Image Prayers for Troubling Times

We believe in Jesus, the Christ, and the image of the invisible God. The hard part is holding on to what we believe when overwhelming images of violence, tragedy and injustice overcome the images of Jesus. When this happens, we can use troubling images to create headline prayers that will guide us through our reactions. Here are two approaches. Prayer will be most helpful if it comes after an opportunity to share stories about what has happened and is followed by discussion about how we can help. The first option is appropriate for grades four to adult. The second is for ages five to eight. Some combination of these would be appropriate in a family setting. Each young person could collect one headline (or one picture for young children).

For a good kid's booklet try "When the World Makes me Scared" by Steve and Sue Givens (Liguori Kids, 2001).

                                                   Headline Prayers

Candle, cross (shaped out of a news photo), small stones or debris,

"headlines" from newspapers (a second set is placed in a basket at the door)

1. Each person chooses a newspaper headline from a table as they enter.

2. Light the candle and begin with a reading from Mark 4:35-41.

3. Read the headlines as statements of prayer needs.

4. Respond to each headline with a familiar response, or with “Jesus, be with us”.

5. Allow time to prayerfully add the names of family members, friends or individuals involved in disasters or difficulties.

6. Conclude with this statement of faith from a woman who was born in Lower Manhattan and burned out of her home and place of work. Add an appropriate hymn, like the chorus of "Be not Afraid" by Bob Dufford.

My Redeemer and my God.  He raises me from the dust to feel that I am near Him, He drives away all terrors, He fills me with His consolations: He is my guide, my friend, my supporter.  With such a guide can I fear?  With such a friend shall I not be satisfied?  With such a supporter can I fall?  Jesus, you are my redeemer and my God. Amen. (EA Seton)

You Lift Us to Safety, Jesus!

candle, cross or crucifix

small stones or an object associated with the present trouble

helper's symbol - like a firefighter's hat

printed or copied healines from newspapers (2 sets) one for display, one for reading

1. Children are inundated with images of violence and injustice through televisions, movies, video games. Use a news photo to talk about what they have seen and what has happened from their point of view. Ask how families or friends are feeling about this. Tell them how you feel. (Be cautious about how graphic the photo is)

2. Point out the fire hat (or helper symbol) and tell them that lots of people want to help. Ask what they know about these helpers.

3. Tell the story behind Matthew (23:37), when Jesus wanted to gather the whole city of Jerusalem and all of its buildings and people into his arms, like a hen guarding its chicks under her wings.

4. Practice opening your arms big enough to hug a whole city. Tell them that when we pray, God hugs us. Then light the candles. Ask them to name people and buildings, and cities we want God to pick up in his arms right now.

5. Response to petitions – (With a lifting motion) “Lift us up and keep us safe, Jesus.”

6. End with an invitation to give themselves a big hug as they pray, "Jesus, I know you love me and you want to keep me safe."  Finish with a song like, “He’s got the whole world in his hands” (and suggestions about ways children can help).