Minute for Mission: Universal Day of Prayer for Students

February 17, 2019

The Week of Prayer for Christian Unity (WPCU) was celebrated Jan. 18–25 at the Presbyterian Center of the PC(USA) with the theme: “Justice, Only Justice, You Shall Pursue” (Deut. 16:20). We were invited to share intentional prayers with our ecumenical friends from around the world. The theme this year pointed to the hunger many have for a more just world. This year, our friends from Indonesia invited us to pray for them, for each other and for those suffering around the world. More information is available at  geii.org/week_of_prayer_for_christian_unity/welcome/invitation.html.

The theme of justice is also lifted by the Presbyterian Peace Fellowship as they remind us of gun violence in the U.S. We remember with grief Feb. 14, 2018, when a former student entered Marjory Stoneman Douglas High School in Parkland, Florida, with an AR-15-style semi-automatic weapon. He killed 17 students and adults, leaving hundreds of people affected by this senseless violence and the entire nation in shock. We are also reminded that in June 2018, the 223rd General Assembly (2018) of the PC(USA) called for practical steps to prevent gun violence in the U.S. Let us pray for the protection of students from gun violence in all places. Let our prayers move us to action for justice in the many communities affected by gun violence. More information on the Universal Day of Prayer for Students is available at presbypeacefellowship.org/events/day-of-prayer-for-students.

Finally, last year’s Universal Day of Prayer for Students focused on ecological justice. We evoke the critical importance of prayer and action for the earth. We are called to acknowledge the devastation created by climate change, with the results of our consumerism and ecological changes affecting millions. Our students are encouraged to pray fervently for the earth that they will inherit. May they be the generation that comes up with more sustainable solutions for the planet.

Rev. Everdith Landrau, Manager of Ecumenical Relations & Networking, Ecclesial and Ecumenical Ministries, Office of the General Assembly

Today’s Focus:  Universal Day of Prayer for Students

Let us join in prayer for: 

PC(USA) Agencies’ Staff

Rebecca Kueber, PPC
Mei-hui Lai, PMA

Let us pray:

Loving God, by your word all things came to be. We thank you for the universe which manifests your glory, beauty and kindness. Grant us the wisdom to walk gently upon the earth and together to be prophets of your good news to all creation. Amen.

Prayer provided from the daily prayer guide of the WPCU: geii.org/week_of_prayer_for_christian_unity/prayer_worship/daily_scripture_and_prayer_guide.html

Revised Common Lectionary Readings for Sunday, February 17, 2019, the Sixth Sunday in Ordinary Time (Year C)

• First Reading Jeremiah 17:5-10
• Psalm 1:1-6
• Second Reading 1 Corinthians 15:12-20
• Gospel Luke 6:17-26