their families.

Rejoice and give thanks that in God all have life — eternal, abundant and renewed life for doing God’s work in the world and serving our neighbor now.

Give thanks that when we confess our sins, the good we have failed to do and our misbehaviors to God, we are met with mercy and forgiveness.

Remember in prayer students who find school challenging or difficult, and pray that the people in their lives will be patient, encouraging, creative and skilled in understanding the unique ways in which we each learn.

Pray for the leaders of our church who serve on the ELCA Church Council. Ask the Spirit to guide their work of enabling and supporting our church as we strive to do God’s work in the world with thoughtfulness, integrity, respect and partnerships that share a common vision.

Entrusted with sharing the gospel and doing God’s work in the world, pray that we will be faithful in our baptismal calling and encourage one another in following the word and ways of God.

Pray for the leaders of our communities, states and nation, that they will ground their priorities, decisions, work and legislative actions in concern for justice, the environment, the well-being of people in need and the diverse contexts and communities in our country.

Pray for people living with and recovering from the devastation and loss of life in the Bahamas and along the southeastern coast of the United States following Hurricane Dorian, and for Texas communities similarly suffering from flooding caused by Tropical Storm Imelda. Ask God to give these people strength and hope, resources for recovery and, during this time of vulnerability, protection from subsequent storms. Ask the Spirit to stir our caring support, generosity and volunteer service during short- and long-term recovery efforts.  

Ask God to help us be fearless and radical in our love and service, following the example of Jesus by demonstrating love, respect, empathy, mercy and active concern for all, especially for people suffering poverty, hunger and illness, those forgotten and neglected, and our enemies.

Give thanks for the gifts and witness of American Indian and Alaska Native members of the ELCA. Pray for native congregations and ministries and the work of the American Indian and Alaska Native Lutheran Association, all grounded in reconciliation and the mutual building up of the saints — people of all backgrounds, tribes, regions, communities, congregations and unique needs.

Give thanks for people passed from this life who have cared for us, inspired our dreams, nurtured our faith, and equipped and encouraged us for the challenges of life, and who have boldly exemplified compassion, justice, mercy and generosity.