Dear friends,

As we reach the week when the election takes place for the next President of the United States, we all find ourselves at a time of profound discernment. For some, there is wondering and contemplation. For some, there is anxiety or concern. There may be expectation, or there may be fear. For some, there could be any combination of the above, and for different reasons. Wherever you are in your journey at this time, The Episcopal Parish of St. John the Evangelist is here to support, love, pray with, and journey with you, as we walk together through this important week.

In this note, you will find a selection of prayers from different resources in the Episcopal Church, which you might use in the coming days. Furthermore, the Parish Church will be open for private prayer on Tuesday and Wednesday evenings, from 6 p.m. until 9 p.m. I will also be available during these times for anyone who wishes to meet, talk, or pray at the Parish Church.

Again, wherever you may be on your journey this week, know that St. John’s is your spiritual home, and a place where you are welcome and loved for who you are as a beloved child of God.

With every prayer and blessing for the week ahead,

Ed

The Rev. Edward Thornley

Rector of The Episcopal Parish of St. John the Evangelist

A Collect for an Election

O God, you made us in your own image
and redeemed us for the sake of your love:
Look with compassion on the whole human family;
take away the arrogance and hatred which infect our hearts;
break down the walls that separate us;
unite us in bonds of love;
and work through our struggle and confusion to accomplish your purposes on earth;
that, in your good time, we may all serve you in harmony around your heavenly throne.
Through Jesus Christ, Our Lord.

Amen.

Adapted from “Holding onto Hope—A National Service for Healing and Wholeness,” Washington National Cathedral, Washington DC, Nov. 1, 2020.

A Prayer for an Election

Most merciful God, whose son Jesus Christ taught us to love and to serve, may we be guided by your Holy Spirit in this time of decision for our nation.

Help us to remember that there are so many around the world who do not have this freedom, and remember, too, the lives lost to fight for our right to vote here in this democratic republic we call home.

Grant us wisdom in our discernment as we choose our leaders, and the grace to accept the results with humility—win or lose.

And once the election is decided, give us all the strength and compassion to work to heal this divided nation, that we may be empowered in common purpose to work toward the noble ideals that are the foundation of our republic, and that we may together love and serve the least of these.

All this we ask in Your name. Amen.

From Christ Episcopal Church, Glen Ridge, N.J.

Prayers of the People for an Election

Loving God, creator of this world who is the source of our wisdom and understanding, watch over this nation during this time of election. Help us to see how our faith informs our principles and actions.