1.19.21 - Universal Prayer Rev. Martin Luther King Jr. *See description for today's Prayer*

St. Joseph Health, Home Care Services

1-19-2021 Universal Prayer in Remembrance of Martin Luther King Jr. Good morning and welcome, Liz Wessel here, and as we gather together, taking a moment out of our busy lives let us share in a brief time of prayer and peacefulness. Resist the temptation to multi-task and instead offer the gift of your loving presence to this community. Find a sitting position that allows you to be alert—and also relaxed. Close your eyes and rest your hands in an easy, effortless way. Ring the chime: Allow your awareness to scan through your body and, wherever possible, soften and release obvious areas of physical tension. Because we so easily get lost in thoughts, let’s begin with attention to the breath. Using the breath as a primary anchor of mindfulness helps quiet the mind so that you can be awake to the changing stream of life that moves through you. (Tara Brach) God of our understanding, we come to you in these quiet moments, seeking that which is beyond ourselves. In this sacred space; we join in solidarity in the prayers of Reverend Martin Luther King to express our hopes and our dreams for a better world. Eternal God, out of whose mind is this great cosmic universe, we bless thee. Help us to seek that which is high, noble and Good. Help us in the moments of difficulty. Help us to work with renewed vigor for a brotherhood that transcends race or color. (MLK) A way in which every man will respect the dignity and worth of all human personality. A way in which every nation will allow justice to run down like waters, and righteousness like a mighty stream. A way in which men will do justly, love mercy, and walk humbly with God. (MLK) God grant that we will be participants in this newness and this magnificent development. If we will but do it, we will bring about a new day of justice and brotherhood and peace. And that day the morning stars will sing together and the sons of God will shout for joy. (Rev. Martin Luther King Jr.) MLK’s mission for equality resonates with our organizational values of compassion, dignity, justice, excellence, and integrity. Creator God, may we view our work as vocational; a ministry of whole-person healing. May we advocate for those who are poor and vulnerable as we serve our dear neighbor without distinction. (Nancy Jordan) And in closing, as you go about your day continue to reflect on how your role in our organization is not limited to your wise experience and skills. Every time you ask how a patient is feeling or assist a co-caregiver with a task, you are making a positive difference in the lives of others. Building each other up one interaction at a time builds our up our communities. Building up our communities exemplifies Martin Luther King’s vision for equity and equality. (Nancy Jordan) In honor of Martin Luther King, Jr., thank you for your steadfast service to all. May God bless you and all those you love. Painting form the CHA website