Thanksgiving Prayer in Times Like These

God, being thankful for peace and plenty
is complicated, especially this Thanksgiving.
Whose peace and whose plenty?
So many people here and around the world
face violence every day.
In some countries homes are torn to smithereens
and grieving families are scattered to the four winds.
And while some tables are full in our communities,
some have empty cupboards
or no cupboards at all.

So teach us, Jesus, to be thankful in times like these.
Thankful for the good earth, the sun and the rain.
Thankful for farmers who labour to feed us.
Thankful for food itself, so life-giving and delicious.
Thankful for all who make meals and invite others to share them.
Thankful for organizations like our local food banks
and relief organizations that help us support people with food insecurity.
Thankful for Jesus who showed us how to love our neighbour.
Thankful that you breathe kindness and generosity into us,
uniting us through your Holy Spirit.
Thankful that love is stronger than hate,
and that there are always paths to peace.
Thankful for our communities
and opportunities like today
to practice the gift of thankfulness.
Thankful for you, our Creator,
whose power makes and remakes 
all things good.
Amen.

New Book Coming Soon!

Carol Penner has written a devotional book for Lent that explores the challenges of repentance and forgiveness. Forty reflections and prayers to deepen your walk with God as you prepare for Easter.  

You can order it here!

About Carol Penner

I am a Mennonite pastor currently teaching theology at Conrad Grebel University College in Waterloo, Ontario. I’ve served congregations in Ontario and most recently, Alberta.

I love to write and to lead worship! If you are finding my writing helpful, I would love to hear from you! Feel free to use or adapt the material here, it is all written by me. If printing material, please credit “Copyright Carol Penner www.leadinginworship.com” (and say whether you modified it). If publishing, please contact me for permission. Contact me at carol@leadinginworship.com

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  • Worship resources in a Mennonite voice for ears of all kinds

    Are you looking for resources for a Christian service? Feel free to use or adapt my prayers, poems and litanies. They are written in a Mennonite voice, for ears of all kinds. 

    Feel free to use these orally in a worship service (in-person or broadcasted)  , but if they are printed in a bulletin please use the following credit

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    Contact me for use in newsletters or printed resources, I am happy to grant permission but I would like to know how my writing is being used.  You can reach me at carol@leadinginworship.com.