A Reflection and Prayer on the theme of HOPE by Fiona Hutchings, chaplain at St Boniface School.
I have always found November a challenging month as the days get shorter and darker and we focus on praying for those who have died and remembering especially those lost in war. It can be dark, dark, dark.
But then, comes Advent and LIGHT in our darkness and so many reasons for HOPE. Young people are the best for giving us hope.
In our Advent service in school with each tutor group all the boys will light a candle and we will say this prayer together. It is inspired by Shine Jesus Shine which they all seem to love!
Like candles glowing in the dark, shine, Lord, into our lives this Christmas.
Shine into our hearts and minds which are so often full of worries.
Shine into our whole being and heal us from all hurts.
Shine through our eyes so that we may sparkle love to those we meet.
Lift our spirits with your light. Make us grateful for what we have.
Help us to remember all those who suffer because of man made wars.
Give us kind and generous hearts.
And above all make us people of HOPE.
We make this prayer in Jesus’ name. AMEN
Prayers on the theme of HOPE by Giovanna Tang and Rowena Penaflor
God of Love,
Your son Jesus, is your greatest gift to us. He is a sign of your love. Help us walk in that love during the weeks of Advent, as we wait and prepare for his coming. On the first Sunday of Advent, we especially pray that You increase the virtue of hope in us, and we especially ask today that You help us and all people who need more hope in our spiritual lives. We ask this through Christ our Lord, Amen
By Giovanna Tang
Dear Lord,
Despite all of the personal struggles and hardships that many of us are experiencing, may we still become a beacon of light and ray of hope to others who need it. Amen
By Rowena Penaflor