October 29, 2024

VAUMC called to prayer amidst presidential election

Dear Virginia Conference clergy and laity,

In preparation for election day, Bishop Sue, the Cabinet, and all the conference leadership invite you into a rhythm and posture of prayer now through election day on Tuesday, November 5.

Together, each day, at 8 a.m., noon, 6 p.m., and 10 p.m., we will pray the prayer of St. Francis of Assisi (found below).

During this time, allow the Holy Spirit to work within and around yourself. Allow yourself to be silent and mindful in the presence of God. Allow yourself to pray these words and hear them anew.

All are also invited to join Bishop Sue and Conference Lay Leader Martha Stokes for a 30-minute Vespers Service of Prayer at 8 p.m. on Wednesday, November 6.

This will be a space for prayer, rest, processing, and community during this election season. You can register for the event here: https://zoom.us/webinar/register/WN_9YUAktTBQ_KX6DQvwktQdQ.

Prayer of St. Francis of Assisi (Prayer for Peace)

Lord, make me an instrument of your peace:
where there is hatred, let me sow love;
where there is injury, pardon;
where there is doubt, faith;
where there is despair, hope;
where there is darkness, light;
where there is sadness, joy.
O divine Master, grant that I may not so much seek
to be consoled as to console,
to be understood as to understand,
to be loved as to love.
For it is in giving that we receive,
it is in pardoning that we are pardoned,
and it is in dying that we are born to eternal life.