Friend, its been nothing short of amazing to see what youve accomplished in the past year. Losing social rituals can be harmful to our well-being, making us feel less connected to others and less united in purpose. and celebrate Thanksgiving as weve done in the past. And we step into 2021. Best friend, weve been through it all. Birthdays remind us of who we are and what weve done thanks for being an amazing role model to myself and for many others. May my anxiety be transformed into love. About. Hopefully some of them will resonate with you. We are not meant to do life alone. As religious leaders of diverse faiths, prayer helps reveal answers to questions that weigh on us. You, Salvation of the Roman People, know what we need. She's the world's leading animal behaviorist and an Autism advocacy leader. When this is over,may we never againtake for grantedA handshake with a strangerFull shelves at the storeConversations with neighborsA crowded theatreFriday night outThe taste of communionA routine checkupThe school rush each morningCoffee with a friendThe stadium roaringEach deep breathA boring TuesdayLife itself. RT @keithsrocknroll: "i'm a risk-taker. How Loneliness Hurts Us and What to Do About It. Ignatius calls usto go forthand setthe world on fire. Thank You for the hidden gifts of this pandemic: more time with my family, slow evenings at home, the beauty of creation and rediscovering joy in simple things. Look to God in the midst of your daily challenges. Dear Lord, please protect and guide him as he continues along the path you've chosen for him. May they know your peace, as they work together to achieve it on earth. We need to seek Him through His Word, will, and ways. addthis_share = { An amazing friend deserves an amazing day. Learn more about Jesuit Resource. By noon, most of us have already faced challenges, and we may think we can handle these things alone; but the Lord says otherwisewe must look to and depend on Him. When I wanted to hide, Ive faced the day. The Christian 'Asbury Revival' event gained viral attention on . Heres to hoping all your candles this year dont set off the fire alarm. Researcher Eranda Jayawickreme offers some ideas that can help you be more open and less defensive in conversations. I hope that todays wishes, smiles, and heartfelt words turn into many amazing memories. Birthday Prayer for Senior Citizens Dear Heavenly Father, we celebrate with you the birthday of one of your own who has lived long and well. Its time to celebrate your special day. Know that we are striving to make all of the right decisions and need Your love and power to help us overcome any difficulties. I am grateful for my health and for the health of my family. As with weddings and other rituals, birthday parties are bigger than one person. Perhaps, Lord, no time is really ordinary. Happy birthday. 'theme' : 'transparent', Say the Glory Be 6. Father please hear us when we tell You of our concerns of sending our children and educators back to school. Jesus Christ, you traveled through towns and villages curing every disease and illness. At your command, the sick were made well. Research suggests that birthdays help motivate people to make important changeslike exercising more or starting a healthier dietand to more deliberately pursue life goals. All over the world people are looking at their neighbors in a new way. Put it together and frame it like the work of art it truly is. For peace in our city and in our world.For renewed friendships among neighbors.For solidarity and unity among all peoples.For a greater appreciation and love of all humanity. To improvise. 43 Best Bible Verses for Birthdays (That Can Work For Anyone) Numbers 6:24-26. (What scar did the Phantoms mask hide? God wants to be present in all parts of our livesnot just the easy or serene moments. My faith that keeps me steady as our entire country wakes up every morning to wage war on an invisible enemy. 4. Help us to practice social distancing and reveal to us new and creative ways to come together in spirit and in solidarity. The year we slowed down. Start with our ideas below, and add any personal details to it to make it extra special. Dont you think its about time we started to act our age? 1There is a season for everything, a time for every occupation under heaven. Happy birthday, friend. But there does not have to be disease of the soul. Make time to reflect and be thankful for what is ending. Hone your creativity with the power of Adobe Express. Growing up is a choice. Help us to give thanks within our sorrow, within our fears. May our hearts be unified in You more than ever. Happy birthday. -Prayer originated fromhttps://www.catholic.org/prayers/prayer.php?p=229. Sign of the Cross. R: The Spirit of God has made me, And the breath of the Almighty has given me life. Thank you for your daily powerful Presence in our lives, that we can be assured your heart is towards us, your eyes are over us, and your ears are open to our prayers. Some are sad. We realized what we could do without. Recognize there are things about endings and beginnings that we do not control. Wishing you a day filled with happiness, hugs, and delicious cake. What connections to others are you becoming more aware of? And this is my birthday, so it seems fitting that I would read this passage. Some meaningful approaches including thanking them, reminiscing on great times youve shared in the past year, praising their accomplishments, or letting them what about them you love most. Nor are we. Once more, in troubled times when public worship has tobe restricted, we are called to pray in "the domestic church", always aware of the promise of Jesus, "Where two or three are gathered in my name, there I am among them." (Matthew 18:20). We have had no time, no space, no moment to mourn. Whatever special message you want to deliver, Adobe Express is here to make it happen. Help us to remember that the gift of Christ, Immanuel, is our greatest treasure, not just at Christmas, but for the whole year through. Theres no one on Earth Id rather celebrate more than you. As you think of the ways we are connected or disconnected to one another, pick a connection (or lack thereof) that seems important, significant, or is manifesting itself the strongest. Another year around the sun. It's been a major blessing for me during the pandemic since I can no longer work and have had pretty limited interaction with my friends and family since the pandemic started. For others its from a deep sense of your true self. Order a personalized puzzle. We are certain that you will provide, so that, as you did at Cana of Galilee,joy and feasting might return after this moment of trial. Shamair B. Philadelphia, PA. 0. Dear Risen Lord,Today we pray You unmask the gift that is manifest in every life.Let us celebrate the joy of being children of God and the dignity of each Unique and Unrepeatable life made in his image and likeness. We asked for justice, and you called us to be just and lead with integrity. Daily prayer to be said during the Coronavirus Pandemic Click image to download a PDF of the prayer. Take a moment to think about how COVID-19 has impacted your life. Even in this time of separation and possible isolation, what is one way you can maintain meaningful connection to otherswhether directly, through technology, or intentional focus and attention? When this ends,may we findthat we have becomemore like the peoplewe wanted to be we were called to bewe hoped to beand may we staythat way--betterfor each otherbecause of the worst. Dear God. Open the windows of your soul And though you may not be able to touch across the empty square, -Written by Fr. And during this time when we may not be able to physically wrap our arms around each other, let us yet find ways to be the loving embrace of God to our neighbors. Even as we are being asked to distance ourselves from one another socially, ask yourself what connections you find yourself grateful for?Who makes you feel grounded and connected to God? I pray that we continue to be inclusive and broad in our thinking, that we continue to be imaginative and innovative, that we have the energy required to sustain us. Prayers in a time of pandemic - Catholic Archdiocese of Sydney As we transition through these times, we keep our faith as Bhagwad Gita, the Hindu Holy Scripture written more than 2000 years ago, says: 'Dharmo Rakshito Rakshita'those who keep their faith strong during trying times are blessed with their faith carrying them through these times. I can barely keep up with everyones birthdays these days, but you better believe Id never forget yours. Still, somehow, this time does not seem ordinary; it is anything but that. 2020 is behind us. Promise this world your lovefor better or for worse,in sickness and in health,so long as we all shall live. Today, Im overjoyed to celebrate your existence. In scenes that would fit easily into war zones, they invade our honored spaces and violate standards of citizen behavior. Yes there is panic buying.Yes there is sickness.Yes there is even death. Merciful God,Open my heart and mind to be fully present to those I interact with throughout the day.Allow me to listen to others without passing judgement or haste to solve what I cannot change.Give me patience and understanding and grant me grace in my shortcomings.Be with me in times of fatigue and lift me up with the strength to carry out your compassionate love to all those I meet. If you find yourself frustrated or stressed, acknowledge it. Gather a blanket, some of your favorite snacks, a bottle of wine or Champagne, and toast to another year of life. God, I give You thanks even in the unexpected and unwanted because You are good, You are just and You are right. [CDATA[ The year we cried. R: The Spirit of God has made me, And the breath of the Almighty has given me life. Our celebrations. Take a moment to settle. addthis.layers({ Well, I know exactly what youll say. Usually we celebrate by having a bunch of friends over, sharing great food and wine, and carousing into the wee hours. During pandemic times, keeping our hearts and minds focused on the truth of God's word eases our anxiety and fear. Pause to reflect and refresh. If you can, picture the faces of these people. I cannot hear if you whisper an answer to my prayer or brush off my curse. I love my country. Afterward, Amber was surprised to find out that this display of love also had an impact on her neighbors. O God, the protector of all who trust in you, without whom nothing is strong, nothing is holy: increase and multiply upon us your mercy; that with you as our ruler and guide, we may so pass through things temporal that we lose not our hold on things eternal; through Jesus Christ our Lord. Remain optimistic and hopeful for what is yet to come and the new relationships that new beginnings may bring. May they know your peace. Come to our aid now, God of all life. My friends dont see or hear or know; nor do my family; nor my colleagues. We stepped up. Maybe it helpsto imaginethis timeas a dousingof gasolinetossed onto ouralready steadyburning flamesofpurpose and love. "We find ourselves afraid and lost . That was a crazy time. Next year. Don't let the pandemic get you down. I pray that the Lord would bless you and enlarge your territory! But when the birthday of my husband, Don, rolled around this year, we were in lockdown like everyone elseand creativity was needed. What interactions with others were significant to me today?What care and compassion did I show?What was going on in my head during these interactions? Mayor Eric Adams: My fellow New Yorkers. Have friends and family drive by the birthday honoree's house, honking . Is there a person or group of people especially affected by COVID-19 that you dont often choose to see or connect with normally? Advent passed through its four weeks. But rather open time slots. Thank you for always giving me your all. Celebrating another quarantine birthday? Lord, we have received nothing that we asked for or wanted. Grahams tenure and the beginning of new leadership under Dr. Hanycz here at Xavier. So glad I can celebrate with you on this special day. For the unnecessary deaths. Birthdays (and other temporal markers) can also be times to reassess our lives. Thank you for all the people who remembered me today by sending cards, and letters, gifts and good wishes. A New Normal will hopefully be emerging soon. Be with the leaders of all nations. Even so, it makes sense to hold on to festivities like these during COVID. As I thought about some of these recent endings and beginnings, what we have been through these past fifteen months, and the general pace of our lives in the 21st century, I stepped back to assess some of the things that I have found helpful to make these transitions. I love my city. Alone and isolated. PRAYERS IN TIME OF A PANDEMIC . I dont know how I got so lucky to have a best friend like you. Help us to become more considerate of others, more mindful of how we can help one another, and how we can serve You and Your children well. Will we see, Lord, that what we think of as your mask is really also our own, our inability to find you in the rush of our lives, our failure to see you in all the wonders you show us, our incapacity to hear your gentle voice in the tumult that surrounds us. You deserve all the best; happy birthday. On the first bead, say an Our Father. we're so lucky to still have you on this earth 28 Feb 2023 00:27:44 God, Thank you for helping us to make it through this difficult year. At least youre not as old as you will be next year. Lord Jesus, you came into the world to heal our infirmities and to endure our sufferings. With love and respect for the past, we as a community face our new beginnings and journeys with anticipation, optimism, enthusiasm and care for each other creating our own New Normal. 2. Happy birthday. "There is no place for the sick at hospitals, no place for the dead at the crematoriums and graveyards," said Pagidipalli, a physician and evangelist who works with multiple Churches of Christ in southern India and oversees a medical mission . Pause and reflect on where youre being invited to grow from that moment. Research shows that shared rituals make us feel a part of a larger social identity, suggesting that losing those rituals can be hard on us. It's my faith that I lean on as the death tolls resulting from the coronavirus continue to rise. Later, his mom invited six local friends to come by the house and hang out on the front lawn, sit around a bonfire, and make smores. Of course, the most important thing in creating any celebration is knowing the birthday recipients likes and dislikesand what matters most to them. You see past my mask, you hear through it, you know. Our New Normal isnt what it was. Familiarize yourself and/or your group with the prayers of the rosary. We sympathized. i like to test myself." - happy 93rd birthday to the wonderful joanne woodward. My birthday was surprisingly nice, better than I expected, because I felt connected with people, even though everyone had to be socially distanced, says Aidan. Is There Science Behind the Five Love Languages? A Prayer for Pandemic Times The Misheberach is usually said for people with a temporary, acute illness. Happy birthday. Bring them courage to endure what cannot be avoided,for your will is health and wholeness;you are God, and we need you. Were muted. Surprises can make people feel a burst of energy and give them a sense of vitality that might be particularly helpful during this time. We celebrated the birth of Jesus with angels singing and shepherds visiting and magi following a star from the East and bearing gifts. So, I posted love poems around the house the night before, baked his mothers famous chocolate cake, and organized a surprise Zoom birthday ritual with a few close friends holding candles and sending heartfelt wishes to him. We pray that care and compassion, watching and accompanying be part of our ordinary lives. Help us continue to bring the science of a meaningful life to you and to millions around the globe. Give them the foresight to act with charity and true concern for the well-being of the people they are meant to serve. Please watch over everyone as times and routines are about to change once again. We are constantly aware of how much we need you, your grace, your strength, your power working through even the toughest days. What connections do you take for granted in your life? Is there a person or group of people especially affected by COVID-19 that you dont often choose to see or connect with normally? Where is ordinary time? 'share' : { Yes there is sickness. May we who are merely inconvenienced remember those whose lives are at stake. For those who have survived.For those who have lost their spouses.For children who have been orphaned.For all those who mourn and those who comfort them. I continue to welcome and be open to your presence in my life and in this work. May we who have no risk factors remember those most vulnerable. Our world calls for cooperation among national leaders, scientists, health care providers, and all who are instrumental in overcoming this crisis. It was truly a wonderful experience, says Angela. 5/17/2021. We asked for patience, and you gave us situations where we were forced to wait. A Birthday Prayer for My Son Heavenly Father, Please bless MY SON for his birthday. Spark a smile with a custom birthday card greeting to anyone celebrating a birthday during quarantine, and bring all the joy in the world to them on their special day! For the sick and infected: God, heal and help. The year we monitored, not the stock market. Proverbs 9:11. For others its from a deep sense of your true self. Collaboration, innovation and cura personalis were our touchstones. I hope that today you look at me and feel my love. Take a deep breath and moment of quiet. Today, I want to speak to you about the next phase of our plan to address mental health in this city. Hear through it? A prayer for use by someone who doesn't believe in God. The pandemic itself deserves its own "loving look." Prayer always begins and ends with a recognition of God's presence, and it disposes us toward receptivity. 1 A Prayer to Remember What Christmas Is All About "Lord, I thank You for coming to earth so You could redeem me. As you think of the ways we are connected or disconnected to one another, pick a connection (or lack thereof) that seems important, significant, or is manifesting itself the strongest. Through all these years, God, I feel your love and care. Plan a car caravan. Even if those ease, we may not be ready to risk big social gatherings. What connections do you take for granted in your life? I bet it feels as good as it looks. Make the Sign of the Cross. NEW YORK The coronavirus pandemic has prompted multiple religious faiths to change or cancel services as houses of worship try to help contain the disease.. petsmart 75 gallon. Freelance. T terisha sewnarain 0:05 S Smiley Thank you for your reminder that both in seasons of celebration and in seasons of brokenness, youre still with us. Yet the Prophet allowed combining the prayers during travel or emergencies. For you never leave us. For those who are unemployed.For those suffering financial hardships.For those who face an uncertain future. Amid mental and physical suffering may they find consolation in your healing presence. For those who are dying.For those who have died while saving the lives of others.For all who have lost their lives. We pray that our eyes be open to see the needs of those who struggle to provide for their families and that if we can help, we do help in ordinary ways. . Let our spiritsdraw closerto each otherin spite ofthe distancebetween usand march boldlyinto tomorrow. Today a young woman I know is busy spreading fliers with her number through the neighborhood so that the elders may have someone to call on. This mask takes away power the power of clear communication but also the possibility to infect. Holy God, you make all times holy, all places, all people in all the seasons of our lives. Cant wait to see what the next year has in store for both you and our friendship. If you can, picture the faces of these people. 2. My smiles, my thoughts, my mumbles, though these I know, but they are a greater mystery to others now. . August 9, 2021 MARTHA'S VINEYARD If you're reading this, you probably aren't important enough to be invited to the massive party I just threw myself to celebrate my historic existence and. In this uncertain agea time whenour brothers and sistersyearn forpeace and lightwe are calledand stand readyto do magisto do morethan we didbefore. Im a garbageman, I cant work from home and my job is an essential city service that must get done. This month, nurture your relationships each day. At the foot of the Cross you participated in Jesus' pain, with steadfast faith. Amen. We asked for prosperity, and you gave us purpose and brains to use. Editor's note: This essay is one in a series of first-person narratives by members of the Duke community reflecting on a year living with COVID-19. Sending you love on this birthday. Every day, I am grateful to have you in my life. These uncertain days of news conferences and quarantines tempt me to assume the worst for my loved ones, myself and my community. Who do you normally choose to reach out and connect to? 5. Thank you for always providing me with hope, encouragement, joy, and support. With . They say that a hotel in the West of Ireland is offering free meals and delivery to the housebound. May they be at rest with you in your eternal peace. Take a deep breath. We asked for courage, and you gave us fears to overcome. I love You. Angela J. of Los Angeles, California, attended a surprise Zoom birthday for an aunt living in Philadelphia who was turning 90. The pandemic has made it impossible to have a real birthday bash with your loved ones and friends. 'position' : 'left', Please submit one here: Submit a Prayer, To provide feedback, please email: jesuitresource@xavier.edu. I have felt your presence in our continuous striving for better, striving to find solutions that serve the greatest number of people in the best way possible with the least risk of harm. Our University rose to the many challenges. Prayers for Birthdays, Graduates, and Grieving during the COVID-19 Crisis Bill Delvaux Crosswalk.com Contributing Writer 2020 6 May No one has been left untouched by the COVID-19 crisis.. What connections to others are you becoming more aware of? Come to our aid now, in the midst of the global spread of the coronavirus, that we may experience your healing love. Hope all of your wishes come true, and then some. As I look ahead to the coming academic year, I pray that we make sound decisions for our students, our faculty, our staff, that protect them and serve them well, and also serve the institution well. Where you are, the extraordinary tries to lift us up, to let us see beyond the everyday and catch hints of what can be, of who we could be if we gave room to our best selves, of what we could do if we banded together in common purpose and resolve. Thank you for always providing me with hope, encouragement, joy, and support. I love my planet Earth. - ByAshley Henkes, Hall Director, Residence Life. Open my eyes and let me see them as You see them! Help me to offer them your tenderness. Before I begin, I would like to offer a brief prayer of thanksgiving that I have relied upon heavily, especially throughout the past year as we have suffered as a community, and as a nation, and as a world, in so many ways: We asked for strength, and you gave us difficulties to make us strong. Ask for light and insight as you prepare to review your day. Yeah, alright, here it is. Birthdays come around every year, but friends like you only come once in a lifetime. 3. 3. - Prayer originated fromhttps://www.americamagazine.org/faith/2020/03/02/coronavirus-prayer. 2. Understated. Mothers and fathers have worked hard to provide for their families, and now their jobs are gone. Going old happens. Cant wait to support you through it all. Happy birthday, friend. [CDATA[ Though 20-year-old Aidan G. of Kensington, California, was home from college because of COVID, his girlfriend put together a video of college friends wishing him a happy birthday and sharing appreciations, which really touched him.