Mother’s day is blessing for many, but for some it’s a reminder of hurt, sin and brokenness. Here are prayers that seek to embrace all of our experiences.

Let us pray for the church, the world, and all of creation.

Life-giving God, we give you thanks for our home in your eternal vision through Jesus Christ. We give thanks for mothers who reflect the image your love through their tender care and guidance. We pray for forgiveness, healing, and peace for those whose mother-child relationship is strained, hurt, or broken. Hear us O God, Your mercy is great.

Life-giving God, we pray for mothers who struggle to provide for their children amid famine, war, national discord, violence and poverty.  We pray especially for mothers and children in Syria, Yemen, and refugees along the Mexico-US border. Send your Spirit to give us the will of generosity and kindness, and grant peace in our world, peace in our nation, peace in our homes, and peace in our hearts.  Hear us O God, Your mercy is great.

Life-giving God, We pray for those who desire to be mothers or fathers, but struggle with miscarriages, infertility, or disappointment in relationships.  Comfort them, walk with them through the shadows, and give them the assurance of your never-failing love. Hear us O God, Your mercy is great.

Life-giving God, We give thanks for mothers who place their children for adoption and for those families who adopt them. Bless the work of Lutheran Social Services. We give thanks for foster parents. Bless them and help them to care for the precious gifts you have given them.  Hear us O God, Your mercy is great.

Life-giving God, we pray for single mothers who raise their children alone.  Surround them with a community of support and help. Grant them good jobs, fair wages and safe and affordable childcare. Hear us O God, Your mercy is great.

Life-giving God, We remember mothers who have had the great sorrow of burying their own children. We remember mothers who have died, especially those whom we name before you now aloud or silently……. Comfort all who mourn, and give us, with them, hope in the promise of your eternal home.  Hear us O God, Your mercy is great.

Into your hands O Lord, we commend all for whom we pray, trusting in your mercy through Jesus Christ, our Savior and Lord.  AMEN