International Human Rights Day

I keep several calendars around the house. They seem to come in the mail at this time of year. Those who send them would like a contribution to their cause, please . . . the animal rights activists, the nature conservationists, etc.

One of my calendars says that today is "International Human Rights Day." I don't know who proclaimed it as such but I think it's a great idea. In fact, every day should be human rights day.

In the Episcopal Church, we take vows when we are baptized. One of those vows is: "Will you strive for justice and peace among all people, and respect the dignity of every human being?" to which we reply, "I will, with God's help."

Here are some prayers from The Book of Common Prayer (pages 823-826) to aid in our thinking about justice, peace, and human rights. Sincere praying of these prayers might require some action on our part:

For Social Justice
Grant, O God, that your holy and life-giving Spirit may so move every human heart that barriers which divide us may crumble, suspicions disappear, and hatreds cease; that our divisions being healed, we may live in justice and peace; through Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen.

For the Unemployed
Heavenly Father, we remember before you those who suffer want and anxiety from lack of work. Guide the people of this land so to use our public and private wealth that all may find suitable and fulfilling employment, and receive just payment for their labor; through Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen.

For the Poor and the Neglected
Almighty and most merciful God, we remember before you all poor and neglected persons whom it would be easy for us to forget: the homeless and the destitute, the old and the sick, and all who have none to care for them. Help us to heal those who are broken in body or spirit, and to turn their sorrow into joy. Grant this, Father, for the love of your Son, who for our sake became poor, Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen.

For the Oppressed
Look with pity, O heavenly Father, upon the people in this land [and in every land] who live with injustice, terror, disease, and death as their constant companions. Have mercy upon us. Help us to eliminate our cruelty to these our neighbors. Strengthen those who spend their lives establishing equal protection of the law and equal opportunities for all. And grant that every one of us may enjoy a fair portion of the riches of this land; through Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen.

They don't call it The Book of Common Prayer for nothing.


In peace,
Linda+
The Rev. Linda McCloud
Vicar, Holy Cross Church Episcopal
Billings, Montana
406-208-7314
www.holycrosschurchbillings.org