Mothering God,
no fear is a secret to you,
no cry goes unheard.
We know that it is your comfort that
will sustain us, even when it feels impossible.
We lift up the mother whose breath catches
when the school’s name pops up on her phone,
terrified of what she may hear when she answers.
When our fears are loud, help all of us to
depend on your grace.
Parenting God,
you care for each of your children deeply.
You created us in your image.
We pray for the parent who is realizing
their little one won’t stay little forever.
In the midst of the desire to protect,
fill their heart with wonder and curiosity
as they watch their child grow up.
Fathering God,
You alone know and hold the pain of the world.
Our hearts are more than heavy –
they are shattered, seemingly beyond repair.
But you, O God, through your grace and mercy,
Meet us among the broken pieces.
We hold close the father who is afraid to send
his child to school; fearing that the horrific crimes
seen on the news will become his reality.
Allow him to experience your peace on days
when drop-off feels difficult.
Comforting God,
we pray for the parent who passes by their child’s school
on the way to grief group.
Provide them with the communities and support
to process and express their emotions.
You alone, Lord, know the complexities of this life.
Help those who care for the most vulnerable among us
to do so with grace and thoughtfulness.
Lord, in your mercy — hear our prayers.
