A Prayer for Memorial Day

Gracious and loving God,
On this Memorial Day, we remember with gratitude
all who have given their lives in service to others and to this nation.
We pray especially for those whose sacrifices are unseen,
for wounded veterans, for those living with disabilities,
for caregivers, and for all whose bodies or minds bear the marks of war, labor, illness, or hardship.

Teach us to honor the dignity of every person,
for each one is made in your image
and beloved in your sight.
Open our hearts to communities too often overlooked,
and strengthen your Church to be a place
where all are welcomed fully, heard clearly, and cherished completely.

God of compassion,
grant rest to the departed,
comfort to grieving families,
courage to those who struggle,
and wisdom to all who lead.
May your peace, which surpasses all understanding,
heal divisions, restore hope,
and guide us into the way of justice and mercy.

Through Jesus Christ our Lord,
who welcomed the wounded, lifted the forgotten,
and calls us all into one body of love.

Amen.