daily updates about Activities and Events
at St. Peter’s

ZOOM INFORMATION FOR SUNDAY OCTOBER 11, 2026
-TWENTIETH SUNDAY AFTER PENTECOST
day of thanksgiving

WE ARE DELIGHTED TO WELCOME BACK SUPPLY PASTOR, THE REV. MONIKA WIESNER WHO WILL PREACH AND PRESIDE AT TODAY’S WORSHIP SERVICE!


The ZOOM link for today’s service, which opens at 09.30 am on October 11, 2026, can be found here:
Worship October 11, 2026 09:30 am ZOOM room opens; service begins at 10:00 am.

Join Zoom Meeting click here:
https://us02web.zoom.us/j/86594280120?pwd=cJ07AosND16wJ0Jo0pnzqOjVbLaXMR.1

Meeting ID: 865 9428 0120        Passcode: 155931

You don’t have to have a computer or internet to connect to any of our church Zoom services; you can also just call in on one of these numbers (long distance charges may apply):  (All Canadian numbers). You can also access the ZOOM from your telephone by using the “One tap mobile” option: 
+15873281099,,86594280120#,,,,*155931# Canada;
+16473744685,,86594280120#,,,,*155931# Canada

Dial by your location:
+1 778 907 2071 Canada
+1 780 666 0144 Canada
+1 204 272 7920 Canada
+1 438 809 7799 Canada
+1 587 328 1099 Canada
+1 647 374 4685 Canada
+1 647 558 0588 Canada

Meeting ID: 865 9428 0120       Passcode: 155931  

Find your local number: https://us02web.zoom.us/u/kkudXhpUs
………………………………………….

CLICK BELOW TO ACCESS OUR CHURCH FACEBOOK PAGE & OUR YOUTUBE CHANNEL

UPDATE October 10, 2026

Giving Thanks

For the expanding grandeur of creation, worlds known and unknown, galaxies beyond galaxies, filling us with awe and challenging our imaginations:

We give thanks this day.
For this fragile planet earth, its times and tides, its sunsets and seasons:

We give thanks this day.
For the joy of human life, its wonders and surprises, its hopes and achievements:

We give thanks this day.
For our human community, our common past and future hope, our oneness transcending all separation, our capacity to work for peace and justice in the midst of hostility and oppression:

We give thanks this day.
For high hopes and noble causes, for faith without fanaticism, for understanding of views not shared:

We give thanks this day.
For all who have labored and suffered for a fairer world, who have lived so that others might live in dignity and freedom:

We give thanks this day.
For human liberty and sacred rites; for opportunities to change and grow, to affirm and choose:

We give thanks this day.
We pray that we may live not by our fears but by our hopes, not by our words but by our deeds.

We give thanks this day.

- O. Eugene Pickett
https://www.xavier.edu/jesuitresource/online-resources/prayer-index/thanksgiving-prayers

Remember always that you are loved!
Stay safe, and keep in touch.
Blessings and peace to you all,
The Leadership Team of St. Peter’s Evangelical Lutheran Church

‘Redeemer’, by Nicole C. Mullen
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=We1EdE8Iq0k
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UPDATE October 1, 2026

Going forward, we will update the St. Peter’s Facebook page and website on a seasonal basis, on special occasions, festivals, and times when current events and happenings in the news demand a response from your church. Finding content for daily updates that we have not previously made use of has become increasingly difficult and time-consuming. What began as a way to keep in touch during the pandemic evolved in to a wonderful social media outreach. During seasons such as Advent and Lent, we may be able to do weekly updates, depending on content availability. We of course will provide weekly links for our ZOOM worship services and announcements. We hope that you have been blessed by this outreach and that you continue to check in with us as we concentrate on more seasonal, targeted content.-LC

Remember always that you are loved!
Stay safe, and keep in touch.
Blessings and peace to you all,
The Leadership Team of St. Peter’s Evangelical Lutheran Church

‘Holy Forever’, by Chosen Road
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=j7A-Kf11ur8
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UPDATE September 30, 2026

Prayer for National Day of Truth and Reconciliation
Vibrant God
Your creation explodes with the colours of the
rainbow. Your peoples reveal the beauty of
diversity. We remember today when the joy and
dignity of a precious child was destroyed. We
lament today for the childhoods lost through the
residential school system. We mourn for the spirits
crushed and the futures compromised.
Celebrate the hope and joy of every child. Tell the
stories of resistance that make us stronger. Build
the bonds of solidarity to ensure “never again” In
the name of the one who was child among us,
Amen
~Kairos Canada

Remember always that you are loved!
Stay safe, and keep in touch.
Blessings and peace to you all,
The Leadership Team of St. Peter’s Evangelical Lutheran Church

‘Healing in Our Land’, by Jonathan Maracle
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=b8LfAyymfxA
*********************
UPDATE September 29, 2026

Creation Prayer
God our Father,
you created the world and sent your own Son to live among us,
made of the same stuff, breathing the same air,
marveling at sunrise and sunset just as we do.

Help us to participate in the life around and within us as your life,
as you living in us and we living in you and in each other.

God of love and life, restore us to your peace,
renew us through your power and teach us to love all that you have created and to care for the earth as your gift and our home.
- The Earth Community: In Christ through the Integrity of Creation
https://www.xavier.edu/jesuitresource/online-resources/prayer-index/creation-prayers

Remember always that you are loved!
Stay safe, and keep in touch.
Blessings and peace to you all,
The Leadership Team of St. Peter’s Evangelical Lutheran Church

‘You’re Still God’, by Philippa Hanna
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=22WoEYfuZN0
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UPDATE September 28, 2026

God Bless the World
Mighty God, Father of all,
Compassionate God, Mother of all,
Bless every person I met,
every face I have seen,
every voice I have heard,
especially those most dear;
bless every city, town and
street that I have known,
bless every sight I have seen,
every sound I have heard,
every object I have touched.
In some mysterious way these have all fashioned my life:
all that I am,
I have received.
Great God, bless the world.
-John J. Morris, S.J.
https://www.xavier.edu/jesuitresource/online-resources/prayer-index/creation-prayers

Remember always that you are loved!
Stay safe, and keep in touch.
Blessings and peace to you all,
The Leadership Team of St. Peter’s Evangelical Lutheran Church

‘One People’, by Philippa Hanna
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=PBJCCpD6vMU
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UPDATE September 27, 2026

Autumn Months
O God of Creation, you have blessed us with the changing of the seasons.

As we welcome the autumn months,
may the earlier setting of the sun
remind us to take time to rest.

May the brilliant colors of the leaves
remind us of the wonder of your creation.

May the steam of our breath in the cool air
remind us that it is you who give us the breath of life.

May the harvest from the fields remind us of the abundance we have been given and bounty we are to share with others.

May the dying of summer's spirit remind us of your great promise that death is temporary and life is eternal.

We praise you for your goodness forever and ever.
- Author Unknown
https://www.xavier.edu/jesuitresource/online-resources/prayer-index/autumn-prayers

Remember always that you are loved!
Stay safe, and keep in touch.
Blessings and peace to you all,
The Leadership Team of St. Peter’s Evangelical Lutheran Church

‘I, The Lord of Sea and Sky’, by Collin Raye
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Ngoit0sRTWY
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UPDATE September 26, 2026

Shades of Gold
So many shades of gold
Autumn
Another miracle we take for granted
Another expression of the artist's vision
The blending of the autumn hues
with the setting sun
Warm
Comforting
Perfect
Thank you for autumn, Lord.
- Author Unknown
https://www.xavier.edu/jesuitresource/online-resources/prayer-index/autumn-prayers

Remember always that you are loved
Stay safe, and keep in touch.
Blessings and peace to you all,
The Leadership Team of St. Peter’s Evangelical Lutheran Church

‘Serenity’, by Steph MacLeod
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=XuQExlVnoRQ
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UPDATE September 25, 2026

For Those Whose Harvest is Poor
Creator God, for daily bread
and all who work
to bring your harvest home
we bring our thanks today.

Forgive our ingratitude
we who have so much
yet waste what you have given.

For those whose harvest is poor,
whose crops have withered,
water tainted, children starve,
help those who bring relief
and bestow on us
an unaccustomed generosity,
that all might share from your garden
and all might sing your praise.

Creator God, provider of all
we bring our thanks today.
- Author Unknown
https://www.xavier.edu/jesuitresource/online-resources/prayer-index/autumn-prayers

Remember always that you are loved!
Stay safe, and keep in touch.
Blessings and peace to you all,
The Leadership Team of St. Peter’s Evangelical Lutheran Church

‘People of the Cross’, by Selah
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=O5XM6VZxgeM
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UPDATE September 24, 2026

Golden Leaves
We see signs of summer's passing in golden leaves,
shortening days, misty mornings, autumn glow.
We sense its passing in rain that dampens,
winds that chill, Harvest's bounty placed on show.
Creator God, who brings forth
both green shoot and hoar frost,
sunrise and sunset,
we bring our thanks
for seeds that have grown,
harvests gathered,
storehouses filled,
mouths fed.
And, as your good earth rests
through winter's cold embrace,
we look forward to its re-awakening
when kissed by Spring's first touch.
- Author Unknown
https://www.xavier.edu/jesuitresource/online-resources/prayer-index/autumn-prayers

Remember always that you are loved!
Stay safe, and keep in touch.
Blessings and peace to you all,
The Leadership Team of St. Peter’s Evangelical Lutheran Church

‘The Road Back Home’, by Katrina Mallory
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3B3TnBkIErc
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UPDATE September 23, 2026

God of Seed and Harvest
We bless you,
God of Seed and Harvest
And we bless each other
That the beauty of this world
And the love that created it
Might be expressed though our lives
And be a blessing to others
Now and always
- Author Unknown
https://www.xavier.edu/jesuitresource/online-resources/prayer-index/autumn-prayers

Remember always that you are loved!
Stay safe, and keep in touch.
Blessings and peace to you all,
The Leadership Team of St. Peter’s Evangelical Lutheran Church

‘Only Our Rivers Run Free’, by Onoir
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=x6oTw56LH4g
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UPDATE September 22, 2026

Prayer During Difficult Economic Times
Gracious God,
We know that your love is infinite and that you care about all areas of our life. In this time of economic insecurity, help us to trust that all of our security is in you. Keep us mindful that you always have and always will provide for our needs.

Apart from you we can do nothing.

Merciful God,
We ask that you give our leaders the wisdom to guide our nation and the world out of the current economic crisis.

Help us to protect the poor and all those who are struggling during this difficult time. Provide for their needs and give them hope. Open new opportunities for them and furnish the resources they need to live with dignity.  Encourage those who have enough to share essential resources with those who lack the necessities of life, and to do so with humble, grateful and loving hearts.

We ask this through Christ, Our Lord.  Amen.
--US Conference of Catholic Bishops
https://socialjusticeresourcecenter.org/prayers/economic-justice/

Remember always that you are loved!
Stay safe, and keep in touch.
Blessings and peace to you all,
The Leadership Team of St. Peter’s Evangelical Lutheran Church

‘The Love of God’, by Selah
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Fqp27IvdbSo
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|UPDATE September 21, 2026

Prayer for Those Dying in Economic Chaos
Hear our prayer for all those who will die today because of economic oppression, especially the children.

Prepare them for the agony, despair, and terror of the violence that is upon them. Comfort them and hold them close to the bosom of your most Immaculate Heart as they drink deeply of the bitter cup which is forced upon them. Wipe their tears, calm their fears, welcome them to peace and safety. Eternal rest grant to them, and may perpetual light shine upon them. May all rise in judgment against the wickedness that brings this violence upon the world.

Overturn the thrones of tyranny, scatter the unjust, cast down the bloody rulers who make the cry of the widow and orphan rise to heaven. Give us your grace and strength to stand against the demonic powers which prowl about the world seeking the ruin of souls. Grant that peace with justice will come to all the world.

Amen
--United Church of Christ
https://socialjusticeresourcecenter.org/prayers/economic-justice/

Remember always that you are loved!
Stay safe, and keep in touch.
Blessings and peace to you all,
The Leadership Team of St. Peter’s Evangelical Lutheran Church

‘Press On’, by Selah
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=d8DVJve79e4
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UPDATE September 20, 2026

For Your Quiet Saints
Thank you Father,
for the selfless giving of time.
For those often quiet saints
who do not argue their theology loudly,
engage in lengthy debates
over complex doctrinal issues,
or make their presence felt
within the hallowed space
of Church Council meetings,
but simply get on with doing
the business,
visiting the sick, the aged,
and the lonely,
a shoulder to cry on,
a listening ear,
and the reassurance
of one who cares.
Thank you Father,
for all those quiet saints,
who live their faith through their lives
in a world that often forgets
that you were never too busy to listen,
never too busy to minister to needs,
never too engrossed in work,
to bring hope and wholeness into lives.
Thank you Father,
for your quiet saints.
https://www.faithandworship.com/Prayers_Encounters_with_Gods_people.htm#gsc.tab=0

Remember always that you are loved!
Stay safe, and keep in touch.
Blessings and peace to you all,
The Leadership Team of St. Peter’s Evangelical Lutheran Church

‘Higher Name’, by Selah
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=q9ymzL3QY4s
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UPDATE September 19, 2026

For These Things We Pray…
For those who bring hope
where there is none,
love where there is hatred,
peace where there is war,
sustenance where there is hunger,
water where there is drought,
and comfort where there is sadness,
bless them Lord Jesus ,
whether they be Christian, Muslim,
no faith or any faith.
For all love has it's source in You,
and every act of selfless giving
brings a smile to your face.
https://www.faithandworship.com/Prayers_Encounters_with_Gods_people.htm#gsc.tab=0

Remember always that you are loved!
Stay safe, and keep in touch.
Blessings and peace to you all,
The Leadership Team of St. Peter’s Evangelical Lutheran Church

‘Christ Our Hope in Life and Death’, by Steph MacLeod
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=OgwdrtZkZws
*******************
UPDATE September 18, 2026

Serenity Prayer
God, grant me the serenity to accept the things I cannot change,
Courage to change the things I can,
And wisdom to know the difference.
Living one day at a time,
Enjoying one moment at a time,
Accepting hardship as a pathway to peace,
Taking, as Jesus did,
This sinful world as it is,
Not as I would have it,
Trusting that You will make all things right,
If I surrender to Your will,
So that I may be reasonably happy in this life,
And supremely happy with You forever in the next.
Amen.

– the common name for a prayer authored by the American theologian Reinhold Niebuhr (1892–1971). The first three lines are the most known and prayed.
https://franciscanaction.org/prayers/

Remember always that you are loved!
Stay safe, and keep in touch.
Blessings and peace to you all,
The Leadership Team of St. Peter’s Evangelical Lutheran Church

‘O Perfect Father’, by Steph MacLeod
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=pnnXFn0T_oI
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UPDATE September 17, 2026

Give Us This Day
Give us this day our daily bread,
O Father in heaven, and grant that we
who are filled with good things
from your open hand, may never close our hearts
to the hungry, the homeless and the poor.
In the name of the Father, and of the Son,
And of the Holy Spirit.
– Abbey of New Clairvaux
https://franciscanaction.org/prayers/

Remember always that you are loved!
Stay safe, and keep in touch.
Blessings and peace to you all,
The Leadership Team of St. Peter’s Evangelical Lutheran Church

‘Remember the Day’, by Steven Curtis Chapman
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=UEhC_ViepTc
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UPDATE September 16, 2026

Lord Open Our Eyes
Lord, open our eyes,
That we may see you in our brothers and sisters.

Lord, open our ears,
That we may hear the cries of the hungry, the cold,
the frightened, the oppressed.

Lord, open our hearts,
That we may love each other as you love us.

Renew in us your spirit
Lord, free us and make us one.
– Kathryn Spink
https://franciscanaction.org/prayers/

Remember always that you are loved!
Stay safe, and keep in touch.
Blessings and peace to you all,
The Leadership Team of St. Peter’s Evangelical Lutheran Church

Blessed Assurance’, by Steph MacLeod
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=WCyrAgBxXnU
*******************
UPDATE September 15, 2026

Late Summer Prayer
We see signs of summer's passing in golden leaves,
shortening days, misty mornings, autumn glow.
We sense its passing in rain that dampens,
winds that chill, Harvest's bounty placed on show.
Creator God, who brings forth
both green shoot and hoar frost,
sunrise and sunset,
we bring our thanks
for seeds that have grown,
harvests gathered,
storehouses filled,
mouths fed.
And, as your good earth rests
through winter's cold embrace,
we look forward to its re-awakening
when kissed by Spring's first touch.
https://www.faithandworship.com/Prayers_Autumn.htm#gsc.tab=0

Remember always that you are loved!
Stay safe, and keep in touch.
Blessings and peace to you all,
The Leadership Team of St. Peter’s Evangelical Lutheran Church

‘Prepare the Way’, by Steph MacLeod ft Nathan Jess
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zM1pTuAK6VQ
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UPDATE September 14, 2026

Prayer for Our Planet
Creator God, only you see
the big picture, this earth
that, spinning through space
can sustain the life we see
and hear, warmed by sun,
refreshed by rain, fed by
seed sown and harvested,
if we will only play our part.
Forgive our complacency,
our arrogance and greed,
and raise up leaders who,
with wisdom, can work
together for the good of all,
and save this precious gift
for future generations.
https://www.faithandworship.com/prayers_care_for_Gods_world.htm#gsc.tab=0

Remember always that you are loved!
Stay safe, and keep in touch.
Blessings and peace to you all,
The Leadership Team of St. Peter’s Evangelical Lutheran Church

‘My Jesus I Love Thee’, by Anthem Lights
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=DVzlUiclXTY
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UPDATE September 13, 2026

Creation Care Prayer
God, maker of marvels,
you weave the planet and all its creatures together in kinship;
your unifying love is revealed
in the interdependence of relationships
in the complex world that you have made.

Save us from the illusion that humankind is separate and alone,
and join us in communion with all inhabitants of the universe;
through Jesus Christ, our Redeemer,
who topples the dividing walls by the power of your Holy Spirit,
and who lives and reigns with you, for ever and ever. Amen.

-Liturgical Materials for Honoring God in Creation
Reported to the 78th General Convention.
https://franciscanaction.org/prayers/

Remember always that you are loved!
Stay safe, and keep in touch.
Blessings and peace to you all,
The Leadership Team of St. Peter’s Evangelical Lutheran Church

‘What a Friend We Have in Jesus’, Celtic Worship ft Steph MacLeod
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=pi1-5kmbkyQ
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UPDATE September 12, 2026

LC† The Winged Word: DAY 12  Last Day

Pope Francis’ Prayer for Peace and Protection from Violence and from Terrorism

O Almighty and merciful God, Lord of the universe and of history. All that You have created is good and your compassion for the mistakes of mankind knows no limits.

We come to You today to ask You to keep in peace the world and its people, to keep far away from it the devastating wave of terrorism, to restore friendship and instill in the hearts of your creatures the gift of trust and of readiness to forgive.

O Giver of life, we pray to You also for all those who have died as victims of brutal terrorist attacks. Grant them their eternal reward. May they intercede for the world that is torn apart by conflicts and disagreements.

O Jesus, Prince of Peace, we pray to You for the ones who have been wounded in these acts of inhuman violence: children and young people, old people and innocent people accidentally involved in evil. Heal their bodies and hearts; console them with Your strength and, at the same time, take away any hatred and a desire for revenge.

Holy Spirit Consoler, visit the families of the victims of terrorism, families that suffer through no fault of their own. Wrap them in the mantle of Your divine mercy. Make them find again in You and in themselves the strength and courage to continue to be brothers and sisters for others, above all for immigrants, giving witness to Your love by their lives.

Touch the hearts of terrorists so that they may recognize the evil of their actions and may turn to the way of peace and goodness, of respect for the life and for the dignity of every human being, regardless of religion, origin, wealth or poverty.

O God, Eternal Father, in Your mercy hear our prayer which we raise up to You amidst the deafening noise and desperation of the world. We turn to You with great hope, full of trust in Your infinite Mercy. Made strong by the examples of the blessed martyrs of Perú, Zbigniew and Michael, who have rendered courageous testimony to the Gospel, to the point of offering their blood, we entrust ourselves to the intercession of Your Most Holy Mother. We ask for the gift of peace and of the elimination from our midst of the sore of terrorism.

Through Christ our Lord. Amen.
https://www.usccb.org/prayers/pope-francis-prayer-peace-and-protection-violence-and-terrorism

Remember always that you are loved!
Stay safe, and keep in touch.
Blessings and peace to you all,
The Leadership Team of St. Peter’s Evangelical Lutheran Church

‘Walk You to Heaven’, by Beth Nielsen Chapman
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1Q_f2RAY2Uk
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UPDATE September 11, 2026

And don’t forget the Lutherans Connect ‘SEASON OF CREATION’ blog posts daily until September 12th. Click the link here: LC† The Winged Word: DAY 11

Prayer for the Anniversary of 9/11
O God, our hope and refuge,
in our distress we come quickly to you.
Shock and horror of that tragic day have subsided,
replaced now with an emptiness,
a longing for an innocence lost.

We come remembering those who lost their lives
in New York, Washington D.C., and Pennsylvania.

We are mindful of the sacrifice of public servants
who demonstrated the greatest love of all
by laying down their lives for friends.
We commit their souls to your eternal care
and celebrate their gifts to a fallen humanity.

We come remembering
and we come in hope,
not in ourselves, but in you.

As foundations we once thought secure have been shaken,
we are reminded of the illusion of security.
In commemorating this tragedy,
we give you thanks for your presence
in our time of need
and we seek to worship you in Spirit and in truth,
our guide and our guardian.

Amen.
- Rev. Jeremy Pridgeon

Remember always that you are loved!
Stay safe, and keep in touch.
Blessings and peace to you all,
The Leadership Team of St. Peter’s Evangelical Lutheran Church

‘If I Had My Way’, by Linda Eder
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=yJ9Yx-0_E1Y
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UPDATE September 10, 2026

And don’t forget the Lutherans Connect ‘SEASON OF CREATION’ blog posts daily until September 12th. Click the link here: LC† The Winged Word: DAY 10

Environmental Sabbath
Gracious God, who made the covenant promise with our ancestors, we gather here today a rebellious people.

We want to act out your intentions for us, but we keep getting mixed up by all the glitter of the world around us.

You tell us to honor creation, and we use other people and animals and plant life only to meet our wants.

You offer daily bread to every living creature, and we steal that bread from our brothers and sisters in the name of our greed.

You promise us new life, and we shrink back from it in fear.

Heal us, God, lest we destroy ourselves.

We need your presence among us.
Amen.
--U.N. Environmental Sabbath
https://greenchurches.ca/tools/spirituality/prayers/

Remember always that you are loved!
Stay safe, and keep in touch.
Blessings and peace to you all,
The Leadership Team of St. Peter’s Evangelical Lutheran Church

‘Wonderful, Merciful Savior’, by Selah
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=fK6sYVQCqhs
*****************
UPDATE September 9, 2026

And don’t forget the Lutherans Connect ‘SEASON OF CREATION’ blog posts daily until September 12th. Click the link here: LC† The Winged Word: DAY 9

The Canticle of the Creatures
by Saint Francis of Assisi

Most high, all powerful, all good Lord! All praise is yours, all glory, all honor, and all blessing. To you, alone, Most High, do they belong. No mortal lips are worthy to pronounce your name.

Be praised, my Lord, through all your creatures, especially through my lord Brother Sun, who brings the day; and you give light through him. And he is beautiful and radiant in all his splendor! Of you, Most High, he bears the likeness.

Be praised, my Lord, through Sister Moon and the stars; in the heavens you have made them, precious and beautiful.

Be praised, my Lord, through Brothers Wind and Air, and clouds and storms, and all the weather, through which you give your creatures sustenance.

Be praised, My Lord, through Sister Water; she is very useful, and humble, and precious, and pure.

Be praised, my Lord, through Brother Fire, through whom you brighten the night. He is beautiful and cheerful, and powerful and strong.

Be praised, my Lord, through our sister Mother Earth, who feeds us and rules us, and produces various fruits with colored flowers and herbs.

Be praised, my Lord, through those who forgive for love of you; through those who endure sickness and trial. Happy those who endure in peace, for by you, Most High, they will be crowned.

Be praised, my Lord, through our Sister Bodily Death, from whose embrace no living person can escape. Woe to those who die in mortal sin! Happy those she finds doing your most holy will. The second death can do no harm to them.

Praise and bless my Lord, and give thanks, and serve him with great humility.
https://greenchurches.ca/tools/spirituality/prayers/canticle-of-creatures/

Remember always that you are loved!
Stay safe, and keep in touch.
Blessings and peace to you all,
The Leadership Team of St. Peter’s Evangelical Lutheran Church

‘Echoes of the Glen’, by The Cheeky Celt
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=v8p5tvlnzGQ
*****************
UPDATE September 8, 2026

And don’t forget the Lutherans Connect ‘SEASON OF CREATION’ blog posts daily until September 12th. Click the link here: LC† The Winged Word: DAY 8

A Prayer For Protection
Lord, we ask you to protect the safety and the health of students, educators, staff, and families. Prevent evil and harm from entering into schools and communities. We pray that this year is full of joy and peace. Remind every person starting a new school year that you are in control and you are faithfully watching over them.
--Greg Holder

Remember always that you are loved!
Stay safe, and keep in touch.
Blessings and peace to you all,
The Leadership Team of St. Peter’s Evangelical Lutheran Church

‘You Are My Sanctuary’, by The Porter’s Gate ft Jon Guerra and Molly Parden
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=PorcInE2lSY
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UPDATE September 7, 2026

And don’t forget the Lutherans Connect ‘SEASON OF CREATION’ blog posts daily until September 12th. Click the link here: LC† The Winged Word: DAY 7

A Prayer For Those With Anxiety
Jesus, draw near to every person that is feeling weighed down with anxiety and fear of starting school. Cover them in a peace that transcends all understanding. guard their hearts and minds against worries and help them to trust in you. Bring friends and mentors into their life who can speak truth over them and remind them of your plan and your presence.
--Greg Holder

Remember always that you are loved!
Stay safe, and keep in touch.
Blessings and peace to you all,
The Leadership Team of St. Peter’s Evangelical Lutheran Church

‘Establish the Work of Our Hands’, by The Porter’s Gate ft Aaron Keyes & Urban Doxology
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5V2_cs8gTIw
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UPDATE September 6, 2026

And don’t forget the Lutherans Connect ‘SEASON OF CREATION’ blog posts daily until September 12th. Click the link here: LC† The Winged Word: DAY 6

A Prayer For New Friends
God, we pray over anyone who is feeling lonely as they start a new school year. We ask that you bring new friendships to light. Bless each person with kind and encouraging friends who reflect your character and are a good influence. We thank you for the gift of friendship and we ask you to bless each of these relationships over the next year.
--Greg Holder

Remember always that you are loved!
Stay safe, and keep in touch.
Blessings and peace to you all,
The Leadership Team of St. Peter’s Evangelical Lutheran Church

‘All to Honour Jesus’, by CityAlight
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=QwGnEwFxwH8
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UPDATE September 5, 2026

 And don’t forget the Lutherans Connect ‘SEASON OF CREATION’ blog posts daily until September 12th. Click the link here: LC† The Winged Word

A Prayer For Parents And Guardians

As a season of change begins to happen, move in close, Heavenly Father. May parents and guardians joyfully entrust these students into your loving hands. Remind them that they don’t have to have all of the answers. They can come to you and seek your understanding and guidance. Surround their family with a strong and loving community. Bless them with peace, patience, endurance, and wisdom as they watch their student navigate a new year.
--Greg Holder

Remember always that you are loved!
Stay safe, and keep in touch.
Blessings and peace to you all,
The Leadership Team of St. Peter’s Evangelical Lutheran Church

‘The God We Love’, by CityAlight ft Matt Redman
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4vUjxxmve-o
**********************
UPDATE September 4, 2026

And don’t forget the Lutherans Connect ‘SEASON OF CREATION’ blog posts daily until September 12th. Click the link here: LC† The Winged Word: DAY 4

A Prayer For Staff & Educators
Thank you Lord for the men and women who invest in the future of our children. No matter how big or small their role is, we are grateful. Bless each person with creativity and discernment as they lead others. Help them not to feel alone. Give them friends and coworkers who speak encouraging words. Protect them from feeling overwhelmed. May they sense your presence and your delight as they begin a new school year.
--Greg Holder

Remember always that you are loved!
Stay safe, and keep in touch.
Blessings and peace to you all,
The Leadership Team of St. Peter’s Evangelical Lutheran Church

‘Eyes on Me’, by Kathy Troccoli
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=TDTwkWiV5gc
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UPDATE September 3, 2026

And don’t forget the Lutherans Connect ‘SEASON OF CREATION’ blog posts daily until September 12th. Click the link here: LC† The Winged Word: DAY 3

A Prayer For Students
Lord, we ask that you surround students with peace as they begin a new year of classes. Give them a passion for learning new things and bless their hard work over the coming months. Surprise them with unexpected moments of joy. Guard their hearts against peer pressure and help them to be a light to those around them. Raise up this next generation of leaders and call them further into your grand and glorious story. Remind students that they are never alone, you are in every moment of their day.  Amen.
--Greg Holder

Remember always that you are loved!
Stay safe, and keep in touch.
Blessings and peace to you all,
The Leadership Team of St. Peter’s Evangelical Lutheran Church

‘Let it Be a Hallelujah’, by Lauren Daigle
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=BvfPK0gCdUc
*********************
UPDATE September 2, 2026

And don’t forget the Lutherans Connect ‘SEASON OF CREATION’ blog posts daily until September 12th. Click the link here: LC† The Winged Word: DAY 2

Prayer for Labour Day:
God of all, on this Labour Day, we thank You for the blessing of work and the strength to complete each day. We pray for all workers, that they would receive fair compensation and treatment in their labour. Provide sustenance for those who cannot work, and jobs for those who seek them. Help us to be your people, working for a world where all workers are valued—where those who clean houses can also afford to buy houses; where those who grow food can eat their fill; where those who serve us in various roles are also served by us. May all workers everywhere share in the abundance you have given us.

Be with us all in our work. Hold us accountable for our actions, seeking to transform unjust structures of society, and remembering to always strive to safeguard the integrity of creation, and sustain and renew the life of the earth in all that we do. We ask this through Jesus Christ, our Lord. Amen.
--From ‘Anglican Life Facebook Page

Remember always that you are loved!
Stay safe, and keep in touch.
Blessings and peace to you all,
The Leadership Team of St. Peter’s Evangelical Lutheran Church

‘We Labour Unto Glory’, by The Porter's Gate-ft Liz Vice, Josh Garrels, & Madison Cunningham
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=cRuPZCXShg4
********************
UPDATE September 1, 2026

And don’t forget the Lutherans Connect ‘SEASON OF CREATION’ blog posts daily from today until September 12th. Click the link here: LC† The Winged Word: DAY 1

A Prayer for Labor Day

As the sun rises to bring in the new day:

We remember those who descend into the earth, their work begins in darkness, pulling from the earth, the resources we steward.

We remember those who work inside a building away from the light and brightness of the day.

We remember those who work outside in the harsh elements of our world, the bitter cold and sweltering heat of extremes.

We remember those who do not have a job to go to, who are struggling to meet the needs of their daily living expenses, for whom the day becomes long and arduous.

As the sun sets to bring in the evening of rest:

We remember those who work in the night.

We remember those who are trying to recover from their labor and toils of the day.

We remember those who participate in unsafe and dangerous work.

We pray for a renewed sense of dignity in their lives and in their work.

God, in your goodness, you have made a home for the worker. Make a place in our hearts for compassion to the men and women who labor tirelessly for basic necessities. Ensure a place for the men and women who are struggling to find work. Grant us your wisdom to greet and care for those who are unable to work due to illness or circumstances that prevent their participation. Be with the children who are not able to run and play, but instead must put in a hard day’s work to help their family afford to eat, to live. Be with us all, Christ Jesus, as we go about the busyness of our work. Hold us accountable not only for our actions, but most importantly to each of our neighbors. May we continue to work together to bring about your reign! We ask this in your holy name, through the power of the Holy Spirit. Amen.

https://www.usccb.org/prayers/prayer-labor-day

Remember always that you are loved!
Stay safe, and keep in touch.
Blessings and peace to you all,
The Leadership Team of St. Peter’s Evangelical Lutheran Church

‘Your Labor is Not In Vain’, by The Porter’s Gate ft Paul Zach & Madison Cunningham
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=x0LWAcou0ZY
****************
UPDATE August 31, 2026

I Am Ready - Dolly Parton

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UPDATE August 30, 2026

Dolly Parton - Shine (Official)

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UPDATE August 29, 2026

Dolly Parton (Porter, & W Bros) - Daddy Was An Old Time Preacher Man

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UPDATE August 28, 2026

Dolly Parton - Jesus & Gravity (Official Music Video) - YouTube

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UPDATE August 27, 2026

Dolly Parton - 9 To 5 (Official Video)

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UPDATE August 26, 2026

Dolly Parton - My Tennessee Mountain Home

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UPDATE August 25, 2026

Friends, I’m just dipping in here to pay tribute to the late, great, truly-without-equal, Dolly Parton. Much will be written and said about her by newscasters, her friends, fellow artists and fans and that will cover most of the important parts of her life and career. What I would like to highlight is how beloved she was by people of all backgrounds, socio-economic levels, political persuasions, white -collar, blue-collar, educated or barely educated, country music fans or not, people just loved her because she was genuine, down-to-earth human being. She was a business woman in a man’s world and did it better than most. She was a ‘girl singer’ in a genre made up primarily of men, and she was a philanthropist whose true volume of generosity may never be known beyond the recipients. Her catalogue of music which is estimated at between 3,000 and 5,000 songs written by her will be ours to discover for years to come, all while revisiting our most favourite Dolly Parton songs. However, her most impactful contribution to the lives of children everywhere will be ‘Dolly Parton’s Imagination Library’. From the website: “Dolly Parton’s Imagination Library is dedicated to inspiring a love of reading by gifting books free of charge to children from birth to age five, through funding shared by Dolly Parton and local community partners in the United States, Canada, United Kingdom, Australia and Republic of Ireland.” According to the website, the total number of children registered is 3,197,250 while the total number of books distributed over the last 31 years is 332,411,218! All free of charge! What a lasting legacy that is. And that isn’t even counting everything else she has done to make lives better not only for her community in East Tennessee, but nationally and internationally.

Dolly, we didn’t deserve you, but we are so glad you stopped by and shared your talent and your life with the rest of us. Godspeed, Dolly. Thanks, and we’ll see you again.

We will share some of Dolly’s music in the days to come.

Dolly Parton - Coat of Many Colors (Dolly TV Series 1976)

*********************

For the month of August, as I did last year, I will be taking a sabbatical from the daily postings on the church website and Facebook page. A time of rest and refreshment is in order, and for me, August is a good time to take a breather. Should world events or important updates from the church arise, obviously these will be acknowledged in these spaces. I won’t be completely idle during this time, however. I will be in search of inspiring content…poems, articles, prayers, and music that might be inspiring or helpful on your faith journey. You can look for some of this content when the daily postings resume September 1st. Of course, the congregational announcements and worship service information will continue to be uploaded each week. I appreciate your kind words in support of this ministry which began during the pandemic as a form of connection between St. Peter’s and our members and friends. It has grown into an important outreach that helps keep us connected with each other as well as the wider community, and hopefully helps us to see Jesus in the eyes of everyone we meet. Keep me in your prayers and I’ll see you in September.—LC

Remember always that you are loved!
Stay safe, and keep in touch.
Blessings and peace to you all,
The Leadership Team of St. Peter’s Evangelical Lutheran Church

‘We Shall Behold Him/Behold the Lamb’, by Selah and Autumn Nelon Streetman|
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=lzdIrhaM6ys

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For the month of July, we will celebrate our home here in Canada. We are reminded that we can, and should, love many things about our country and the people in it. At the same time, we can be aware that during our history we have done damage to many people, cultures, and the very land itself during the last 159 years, and longer. Both can be true. We have the most beautiful scenery, lakes, mountains, trees, meadows skies, and streams as anywhere in the world. The seasons and the colours are gifts from God to our eyes. And yet not everyone experiences Canada in the same wonderful way. Life is hard and unfair for many, cruel for others, and not worth living for too many. Perhaps during this month of celebration, those of us who are a little better off, who have had better breaks in life can maybe consider how we can offer a hand up to those for whom Canada has not been the land of promise it has been for so many of the rest of us.

 For the month of July we will feature writings and quotes from famous Canadians and music from Canadian artists. We have wonderful gifts to share. We are blessed. Thank God for our home on native land!—LC

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UPDATE July 31, 2026

Canadian Quote of the Day

“Canada will be a strong country when Canadians of all provinces feel at home in all parts of the country, and when they feel that all Canada belongs to them.”
Pierre Trudeau

Remember you are always loved!
Stay safe, and keep in touch.
Blessings and peace to you all,
The Leadership Team of St. Peter’s Evangelical Lutheran Church

‘Song for the Mira’, by Anne Murray
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=yoR3SiIqBmI
******************

UPDATE July 30, 2026

Canadian Quote of the Day

“My friends, love is better than anger. Hope is better than fear. Optimism is better than despair. So let us be loving, hopeful and optimistic. And we'll change the world.”
Jack Layton

Remember you are always loved!
Stay safe, and keep in touch.
Blessings and peace to you all,
The Leadership Team of St. Peter’s Evangelical Lutheran Church

‘The Northwest Passage’, by Stan Rogers
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=lKF2uPx-d50
******************
UPDATE July 29, 2026

Canadian Quote of the Day

“Doing all we can to combat climate change comes with numerous benefits, from reducing pollution and associated health care costs to strengthening and diversifying the economy by shifting to renewable energy, among other measures.”
David Suzuki

Remember you are always loved!
Stay safe, and keep in touch.
Blessings and peace to you all,
The Leadership Team of St. Peter’s Evangelical Lutheran Church

‘I Will Always Be Right There’, by Bryan Adams
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=R3zZEvLhqec
******************
UPDATE July 28, 2026

Canadian Quote of the Day

“Man can now fly in the air like a bird, swim under the ocean like a fish, he can burrow into the ground like a mole. Now if only he could walk the earth like a man, this would be paradise.”
Tommy Douglas

Remember you are always loved!
Stay safe, and keep in touch.
Blessings and peace to you all,
The Leadership Team of St. Peter’s Evangelical Lutheran Church

‘God Bless the Child’, by Shania Twain
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=vm4LSgFv2VY
******************
UPDATE July 27, 2026

Canadian Quote of the Day

“The music field was the first to break down racial barriers, because in order to play together, you have to love the people you are playing with, and if you have any racial inhibitions, you wouldn't be able to do that.”
Oscar Peterson

Remember you are always loved!
Stay safe, and keep in touch.
Blessings and peace to you all,
The Leadership Team of St. Peter’s Evangelical Lutheran Church

‘Hymn to Freedom’, by Oscar Peterson
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=MUsu69pTS1c
******************
UPDATE July 26, 2026

Canadian Quote of the Day

“I am a huge believer in giving back and helping out in the community and the world. Think globally, act locally I suppose. I believe that the measure of a person's life is the affect they have on others.”
Steve Nash

Remember you are always loved!
Stay safe, and keep in touch.
Blessings and peace to you all,
The Leadership Team of St. Peter’s Evangelical Lutheran Church

‘My Nova Scotia Home’, by Hank Snow
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6o096e_RiI0
*****************
UPDATE July 25, 2026

Canadian Quote of the Day

“There's beauty everywhere. There are amazing things happening everywhere, you just have to be able to open your eyes and witness it. Some days, that's harder than others.”
Sarah McLachlan

Remember you are always loved!
Stay safe, and keep in touch.
Blessings and peace to you all,
The Leadership Team of St. Peter’s Evangelical Lutheran Church

‘Daughters of Newfoundland’, by The Ennis Sisters
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=OnP7LwWwaps
*****************
UPDATE July 24, 2026

Canadian Quote of the Day

“I am grateful for the opportunities I have been given to participate in that work as a representative of my country, Canada, whose people have, I think, shown their devotion to peace.”
Lester B. Pearson

Remember you are always loved!
Stay safe, and keep in touch.
Blessings and peace to you all,
The Leadership Team of St. Peter’s Evangelical Lutheran Church

‘The River’, by Brian Doerksen
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_e8Zouef-ZI
*****************
UPDATE July 23, 2026

Canadian Quote of the Day

“Ultimately, leadership is not about glorious crowning acts. It's about keeping your team focused on a goal and motivated to do their best to achieve it, especially when the stakes are high and the consequences really matter. It is about laying the groundwork for others' success, and then standing back and letting them shine. “
Chris Hadfield

Remember you are always loved!
Stay safe, and keep in touch.
Blessings and peace to you all,
The Leadership Team of St. Peter’s Evangelical Lutheran Church

‘Home’, by Michael Buble
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=lbSOLBMUvIE
******************
UPDATE July 22, 2026

Canadian Quote of the Day

“My heroes in real life are definitely my mom for being true to herself, for having a foot in both worlds, for being so very polite - Canadian and also such a traditional Greek woman. I would sum it up this way: the life lesson she would say is be polite while you're breaking the rules.”
Nia Vardalos

Remember you are always loved!
Stay safe, and keep in touch.
Blessings and peace to you all,
The Leadership Team of St. Peter’s Evangelical Lutheran Church

‘The Prayer’, by Celine Dion
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=DLsUb_mJWmI
******************
UPDATE July 21, 2026

Canadian Quote of the Day

“I believe that never was a country better adapted to produce a great race of women than this Canada of ours, nor a race of women better adapted to make a great country.”
Emily Murphy, women’s rights activist, jurist, and author

Remember you are always loved!
Stay safe, and keep in touch.
Blessings and peace to you all,
The Leadership Team of St. Peter’s Evangelical Lutheran Church

‘Farewell to Nova Scotia’, by Knackers Yard
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=MkLgGSG7PF8
******************
UPDATE July 20, 2026

Canadian Quote of the Day

“Privilege isn’t about what you’ve gone through; it’s about what you haven’t had to go through. And right now, we are in a time that is calling on us to learn the stories that we don’t know.
Janaya Khan

Remember you are always loved!
Stay safe, and keep in touch.
Blessings and peace to you all,
The Leadership Team of St. Peter’s Evangelical Lutheran Church

‘Wood River’, by Connie Kaldor
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=FYS_1TPAnPk
*****************
UPDATE July 19, 2026

Canadian Quote of the Day

“We need to move towards a truly just and equitable society by... making sure that every Canadian - whether they're living in long-term care or they're working part-time or they're students or they're Black or they're Indigenous - whatever their circumstances, can live in dignity and security.”
Annamie Paul

Remember you are always loved!
Stay safe, and keep in touch.
Blessings and peace to you all,
The Leadership Team of St. Peter’s Evangelical Lutheran Church

‘Bird on a Wire’, by kd lang
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ZvhD1cORBrU
*******************
UPDATE July 18, 2026

Canadian Quote of the Day

“Through these ongoing activities and possibly in the future, a Canadian will go live and work on the International Space Station and we will continue to make Canadians proud of our achievements in space.”
Marc Garneau

Remember you are always loved!
Stay safe, and keep in touch.
Blessings and peace to you all,
The Leadership Team of St. Peter’s Evangelical Lutheran Church

‘Emily Remembers’, by Shirley Eikhard
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=YPUo5jTSUfQ
*****************
UPDATE July 17, 2026

Canadian Quote of the Day

“The purpose of a woman’s life is just the same as the purpose of a man’s life: that she may make the best possible contribution to the generation in which she is living.”
Louise McKinney, provincial politician and women’s rights activist, first woman sworn into the Legislative Assembly of Alberta and the first woman elected to a legislature in Canada

Remember you are always loved!
Stay safe, and keep in touch.
Blessings and peace to you all,
The Leadership Team of St. Peter’s Evangelical Lutheran Church

‘Try a Little Kindness’, by Jann Arden with the Doane Uschool
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8GzLHgdz4ag
****************
UPDATE July 16, 2026

Canadian Quote of the Day

“I've learned what it truly means to be Canadian and in turn I've been inspired to make a difference in the world, however small it's been.”
Clara Hughes

Remember you are always loved!
Stay safe, and keep in touch.
Blessings and peace to you all,
The Leadership Team of St. Peter’s Evangelical Lutheran Church

‘B Minor’, by Leahy
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9yN0IPO91d4
**************************
UPDATE July 15, 2026

Canadian Quote of the Day

“If there's a pro-Canadian, or someone who's a real proud Canadian, I am. Nobody in Canada would want a united Canada more than me.”
Terry Fox

Remember you are always loved!
Stay safe, and keep in touch.
Blessings and peace to you all,
The Leadership Team of St. Peter’s Evangelical Lutheran Church

‘Rise Again’, by Raylene Rankin and the Rankin Family
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6typt9LJUXo
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UPDATE July 14, 2026

Canadian Quote of the Day

“Since the summer days of my Canadian childhood, I have loved to canoe across the dark mirror of northern lakes, paddling with an inside flick of the blade, leaving a trail of twisting whirlpools in my wake.”
Rory MacLean

Remember you are always loved!
Stay safe, and keep in touch.
Blessings and peace to you all,
The Leadership Team of St. Peter’s Evangelical Lutheran Church

‘Dante’s Prayer’, by Loreena McKennitt
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=HUHvj1cxOs0
***************
UPDATE July 13, 2026

Canadian Quote of the Day

“People ask me, ‘Are you proud of the fact that you were Canada’s first woman prime minister?’ I respond, ‘Yes, but I’d be prouder still to say I was Canada’s tenth woman prime minister.’”
Kim Campbell, Canada’s first and only female Prime Minister

Remember you are always loved!
Stay safe, and keep in touch.
Blessings and peace to you all,
The Leadership Team of St. Peter’s Evangelical Lutheran Church

‘I Wish I Knew How It Would Feel To Be Free’, by Salome Bey
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0YQoxdHuuvY
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UPDATE July 12, 2026

Canadian Quote of the Day

“We owe the Aboriginal peoples a debt that is four centuries old. It is their turn to become full partners in developing an even greater Canada. And the reconciliation required may be less a matter of legal texts than of attitudes of the heart.”
Romeo LeBlanc, former Governor General of Canada

Remember you are always loved!
Stay safe, and keep in touch.
Blessings and peace to you all,
The Leadership Team of St. Peter’s Evangelical Lutheran Church

‘Blackbird (sung in Mi’kmaq)’, by Emma Stevens
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=99-LoEkAA3w
*****************
UPDATE July 11, 2026

Canadian Quote of the Day

“I think reconciliation with indigenous people remains the biggest social justice issue facing the country, because we don’t do a good job of acknowledging the contributions native people have made. This is not just a country of immigrants.”
Wab Kinew, Manitoba Premier and broadcaster

Remember you are always loved!
Stay safe, and keep in touch.
Blessings and peace to you all,
The Leadership Team of St. Peter’s Evangelical Lutheran Church

‘Canada, My Canada’, by Liona Boyd ft various artists
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=PpCt8-vBgrM
*****************
UPDATE July 10, 2026

Canadian Quote of the Day

“Even before you’ve earned it, treat yourself and your career with the level of respect that you hope to one day deserve.”
Catherine O’Hara, actress

Remember you are always loved!
Stay safe, and keep in touch.
Blessings and peace to you all,
The Leadership Team of St. Peter’s Evangelical Lutheran Church

‘Summer Wages’, by Ian & Sylvia Tyson
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3HaddgwNqhY
******************
UPDATE July 9, 2026

Canadian Quote of the Day

"The woman is the foundation on which nations are built. She is the heart of her nation. If that heart is weak, the people are weak. If her heart is strong and her mind is clear, then the nation is strong and knows its purpose. The woman is the center of everything."
Art Solomon, Ojibway Elder

Remember you are always loved!
Stay safe, and keep in touch.
Blessings and peace to you all,
The Leadership Team of St. Peter’s Evangelical Lutheran Church

‘Cherokee Morning Song’, by Robbie Robertson & The Red Road Ensemble ft Rita Coolidge
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=oQTYmWTnrSY
*****************
UPDATE July 8, 2026

Canadian Quote of the Day

"Bullying, jealousy, hate, greed, lies, arrogance, searing self-absorption, destructive 'power over' mentalities are wasteful pursuits and causes the human heart to fall to the ground. It is beyond healing, beyond human conscience when women fight with each other. We are Mother Earth's heartbeat, it is our responsibility to bring peace, harmony and balance back to the world. This will not happen if we continue to find fault with ourselves and perpetuate it on our sisters."
Shannon Thunderbird, Tsimshian singer and storyteller

Remember you are always loved!
Stay safe, and keep in touch.
Blessings and peace to you all,
The Leadership Team of St. Peter’s Evangelical Lutheran Church

‘Georgia’, by Jackie Richardson ft Peter Appleyard
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=h8ObplHsxa4
******************
UPDATE July 7, 2026

Canadian Quote of the Day

"I remember my first solo (in the CF-18 Hornet). There I was taxiing out to the end of the runway thinking to myself, 'Can you imagine this, look at me driving this $35 million jet!'"
Major Deanna Brasseur, one of the first two women in the world trained to fly jet fighter aircraft in combat

Remember you are always loved!
Stay safe, and keep in touch.
Blessings and peace to you all,
The Leadership Team of St. Peter’s Evangelical Lutheran Church

‘Four Strong Winds’, by Neil Young ft Willie Nelson
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=yIQu_MVZcas
********************
UPDATE July 6, 2026

Canadian Quote of the Day

"I do not want to be the angel of any home; I want for myself what I want for other women, absolute equality. After that is secured, then men and women can take turns at being angels.""
Agnes Macphail, first woman member of Parliament in Canada

Remember you are always loved!
Stay safe, and keep in touch.
Blessings and peace to you all,
The Leadership Team of St. Peter’s Evangelical Lutheran Church

‘Working Man’, by Rita MacNeil ft Men of the Deeps
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Oe2hEm1xsa8
*********************
UPDATE July 5, 2026

Canadian Quote of the Day

"It's great going up and looking at the earth, but all I could think of was getting back and having a glass of cold skim milk."
Roberta Bondar, the first Canadian woman in space

Remember you are always loved!
Stay safe, and keep in touch.
Blessings and peace to you all,
The Leadership Team of St. Peter’s Evangelical Lutheran Church

‘Christian Island’ (Georgian Bay), by Gordon Lightfoot
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=fP3n_U7G2CY
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UPDATE July 4, 2026

Canadian Quote of the Day

"I see a peaceful world in which we have finally come to terms with the reality that our survival depends on abandoning conflict, working for peace, sharing what we have and living within our ecological means."
Elizabeth May, environmentalist

Remember you are always loved!
Stay safe, and keep in touch.
Blessings and peace to you all,
The Leadership Team of St. Peter’s Evangelical Lutheran Church

‘The Circle Game’, by Joni Mitchell
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=V9VoLCO-d6U
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UPDATE July 3, 2026

Canadian Quote of the Day

"The people do not exist for the sake of art, to give the painter fame or the picture a market. On the contrary, art exists for the sake of the people, to refresh the weary, to console the sad, to increase man's joy of living and his sympathies with all the world."
Madge Young Clement, singer and first president of The Brandon Art Club

Remember you are always loved!
Stay safe, and keep in touch.
Blessings and peace to you all,
The Leadership Team of St. Peter’s Evangelical Lutheran Church

‘Snowbird’, by Anne Murray ft Jann Arden
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=wFKmqmYcRLM
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UPDATE July 2, 2026

Canadian Quote of the Day

"The root of the word 'society' is 'friendship' and 'companionship'. This concept is the basis of the Kaienerekowa, the Great Law of Peace, the Constitution of the Five Nations Iroquois Confederacy. The Great Law is a way of life that was given to us as we saw it. It's how we are to relate to the universe, which is the way that I have tried to live."
Kahn-Tineta Horn, Mohawk activist

Remember you are always loved!
Stay safe, and keep in touch.
Blessings and peace to you all,
The Leadership Team of St. Peter’s Evangelical Lutheran Church

‘Dreamcatcher’, by Morgan Toney
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=iy6lrOgW0Hs
******************
UPDATE July 1, 2026

Prayer for Canada
(inspired by Psalm 72)

“He shall have dominion from sea to sea….” Psalm 72:8

O Lord,
we gather together in your presence on this Canada Day.
We read of your “dominion” in Psalm 72,
and claim this promise—that your will would prevail in this land.
We pray for the movement of your Holy Spirit across this nation
and for the work of your church in every city and village.

O Lord, make us mindful of your generosity,
and glad to do your will.
Bless our land with honest industry, truthful education,
and an honourable way of life.
Save us from violence, discord, and confusion;
from pride, arrogance, and from every evil course of action.
Make us, who come from many different backgrounds and countries,
a united people – one in purpose and vision.
Give our government a spirit of wisdom and compassion
that there may justice and peace in our land.
When times are prosperous, lead us to thanksgiving,
and when times are troubled, lead us to a deepening trust in you.

All this we ask in the name of Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen.
~ adapted from a prayer on the website of Trinity Anglican Church in Barrie, Ontario. http://www.trinitybarrie.ca/

Remember you are always loved!
Stay safe, and keep in touch.
Blessings and peace to you all,
The Leadership Team of St. Peter’s Evangelical Lutheran Church

‘O Canada’, by Various Artists in 11 Different Languages
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1jROsqdrLdk
****************

The month of June offers us two themes to focus our minds and hearts. It is Pride Month where we consider how the church has too often excluded our 2SLGBTQIA+ siblings. Also, it is Indigenous History Month where we consider our learning and further our journey of reconciliation with our Indigenous siblings here on Turtle Island. We want to observe and celebrate both of these important observations so we will alternate daily from one focus to the other with resources and music from each of these diverse communities. We will offer suggestions of books, movies, documentaries, and podcasts that you can use to begin, or continue, your own personal journey as well as the journey of the church. Some resources may prove more difficult to watch or read than others, but you are encouraged to find a place to start. We as individuals and in the church have not always conducted ourselves with the grace and welcome we might have liked if we had been in the shoes of others. But, in the immortal words of the late Dr. Maya Angelou, “Do the best you can until you know better. Then when you know better, do better.”—ED

*****************************
UPDATE June 30, 2026

Today’s Pride Month Resource

Alarm in the Firehouse: A Memoir of America's First Openly Gay Professional Firefighter (Book)
By: R Kevin Mallinson
Publisher: R. Kevin Mallinson
2021

From Indigo
In the early 1980s, Kevin joined the Key West Fire Department. His dream of being a professional firefighter had come true. He hadn't imagined how being gay would threaten his fellow firefighters. Kevin became the target of fierce and unrelenting homophobic assaults intended to force him out of the department. His story highlights the importance of personal values and a sense of humor when facing adversity. Against a backdrop of the emerging AIDS epidemic, Kevin relays a narrative of conflict, resilience, and triumph over his several years as America's first openly gay professional firefighter. This honest account invites the reader to contemplate the nature of masculinity and consider what it means to be one of America's Bravest.

Remember always that you are loved!
Stay safe, and keep in touch.
Blessings and peace to you all,
The Leadership Team of St. Peter’s Evangelical Lutheran Church

‘Dear Insecurity’, by Brandy Clark ft Brandi Carlile
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=sTYyzSI3eEw
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UPDATE June 29, 2026

Today’s Indigenous People’s Month Resource

Every Child Matters: Parts 1 & 2- Residential School Documentary - N.C.T.R. (Documentary)
Executive Producers NTRC: Ry Moran, Stephanie Scott
Executive Producers Insight Productions: Lindsay Cox, John Brunton
2020; Running Time: 1Hr 35min

From the JustWatch website:
“Every Child Matters: Reconciliation Through Education is a powerful 90-minute special created by the National Centre for Truth and Reconciliation (NCTR) produced in collaboration with Insight Productions and supported by Canadian Heritage. The special, airing on APTN and CBC, honours Residential School Survivors and their families through storytelling and performance by Youth, Leaders, Knowledge Keepers, and Elders from a diverse group of Indigenous Nations, communities, and cultures.”

This video is available for you to watch for free on YouTube:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=uKwTBojyzjQ

Remember always that you are loved!
Stay safe, and keep in touch.
Blessings and peace to you all,
The Leadership Team of St. Peter’s Evangelical Lutheran Church

‘Voice of the Earth’, by Emma Stevens
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=khULpXUzNJM
***********************
UPDATE June 28, 2026

Today’s Pride Month Resource

Our Witness: The Unheard Stories of LGBT+ Christians (Book)
Edited by: Brandan J Robertson
Foreword by: Lisbeth M Melendez Rivera
Published by: Wipf & Stock Publishers
2018

From Indigo
The stories of LGBT+ Christians are not untold, but have often been unheard by faith leaders and communities. While so much of the conversation about LGBT+ inclu18sion has focused on theology and ideology, few have actually interacted with the raw, real stories and experiences of LGBT+ Christians. In this volume, LGBT+ Christian activist and theologian Brandan Robertson has brought together stories of LGBT+ Christians from around the world combined with his theological insights to create a powerful book that will challenge, convict, and inspire readers from all theological backgrounds to examine their posture and message toward the LGBT+ community and embrace the revival that the Holy Spirit is igniting among queer Christians around the world.

Remember always that you are loved!
Stay safe, and keep in touch.
Blessings and peace to you all,
The Leadership Team of St. Peter’s Evangelical Lutheran Church

‘Boy Like Me’, by Adam Mac
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Em8WbG4XK6E
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UPDATE June 27, 2026

Today’s Indigenous People’s Month Resource

Reel Injun (Documentary)
Director: Neil Diamond
Production companies: Rezolution Pictures, NFB
Producers: Catherine Bainbridge, Christina Fon, Linda Ludwick
2009; 1 h 28 min

From the National Film Board website:

“In this feature-length documentary, Cree filmmaker Neil Diamond takes an entertaining and insightful look at the portrayal of North American Indigenous people throughout a century of cinema. Featuring hundreds of clips from old classics as well as recent releases, the film traces the evolution of the “Hollywood Indian.” Diamond guides the audience on a journey across America to some of cinema’s most iconic landscapes and conducts candid interviews with celebrities like Clint Eastwood, Robbie Robertson and Jim Jarmusch. The film is a loving look at cinema through the eyes of the people who appeared in its very first flickering images and have survived to tell their stories in their own way.”

You can watch this documentary for free on YouTube at the following link:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=wxP3daINE8s

Remember always that you are loved!
Stay safe, and keep in touch.
Blessings and peace to you all,
The Leadership Team of St. Peter’s Evangelical Lutheran Church

‘Gentle Warrior’, by Kalolin Johnson ft Devon Paul & Thunder Herney
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=UkUxIFw5vOg
***********************
UPDATE June 26, 2026

Today’s Pride Month Resource

The Umpire is Out: Calling the Game and Living My True Self (Book)
By: Dale Scott with Rob Neyer
Foreword by: Billy Bean
Published by: Nebraska
2025

From Indigo:
Dale Scott's career as a professional baseball umpire spanned nearly forty years, including thirty-three in the Major Leagues, from 1985 to 2017. He worked exactly a thousand games behind the plate, calling balls and strikes at the pinnacle of his profession, interacting with dozens of other top-flight umpires, colorful managers, and hundreds of players. Scott has enough stories about his career on the field to fill a dozen books, but what makes Scott's book truly different is his unique perspective as the only umpire in the history of professional baseball to come out as gay during his career, after decades of maintaining a public facade of straightness. He navigated this obstacle course at a time when his MLB career was just taking off-and when North America was consumed by the AIDS epidemic.

Scott's story isn't only about leading a double life, then opening himself up to the world and discovering a new generosity of spirit. It's also a baseball story, filled with insights and memorable anecdotes that come so naturally from someone who spent decades among the world's greatest baseball players, managers, and games. Scott's story is fascinating both for his umpiring career and for his being a pioneer for LGBTQ people within baseball and across sports.

Remember always that you are loved!
Stay safe, and keep in touch.
Blessings and peace to you all,
The Leadership Team of St. Peter’s Evangelical Lutheran Church

‘Cowboy Take Me Away’, by Cameron Hawthorn
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Ij_7lgVPaWA
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UPDATE June 25, 2026

Today’s Indigenous People’s Month Resource

Stories From the River's Edge (Documentary)
Directed by: Tamar Weinstein
Written by: Gillian Findlay
CBC/The Fifth Estate Production
2011; Running Time: 45 Min

From YouTube
In the ten years before the 2011 airing of Stories From the River's Edge, seven of the Aboriginal students who came to Thunder Bay to complete their high school education in Thunder Bay returned home in coffins. The Fifth Estate profiles of two Aboriginal students Starleen and Sylvia Meekis, who left their reserve in Deer Lake to attend school, looking at the issues facing these youths, both at home on the reserves and in Thunder Bay. As well as a look at the adults who are trying to help the students of Dennis Franklin Cromarty High School as best they can.

You can watch this documentary for free on YouTube at the following link:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=F2wfVjTJ3zA

Remember always that you are loved!
Stay safe, and keep in touch.
Blessings and peace to you all,
The Leadership Team of St. Peter’s Evangelical Lutheran Church

‘We Shall Remain (It Wasn’t Taken Away)’, Kalolin Johnson
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8jYnPr065-4
***********************
UPDATE June 24, 2026

Today’s Pride Month Resource

Better Living Through Birding: Notes from a Black Man in the Natural World (Book)
By Christian Cooper
Random House, 2023
304 pages
ABA Sales–Buteo Books 15350

From Goodreads.com
“NEW YORK TIMES BESTSELLER • Central Park birder Christian Cooper takes us beyond the viral video that shocked a nation and into a world of avian adventures, global excursions, and the unexpected lessons you can learn from a life spent looking up.

"Wondrous . . . captivating.”—Ed Yong, Pulitzer Prize–winning author of An Immense World

Christian Cooper is a self-described “Blerd” (Black nerd), an avid comics fan and expert birder who devotes every spring to gazing upon the migratory birds that stop to rest in Central Park, just a subway ride away from where he lives in New York City. While in the park one morning in May 2020, Cooper was engaged in the birdwatching ritual that had been a part of his life since he was ten years old when what might have been a routine encounter with a dog walker exploded age-old racial tensions. Cooper’s viral video of the incident would send shock waves through the nation.

In Better Living Through Birding , Cooper tells the story of his extraordinary life leading up to the now-infamous incident in Central Park and shows how a life spent looking up at the birds prepared him, in the most uncanny of ways, to be a gay, Black man in America today. From sharpened senses that work just as well at a protest as in a park to what a bird like the Common Grackle can teach us about self-acceptance, Better Living Through Birding exults in the pleasures of a life lived in pursuit of the natural world and invites you to discover them yourself.

Equal parts memoir, travelogue, and primer on the art of birding, this is Cooper’s story of learning to claim and defend space for himself and others like him, from his days at Marvel Comics introducing the first gay storylines to vivid and life-changing birding expeditions through Africa, Australia, the Americas, and the Himalayas. Better Living Through Birding recounts Cooper’s journey through the wonderful world of birds and what they can teach us about life, if only we would look and listen.”

Remember always that you are loved!
Stay safe, and keep in touch.
Blessings and peace to you all,
The Leadership Team of St. Peter’s Evangelical Lutheran Church

‘Tomorrow is a Long Time’, by Chely Wright
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=WHjZEBbCRgk&list=RDWHjZEBbCRgk&start_radio=1
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UPDATE June 23, 2026

Today’s Indigenous People’s Month Resource

The Walk (Documentary)
Directed by: Peter Spirer
Produced by: Charles Block, Gayle Anne Kelley, Morgan H. Margolis, Peter Spirer
2021; Running Time: 52 Min

From IMDB
The Walk tells the story of three hundred Native people that attempted to walk 768 miles, from the Pala Reservation near San Diego to Sacramento, in an effort to bring unification to the tribal nations of California. California has the largest Native American population in the United States with 278 tribal nations, more than any other state in the country. The history of California Indians is brutal and devastating, but few Americans, including Californians, know anything about these tribes. The Walk tells the moving story of the traditional walk of several California tribal communities and their supporters. Led by Native spiritual leader, Robert John, and beginning at the Pala reservation in Southern California, the group makes the 768-mile journey to Sacramento, the state's political seat. There they hope to bring light to issues threatening Native American sovereignty, preservation of culture and language, and inter-tribal unity.

You can watch this documentary for free on YouTube at the following link:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=EHXXJWxer28

Remember always that you are loved!
Stay safe, and keep in touch.
Blessings and peace to you all,
The Leadership Team of St. Peter’s Evangelical Lutheran Church

‘Native Women-The Anthem by The Future is Indigenous Women’, by Lyla June and Desirae Harp
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=tSRRWqYNDz4
***********************
UPDATE June 22, 2026

Today’s Pride Month Resource

Out North: MNLGBTQ History (Documentary)
PBS Twin Cities Production
2017; Running Time: 1 Hr 57 Min

From YouTube
“Out North: MNLGBTQ History" explores the untold past of Minnesota's lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, and queer community and celebrates the strides the state has made since the gay liberation movement began in the 1970s.

The film lifts up the stories of well-known and largely unknown LGBTQ Minnesotans who found each other and spoke out when it was a tremendous risk to do so. The film explores some of the important ways that Minnesota has played a significant role in the national movement for LGBTQ equality. As part of Twin Cities PBS’ important body of work on Minnesota’s history, the film explores the past through people and place, personal moments and major milestones. Rather than chronicling politics and policy, these stories tilt toward the human, lived experience.

This documentary is available for you to watch for free at the following YouTube link:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4DTZxwn4NhY

Remember always that you are loved!
Stay safe, and keep in touch.
Blessings and peace to you all,
The Leadership Team of St. Peter’s Evangelical Lutheran Church

‘Don’t Tell Me Who To Love’, by Ray Boltz
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=QjqQySbj0N8&list=RDQjqQySbj0N8&start_radio=1
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UPDATE June 21, 2026

Today is Indigenous Peoples’ Day

Today’s Indigenous Peoples’ Month Resource

Who We Are: Four Questions For a Life and a Nation (Book)
By The Honourable Murray Sinclair cc
Publisher: McClelland & Stewart
2024

From Goodminds.com
Senator Murray Sinclair was a judge for twenty-eight years. He was the first Indigenous judge appointed in Manitoba and Canada’s second. He served as Co-Chair of the Aboriginal Justice Inquiry in Manitoba and as Chief Commissioner of the Truth and Reconciliation Commission (TRC). As head of the TRC, he participated in hundreds of hearings across Canada, culminating in the issuance of the TRC’s report in 2015.

He served as an adjunct professor of law at the University of Manitoba and has won numerous awards, including the National Aboriginal Achievement Award, the Manitoba Bar Association’s Equality Award (2001) and its Distinguished Service Award (2016), and has received Honorary Doctorates from 14 Canadian universities. Senator Sinclair was appointed to the Senate on April 2, 2016.

Judge, senator, and activist. Father, grandfather, and friend. This is Murray Sinclair’s story—and the story of a nation—in his own words, an oral history that forgoes the trappings of the traditional written memoir to center Indigenous ways of knowledge and storytelling. As Canada moves forward into the future of reconciliation, one of its greatest leaders guides us to ask the most important and difficult question we can ask of ourselves: Who are we?

For decades, Senator Sinclair has fearlessly educated Canadians about the painful truths of our history. He was the first Indigenous judge in Manitoba, and only the second Indigenous judge in Canadian history. He was the Chair of the Truth and Reconciliation Commission, and remains one of the foremost voices on Reconciliation. And now, for the first time, he will share his full story—and his full vision for our nation—with readers across Canada.

Drawing on Senator Sinclair’s unique experiences, and his perspectives regarding Indigenous identity, human rights, and justice in Canada, Who We Are will examine the roles of history, resistance, and resilience in the pursuit of finding that path forward, and healing the damaged relationship between Indigenous Peoples and non-Indigenous peoples in Canada. And in doing so, it will reveal Senator Sinclair’s life in a new and direct way, exploring how all of these experiences shaped him as an Anishinaabe man, father, and grandfather.

Structured around the four questions that have long shaped Senator Sinclair’s thinking and worldview—Where do I come from? Where am I going? Why am I here? Who am I?—Who We Are will take readers into the story of his remarkable life as never before, while challenging them to embrace an inclusive vision for our shared future.

Remember always that you are loved!
Stay safe, and keep in touch.
Blessings and peace to you all,
The Leadership Team of St. Peter’s Evangelical Lutheran Church

One World (We Are One), by IllumiNative & Mag 7
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=XHhbeRJudY4
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UPDATE June 20, 2026

Today’s Pride Month Resource

Yet Here I Am (Book)
By Jonathan Capehart
Published by: Grand Central Publishing
2025

From Barnes and Noble
A NEW YORK TIMES BESTSELLER
Pulitzer Prize winning writer, editor and TV host Jonathan Capehart recounts powerful stories from his life about embracing identity, picking battles, seizing opportunity and finding his voice.

MSNOW anchor Jonathan Capehart is one of the most recognizable faces in cable news. But long before that success, Capehart spent his boyhood growing up without his father, shuttling back and forth between New Jersey and rural Severn, North Carolina, and contemplating the complexities of race and identity as they shifted around him. It was never easy bridging two worlds; whether being told he was too smart or not smart enough, too Black or not Black enough, Capehart struggled to find his place. Then, an internship at The Today Show altered the course of his life, bringing him one step closer to his dream. From there, Capehart embarks on a journey of self-discovery.

Yet Here I Am takes us along that journey, from his years at Carleton College, where he learns to embrace his identity as a gay Black man surrounded by a likeminded community; to his decision to come out to his family, risking rejection; and finally to his move to New York City, where time and again he stumbles and picks himself up as he blazes a path to become the familiar face in news we know today.  

Honest and endearing, Yet Here I Am is an inspirational memoir of identity, opportunity, and finding one's voice and purpose along the way.

Remember always that you are loved!
Stay safe, and keep in touch.
Blessings and peace to you all,
The Leadership Team of St. Peter’s Evangelical Lutheran Church

‘All My Life’, by Brooke Eden
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=bv2QMboZ_Lc
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UPDATE June 19, 2026

Today’s Indigenous Peoples’ Month Resource

‘Indian’ in the Cabinet: Speaking Truth to Power (Book)
By Jody Wilson-Raybould
Published by: Harper-Collins
2021
From Harper-Collins

THE #1 NATIONAL BESTSELLER
A compelling political memoir of leadership and speaking truth to power by one of the most inspiring women of her generation—now in paperback

Jody Wilson-Raybould was raised to be a leader. She was inspired by the example of her grandmother, who persevered throughout her life to keep alive the governing traditions of her people. And as the daughter of a hereditary Chief and Indigenous leader, Wilson-Raybould always knew she would adopt leadership roles and responsibilities. But she never anticipated these roles would take her from her community of We Wai Kai in British Columbia to Ottawa as Canada’s first Indigenous Minister of Justice and Attorney General in the Cabinet of then newly elected Prime Minister Justin Trudeau.

Wilson-Raybould’s experience in Trudeau’s Cabinet reveals important lessons about strengthening our political institutions and culture, and making the changes necessary to confront challenges like racial justice and climate change. As her initial optimism about the possibilities of enacting change while in Cabinet shifted to struggles over inclusivity, deficiencies of political will, and concerns about adherence to core tenets of our democracy, Wilson-Raybould stood on principle, and ultimately, resigned. In standing her ground, both personally and professionally, and telling the truth in front of the nation, she demonstrated the need for greater independence and less partisanship in how we govern.

“Indian” in the Cabinet: Speaking Truth to Power is the story of why Wilson-Raybould got into federal politics, her experience as an Indigenous leader sitting at the Cabinet table, her proudest achievements, the SNC-Lavalin affair, and how she got out and moved forward. Wilson-Raybould believes there is a better way to govern and a better way for politics to function—one that will make a better country for all.

Remember always that you are loved!
Stay safe, and keep in touch.
Blessings and peace to you all,
The Leadership Team of St. Peter’s Evangelical Lutheran Church

‘Now is the Time’, by Jonathan Maracle
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=dcJ9r7Sn6PA
***********************
UPDATE June 18, 2026

Today’s Pride Month Resource

The Ryan White Story (TV Movie)
1989; Running Time: 1h 45 Min
Directed by: John Herzfeld
Starring: Judith Light; Lukas Haas; George C. Scott
Story by: Phil Penningroth
Production companies: Landsburg Company, Saban International

In Kokomo, Indiana, in the early 1980s, an adolescent hemophiliac named Ryan White (Lukas Haas) contracts AIDS through a routine blood transfusion. The fear and misinformation caused by the then-new disease causes his school to bar him from attending due to worries that he may infect his classmates. With the help of a dedicated attorney (George C. Scott) and a kindly nurse (Sarah Jessica Parker), Ryan, his mother (Judith Light) and his sister (Nikki Cox) fight for Ryan's human rights.

This TV movie is available for you to watch for free at the following YouTube link:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=53dumkxzHwA

Remember always that you are loved!
Stay safe, and keep in touch.
Blessings and peace to you all,
The Leadership Team of St. Peter’s Evangelical Lutheran Church

‘The Last Song’, by Elton John
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=R5eEQJZm7ZM&list=RDR5eEQJZm7ZM&start_radio=1

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UPDATE June 17, 2026

Today’s Indigenous Peoples’ Month Resource

nîpawistamâsowin: We Will Stand Up (Documentary)
Directed by: Tasha Hubbard
Production companies: National Film Board of Canada, Downstream Documentary Productions
Produced by: Tasha Hubbard, George Hupka, Jon Montes, Bonnie Thompson
2019; Running time: 1h 38m

From YouTube:
On August 9, 2016, a young Cree man named Colten Boushie died from a gunshot to the back of his head after entering Gerald Stanley’s rural property with his friends. The jury’s subsequent acquittal of Stanley captured international attention, raising questions about racism embedded within Canada’s legal system and propelling Colten’s family to national and international stages in their pursuit of justice.

You can watch this documentary for free on YouTube at the following link:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=c_HsLyvbzkk

Remember always that you are loved!
Stay safe, and keep in touch.
Blessings and peace to you all,
The Leadership Team of St. Peter’s Evangelical Lutheran Church

‘Life is a Sacred Gift’, by Jonathan Maracle
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=P-SmVmxXSpo
***********************
UPDATE June 16, 2026

Today’s Pride Month Resource

Edie & Thea-A Very Long Engagement (Documentary)
Directed & Produced by: Gréta Ólafsdottir, Susan Muska
Executive producers: Lynne Kirby, Janice Tufford
2009; Running Time: 1 Hr

From YouTube
The story of the long-term lesbian relationship between Edie Windsor and Thea Spyer, including their respective childhoods, their meeting in 1963, their lives and careers in New York City, Thea's diagnosis with multiple sclerosis and Edie's care for her partner, and their wedding in Toronto, Canada, in May 2007, because gay marriage was not then legal in their home state of New York.

This documentary is available for you to watch for free at the following YouTube link:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=U6OSPnV-D5Y

Remember always that you are loved!
Stay safe, and keep in touch.
Blessings and peace to you all,
The Leadership Team of St. Peter’s Evangelical Lutheran Church

‘Stand Closer’, by Justin Ryan
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=D9ep86Wx0co
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UPDATE June 15, 2026

Today’s Indigenous Peoples’ Month Resource

The Pretendians (Documentary)
Directors: Paul Kemp, Drew Hayden Taylor
Produced by: CBC Docs
2022; Running Time: 44 Min

From YouTube
The term “pretendian” has come to refer to someone who claims distant Indigenous heritage that doesn’t stand up to deeper scrutiny. But why would someone fake an Indigenous identity?

Anishinaabe author and humorist Drew Hayden Taylor investigates how — and why — Indigenous identity, culture and art are being appropriated by those who are not First Nations.

You can watch this documentary for free on YouTube at the following link:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=FoVE9JaIFJg

Remember always that you are loved!
Stay safe, and keep in touch.
Blessings and peace to you all,
The Leadership Team of St. Peter’s Evangelical Lutheran Church

‘Resilience’, by Morgan Toney
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=O9nOcamyAtk
***********************
UPDATE June 14, 2026

Today’s Pride Month Resource

Standing On the Line (Documentary)
Written & Directed by: Paul Émile D'entremont
2018; Running Time: 1 Hr 18 Min

From the National Film Board website:
In both amateur and professional sports, being gay remains taboo. For some athletes, the pressure to perform is compounded by the further strain of deciding whether or not to come out of the closet. They set out to overcome prejudice in the hopes of changing things for the athletes of tomorrow.

TRIGGER WARNING: This film contains the following subject matter: Suicide and self harm.

This documentary is available for you to watch for free at the following National Film Board link:
https://www.nfb.ca/film/standing-on-the-line/

Remember always that you are loved!
Stay safe, and keep in touch.
Blessings and peace to you all,
The Leadership Team of St. Peter’s Evangelical Lutheran Church

‘The Back Pew’, by Lily Rose
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=lXlL4Bk9VjE
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UPDATE June 13, 2026

Today’s Indigenous Peoples’ Month Resource

Ninan Auassat: We, the Children (Documentary)
Directed by: Kim O'Bomsawin
Produced by: Mélanie Brière, Nathalie Cloutier, Colette Loumède
2024; Running Time: 1 Hr 31 Min

From the National Film Board website:
Told entirely from a child’s perspective, Ninan Auassat: We, the Children is a powerful and immersive documentary that reveals the dreams of a new generation ready to take flight. Renowned for her intimate and compelling films, director Kim O’Bomsawin takes us deep into the world of Indigenous youth, capturing the stories of children from the Atikamekw, Eeyou Cree and Innu Nations over a period of more than six years. Without adult narration or expert commentary, the film offers an unfiltered look at childhood as it unfolds, from everyday life to defining moments on the path to adulthood. It’s a bold cinematic statement—one that gives space to a generation eager to be heard. Their voices ring out, not just as personal stories, but as a call to action, demanding recognition and the chance to thrive on their own terms.

This documentary is available for you to watch for free at the National Film Board website at the following link:
https://www.nfb.ca/film/ninan-auassat-nous-les-enfants-english-version/

Remember always that you are loved!
Stay safe, and keep in touch.
Blessings and peace to you all.
The Leadership Team of St. Peter’s Evangelical Lutheran Church

‘Ko’jua’, by Morgan Toney
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xnpvxx0xyMU
***********************
UPDATE June 12, 2026

Today’s Pride Month Resource

Today marks the tenth anniversary of the deadly Pulse Nightclub mass shooting in Orlando, Florida on June 12, 2016. A shooter entered the Pulse Nightclub, a place where LGBTQ+ young people went to simply be themselves for a few hours in the company of others just like themselves. Their lives were senselessly taken by a gunman who ultimately took the lives of 49 people and wounded 53 others. He was also killed at the scene. These folks did not deserve to die like this. They were human beings, created in God’s image, beloved and loved. –ED

Stop the Hate: 49 Celebrities Honor 49 Victims of Pulse Tragedy (Documentary)
Produced by: The Human Rights Campaign
Directed by: Ryan Murphy
2016; Running Time: 18 Min

From YouTube
For too long, a toxic combination of anti-LGBTQ hate and easy access to guns has put LGBTQ people at disproportionate risk of violence and murder. On June 12, forty-nine innocent people -- most of them Latinx -- were killed at Pulse nightclub in Orlando simply because of who they were. It's on all of us to keep their memories alive, and to ensure part of their legacy becomes meaningful action to end hate violence.

This documentary is available for you to watch for free at the following YouTube link:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Nq6xRZlCSoM

Remember always that you are loved!
Stay safe, and keep in touch.
Blessings and peace to you all,
The Leadership Team of St. Peter’s Evangelical Lutheran Church

‘Different’, by Justin Ryan
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=wbIh4BHDxJA
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UPDATE June 11, 2026

Today’s Indigenous Peoples’ Month Resource

Feather Fall (Documentary)
Written & Directed by: Ossie Michelin
Produced by: Liz Cowie, Rohan Fernando
Narrated by: Ossie Michelin
2024; Running Time: 23 Min

From the National Film Board website:
In Feather Fall, Indigenous journalist Ossie Michelin reflects on the personal memories and viral images stored on the phone he used to document a pivotal moment of Indigenous resistance. In 2013, while reporting for APTN and covering conflicts from an Indigenous perspective, Michelin captured a photograph that resonated across the globe and became a symbol of resistance. Ten years later, he returns with a film crew to Elsipogtog to reconnect with the community at the heart of the story and explore how the events of that fall have shaped the lives of those involved. The film also examines how Indigenous activism, environmental struggles and media coverage have evolved in the decade since.

This documentary is available for you to watch for free on YouTube at the following link:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=AVq367dMfdA

Remember always that you are loved!
Stay safe, and keep in touch.
Blessings and peace to you all,
The Leadership Team of St. Peter’s Evangelical Lutheran Church

‘Light of the Moon’, by Celeigh Cardinal
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=KI09h7xtfRo
***********************
UPDATE June 10, 2026

Today’s Pride Month Resource

Into Light (Documentary)
Directed by: Sheona Mcdonald
Written by: JC, Sheona McDonald
Produced by: Teri Snelgrove
2021; Running Time: 19 Min

From the National Film Board website:
When a child reveals who they truly are on the inside, how does a parent set aside their own expectations to help them become their most authentic self? Sheona McDonald’s documentary captures a season of change as a mother and child navigate the complexities of gender identity together.

This documentary is available for you to watch for free at the following National Film Board link:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=cwzFjw1HwTk

Remember always that you are loved!
Stay safe, and keep in touch.
Blessings and peace to you all,
The Leadership Team of St. Peter’s Evangelical Lutheran Church

‘No Matter What’, by Calum Scott
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=kBIhqNT5gsE
************************
UPDATE June 9, 2026

Today’s Indigenous Peoples’ Month Resource

The Knowing (Documentary)
Produced by Courtney Montour & Tanya Talaga
CBC Docs
2024; Running Time 88 MIn

From YouTube
Journalist Tanya Talaga and her family’s eight-decade long search for family matriarch Annie Carpenter, reveals a story deeply intertwined with Canada’s Indian residential school system.

You can watch this documentary for free on YouTube at the following link:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4I3Gu2n_0rw

Remember always that you are loved!
Stay safe, and keep in touch.
Blessings and peace to you all,
The Leadership Team of St. Peter’s Evangelical Lutheran Church

‘Water is Life’, by Lyla June ft Oliver Enjady
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=KfX0tTrSRG0
***********************
UPDATE June 8, 2026

Today’s Pride Month Resource

The Times of Harvey Milk (Documentary)
Director: Rob Epstein
Produced by: Richard Schmiechen
Narrated by: Harvey Fierstein
Production companies: Telling Pictures, Black Sand Productions, WNET, The Harvey Milk Film Project Inc., Pacific Arts
1984; Running Time: 1Hr 30 Min

From Wikipedia
Operating from his camera store in San Francisco's Castro district, charismatic Harvey Milk is defeated three times before being elected to the city's Board of Supervisors, making him California's first openly gay public official. On the job he meets fellow supervisor Dan White, a homophobic ex-fireman with whom Milk develops a troubled working relationship. White grows increasingly disgruntled, resigns from his position and subsequently assassinates both Milk and Mayor George Moscone.

Warning: Contains some strong language. Discretion Advised.

This documentary is available for you to watch for free at the following YouTube link:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Cx0xeRBFzjg

Remember always that you are loved!
Stay safe, and keep in touch.
Blessings and peace to you all,
The Leadership Team of St. Peter’s Evangelical Lutheran Church

‘You and Me on the Rock’, by Brandi Carlile ft Catherine Carlile
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=PLrXLjWGmi8
************************
UPDATE June 7, 2026

Today’s Indigenous Peoples’ Month Resource

The Knowing (Book)
By Tanya Talaga
Nation: Multiple Nations
Publisher: HarperCollins
2024

From GoodMinds.com
From Tanya Talaga, the critically acclaimed and award-winning author of Seven Fallen Feathers, comes a riveting exploration of her family’s story and a retelling of the history of the country we now call Canada

For generations, Indigenous People have known that their family members disappeared, many of them after being sent to residential schools, “Indian hospitals” and asylums through a coordinated system designed to destroy who the First Nations, Métis and Inuit people are. This is one of Canada’s greatest open secrets, an unhealed wound that until recently lay hidden by shame and abandonment.

The Knowing is the unfolding of Canadian history unlike anything we have ever read before. Award-winning and bestselling Anishinaabe author Tanya Talaga retells the history of this country as only she can—through an Indigenous lens, beginning with the life of her great-great grandmother Annie Carpenter and her family as they experienced decades of government- and Church-sanctioned enfranchisement and genocide.

Deeply personal and meticulously researched, The Knowing is a seminal unravelling of the centuries-long oppression of Indigenous People that continues to reverberate in these communities today. 

Available from most major book sellers, but also available from https://goodminds.com a bookstore dedicated to promoting First Nations, Metis, and Inuit books.
https://goodminds.com/products/9781487002268

Remember always that you are loved!
Stay safe, and keep in touch.
Blessings and peace to you all,
The Leadership Team of St. Peter’s Evangelical Lutheran Church

‘The Road to the Reservation’, by Cheryl Bear
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=bQCiY-E3VUM
***********************
UPDATE June 6, 2026

Today’s Pride Month Resource

You’ll Be Straight (Documentary)
Directed by: Caroline Benarrosh
Production: Tohubohu for France Télévisions
2021; Running Time: 52 Min

From YouTube
Homosexuality: The Underside of Conversion Therapies
Accepting one’s homosexuality for an American today ought to be simple? And yet, it is not so straightforward!

700,000 young people in the United States have already undergone so-called conversion therapies, intended to "cure" their homosexuality. Run by religious or pseudo-scientific communities, these therapies promise to fix a supposedly "deviant sexual orientation" and to change a person’s inner identity.

Through social, familial and religious pressure, Mathew, Jordan and Lucas all signed up for these therapies and went through hell: Isolation, sequestration, humiliation, food deprivation, physical and psychological violence.

Today, a political combat is underway to halt these therapies and to acknowledge the victims. This is likely to be a long process, given that such practices are still allowed in 41 states and have the backing of the Trump administration.

This documentary is available for you to watch for free at the following YouTube link:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=q71p4AvUBhI

Remember always that you are loved!
Stay safe, and keep in touch.
Blessings and peace to you all,
The Leadership Team of St. Peter’s Evangelical Lutheran Church

‘So Small’, by Ty Herndon
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=nGpcuspZK6U
************************
UPDATE June 5, 2026

Today’s Indigenous Peoples’ Month Resource

Seven Fallen Feathers (Book)
By Tanya Talaga
Published by: House of Anansi Press
2017

From Goodminds.com
Seven Fallen Feathers: Racism, Death, and Hard Truths in a Northern City recounts with clarity and honesty the truths surrounding the lives of seven Indigenous teenagers who lost their lives while attending high school in Thunder Bay, Ontario.

Jethro Anderson, Curran Strang, Robyn Harper, Paul Panacheese, Reggie Bushie, Kyle Morrisseau, and Jordan Wabasse attended secondary school to further their education because their northern home communities lacked such basic facilities. Between 2001 and 2011 these seven students lost their lives in circumstances that that many readers will conclude are unacceptable.

In setting the stage to present the facts the journalist begins with the story of Chanie "Charlie" Wenjack (January 19,1954 - October 23, 1966) was an Ojibwe boy who ran away from Cecelia Jeffrey Residential School where he boarded for three years while attending public school in Kenora, Ontario, Canada. He died of hunger and exposure while trying to walk 600 km (370 mi) back to his home, Ogoki Post.

Suitable for secondary and college level readers. Highly recommended.

Finalist, 2017 Hilary Weston Writers’ Trust Prize for Nonfiction; Finalist, 2017 Speaker's Book Award; Finalist, 2018 B.C. National Award for Canadian Non-Fiction. Tanya Talaga wins the 2018 RBC Taylor Prize for her book Seven Fallen Feathers. Seven Fallen Feathers: Racism, Death, and Hard Truths in a Northern City has been selected in the Young Adult/Adult Category for the First Nation Communities READ 2018 Award. Teaching

Available from most major book sellers, but also available from https://goodminds.com a bookstore dedicated to promoting First Nations, Metis, and Inuit books.
https://goodminds.com/products/9781487002268

Remember always that you are loved!
Stay safe, and keep in touch.
Blessings and peace to you all,
The Leadership Team of St. Peter’s Evangelical Lutheran Church

‘Residential School Song (Indian Boarding School Song)’, by Cheryl Bear
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=PoVERQn0YV0
***********************
UPDATE June 4, 2026

Today’s Pride Month Resource

Our Proud Hearts (Documentary)
Produced & Directed by Jamie Sharpe
2019; Running Time: 25 Min

From YouTube
'Our Proud Hearts' is a documentary that explores the journey that 10 young members of the LGBT community have experienced after coming out. The cast members explore the controversial belief that being gay is a "choice."

((TRIGGER WARNING)) This film contains graphic news footage, mature language, and content that may not be suitable for younger audiences.

This documentary is available for you to watch for free at the following YouTube link:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=JUGEjWSp8Mk

Remember always that you are loved!
Stay safe, and keep in touch.
Blessings and peace to you all,
The Leadership Team of St. Peter’s Evangelical Lutheran Church

 ‘Orphans of God’, by Ty Herndon & Kristin Chenoweth
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=PFmobwkQMfs
***********************
UPDATE June 3, 2026

Today’s Indigenous Peoples’ Month Resource

Indian Horse (Feature Film)
Directed by: Stephen Campanelli
Written by: Dennis Foon
Produced by: Clint Eastwood (exec), Paula Devonshire, Trish Dolman, Christine Haebler
Starring: Sladen Peltier, Forrest Goodluck, Ajuawak Kapashesit, Edna Manitowabi, Michael Murphy, Michiel Huisman
Based on: ‘Indian Horse’ by Richard Wagamese
2017: Running Time: 1Hr 40min

From the ‘Indian Horse’ website:
Indian Horse PosterAn adaptation of Ojibway writer Richard Wagamese’s award-winning novel, this moving and important drama sheds light on the dark history of Canada’s boarding schools or Indigenous Residential Schools and the indomitable spirit of aboriginal people. INDIAN HORSE stars Canadian newcomers Sladen Peltier and Edna Manitowabi, as well as Ajuawak Kapashesit (Indian Road Trip, Once Upon A River), Forrest Goodluck (The Revenant, The Miseducation of Cameron Post), Michael Murphy (Away From Her), Michael Lawrenchuck (Tokyo Cowboy), Johnny Issaluk (Two Lovers And A Bear) and Michiel Huisman (The Age Of Adaline).

In the late 1950’s Ontario, eight-year-old Saul Indian Horse is torn from his Ojibway family and committed to one of the notorious Catholic Residential Schools. In this oppressive environment, Saul is denied the freedom to speak his language or embrace his Indigenous heritage while he witnesses horrendous abuse at the hands of the very people entrusted with his care. Despite this, Saul finds salvation in the unlikeliest of places and favourite winter pastime -- hockey. Fascinated by the game, he secretly teaches himself to play, developing a unique and rare skill. He seems to see the game in a way no other player can.

His talent leads him away from the misery of the school, eventually leading him to the Pros. But the ghosts of Saul’s past are always present, and threaten to derail his promising career and future. Forced to confront his painful past, Saul draws on the spirit of his ancestors and the understanding of his friends to begin the process of healing.

You can watch this movie for free on YouTube at the following link:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6Q-f17KY0Rk

Remember always that you are loved!
Stay safe, and keep in touch.
Blessings and peace to you all,
The Leadership Team of St. Peter’s Evangelical Lutheran Church

‘Boarding Schools’, by Lyla June ft Lee Moquino
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=JilCdIBAzvA
*******************
UPDATE June 2, 2026

Today’s Pride Month Resource

Beyond Stonewall (Documentary)
Exploring LGBTQ+ History Through the Smithsonian Archives
Written & Directed by: Allan Martin
Produced by: Allan Martin & Pip Gilmour
2018; Running Time: 51 Min

From the Smithsonian Channel
Produced by Highland Pictures, the film moves beyond the Stonewall riots of 1969, often celebrated as the birth of modern LGBTQ+ rights movement, to trace the struggles and triumphs of modern gay life. Using commentary from LGBTQ+ allies, icons and expert perspectives from Smithsonian curators, Beyond Stonewall tells the story of the LGBTQ+ community via rare artifacts in the Smithsonian collections. The doc illustrates the multifaceted journeys of trailblazing gay pioneers in the objects they left behind, including 19th-century stage actress Charlotte Cushman's Cardinal Wolsey costume; a first edition copy of poet Walt Whitman's Leaves of Grass; love letters among World War II soldiers, and more. The documentary features commentary from LGBTQ+ icons like Matthew Shepard's parents, Stonewall eyewitness participant Mark Segal, and Gene Robinson, the first openly gay priest to be consecrated a bishop by the Episcopal Church.

This documentary is available for you to watch for free at the following YouTube link:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3G1wZPeZZTQ

Remember always that you are loved!
Stay safe, and keep in touch.
Blessings and peace to you all,
The Leadership Team of St. Peter’s Evangelical Lutheran Church

‘What Mattered Most’, by Ty Herndon
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=tSnGDePzppE
***********************

UPDATE June 1, 2026

Today’s Indigenous Peoples’ Month Resource

A Perspective on Canadian History that You Might Not Know (Documentary)
Produced by: The Ballantyne Project
2020; Running Time: 31 Min

This powerful film offers a unique exploration of Canadian history, showcasing two contrasting perspectives. One perspective highlights the traditional narrative taught in Canadian schools and reinforced by the government through immigration and refugee citizenship testing. The other perspective, shared through verified sources, offers a viewpoint of the history of Canada through the eyes of Indigenous Peoples.

This eye-opening experience will to broaden your understanding and appreciation of Indigenous history and perspectives. It is an opportunity to deepen our understanding of Canada’s diverse histories, and to engage in meaningful discussions about our shared past and future.

This video is produced by The Ballantyne Project. The Ballantyne Project is a Vancouver based organization that focuses on bringing inspiration, a voice and opportunity to remote First Nation communities in Canada.

You can watch this documentary for free on YouTube at the following link:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ghxevR78_fU

Remember always that you are loved!
Stay safe, and keep in touch.
Blessings and peace to you all,
The Leadership Team of St. Peter’s Evangelical Lutheran Church

‘All Nations Rise’, by Lyla June
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=nr2VLI8jKww
*******************
UPDATE May 31, 2026

This Day is Yours, Lord

This day is yours, Lord,
lent to us for a purpose,
that together, united
in love and purpose,
we might make this
currently imperfect
and self-centred world
into the one you desire.
Strengthen our resolve,
that our daily offering
might not be simply words
but love put into action,
and should a table or two
have to be overturned
in our lives and the world
that this might happen,
then so be it, Lord.
https://www.faithandworship.com/Prayers_for_every_day.htm#gsc.tab=0

Remember always that you are loved!
Stay safe, and keep in touch.
Blessings and peace to you all,
The Leadership Team of St. Peter’s Evangelical Lutheran Church

‘Wonderful, Merciful Saviour’, by Selah
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=fK6sYVQCqhs
***********************
UPDATE May 30, 2026

A Prayer for This Day

For all those on their way to work,
by road, rail or walking into town,
these precious souls I do not know
but are loved just the same by you.
Be with them in their daily tasks,
in their frustrations and their joys.
Be with them in their interactions
with others, and grant them peace
when life begins to get them down.
And in those brief moments of quiet
reveal yourself to them, gently
through the whisper of your Spirit
saying; ‘Come to me, my child, find
what your heart is truly searching for.’
https://www.faithandworship.com/Prayers_for_every_day.htm#gsc.tab=0

Remember always that you are loved!
Stay safe, and keep in touch.
Blessings and peace to you all,
The Leadership Team of St. Peter’s Evangelical Lutheran Church

‘How Great Thou Art/The Mission’, by The Piano Guys
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=CHV6BjuQOZQ
***********************
UPDATE May 29, 2026

You Are Always There

Gracious God, take from us
any anxiety we might face
as this day, with its baggage,
opens the door and enters in.
May we see opportunities
that yesterday were missed,
blessings in the little things
we might normally walk past;
time enough to set aside
a space to read your Word,
say a prayer, sing a song,
strengthen faith and know
you’re there, always there,
whatever this new day might bring.
https://www.faithandworship.com/Prayers_for_every_day.htm#gsc.tab=0

Remember always that you are loved!
Stay safe, and keep in touch.
Blessings and peace to you all,
The Leadership Team of St. Peter’s Evangelical Lutheran Church

‘Shout to the Lord (All the Earth)’, by Darlene Zschech, Ana Paula Valadão, & Ingrid Rosario
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=wLWX7Kmm3Sw
***********************
UPDATE May 28, 2026

The Gift of This Day

May this not just be ‘another day’
but one where, as I open the door
to what is an orchestra of bird song
in this beautiful, if fragile world,
that somehow I connect with you,
who gifted us this temporary home,
and yet still daily walks with us
even when we think we’re alone.
For such gracious and enduring love
we offer this, our heartfelt thanks.
https://www.faithandworship.com/Prayers_for_every_day.htm#gsc.tab=0

Remember always that you are loved!
Stay safe, and keep in touch.
Blessings and peace to you all,
The Leadership Team of St. Peter’s Evangelical Lutheran Church

‘Amazing Grace (My Chains Are Gone), by Pentatonix
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Obp-9BEZe1c&list=RDObp-9BEZe1c&start_radio=1
***********************
UPDATE May 27, 2026

On the Path That I Tread

On the path that I tread
bless the people I meet
time that is spent
words that are said
lightening of loads
peace that is shared
prayers of the heart
breaking of bread
Bless the people I meet
on the path that I tread
https://www.faithandworship.com/Prayers_for_every_day.htm#gsc.tab=0

Remember always that you are loved!
Stay safe, and keep in touch.
Blessings and peace to you all,
The Leadership Team of St. Peter’s Evangelical Lutheran Church

‘This is My Story’, by Charity Gayle
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xZuhnoMAtTc
***********************
UPDATE May 26, 2026

Be Our Shelter

Through the many storms of life,
be our shelter, a strong fortress
against which nothing can prevail.
And in the quietness that follows,
as strong winds fade to breeze,
be the peace that calms our soul,
the warmth we seek, that always
draws us closer, Lord, to you.
https://www.faithandworship.com/Prayers_for_every_day.htm#gsc.tab=0

Remember always that you are loved!
Stay safe, and keep in touch.
Blessings and peace to you all,
The Leadership Team of St. Peter’s Evangelical Lutheran Church

‘No More Night, by Hosanna Choir Dundas
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=aPJvYzsC9Yc
***********************
UPDATE May 25, 2026

Another Day, Lord

Another day, Lord, and yet
unlike any other, as we open
the door to face its challenges,
frustrations, joys, sorrows,
conversations and distractions.
Another day, Lord, where we
step out knowing in our hearts
you are with us, your footsteps
beside us, your light to guide us
both in our labour and relaxing.
Another day, Lord, to leave
within this world something
of your love and grace, a seed
that’s sown by word or deed
and might germinate and blossom.
Another day, Lord. Hallelujah!
https://www.faithandworship.com/Prayers_for_every_day.htm#gsc.tab=0

Remember always that you are loved!
Stay safe, and keep in touch.
Blessings and peace to you all,
The Leadership Team of St. Peter’s Evangelical Lutheran Church

‘We Will Feast in the House of Zion’, by Keith & Kristyn Getty ft Sandra McCracken
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ZGrIi-k13jY
***********************
UPDATE May 24, 2026

A Prayer for The Day of Pentecost

Your Spirit,
present from the beginning
of beginnings,
present in the message
of the prophets,
present in provision
for your people,
present in the life
and words of Jesus,
present in the Cross
and crucifixion,
present in the lives
of the apostles,
present in the church
that you empower.
Your Spirit,
the presence of God
in hearts and lives!
https://www.faithandworship.com/prayers_Pentecost.htm#gsc.tab=0

Remember always that you are loved!
Stay safe, and keep in touch.
Blessings and peace to you all,
The Leadership Team of St. Peter’s Evangelical Lutheran Church

‘The Earth Shall Know’, by The Porter’s Gate ft Casey J, Leslie Jordan & Urban Doxology
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Q9oAJSsbA6U
***********************
UPDATE May 23, 2026

For the Many Blessings…

For the many blessings
of daily life; knowing
that you walk with us
through light and dark,
our strength and peace;
that your gentle whisper
is heard when wisdom,
love and grace required;
that you forgive when we
inevitably stumble,
and help us to our feet
on this, our daily journey
with you, Saviour and Lord.
https://www.faithandworship.com/Prayers_for_every_day.htm#gsc.tab=0

Remember always that you are loved!
Stay safe, and keep in touch.
Blessings and peace to you all,
The Leadership Team of St. Peter’s Evangelical Lutheran Church

‘Mozart y Mambo--Rondo alla Mambo!’ by Sarah Willis and the Havana Lyceum Orchestra
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=m1FSR3wKgrk
***********************
UPDATE May 22, 2026

Light of the World

Light of the world
May each new day
be an opportunity
to be embraced,
each encounter
and conversation
a chance to show
in word and deed
the difference that
your light has made,
the warmth of its glow.
https://www.faithandworship.com/Prayers_for_every_day.htm#gsc.tab=0

Remember always that you are loved!
Stay safe, and keep in touch.
Blessings and peace to you all,
The Leadership Team of St. Peter’s Evangelical Lutheran Church

‘Gentle Shepherd’, by The Martins
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Tuse2Hfo5uc
***********************
UPDATE May 21, 2026

Wherever You Lead Me Today

Wherever you lead me today,
be near, dear Lord, I pray,
that I might have confidence
in speaking about my faith,
knowing when my words
are not enough, your light
might be seen in my eyes,
and your love in my heart,
for that is how I first saw
the spark that now warms
my soul, reflected in the life
of someone just like me.
Be near, dear Lord, I pray,
wherever you lead me today.
https://www.faithandworship.com/Prayers_for_every_day.htm#gsc.tab=0

Remember always that you are loved!
Stay safe, and keep in touch.
Blessings and peace to you all,
The Leadership Team of St. Peter’s Evangelical Lutheran Church

‘We All Bow Down’, by Lenny LeBlanc
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=IECAna3eGjY
***********************
UPDATE May 20, 2026

May This Be a Day

May this be a day of hope,
of expectation,
and relishing each moment
as a gift from you.
May this be a day of joy,
of breaking free
and loosening the shackles
that are binding us.
May this be a day of peace,
and healing,
knowing our lives are
always in your hand.
May this be a day of love
and blessing,
living as children
of a living God.
https://www.faithandworship.com/prayers_Hope.htm#gsc.tab=0

Remember always that you are loved!
Stay safe, and keep in touch.
Blessings and peace to you all,
The Leadership Team of St. Peter’s Evangelical Lutheran Church

‘My Jesus I Love Thee’, by 2nd Chapter of Acts
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Mp3c9MEXPXg
***********************
UPDATE May 19, 2026

Speak Lord…

Speak Lord, into the heart
of government, and those
whose decisions today will
affect the lives of millions.
May their incentive be
not pleasing the powerful,
the political influencers,
loudest voices and donors,
but rather to do your will;
seek justice, help the poor,
work for the common good
of all people, not just a few.
It’s a difficult ask, we know,
but in you, Lord, is our hope.
https://www.faithandworship.com/prayers_Hope.htm#gsc.tab=0

Remember always that you are loved!
Stay safe, and keep in touch.
Blessings and peace to you all,
The Leadership Team of St. Peter’s Evangelical Lutheran Church

‘Help Me, Jesus’, by The Staple Singers
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=yf9ZzOzb7Hk
***********************
UPDATE May 18, 2026

We Step Out Each Day

These lives of ours,
small as they are
in this, your world,
we live by the Spirit,
in whose strength
we step out each day,
by whose wisdom
decisions we make,
in whose power
we pray for the sick,
in whose name
our needs are met;
that our small lives
might, joined as one,
bring glory to you
and hope, love, peace
and joy to this world.
https://www.faithandworship.com/prayers_Hope.htm#gsc.tab=0

Remember always that you are loved!
Stay safe, and keep in touch.
Blessings and peace to you all,
The Leadership Team of St. Peter’s Evangelical Lutheran Church

‘Testify to Love (Psalm 151), by Wynonna (Touched by an Angel)
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=rvzaIUpo2Rk
*******************
UPDATE May 17, 2026

A Song of Joy

May a song of joy
be in our hearts,
even if the sky
is dark, and life
is hard, and hope
thin on the ground.
And in that song,
that sacrifice,
may hearts be warmed,
eyes lifted high
and faith restored
in One who knows,
and cares, and loves
enough to die
and rise again for us.
https://www.faithandworship.com/prayers_Hope.htm#gsc.tab=0

Remember always that you are loved!
Stay safe, and keep in touch.
Blessings and peace to you all,
The Leadership Team of St. Peter’s Evangelical Lutheran Church

‘Earth Song (Dedicated to the People of Ukraine)’, by Mount Royal Kantorei
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=llZyPBsl06s
***********************
UPDATE May 16, 2026

Loving God…

Loving God, in you I find
the strength to persevere
when daily life’s a struggle.
In you I find the wisdom
I require when engaged
in difficult conversations.
In you I find the peace to calm my soul
when life in general is so busy.
In you, and you alone
I find the source of life
love and hope, and offer
in return my life, my all.
https://www.faithandworship.com/prayers_Hope.htm#gsc.tab=0

Remember always that you are loved!
Stay safe, and keep in touch.
Blessings and peace to you all,
The Leadership Team of St. Peter’s Evangelical Lutheran Church

‘Gloria (Vivaldi)’ by Mount Royal Kantorei
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=KAEenGl-WrU
***********************
UPDATE May 15, 2026

Your Word is True

In a world of fake news,
lies and half-truths,
may this be known,
your word is true
and everlasting,
Your word is love
and brings healing,
your word is joy
to those searching,
your word is hope
to those struggling,
your word unites
rather than dividing.
In this fragile world
in which we live,
Lord God, may it be
your word that we trust.
https://www.faithandworship.com/prayers_Hope.htm#gsc.tab=0

Remember always that you are loved!
Stay safe, and keep in touch.
Blessings and peace to you all,
The Leadership Team of St. Peter’s Evangelical Lutheran Church

‘You Say’, by Lauren Daigle
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=XW-yeIcmJ8A
***********************
UPDATE May 14, 2026

Grant Us the Confidence

Grant us the confidence, Lord
to step out in faith and become
the people we are meant to be,
unapologetic in our love for you,
wanting to be change-makers,
bringers of hope, love and grace
into an unbelieving world
that has no faith but in itself,
is almost blind and cannot see
that all it seeks is found in you.
Grant us the confidence, Lord
to step out in faith and become
the people we are meant to be.
https://www.faithandworship.com/prayers_Guidance.htm#gsc.tab=0

Remember always that you are loved!
Stay safe, and keep in touch.
Blessings and peace to you all,
The Leadership Team of St. Peter’s Evangelical Lutheran Church

‘Thank God I Do’, by Lauren Daigle
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=wfR6XLXRNy0
***********************
UPDATE May 13, 2026

Your Footsteps

Your footsteps are not easy to follow,
for they lead not only to green pastures
where we find nourishment and rest,
but also desert and wilderness places
where we are vulnerable and alone,
and crowded and uncomfortable spaces
where we feel threatened and distressed.
Your footsteps are not easy to follow,
but you have walked this way before
and are never far from any one of us,
your Spirit guiding and instructing,
your arm supporting, your love supplying,
on this necessary path we tread.
https://www.faithandworship.com/prayers_Guidance.htm#gsc.tab=0

Remember always that you are loved!
Stay safe, and keep in touch.
Blessings and peace to you all,
The Leadership Team of St. Peter’s Evangelical Lutheran Church

‘Nowhere Your Love Won’t Go’, by Megan Woods
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=TRgAf0_5Bl4
***********************
UPDATE May 12, 2026

Prayer for the Journey

For all whose journey
has only just begun,
who tread carefully
and heavy laden
along unfamiliar paths,
seeking guidance
from fellow travellers,
fearful of losing their way,
speed their journey, Lord,
keep them from harm,
and bring them safely
into their promised land,
your Kingdom where,
at last unburdened,
they might find their rest in you.
https://www.faithandworship.com/prayers_Guidance.htm#gsc.tab=0

Remember always that you are loved!
Stay safe, and keep in touch.
Blessings and peace to you all,
The Leadership Team of St. Peter’s Evangelical Lutheran Church

‘I’d Rather Have Jesus’, by Selah
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=bom_Np7fHaA
***********************
UPDATE May 11, 2026

Teach Us Your Way, Lord,

Teach us your way, Lord,
when we are unsure
of which way to turn,
tiredness descends
and we’re hurting inside.
Teach us your way, Lord,
when we are anxious
and struggle to pray,
unsure of the words
that we’re wanting to say.
Teach us your way, Lord,
as we travel in faith
through uncertain times,
following your footsteps
with your word as our guide.
Teach us your way, Lord,
Teach us your way.
https://www.faithandworship.com/prayers_Guidance.htm#gsc.tab=0

Remember always that you are loved!
Stay safe, and keep in touch.
Blessings and peace to you all,
The Leadership Team of St. Peter’s Evangelical Lutheran Church

‘He Will Hold Me Fast’, by Selah
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3OOphIgGkjM
***********************
UPDATE May 10, 2026

A prayer for Mother's Day:

God of all creation, pour out your blessing on all mothers and those who provide motherly care. Give strength to all who desire to be mothers. Remind them their worth is in you alone. Enfold all who grieve this day with your steadfast love. Embrace those without mothers in your tender loving care. Bless all mothers and those who take care of others with a heart like your heart: loving and kind, comforting and strong, nurturing and grace-filled. Deepen their faith so that they might instill in their children a love for you that will sustain and keep them their whole life long. We ask this in Jesus' name. Amen.
--via Evangelical Lutheran Church in America

Remember always that you are loved!
Stay safe, and keep in touch.
Blessings and peace to you all,
The Leadership Team of St. Peter’s Evangelical Lutheran Church

‘Your Mother’, by Rita Wilson
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qA1XB8kO4pk
***********************
UPDATE May 9, 2026

“Once I started reading up on the third Person of the Trinity, I discovered how many theologians were ahead of me.2 The feminine pronoun is not as important to all of them as it is to me, but the idea of divine multiplicity is—the idea that one God can answer to more than one name and assume more than one form. Even if Christians will not go higher than three, the case is made: unity expresses itself in diversity. The One who comes to us in more than one way is free to surprise us in all kinds of ways. This is especially meaningful to people like me, who mean to hang on to our singular Christian identity with one hand and our love of many neighbors with the other. Within the community of the Trinity, the one and the many do not cancel each other out. They lean toward one another in eternally circling, mutually inclusive love. That is the image in which the rest of us are made.”
― Barbara Brown Taylor, Holy Envy: Finding God in the Faith of Others

Remember always that you are loved!
Stay safe, and keep in touch.
Blessings and peace to you all,
The Leadership Team of St. Peter’s Evangelical Lutheran Church

‘Beautiful Lone Companion’, by Amy Grant
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=seNi2SyMNJM
***********************
UPDATE May 8, 2026

“My hope is that if I can practice saying thank you now, when I still approve of most of what is happening to me, then perhaps that practice will have become habit by the time I do not like much of anything that is happening to me. The plan is to replace approval with gratitude. The plan is to take what is as God's ongoing answer to me.”
― Barbara Brown Taylor, An Altar in the World: A Geography of Faith

Remember always that you are loved!
Stay safe, and keep in touch.
Blessings and peace to you all,
The Leadership Team of St. Peter’s Evangelical Lutheran Church

‘O The Blood’, by Selah
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=90b2nXE_b3o
***********************
UPDATE May 7, 2026

“It seems that a whole lot of people, both Christians and non-Christians, are under the impression that you can’t be a Christian and vote for a Democrat, you can’t be a Christian and believe in evolution, you can’t be a Christian and be gay, you can’t be a Christian and have questions about the Bible, you can’t be a Christian and be tolerant of other religions, you can’t be a Christian and be a feminist, you can’t be a Christian and drink or smoke, you can’t be a Christian and read the New York Times, you can’t be a Christian and support gay rights, you can’t be a Christian and get depressed, you can’t be a Christian and doubt. In fact, I am convinced that what drives most people away from Christianity is not the cost of discipleship but rather the cost of false fundamentals." --Rachel Held Evans (June 8, 1981-May 4, 2019)

Remember always that you are loved!
Stay safe, and keep in touch.
Blessings and peace to you all,
The Leadership Team of St. Peter’s Evangelical Lutheran Church

‘Be Still My Soul’, by William Joseph & Zack Clark
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=WHCOapQ85ys
***********************
UPDATE May 6, 2026

A Settler's Prayer of Confession for Red Dress Day:

Creator
We have kept our eyes closed
to the brutalizing of young girls and women,
to the sinister hunting of two-spirit people,
to the disappearing faces of Indigenous peoples
in our communities

We have kept our ears closed
to the truth,
to the families’ stories,
to those who have asked us to help,
to stop,
to listen

We have sat on our hands and
waited too long to act,
left too much red tape uncut,
believed the problem would just go away
or that there wasn’t a problem at all

And because of us
children have disappeared,
women have been killed,
and bodies have gone unrecovered,
lives have stopped mid-sentence
when they had chapters more to live

We are not, and should not be,
ready to ask for forgiveness yet,
because news headlines keep coming,
and chairs at the kitchen table
are still left empty

Don’t forgive us, so much as move
our cold and stubborn hearts,
so that this time can come to an end
finally.
- Written by Selina Mullin, May 5, 2020

Remember always that you are loved!
Stay safe, and keep in touch.
Blessings and peace to you all,
The Leadership Team of St. Peter’s Evangelical Lutheran Church

‘Performance for Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women’, by A Tribe Called Red
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=q_vqlZJofo0
*******************
UPDATE May 5, 2026

Red Dress Day 2026

A prayer (adapted from resources for this day produced for the Anglican Church of Canada) for Murdered and Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women and Girls and Two-Spirit People: 

Creator, we give you thanks for all you are and all you bring to us for our visit within your creation.

For many their visit to your creation ended through violence and we don’t know where they currently lay.

In Jesus, you place the Gospel in the Centre of this Sacred Circle through all of which all creation is related.

We remember those Missing and Murdered Women and Girls and Two Spirited People who suffered.

We take time to remember they are Our Relations, as all creation is related.

We remember their family members and friends and the heaviness of loss and grief that they have carried for so many years.

Creator, in Jesus, you showed us the way to live a generous and compassionate life.  

Give us your strength to live together with respect, care for one another and commit ourselves to providing safety for all.

May we grow in your spirit, and support all our relations, for you are God, now and forever.  Amen.
https://www.vancouver.anglican.ca/news/red-dress-day

Remember always that you are loved!
Stay safe, and keep in touch.
Blessings and peace to you all,
The Leadership Team of St. Peter’s Evangelical Lutheran Church

‘The Missing & Murdered Indigenous Women’, by Antone George & the West Shore Canoe Family
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4KMYi-2BMsI
***********************
UPDATE May 4, 2026

Prayer of Gratitude for Beauty of Creation

God, our Creator of heaven and earth, how blessed we are to be surrounded by the beauty of your creation.
We lift our prayer of gratitude as we see the stars of heaven, and the beauty of the sunset.
We are amazed by the seas and waterways and all that are in them.
We are enchanted by the flowers and trees which are clothed by you.
We are awed by all the animals you created.
For the beauty of the earth, the mountains and valleys, the sun and the moon – we give you praise.
Amen.
-Author Unknown
https://www.xavier.edu/jesuitresource/online-resources/prayer-index/creation-prayers

Remember always that you are loved!
Stay safe, and keep in touch.
Blessings and peace to you all,
The Leadership Team of St. Peter’s Evangelical Lutheran Church

‘Do Not Fear’, by The Many
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=YyHxorWv9TM
***********************

UPDATE May 3, 2026

The Earth is the Lord's

This we know: the earth does not belong to us.
The earth is the Lord’s and so are all its people.

This we know: we did not weave the web of life.
The earth is the Lord’s and so is all that breathes on it.

This we know: we are called to till and work the earth.
The earth is the Lord’s and so are all who work the land.

This we know: that we are called to take care of creation.
The earth is the Lord’s yet we have polluted and abused it.

This we know: that whatever befalls the earth, Befalls the sons and daughters of the earth
This we know: that the earth is the Lord’s. And so we will serve Him in it.

Amen.
-Bishop Eric Pike 
https://www.xavier.edu/jesuitresource/online-resources/prayer-index/creation-prayers

Remember always that you are loved!
Stay safe, and keep in touch.
Blessings and peace to you all,
The Leadership Team of St. Peter’s Evangelical Lutheran Church

‘In The Stillness’, by The Many
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=knaEnlvPu3U
***********************
UPDATE May 2, 2026

Creation Prayer 

God our Father,
you created the world and sent your own Son to live among us,
made of the same stuff, breathing the same air,
marveling at sunrise and sunset just as we do.

Help us to participate in the life around and within us as your life,
as you living in us and we living in you and in each other.

God of love and life, restore us to your peace,
renew us through your power and teach us to love all that you have created and to care for the earth as your gift and our home.
- The Earth Community: In Christ through the Integrity of Creation
https://www.xavier.edu/jesuitresource/online-resources/prayer-index/creation-prayers

Remember always that you are loved!
Stay safe, and keep in touch.
Blessings and peace to you all,
The Leadership Team of St. Peter’s Evangelical Lutheran Church

‘We Are Enough’, by The Many
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=lc5jodfPnN0
***********************
UPDATE May 1, 2026

God Bless the World

Mighty God, Father of all,
Compassionate God, Mother of all,
Bless every person I met,
every face I have seen,
every voice I have heard,
especially those most dear;
bless every city, town and
street that I have known,
bless every sight I have seen,
every sound I have heard,
every object I have touched.
In some mysterious way these have all fashioned my life:
all that I am,
I have received.
Great God, bless the world.
-John J. Morris, S.J.
https://www.xavier.edu/jesuitresource/online-resources/prayer-index/creation-prayers

Remember always that you are loved!
Stay safe, and keep in touch.
Blessings and peace to you all,
The Leadership Team of St. Peter’s Evangelical Lutheran Church

‘All Belong Here’, by The Many
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=sJBEwqBfw3I
***********************
UPDATE April 30, 2026

Your Love, Your Grace, Your Call

Your love,
flowing within us,
living water
purifying
in that cleansing flow;
and our worship,
in sweet harmony
echoing
through the air as birdsong
at the dawning of this day.
Stream meets stream
and river flows,
emptying into Ocean's store.

Your grace,
offering to us
forgiveness,
liberty
from all that binds us;
and our prayers,
joining together,
rising
as a fragrant offering
to the heart of the divine.
Stream meets stream
and river flows,
emptying into Ocean's store.

Your call,
whispering to us,
offering
encouragement
on our journeying;
and our service,
the only response
we can give,
a willing sacrifice
to the Godhead, Three in One.
Stream meets stream
and river flows,
emptying into Ocean's store.
https://www.faithandworship.com/prayers_Faith.htm#gsc.tab=0

Remember always that you are loved!
Stay safe, and keep in touch.
Blessings and peace to you all,
The Leadership Team of St. Peter’s Evangelical Lutheran Church

‘Days of Elijah’, by Robin Mark
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ca9LnzJnpjQ
***********************
UPDATE April 29, 2026

By Faith

By faith
I gaze up to the heavens
and know
within its vastness
that this is your creation
planned and effected within eternity

By faith
I pluck an ear of corn
and know
within its symmetry
lies the chemistry of life
the potential of creation within my hand

By faith
I listen for your voice
and know
the whisper that I hear
breathed a world into existence
yet listens to the prayer within my soul

By faith
I strive to do your will
and know
the door that I approach
may lead me to shadows
where my roll is to become your light

By faith
I cling to your word
and know
the strength that I receive
has it’s source within the love
that is at the centre of all things
https://www.faithandworship.com/prayers_Faith.htm#gsc.tab=0

Remember always that you are loved!
Stay safe, and keep in touch.
Blessings and peace to you all,
The Leadership Team of St. Peter’s Evangelical Lutheran Church

‘Is He Worthy?’, Andrew Peterson
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=DMWrAqMWhWs
***********************
UPDATE April 28, 2026

A Prayer for Faith

Gracious God, increase our faith
and confidence, so when you call
our response is in the knowledge
that you will equip us for tasks
laid out before us, and together
we can sow precious seeds
into soil prepared and waiting,
that will, in your perfect timing,
blossom and produce much fruit.
https://www.faithandworship.com/prayers_Faith.htm#gsc.tab=0

Remember always that you are loved!
Stay safe, and keep in touch.
Blessings and peace to you all,
The Leadership Team of St. Peter’s Evangelical Lutheran Church

‘I Will Follow Him’, by Sister Act
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=pFSCVfDpdZQ
***********************
UPDATE April 27, 2026

Imperfect Lives

Gracious God, we thank you
that you can use these lives,
these imperfect lives, to fulfil
your purposes and become
the means through which
others might meet with you
and know your saving grace.
For the faith you have in us
and the roles prepared for us
we offer everything we are,
and everything we can become
through your love and power.
https://www.faithandworship.com/prayers_Faith.htm#gsc.tab=0

Remember always that you are loved!
Stay safe, and keep in touch.
Blessings and peace to you all,
The Leadership Team of St. Peter’s Evangelical Lutheran Church

‘Window of Hope’, by Oleta Adams ft ZO! Gospel Choir
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9PjUJPrGaHs
***********************
UPDATE April 26, 2026

Small Steps

Sometimes small steps
seem like giant leaps
into the unknown
on this journey of faith.
But with you as guide
we need not fear,
for you know the path,
its beautiful views
and hidden dangers,
and you will keep us
out of harm’s way
until at last we see
our glorious destination.
https://www.faithandworship.com/prayers_Faith.htm#gsc.tab=0

Remember always that you are loved!
Stay safe, and keep in touch.
Blessings and peace to you all,
The Leadership Team of St. Peter’s Evangelical Lutheran Church

‘Where No One Stands Alone’, by Elvis Presley & Lisa Marie Presley
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=RaRaUjzD-as&list=RDRaRaUjzD-as&start_radio=1
***********************
UPDATE April 25, 2026

For Our Daily Journey

For the many blessings
of daily life; knowing
that you walk with us
through light and dark,
our strength and peace;
that your gentle whisper
is heard when wisdom,
love and grace required;
that you forgive when we
inevitably stumble,
and help us to our feet
on this, our daily journey
with you, Saviour and Lord.
https://www.faithandworship.com/Prayers_for_every_day.htm#gsc.tab=0

Remember always that you are loved!
Stay safe, and keep in touch.
Blessings and peace to you all,
The Leadership Team of St. Peter’s Evangelical Lutheran Church

‘Teach Your Children’, by Kathy Mattea, Alison Krauss,& Suzy Boggus
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=g795h7HaZsw
***********************
UPDATE April 24, 2026

Our Shelter in the Storm

Through the many storms of life,
be our shelter, a strong fortress
against which nothing can prevail.
And in the quietness that follows,
as strong winds fade to breeze,
be the peace that calms our soul,
the warmth we seek, that always
draws us closer, Lord, to you.
https://www.faithandworship.com/Prayers_for_every_day.htm#gsc.tab=0

Remember always that you are loved!
Stay safe, and keep in touch.
Blessings and peace to you all,
The Leadership Team of St. Peter’s Evangelical Lutheran Church

‘Go Light a Candle’, by Rodney Crowell, ft Emmylou Harris & Lera Lynn
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=QzNUIG2zF04
***********************
UPDATE April 23, 2026

Another Day, Lord

Another day, Lord, and yet
unlike any other, as we open
the door to face its challenges,
frustrations, joys, sorrows,
conversations and distractions.
Another day, Lord, where we
step out knowing in our hearts
you are with us, your footsteps
beside us, your light to guide us
both in our labour and relaxing.
Another day, Lord, to leave
within this world something
of your love and grace, a seed
that’s sown by word or deed
and might germinate and blossom.
Another day, Lord. Hallelujah!
https://www.faithandworship.com/Prayers_for_every_day.htm#gsc.tab=0

Remember always that you are loved!
Stay safe, and keep in touch.
Blessings and peace to you all,
The Leadership Team of St. Peter’s Evangelical Lutheran Church

‘God So Loved the World’, by St. Paul’s Cathedral Choir
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=X5Akz6J8Rw0
***********************
UPDATE April 22, 2026

An End to Waste

Let us pray for an end to the
Waste and desecration of God's creation
For access to the fruits of creation
To be shared equally among all people
And for communities and nations to find sustenance
In the fruits of the earth and the water God has given us.

Almighty God, you created the world and gave it
Into our care so that, in obedience to you,
We might serve all people:
Inspire us to use the riches of creation with wisdom,
and to ensure that their blessings are shared by all;
That, trusting in your bounty, all people may be
Empowered to seek freedom from poverty, famine, and oppression.
- Author Unknown
https://www.xavier.edu/jesuitresource/online-resources/prayer-index/sustainability-prayers

Remember always that you are loved!
Stay safe, and keep in touch.
Blessings and peace to you all,
The Leadership Team of St. Peter’s Evangelical Lutheran Church

‘Trees We’ll Never See’, by Amy Grant
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=kYzGMsBwU8c
***********************
UPDATE April 21, 2026

Wherever You Lead Me Today,

Wherever you lead me today,
be near, dear Lord, I pray,
that I might have confidence
in speaking about my faith,
knowing when my words
are not enough, your light
might be seen in my eyes,
and your love in my heart,
for that is how I first saw
the spark that now warms
my soul, reflected in the life
of someone just like me.
Be near, dear Lord, I pray,
wherever you lead me today.
https://www.faithandworship.com/Prayers_for_every_day.htm#gsc.tab=0

Remember always that you are loved!
Stay safe, and keep in touch.
Blessings and peace to you all,
The Leadership Team of St. Peter’s Evangelical Lutheran Church

‘All in the April Evening’, by Glasgow Phoenix Choir
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Z8ojon1RJ4E
***********************
UPDATE April 20, 2026

Another Busy Day

It’s another busy day, Lord,
and before I open the door
and walk into it, I sit awhile
and think of people I’ll meet,
journeys I’ll make, places
I need to be, asking only
that I might bring something
of your love, grace, wisdom
and healing where needed,
the offering you ask of us all
in the everyday of our lives.
https://www.faithandworship.com/Prayers_for_every_day.htm#gsc.tab=0

Remember always that you are loved!
Stay safe, and keep in touch.
Blessings and peace to you all,
The Leadership Team of St. Peter’s Evangelical Lutheran Church

‘Worthy of it All’, by CeCe Winans
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=uHqvw5NQ69M
***********************
UPDATE April 19, 2026

For Today…

Ever-present God,
within the busyness
of this, and all days,
be at the heart of
all we do and say,
the focus of our lives,
that quiet whisper
of encouragement,
the gentle nudge
if we should stray,
our wisdom, strength
and purpose for today.
https://www.faithandworship.com/Prayers_for_every_day.htm#gsc.tab=0

Remember always that you are loved!
Stay safe, and keep in touch.
Blessings and peace to you all,
The Leadership Team of St. Peter’s Evangelical Lutheran Church

‘People Get Ready’, by Eva Cassidy
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=bzLd2MDAHK8
***********************
UPDATE April 18, 2026

God Gave Us Eyes to See

God, give us eyes to see
the beauty of the Spring,
And to behold Your majesty
in every living thing -
And may we see in lacy leaves
and every budding flower
The Hand that rules the universe
with gentleness and power -
And may this Easter grandeur
that Spring lavishly imparts
Awaken faded flowers of faith
lying dormant in our hearts,
And give us ears to hear, dear God,
the Springtime song of birds
With messages more meaningful
than man's often empty words
Telling harried human beings
who are lost in dark despair -
'Be like us and do not worry
for God has you in His care.
--Helen Steiner Rice
https://www.faithandworship.com/prayers_Easter.htm#gsc.tab=0

Remember always that you are loved!
Stay safe, and keep in touch.
Blessings and peace to you all,
The Leadership Team of St. Peter’s Evangelical Lutheran Church

‘Wayfaring Stranger’, by Eva Cassidy
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2DJKnLVKTT8
***********************
UPDATE April 17, 2026

Gracious God…

It was always your will
that Israel should find,
in Jesus Christ,
the one who would bring them home,
lost sheep returning
to the Shepherd who is their King.
And to that fold
would come others,
from every nation upon earth,
as prophets had foretold,
including those gathered here today
to honour your name.
Gracious God, we praise you
for the promise of Scripture,
the depth of your love
and our Saviour, Jesus Christ.
https://www.faithandworship.com/prayers_Easter.htm#gsc.tab=0

Remember always that you are loved!
Stay safe, and keep in touch.
Blessings and peace to you all,
The Leadership Team of St. Peter’s Evangelical Lutheran Church

‘Wade in the Water’, by Eva Cassidy
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9-hKDYQ6F54
***********************
UPDATE April 16, 2026

Easter People

We are often not the Easter People
that we should be,
living in the certain knowledge
of your great mercy and love.
Distracted by the world around us
we fail to hear your voice,
or hide when faith is challenged
as we wander off the path.
Forgive us, we pray;
restore the love that we first had,
a faith that can endure.
We will keep our eyes fixed on you, Lord,
and with you at our right hand
we shall not be shaken.
https://www.faithandworship.com/prayers_Easter.htm#gsc.tab=0

Remember always that you are loved!
Stay safe, and keep in touch.
Blessings and peace to you all,
The Leadership Team of St. Peter’s Evangelical Lutheran Church

‘Hold On to Me’, by Lauren Daigle
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=R1EwKwayzLM
***********************
UPDATE April 15, 2026

We Praise Your Wonderful Name!

God of Promise and God of Hope,
who through your great mercy
have granted us new birth
through the death and resurrection of Jesus Christ,
we praise your wonderful name!
God of Glory and God of Might
who through your great power
have granted us new strength
to endure all things through faith in Christ our risen King,
we praise your wonderful name!
https://www.faithandworship.com/prayers_Easter.htm#gsc.tab=0

Remember always that you are loved!
Stay safe, and keep in touch.
Blessings and peace to you all,
The Leadership Team of St. Peter’s Evangelical Lutheran Church

‘I’m Going Home With Jesus’, by The Nelons
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=dYMiLOHU-V0
***********************
UPDATE April 14, 2026

You Have Done Marvellous Things

We give thanks to you, Lord,
for you have done marvellous things!

When we were walking in darkness
you were there, you were there,
when we were kneeling in weakness
you were there, you were there,
when we drew near feeling worthless
you were there, you were there,
when we were needing forgiveness
you were there, you were there,
when we were searching for your grace
you were there, you were there.

We give thanks to you, Lord,
for you have done marvellous things!
https://www.faithandworship.com/prayers_Easter.htm#gsc.tab=0

Remember always that you are loved!
Stay safe, and keep in touch.
Blessings and peace to you all,
The Leadership Team of St. Peter’s Evangelical Lutheran Church

‘Come and Walk With Me’, by Oleta Adams
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=E2bbQ_xU4R8
***********************
UPDATE April 13, 2026

Forgive Us, Once Again

Easter reminds us
that each time
we deny you, Lord,
another nail is sharpened;
and each time
we defy you, Lord,
into your hand it’s hammered.
When faith is weak,
temptation strong
and courage fails,
forgive us, Lord
and once again
become that risen presence
within our hearts. Amen
https://www.faithandworship.com/prayers_Easter.htm#gsc.tab=0

Remember always that you are loved!
Stay safe, and keep in touch.
Blessings and peace to you all,
The Leadership Team of St. Peter’s Evangelical Lutheran Church

‘Place of Peace’, by Oleta Adams
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6iItKTNhkUQ&list=OLAK5uy_lyBc_LNx-wEfk7NbbM8LZxLO7XU7pBdgY&index=1
***********************
UPDATE April 12, 2026

Rejoice!

Rejoice!
The stone is rolled away,
grave clothes neatly folded,
no more the smell of death,
behold the empty tomb!
Halleluia! (He is risen!)

Rejoice!
Scripture has been fulfilled,
the sting of death is gone,
the victory has been won,
behold the risen Christ!
Halleluia! (He is risen!)

Rejoice!
The curtain’s torn in two,
our God invites us in,
Christ’s sacrifice enough
to wash away our sins!
Halleluia! (He is risen!)
https://www.faithandworship.com/prayers_Easter.htm#gsc.tab=0

Remember always that you are loved!
Stay safe, and keep in touch.
Blessings and peace to you all,
The Leadership Team of St. Peter’s Evangelical Lutheran Church

‘Holy is the Lamb’, by Oleta Adams, Isaac Cates Presents Affirmations. ft Alicia Peters-Jordan
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=diMLd4VXClE
***********************
UPDATE April 11, 2026

Because Jesus is Risen

We thank you
that Easter is not about
a people,
but all people,
that your love
and your Salvation
are for all who confess
with voices, hearts and lives
that the tomb is empty
because Jesus is risen,
that we might know
forgiveness,
that lives might be
reborn
and your name
glorified
now and for eternity.
https://www.faithandworship.com/prayers_Easter.htm#gsc.tab=0

Remember always that you are loved!
Stay safe, and keep in touch.
Blessings and peace to you all,
The Leadership Team of St. Peter’s Evangelical Lutheran Church

‘Better Than a Hallelujah’, by Amy Grant
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Rm5kx3xqmg0
***********************
UPDATE April 10, 2026

An Easter Prayer

You were a man of suffering
acquainted with grief,
loved and despised in equal measure.
You understand humanity,
know our failings,
love us despite the people that we are.
When we, like Peter, deny you
by word or action,
forgive us.
When we, like Judas, are tempted
to follow a different path,
forgive us.
When we, like those in the crowd
allow you to be crucified,
forgive us.
Bring us to the foot of the Cross
to stand next to the one who,
looking into your eyes declared
'Surely this is the Son of God'
https://www.faithandworship.com/index.htm#gsc.tab=0

Remember always that you are loved!
Stay safe, and keep in touch.
Blessings and peace to you all,
The Leadership Team of St. Peter’s Evangelical Lutheran Church

‘How Do We Get There From Here’, by Amy Grant ft Ruby Amanfu
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=uA_3lEFF2EU
***********************
UPDATE April 9, 2026

When Our Faith

When our faith
stands at the grave,
grieving
for a stone that's rolled away,
forgive us.

When our faith
is short of
understanding
though the truth is there to see,
forgive us.

When our faith,
beset by doubt, sees
no further
than an empty tomb today,
forgive us.

Bring to mind
the cry of Mary,
‘I have seen the Lord!'
and grant us faith to believe!
https://www.faithandworship.com/prayers_Easter.htm#gsc.tab=0

Remember always that you are loved!
Stay safe, and keep in touch.
Blessings and peace to you all,
The Leadership Team of St. Peter’s Evangelical Lutheran Church

‘The God I Serve’, by Karen Peck & New River
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Vnv0WfhU6Qk
***********************
UPDATE April 8, 2026

May This Declaration

Halleluia!
Jesus is risen!
He is risen indeed!

May this declaration
resound not only in these walls
but touch the lives
of all we meet
and forever be
the truth of which we speak.
Your love,
once sown within a garden,
tended for your own people,
neglected and rejected,
now spreads its sweet perfume
in this place
and wherever it is shown.

Halleluia!
Jesus is risen!
He is risen indeed!
https://www.faithandworship.com/prayers_Easter.htm#gsc.tab=0

Remember always that you are loved!
Stay safe, and keep in touch.
Blessings and peace to you all,
The Leadership Team of St. Peter’s Evangelical Lutheran Church

‘Three Nails Instead’, by The Nelons
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=005oMyjWVWE
***********************
UPDATE April 7, 2026

Love Poured Out

Love poured out
on that cruel cross,
a blood offering
so we might go free.

(Breathe)
Love poured out,
infusing this world
with rivers of grace
and hope of rebirth.

(Breathe)

Love poured out,
and into these hearts,
who drink from a stream
that never runs dry
https://www.faithandworship.com/prayers_Easter.htm#gsc.tab=0

Remember always that you are loved!
Stay safe, and keep in touch.
Blessings and peace to you all,
The Leadership Team of St. Peter’s Evangelical Lutheran Church

‘We Shall Be Known’, by Singing Out’s TNB Ensemble
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=r-Yd48HCmfY
***********************
UPDATE April 6, 2026

There Are Times…

Would we be counted
among the doubters
hiding in the shadow
cast by that cruel cross?
Or, when challenged,
like Peter
openly deny you?
There are times, Lord
when doubts assail
and the distance between us
seems to increase.
There are times, Lord
when sin has its hold,
like a barrier between us
that will not move.
Who is there we can turn to
when we feel so overwhelmed?
Who can roll away the stone
and reveal the empty tomb?
No-one but you, Jesus,
no-one but you!
https://www.faithandworship.com/prayers_Easter.htm#gsc.tab=0

Remember always that you are loved!
Stay safe, and keep in touch.
Blessings and peace to you all,
The Leadership Team of St. Peter’s Evangelical Lutheran Church

‘Easter Song’, by 2nd Chapter of Acts
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8ClwvRJMmZY&list=OLAK5uy_l7r3VrMYgJYRuwaioyOBqOjiz-hKd0orM&index=2
***********************
UPDATE April 5, 2026

Easter Morning

As the world sings triumphant cries to heaven over death that you conquered, help us, Lord, tomorrow as well, when the dresses are put away and the candy is all eaten and on with life we go let us not forget.

The celebration of your resurrection over death is a celebration of life that should continue well beyond the sunrise service and the music, rehearsed for days prior; it is beyond the sign of spring, beyond the lily, beyond new lambs grazing in open fields.

Resurrection is a daily celebration over fear; man's greatest and most powerful enemy. Fear of tomorrow, fear of our yesterdays, fear of what shall become of our young our old our unborn. Resurrection is replacing fear with physical action.

This alone, the most touching and profound of your signs that fear is dead and belief in you brings, not just hope but life.

What better living parable could You have brought? All fear death. All. Even in the garden, You took on our fear if for only moments, it was as real as our fears can be real and You knew then that this single enemy must be destroyed.

And, You sacrificed your life, leaving those who had been comfort, and follower; You left them behind, to conquer fear.

I shall cling to this now, and the tomorrows given me.
Peace and thanksgiving lifted unto you.
Amen.
- Author Unknown
https://www.xavier.edu/jesuitresource/online-resources/prayer-index/easter-prayers

Remember always that you are loved!
Stay safe, and keep in touch.
Blessings and peace to you all,
The Leadership Team of St. Peter’s Evangelical Lutheran Church

‘Hallelujah (Easter Version)’, by Kelley Mooney
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=k-AKX3g08TM
***********************
UPDATE April 4, 2026

A Holy Saturday Prayer

O Lord Jesus Christ, for our sins you endured the cross and the grave, and on the third day you rose again from the tomb.

Just as you have cleansed us from our sins by your blood, and as we are buried with you in baptism, so by your grace, let us share in your resurrection; through your mercy,

O our God, you are blessed and live and govern all things, now and forever. Amen.
https://www.christianity.com/wiki/prayer/holy-saturday-prayers-jesus-burial.html

Remember always that you are loved!
Stay safe, and keep in touch.
Blessings and peace to you all,
The Leadership Team of St. Peter’s Evangelical Lutheran Church

‘Christ Has No Body But Yours’, by The Porter’s Gate ft Josh Garrels
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=w7ymxW3rndk

***********************

UPDATE April 3, 2026

A Prayer for Good Friday

Dear God,
We remember today, the pain and suffering of the cross, and all that Jesus was willing to endure, so we could be set free. He paid the price, such a great sacrifice, to offer us the gift of eternal life.

Help us never to take for granted this huge gift of love on our behalf. Help us to be reminded of the cost of it all. Forgive us for being too busy, or distracted by other things, for not fully recognizing what you freely given, what you have done for us.

Thank you, Lord that by your wounds we are healed. Thank you that because of your huge sacrifice we can live free. Thank you that sin and death have been conquered and that your Power is everlasting.

Thank you that we can say with great hope, “It is finished…” For we know what’s still to come. And death has lost its sting. We praise you for you are making all things new.

In Jesus’ Name,

Amen.
https://www.crosswalk.com/devotionals/your-daily-prayer/a-prayer-for-good-friday-your-daily-prayer-april-13-2017.html

Remember always that you are loved!
Stay safe, and keep in touch.
Blessings and peace to you all,
The Leadership Team of St. Peter’s Evangelical Lutheran Church

‘Were You There When They Crucified My Lord?”, by Johnny Cash & The Carter Family
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=yYwrovW9Xcc
***********************
UPDATE April 2, 2026

A Prayer for Maundy Thursday

Lord of all compassion, Maundy Thursday reminds us that your presence is not reserved for those in palaces of ease. You are not a savior who stands aloof, removed from the difficulty of life. You come to us, and you embrace the very things in life that we embrace. As we deal with rejection from friends, we walk the path of rejection. Just as we sometimes struggle to pray through our agonies, you threw yourself down in the garden of Gethsemane, too. And you do all this so that you might join us when we face such things.

Gracious Savior, I pray that you give me the capacity to feel you ever near me as I walk the road. When I am discouraged, give me a sign of your delight for me; when I struggle in prayer, may your groanings carry me; when I feel overwhelmed by chaos, may your presence calm my heart and soul. I open my heart to receive you, not as an escape from all I face, but as an embracing of you who join me, who cry with me, and who will lead me through this time. I thank you, Gracious Lord, and I pray all this is in your holy name. Amen.
https://www.crosswalk.com/devotionals/your-daily-prayer/a-prayer-to-receive-comfort-this-maundy-thursday-your-daily-prayer.html

Remember always that you are loved!
Stay safe, and keep in touch.
Blessings and peace to you all,
The Leadership Team of St. Peter’s Evangelical Lutheran Church

‘The Power of the Cross (What Wondrous Love is This)’, by by Keith & Kristyn Getty
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4fa0NYMpvHE
***********************
UPDATE April 1, 2026

A Prayer for Wednesday of Holy Week

Jesus, help me to love like you.

There are so many obstacles that get in the way of loving like you: my selfishness and insecurities; my pride and unwillingness to forgive; my anger and envy; my greed and laziness. Fill me with the grace to pray more than ever before in my life, and cast these obstacles aside so that each day I can love more and more like you.

I pray in a special way today for anyone who has been unjustly accused and punished for something they didn’t do. Raise them above these painful circumstances and somehow keep their hearts from hardening with anger and resentment.

Amen.
https://www.dynamiccatholic.com/lent/holy-week.html?srsltid=AfmBOoqUgJXPATwQPbZwcNc2A3qVXczpI6imU6xBP03Pwb1c7YtSLvhw#holy-wednesday

Remember always that you are loved!
Stay safe, and keep in touch.
Blessings and peace to you all,
The Leadership Team of St. Peter’s Evangelical Lutheran Church

‘When I Survey the Wondrous Cross’, by Keith & Kristyn Getty
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=tRfcehP0SLU
***********************
UPDATE March 31, 2026

A Prayer for Tuesday of Holy Week

Lord,
Thank you for all the ways you bless me, those I am aware of and all those I am still oblivious to. The Scriptures show me that from the beginning you have desired friendship with humanity. Help me to know and believe that just as you yearned for friendship with Adam and Eve; Abraham, Moses and Noah; Ruth, Esther, Rachel and Mary; you desire a powerful friendship with me. Give me a spirit full of gratitude and a passion for prayer so together we can foster a beautiful friendship.

Amen.
https://www.dynamiccatholic.com/lent/holy-week.html?srsltid=AfmBOoqUgJXPATwQPbZwcNc2A3qVXczpI6imU6xBP03Pwb1c7YtSLvhw#holy-tuesday

Remember always that you are loved!
Stay safe, and keep in touch.
Blessings and peace to you all,
The Leadership Team of St. Peter’s Evangelical Lutheran Church

‘Passion Song (The Story of Holy Week)’ by Sean Carter
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=MljFNaWoYEs
***********************
UPDATE March 30, 2026

A Prayer for Monday of Holy Week

Jesus,
Thank you for the vast array of feelings and emotions that you allow me to experience. Teach me to release any resentment that is lingering in my heart and help me to express my anger in a healthy way. When I notice injustice, give me the courage and boldness to do something about it.

Amen.
https://www.dynamiccatholic.com/lent/holy-week.html?srsltid=AfmBOoqUgJXPATwQPbZwcNc2A3qVXczpI6imU6xBP03Pwb1c7YtSLvhw#holy-monday

Remember always that you are loved!
Stay safe, and keep in touch.
Blessings and peace to you all,
The Leadership Team of St. Peter’s Evangelical Lutheran Church

‘Hosanna’, by HIllsong Chapel
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=bOjD0rww2Ps
***********************
UPDATE March 29, 2026

Prayer for the Journey of Faith

"Merciful God, as we journey through Holy Week, help us to walk closely with Jesus. From the joyous procession of Palm Sunday to the sorrow of Good Friday and the ultimate triumph of Easter, remind us of the profound love You have for us, a love that endures all trials and triumphs over all adversity. Strengthen our faith and keep us faithful to You. Amen."
https://www.crosswalk.com/faith/prayer/a-triumphant-prayer-for-palm-sunday.html

Remember always that you are loved!
Stay safe, and keep in touch.
Blessings and peace to you all,
The Leadership Team of St. Peter’s Evangelical Lutheran Church

‘Hosanna’, by Maverick City Music ft Kirk Franklin
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=cPFSmaz8V9E
***********************
UPDATE March 28, 2026

The Hope of Spring

God, thank you for Spring and the hope of warmer, longer, brighter days.
Thank you for the coming of growth and life and birth.
Thank you that things are coming awake in the world.
This is what our calendar says, and we do see some signs that it is real.
But we also still struggle with the residual layover of winter.
Now we ask that you bring into reality all that belongs in this season.Your word says that we will have provision, and hope, and joy, and health and loving relationships here and now in this life.
We ask that what belongs in this season would become actual in our practical lives.
We hope in you and in your promises. We hope in your gift of Spring.
- Author Unknown
https://www.xavier.edu/jesuitresource/online-resources/prayer-index/spring-prayers

Remember always that you are loved!
Stay safe, and keep in touch.
Blessings and peace to you all,
The Leadership Team of St. Peter’s Evangelical Lutheran Church

‘I Set My Hope on Jesus (Come Thou Fount of Every Blessing)’, by Matt Boswell & Matt Papa, Sing!
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=nZQf5nxh048
***********************
UPDATE March 27, 2026

Lenten Journey to Easter

We walk this Lenten journey
with immigrants and refugees,
lost, unsure of their journey’s end,
still longing for a home.

We walk with those in poverty,
unable to live lives of dignity,
besieged by hunger and fear,
trying to hold on day by day.

We walk with those mourning
what is happening to God’s creation,
calling us all to better care and stewardship
of the earth, its creatures, and all growing things.

We walk with women who are trafficked,
who are abused, who are harassed,
who still live in the silences,
and who want to flee the darkness.

We walk with peacemakers,
walking a very rocky road toward peace
when so much conflict rages
and so many fan the flames of violence.

We walk with all those carrying burdens,
yet we walk in faith and hope.
Despite the suffering of the Cross,
we walk toward an Easter dawning.

We move toward the seemingly impossible|
Resurrection, a time of justice and peace.
We walk, called forward through the darkness
By the Risen Christ.
In his name we pray. Amen.
– Jane Deren, PhD, Education for Justice
https://franciscanaction.org/prayers/

Remember always that you are loved!
Stay safe, and keep in touch.
Blessings and peace to you all,
The Leadership Team of St. Peter’s Evangelical Lutheran Church

‘Ancient of Days’, by City Alight
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3PmoAK0SbtE
***********************
UPDATE March 26, 2026

Patient Trust

Above all, trust in the slow work of God.
We are quite naturally impatient in everything
to reach the end without delay.
We should like to skip the intermediate stages.
We are impatient of being on the way to something
unknown, something new.
And yet it is the law of all progress
that it is made by passing through
some stages of instability—
and that it may take a very long time.

And so I think it is with you;
your ideas mature gradually—let them grow,
let them shape themselves, without undue haste.
Don’t try to force them on,
as though you could be today what time
(that is to say, grace and circumstances
acting on your own good will)
will make of you tomorrow.

Only God could say what this new spirit
gradually forming within you will be.
Give Our Lord the benefit of believing
that his hand is leading you,
and accept the anxiety of feeling yourself
in suspense and incomplete.
– Pierre Teilhard de Chardin, SJ, excerpted from Hearts on Fire
https://franciscanaction.org/prayers/

Remember always that you are loved!
Stay safe, and keep in touch.
Blessings and peace to you all,
The Leadership Team of St. Peter’s Evangelical Lutheran Church

‘Whispering Hope’, by Oasis Chorale
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=rgZylB_XRoY
***********************
UPDATE March 25, 2026

Christ has no body but yours

Christ has no body but yours,
No hands, no feet on earth but yours,
Yours are the eyes with which He looks
Compassion on this world,
Yours are the feet with which He walks to do good,
Yours are the hands, with which He blesses all the world.
Yours are the hands, yours are the feet,
Yours are the eyes, you are His body.
Christ has no body now but yours,
No hands, no feet on earth but yours,
Yours are the eyes with which he looks
compassion on this world.
Christ has no body now on earth but yours.
– St. Teresa of Ávila (attributed)
https://franciscanaction.org/prayers/

Remember always that you are loved!
Stay safe, and keep in touch.
Blessings and peace to you all,
The Leadership Team of St. Peter’s Evangelical Lutheran Church

‘Ave Verum Corpus’, by Virtual Choir
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=TH4-ztDGLlk
***********************
UPDATE March 24, 2026

Prayer for Women Everywhere

With Miriam, who with Moses and Aaron
led the people of Israel out of Egypt;
with Deborah, who judged the people of Israel
in truth and righteousness;
with Ruth, who was an example of faithfulness;
with Mary Magdalen, who first
brought the good news of the resurrection;
with Phoebe, deacon and leader of the early Church;
with Priscilla, who labored with Aquila
in the service of Christ;
with Dorcas, who spent herself doing good
and helping the poor;
with Mary the mother of Jesus,
who said “yes” with no holding back.

With these, our sisters,
We pray for women everywhere who see
their families divided,
their children sad;
we pray for women who against all the odds
create a good place
for their families to live in;
we pray for women who,
when tempted to give up,
find new strength from their sisters
and go on.
Amen.
– B. D’Arcy
https://franciscanaction.org/prayers/

Remember always that you are loved!
Stay safe, and keep in touch.
Blessings and peace to you all,
The Leadership Team of St. Peter’s Evangelical Lutheran Church

‘You Don’t Leave Me’, by Selah ft Natalie Layne
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=g8hyIbudJR4
***********************
UPDATE March 23, 2026

Prayer for an End to Racism

Lord, Jesus Christ
who reached across the ethnic boundaries
between Samaritan, Roman and Jew
who offered fresh sight to the blind and freedom to captives,
help us to break down the barriers in our community,
enable us to see the reality of racism and bigotry,
and free us to challenge and uproot it
from ourselves, our society and our world.
Amen.
– John Bucki, S.J.
https://franciscanaction.org/prayers/

Remember always that you are loved!
Stay safe, and keep in touch.
Blessings and peace to you all,
The Leadership Team of St. Peter’s Evangelical Lutheran Church

‘The Potter’s House’, by Selah ft Wendy Moten
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0Gddn0144wA
***********************

UPDATE March 22, 2026

Lord Open Our Eyes

Lord, open our eyes,
That we may see you in our brothers and sisters.

Lord, open our ears,
That we may hear the cries of the hungry, the cold,
the frightened, the oppressed.

Lord, open our hearts,
That we may love each other as you love us.

Renew in us your spirit
Lord, free us and make us one.
– Kathryn Spink
https://franciscanaction.org/prayers/

Remember always that you are loved!
Stay safe, and keep in touch.
Blessings and peace to you all,
The Leadership Team of St. Peter’s Evangelical Lutheran Church

‘Love is the Touch’, by Siskin Green
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5ZYydbtVe1A
***********************
UPDATE March 21, 2026

Give Us This Day
Give us this day our daily bread,
O Father in heaven, and grant that we
who are filled with good things
from your open hand, may never close our hearts
to the hungry, the homeless and the poor.
In the name of the Father, and of the Son,
And of the Holy Spirit.
– Abbey of New Clairvaux
https://franciscanaction.org/prayers/

Remember always that you are loved!
Stay safe, and keep in touch.
Blessings and peace to you all,
The Leadership Team of St. Peter’s Evangelical Lutheran Church

‘The Glory and the Grey’, by Siskin Green
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=dk4nCMkyJpI
***********************
UPDATE March 20, 2026

Eye of Love

When we look at the world with God’s “eye of love,” we see that: we
humans are children of a loving God who invests utmost confidence
in us; we are brothers and sisters, not strangers or enemies; all else
on the face of the earth is God’s gift given to all of us for our
common good and our responsible stewardship; the greatest among
us is the one who serves the rest; we “find” our lives by “losing”
them in love of God and love of neighbor; hostility and hatred are
healed through forgiveness, not retaliation and revenge; the world’s
destiny is decided – it is not in doubt – it is the Kingdom of God in
which all tears are wiped away and we rejoice together, as a family
around the Banquet Table of the Lord.
– James L. Connor, S.J.
https://franciscanaction.org/prayers/

Remember always that you are loved!
Stay safe, and keep in touch.
Blessings and peace to you all,
The Leadership Team of St. Peter’s Evangelical Lutheran Church

‘Look at Your Hands’, by Siskin Green
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=MZCgvQFaXQ0
***********************
UPDATE March 19, 2026

Give Us This Day

Give us this day our daily bread,
O Father in heaven, and grant that we
who are filled with good things
from your open hand, may never close our hearts
to the hungry, the homeless and the poor.
In the name of the Father, and of the Son,
And of the Holy Spirit.
– Abbey of New Clairvaux
https://franciscanaction.org/prayers/

Remember always that you are loved!
Stay safe, and keep in touch.
Blessings and peace to you all,
The Leadership Team of St. Peter’s Evangelical Lutheran Church

‘Dona Nobis Pacem’, by Siskin Green
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=cMxT-7y803w
***********************
UPDATE March 18, 2026

Hope is not the same as joy

Hope is not the same as joy when things are going well, or
willingness to invest in enterprises that are obviously headed for
early success, but rather an ability to work for something to succeed.
Hope is definitely not the same thing as optimism. It’s not the
conviction that something will turn out well, but the certainty that
something makes sense, regardless of how it turns out. It is this
hope, above all, that gives us strength to live and to continually try
new things, even in conditions that seem hopeless.

Life is too precious to permit its devaluation by living pointlessly,
emptily, without meaning, without love and, finally, without hope.
– Václav Havel
https://franciscanaction.org/prayers/

Remember always that you are loved!
Stay safe, and keep in touch.
Blessings and peace to you all,
The Leadership Team of St. Peter’s Evangelical Lutheran Church

‘We Are Not Alone’, by Oasis Chorale
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=OviilwuJVtE
***********************
UPDATE March 17, 2026

Here are the beautiful words of the St. Patrick’s Breastplate prayer:

I arise today
Through a mighty strength, the invocation of the Trinity,
Through belief in the Threeness,
Through confession of the Oneness
of the Creator of creation.

I arise today
Through the strength of Christ's birth with His baptism,
Through the strength of His crucifixion with His burial,
Through the strength of His resurrection with His ascension,
Through the strength of His descent for the judgment of doom.

I arise today
Through the strength of the love of cherubim,
In the obedience of angels,
In the service of archangels,
In the hope of resurrection to meet with reward,
In the prayers of patriarchs,
In the predictions of prophets,
In the preaching of apostles,
In the faith of confessors,
In the innocence of holy virgins,
In the deeds of righteous men.

I arise today, through
The strength of heaven,
The light of the sun,
The radiance of the moon,
The splendor of fire,
The speed of lightning,
The swiftness of wind,
The depth of the sea,
The stability of the earth,
The firmness of rock.

I arise today, through
God's strength to pilot me,
God's might to uphold me,
God's wisdom to guide me,
God's eye to look before me,
God's ear to hear me,
God's word to speak for me,
God's hand to guard me,
God's shield to protect me,
God's host to save me
From snares of devils,
From temptation of vices,
From everyone who shall wish me ill,
afar and near.

I summon today
All these powers between me and those evils,
Against every cruel and merciless power
that may oppose my body and soul,
Against incantations of false prophets,
Against black laws of pagandom,
Against false laws of heretics,
Against craft of idolatry,
Against spells of witches and smiths and wizards,
Against every knowledge that corrupts man's body and soul;
Christ to shield me today
Against poison, against burning,
Against drowning, against wounding,
So that there may come to me an abundance of reward.

Christ with me,
Christ before me,
Christ behind me,
Christ in me,
Christ beneath me,
Christ above me,
Christ on my right,
Christ on my left,
Christ when I lie down,
Christ when I sit down,
Christ when I arise,
Christ in the heart of every man who thinks of me,
Christ in the mouth of everyone who speaks of me,
Christ in every eye that sees me,
Christ in every ear that hears me.

I arise today
Through a mighty strength, the invocation of the Trinity,
Through belief in the Threeness,
Through confession of the Oneness
of the Creator of creation.
https://www.ourcatholicprayers.com/st-patricks-breastplate.html

Remember always that you are loved!
Stay safe, and keep in touch.
Blessings and peace to you all,
The Leadership Team of St. Peter’s Evangelical Lutheran Church

‘O Christ Surround Me’, by The River’s Voice
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=VBJDWsufLPg
***********************
UPDATE March 16, 2026

A Franciscan Prayer for Peace and Reconciliation

We submit ourselves and our prayer to
the Lord God.

God most holy, you have given all
creatures salvation and forgiveness;
look upon us, who have been
consecrated in the name of your prophets
and of those you have called us to
follow.

In a world often restless and violent,
may we be messengers of glad tidings to
the poor, heralds of mercy and
reconciliation
instruments of
Peace.

Let us not harden our hearts
as our ancestors did in the desert,
but may we welcome your grace and
truth, with the courage of Abraham and
Moses, Sarah and Miriam, and of
countless other witnesses of
faith,
symbols of your eternal offer of
Shalom.

May your word enter the marrow of our
bones; may it illuminate the paths of
mutual forgiveness;
may it teach us to build communities of
faith open to ever greater
communion;
May it teach us the way of
Salaam.

To You, Most High, all Powerful, Good
Lord. Amen.
https://franciscanaction.org/prayers/

Remember always that you are loved!
Stay safe, and keep in touch.
Blessings and peace to you all,
The Leadership Team of St. Peter’s Evangelical Lutheran Church

Holy God, We Praise Your Name’, by Oasis Chorale
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3MhBGIGFFPo
***********************
UPDATE March 15, 2026

A Prayer for the End of Violence

God of life, source of hope,
the violence within our world, our communities, our families, in our very selves
is destroying your creation.
Make still the restless spirit with me that is self-seeking.
Stir within my heart a renewed Spirit of reverence, respect, and reconciliation.
Give me strength to break the cycle of violence by realizing that peace begins with me.
God of reconciliation, passionate for your whole creation,
impel us to seek your guiding hand in leading us to forgiveness, pardon, and peace.
Give us the courage to hear every story of every person with dignity and respect.
Help us that we might work to remove every structure that provokes, promotes, and
sustains violence.
Give us the heart that holds a place for all those who oppose us or who call us enemy.
Help us by your grace in the ministry of reconciliation you have given us to do;
to heal and make whole.
Let the word of reconciliation be in our mouths and in our hearts
that your peace might be present to all. Amen.

(Adapted from Prayer for an End to Violence, by: Fr. Angelo Anthony, C.PP.S. and A Reconciliation Prayer, by: Fr. Alan Hartway, C.PP.S., both found in the Precious Blood Prayer Book)

https://franciscanaction.org/prayers/

Remember always that you are loved!
Stay safe, and keep in touch.
Blessings and peace to you all,
The Leadership Team of St. Peter’s Evangelical Lutheran Church

‘Still With Thee’, by Oasis Chorale
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LOBJf4L03GQ
***********************
UPDATE March 14, 2026

Inspired by Prayer of St. Francis

Creator of all, make me a person of peace.
Where there is oppression, let me bring equality;
Where there is abuse, dignity;
Where there is fragmentation, unity;
Where there is exploitation, justice;
Where there is conflict, resolution;
Where there is discrimination, mutuality;
Where there is violence, vision;
Where there is powerlessness, power.
Grant that I may not so much seek to compete
As to collaborate; to exclude as to include,
To dominate as to complement.
For it is in healing that we are healed;
It is in reconciling, that we are reconciled;
It is in our common bond, that we become whole.

We ask this in Jesus’ name. Amen.
https://franciscanaction.org/prayers/

Remember always that you are loved!
Stay safe, and keep in touch.
Blessings and peace to you all,
The Leadership Team of St. Peter’s Evangelical Lutheran Church

‘Canticle of the Turning’, by Siskin Green
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=N9vp6qBw8F4
***********************
UPDATE March 13, 2026

Social Action

We cannot merely pray to You, O God, to end war:
For we know You made the world in a way
That we must find our own path of peace
Within ourselves and with our neighbor.

We cannot merely pray to You, O God, to root out prejudice:
For You have already given us eyes
With which to see the good in all people
If we would only use them rightly.

We cannot merely pray to You, O God, to end starvation:
For You have already given us the resources
With which to feed the entire world
If we would only use them wisely.

We cannot merely pray to You, O God, to end despair:
For You have already given us the power
To clear away slums and to give hope
If we would only use our power justly.

We cannot merely pray to You, O God, to end disease:
For You have already given us great minds
With which to search out cures and healing
If we would only use them constructively.

Therefore we pray to You, instead O God,
For strength, determination, and will power,
To do instead of just to pray
To become instead of merely to wish.
– Rabbi Jack Riemer
https://franciscanaction.org/prayers/

Remember always that you are loved!
Stay safe, and keep in touch.
Blessings and peace to you all,
The Leadership Team of St. Peter’s Evangelical Lutheran Church

‘All I Have is Christ’, by Jordan Kauflin, Keith & Kristyn Getty
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6oT7PLbCtWA
***********************
UPDATE March 12, 2026

Open my eyes and ears

O Lord, open my eyes that I may see the needs of others
Open my ears that I may hear their cries;
Open my heart so that they need not be without succor;
Let me not be afraid to defend the weak because of the anger of the strong,
Nor afraid to defend the poor because of the anger of the rich.
Show me where love and hope and faith are needed,
And use me to bring them to those places.
And so open my eyes and my ears
That I may this coming day be able to do some work of peace for thee.
Amen.
https://franciscanaction.org/prayers/
– Alan Paton (1903-1988)

Remember always that you are loved!
Stay safe, and keep in touch.
Blessings and peace to you all,
The Leadership Team of St. Peter’s Evangelical Lutheran Church

‘Butterfly’, by Zac Brown Band & Dolly Parton
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=od_BEj3th-c
***********************
UPDATE March 11, 2026

A Prayer for Peace

Gracious God,
We join our cries today with all people who suffer violence, both around the
world and in our own country,
With those who have seen too much violence, too much war, displacement,
mourning,
We cry out for peace, stability, and healing.
We cry out that neighbors may live as neighbors, as we were meant to live.
For whatever our religion, race or culture,
When we take up arms against our neighbor, or curse our neighbor,
We shame ourselves before you.
So, we turn in prayer toward our neighbors who are in great need.
In solidarity with these sisters and brothers, we cry out to you:
Let there be joy where there is mourning.
Let there be hope where there is fear.
Let there be stillness where there is violence.
And let there be peace.
A just and lasting peace.
Lord, your grace abounds.
May it rest upon us all,
Today and always.
Amen
https://franciscanaction.org/prayers/

Remember always that you are loved!
Stay safe, and keep in touch.
Blessings and peace to you all,
The Leadership Team of St. Peter’s Evangelical Lutheran Church

‘The Me That Remains’, by Amy Grant
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=U6vZn-A0lDs
***********************
UPDATE March 10, 2026

Prayer for International Women’s Day

Lord, make me an instrument of peace:
Bless all women who daily strive to bring peace to their communities, their homes and their hearts. Give them strength to continue to turn swords into ploughshares.

Where there is hatred, let me sow love:
We pray for all women who face prejudice, inequality and gender disparities. Help us to see and to face the discrimination against women in all the many forms it may take.

Where there is injury, pardon:
Comfort all women who suffer from the pain of war, violence, and abuse. Help them to become instruments of their own reconciliation and peace.

Where there is division, unity:
Forgive all women and men who let differences breed hate and discrimination. Let your example of valuing all of creation help us to see that we are equal partners in the stewardship of your world.

Where there is darkness, light; where there is untruth, truth:
Comfort all women who struggle in the darkness of abuse, poverty, and loneliness. May we stand with them in light to acknowledge their suffering and strive to remove the burdens of shame or embarrassment.

Where there is doubt, true faith:
We pray for all women who live in fear of their husbands, fathers, and forces that control their lives. Help them to be empowered to be their true selves through your everlasting love and faith.

Where there is despair, hope:
We pray for all women who live in the despair of poverty, violence, trafficking, slavery, and abuse. May the light of your love bring them hope.

Where there is sadness, new joy:
Help us to see the strength and goodness in all women and men.
Transform our hearts to celebrate the love and grace of all people.
Amen
Source: www.godpsacelight.com

Remember always that you are loved!
Stay safe, and keep in touch.
Blessings and peace to you all,
The Leadership Team of St. Peter’s Evangelical Lutheran Church

‘Will Your Anchor Hold’, by Siskin Green
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Z9LouKKeYDI
***********************
UPDATE March 9, 2026

Gracious and Loving God,

On this International Women’s Day, we gather in gratitude for the gift of women—for mothers and daughters, sisters and friends, leaders and caregivers, teachers and healers, dreamers and builders.

Bless the women who have gone before us, whose sacrifices built the paths we travel today, and bless the young women who are finding their voices and discovering their purpose. May they know that they are wonderfully made, deeply valued, and held always in your loving care.

Compassionate God, we lift before you women who carry heavy burdens. Strengthen those who struggle in silence and sustain women whose labour and gifts are overlooked.

Comfort women who face loneliness, grief, poverty, or fear. Protect women and girls who live under the shadow of violence and injustice. Loving God, come move the hearts of nations and communities to create a world where dignity and safety are not privileges but rights shared by all. Give us the courage to challenge inequality and the wisdom to recognize the sacred worth in every person.

Loving Creator, bless the work of women who care for others—in homes and hospitals, classrooms and kitchens, offices and shelters, sanctuaries and streets. Renew their strength when they grow weary and fill their hearts with peace when worries weigh them down. Let them know that their work, whether seen or unseen, is precious in your sight.

We pray for women who are pioneers—those who dare to lead, to speak, to create, and to transform the world. May their dreams remain strong and their hope unshaken.

May our church be a place where women flourish, where their gifts are celebrated, and where their leadership reflects the fullness of your Spirit. May we travel together as equals in faith, serving you with humility and joy.

We offer this prayer with thanksgiving and hope, trusting that your love continues to work through the lives of every woman—shaping families, strengthening communities, and renewing the world.

We ask this in your holy name, amen.

Rev. Adedeji Sunday Akintayo
Riverside United Church, Rosemere, Quebec
https://united-church.ca/prayers/prayer-women-international-womens-day

Remember always that you are loved!
Stay safe, and keep in touch.
Blessings and peace to you all,
The Leadership Team of St. Peter’s Evangelical Lutheran Church

‘Phenomenal Woman’, by Ruthie Foster
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=rkYh2BYONms
***********************
UPDATE March 8, 2026

A Prayer for International Women’s Day

Gracious God, Creator of all,

We gather on this International Women’s Day to praise you for the gift of women—mothers, daughters, sisters, leaders, healers, and dreamers.

We thank you for the bold, faithful women who have come before us and those who act boldly today in service, prayer, and advocacy.

We pray for women facing injustice, violence, poverty, or inequality.

Move our hearts and nations to create a world where all women are treated with dignity, equality, and safety.

Give us the courage to challenge inequity and the wisdom to recognize the sacred worth in every person, in the name of Jesus Christ, our Savior.
Amen.
--Women of the ELCA

Remember always that you are loved!
Stay safe, and keep in touch.
Blessings and peace to you all,
The Leadership Team of St. Peter’s Evangelical Lutheran Church

‘One Woman’, Women of the United Nations
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ldyvIcVR9JI
***********************
UPDATE March 7, 2026

May this be a day of hope,
of expectation,
and relishing each moment
as a gift from you.
May this be a day of joy,
of breaking free
and loosening the shackles
that are binding us.
May this be a day of peace,
and healing,
knowing our lives are
always in your hand.
May this be a day of love
and blessing,
living as children
of a living God.
https://www.faithandworship.com/prayers_Hope.htm#gsc.tab=0

Remember always that you are loved!
Stay safe, and keep in touch.
Blessings and peace to you all,
The Leadership Team of St. Peter’s Evangelical Lutheran Church

‘Our Last Song Together’, by Neil Sedaka
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=gtzJDmafsB8
***********************
UPDATE March 6, 2026

Speak Lord, into the heart
of government, and those
whose decisions today will
affect the lives of millions.
May their incentive be
not pleasing the powerful,
the political influencers,
loudest voices and donors,
but rather to do your will;
seek justice, help the poor,
work for the common good
of all people, not just a few.
It’s a difficult ask, we know,
but in you, Lord, is our hope.
https://www.faithandworship.com/prayers_Hope.htm#gsc.tab=0

Remember always that you are loved!
Stay safe, and keep in touch.
Blessings and peace to you all,
The Leadership Team of St. Peter’s Evangelical Lutheran Church

Over the next few days, we will feature some music from the late Neil Sedaka.

‘One More Ride on the Merry-Go-Round’, by Jane Olivor (written by Neil Sedaka)
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=PDMZW-JZ4MI&list=RDPDMZW-JZ4MI&start_radio=1
***********************
UPDATE March 5, 2026

A Christian Prayer for Peace in Our Time
O God, author and giver of peace,
in whose image and likeness each of us has been created
with a human dignity worthy of respect on earth
and destined for eternal glory,
Listen to the cry that rises from every corner of this fragile earth,
from our human family torn by violent conflict:

Give peace in our time, O good and gracious God,
that peace which, as your son Jesus Christ told us
and as we have experienced in these days,
is a peace which the world cannot give.

To world leaders grant the wisdom
to see beyond the boundaries of race, religion, and nation
to that common humanity that makes us all your children
and brothers and sisters to one another.

To those who have taken up arms in anger or revenge
or even in the cause of justice
grant the grace of conversion to the path of peaceful dialogue
and constructive collaboration.

To the innocent who live in the shadow of war and terror,
especially the frightened children,
be a shelter and strength, their haven and hope.

And to those who have already lost their lives
as victims of human cruelty and chemical warfare,
open wide your arms and enfold them all
in the embrace of your compassion, healing, and everlasting life.

Grant this through Jesus Christ, your son, our Lord.
Mary, Mother of all and Queen of peace, pray for us.
- Peter J. Scagnelli
https://www.xavier.edu/jesuitresource/online-resources/prayer-index/prayers-in-times-of-crisis/in-times-of-war-and-civil-unrest

Remember always that you are loved!
Stay safe, and keep in touch.
Blessings and peace to you all,
The Leadership Team of St. Peter’s Evangelical Lutheran Church

Over the next few days, we will feature some music from the late Neil Sedaka.

‘Solitaire’, by Neil Sedaka
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=fULjbnrWn_k
***********************
UPDATE March 4, 2026

Refugees and Victims of War
Lord God,
No one is a stranger to you
And no one is ever far from your loving care.
In your kindness, watch over refugees and victims of war,
Those separated from their loved ones,
Young people who are lost,
And those who have left home or who have run away from home.
Bring them back safely to the place where they long to be,
And help us always to show your kindness
to strangers and to all in need.
- Author Unknown
https://www.xavier.edu/jesuitresource/online-resources/prayer-index/prayers-in-times-of-crisis/in-times-of-war-and-civil-unrest

Remember always that you are loved!
Stay safe, and keep in touch.
Blessings and peace to you all,
The Leadership Team of St. Peter’s Evangelical Lutheran Church

Over the next few days, we will feature some music from the late Neil Sedaka.

‘Love Will Keep Us Together’, by The Captain & Tennille (written by Neil Sedaka)
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_QNEf9oGw8o
***********************
UPDATE March 3, 2026

A Christian Reflection
Lord God,
Remember Christ, your Son, who is peace itself,
and who has washed away our hatred with his blood.
Because you love all men and women,
look with mercy on all who are engaged in battle.
Banish the violence and evil within all combatants
so that one day, we may all deserve to be
called your sons and your daughters.
Grant this through Christ our Lord.
- Author Unknown
https://www.xavier.edu/jesuitresource/online-resources/prayer-index/prayers-in-times-of-crisis/in-times-of-war-and-civil-unrest

Remember always that you are loved!
Stay safe, and keep in touch.
Blessings and peace to you all,
The Leadership Team of St. Peter’s Evangelical Lutheran Church

Over the next few days, we will feature some music from the late Neil Sedaka.

‘The Immigrant’, by Neil Sedaka
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qNfY62BbInw
***********************
UPDATE March 2, 2026

Pope John Paul II's Prayer for Peace
Lord Jesus Christ, who are called the Prince of Peace,
who are yourself our peace and reconciliation,
who so often said, "Peace to you," grant us peace.

Make all men and women witnesses of truth, justice,
and brotherly love.
Banish from their hearts whatever might endanger peace.

Enlighten our rulers that they may
guarantee and defend the great gift of peace.
May all peoples on the earth
become as brothers and sisters.
May longed for peace blossom forth
and reign always over us all.
- Pope John Paul II
https://www.xavier.edu/jesuitresource/online-resources/prayer-index/prayers-in-times-of-crisis/in-times-of-war-and-civil-unrest

Remember always that you are loved!
Stay safe, and keep in touch.
Blessings and peace to you all,
The Leadership Team of St. Peter’s Evangelical Lutheran Church

Over the next few days, we will feature some music from the late Neil Sedaka.

‘The Hungry Years’, by Neil Sedaka
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4zD_rl0i0zY
***********************
UPDATE March 1, 2026

Singer-songwriter Neil Sedaka passed away on Thursday February 27th, 2026 at the age of 86. His musical career spanned more than sixty years from the late 1950s until at least 2024. He wrote and recorded his own songs with friend Howard Greenfield, and wrote songs recorded by other artists including Peggy Lee, Frank Sinatra, Elvis Presley, The Carpenters, ABBA, Connie Francis, and The Captain & Tennille. Over the years, his career experienced the usual ebbs and flows associated with any artist who sticks with the music business. Though he started out writing and recording fun, pop-style hits such as ‘Breaking Up is Hard to Do’, ‘Calendar Girl’, ‘Happy Birthday Sweet Sixteen’, Oh Carol, Stupid Cupid’, his music took on a new maturity in the 1970s and 80s with hits such as ‘Solitare’ The Immigrant’, a ballad-version of ‘Breaking Up is Hard to Do’, ‘Perfect Strangers’, and ‘The Hungry Years’. During the pandemic, Sedaka performed mini-concerts from home each day, just himself and his piano, featuring three of his hits from his massive song catalogue. These concerts were meant to be community-building, uplifting, and fun during a time of much uncertainty. Rest in peace, Neil. Godspeed, and thank you for sharing your gift of music with the rest of us.--ED

Remember always that you are loved!
Stay safe, and keep in touch.
Blessings and peace to you all,
The Leadership Team of St. Peter’s Evangelical Lutheran Church

Over the next few days, we will feature some music from the late Neil Sedaka.

‘Breaking Up is Hard to Do’, by Neil Sedaka
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=A-h4R_4aVMo
***********************

Black History Month 2026 Daily Website Updates

 The senseless murders of unarmed African-American people in the USA and the blatant racism and injustice directed toward people of colour here in Canada are beginning to shed a light on problems that go back for hundreds of years. It is hard to know where to start to learn about the important issues surrounding racism and people of colour in North America.

 Reading, watching documentaries, and educating ourselves about these issues is probably the best place to start. Once we begin to understand the history and the problems that marginalized peoples deal with, we can then find ways to get involved and support the work being done to combat racism and help to solve problems faced by people of colour in our own communities. We aren’t called to solve the whole thing, but neither are we free to abandon the work.

 During the month of February, we will feature some resources (books, documentaries, feature films, and TV movies) to get you started at whatever level you feel you are ready to begin. It is never too late to roll up your sleeves and get to work.--LC February 2026

******************************

UPDATE February 28, 2026

Justice Without Violence (Documentary)
Produced by: Alabama Public Television
2006; Running Time: 30 Min

From YouTube
The story of the now legendary Montgomery Bus Boycott of 1955-1956. Locally engineered by the African American community, this nonviolent protest to end bus segregation inspired a new era in freedom and human rights struggles around the globe. Never has a movement so successfully united a group of people across class, gender, and age.

This documentary is available for you to watch for free on YouTube:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=GZvsfB2dQQQ

Remember always that you are loved!
Stay safe, and keep in touch.
Blessings and peace to you all,
The Leadership Team of St. Peter’s Evangelical Lutheran Church

‘Hymn to Freedom’, by Oliver Jones, Dave Young, & Dione Taylor
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=YTAzDaAOtmI
*******************

UPDATE February 27, 2026

Paul Robeson: Scandalize My Name (Documentary)
Producer & Writer: Karena O’Riordan
Associate Producer: Mike Welt
Editor: Joe De Francesco
Executive Producers: George Lucas & Rick McCallum
2008; Running Time: 33 Min

From IMDB
Paul Robeson was great at everything he did. And he did a lot: an acclaimed singer, actor, all-American football player, Ivy-league educated lawyer, prize-winning orator. Robeson spoke over a dozen languages in a bass-baritone voice that moved people. But when Robeson used that voice to disagree with the political establishment, people turned on him.

This documentary is available for you to watch for free on YouTube:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=YFteMBCCXNg

Remember always that you are loved!
Stay safe, and keep in touch.
Blessings and peace to you all,
The Leadership Team of St. Peter’s Evangelical Lutheran Church

‘There is a Balm in Gilead’, by Paul Robeson
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=okl2XbTM7xM
*******************
UPDATE February 26, 2026

Shuttlesworth (Documentary)
Directed by: J. Whitson
Produced by: Alabama Public Television
2022; Running Time: 56 Min.

From the PBS website:
Rev. Fred Shuttlesworth was raised in the crucible of segregated Birmingham but he was forged by its attempt to kill him.  When the KKK planted a bomb underneath his bed and he emerged unharmed, he was sure he was saved by God to lead a Movement.  His work not only ended legal segregation but lead directly to the Civil and Voting Rights Acts - and inspired freedom movements around the world.

This documentary is available for you to watch for free on YouTube:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=bmZPJ3eXbA8

Remember always that you are loved!
Stay safe, and keep in touch.
Blessings and peace to you all,
The Leadership Team of St. Peter’s Evangelical Lutheran Church

‘Steal Away’ by Mahalia Jackson & Nat King Cole
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-O5hz5KnSdc
*******************
UPDATE February 25, 2026

The Niagara Movement | The Early Battle for Civil Rights (Documentary)
2026; Running Time: 56 Min
Production of: WNED PBS and Florentine Films/Hott Productions, Inc.

From YouTube
The Niagara Movement | The Early Battle for Civil Rights explores the Black elite and intellectual society at the turn of the 20th century, a class rarely presented. It examines the heated debate and conflict between W.E.B. DuBois and William Monroe Trotter with Booker T. Washington on how to best uplift the race and secure equality for their community.

This documentary is available for you to watch for free on YouTube:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=cfEqTswP1Ro

Remember always that you are loved!
Stay safe, and keep in touch.
Blessings and peace to you all,
The Leadership Team of St. Peter’s Evangelical Lutheran Church

‘Angels Keep Watching’, by Ray Charles & Sarah Jordan Powell
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Nf1c0GC_sxg |
*******************
UPDATE February 24, 2026

Viola Desmond’s Canada (Book)
A History of Blacks and Racial Segregation in the Promised Land
By Graham Reynolds 
Foreword by George Elliott Clarke With Wanda Robson 

From the publisher’s website:
“Winner of the 2017 Robbie Robertson Dartmouth Book Award for Non-Fiction! The Miramichi Reader’s best non-fiction book of 2016

In 1946, Viola Desmond was wrongfully arrested for sitting in a whites-only section of a movie theatre in New Glasgow, Nova Scotia. In 2010, the Nova Scotia Government recognized this gross miscarriage of justice and posthumously granted her a free pardon.

Most Canadians are aware of Rosa Parks, who refused to give up her seat on a racially segregated bus in Alabama, but Viola Desmond’s act of resistance occurred nine years earlier. However, many Canadians are still unaware of Desmond’s story or that racial segregation existed throughout many parts of Canada during most of the twentieth century. On the subject of race, Canadians seem to exhibit a form of collective amnesia. Viola Desmond’s Canada is a ground-breaking book that provides a concise overview of the narrative of the Black experience in Canada. Reynolds traces this narrative from slavery under French and British rule in the eighteenth century to the practice of racial segregation and the fight for racial equality in the twentieth century. Included are personal recollections by Wanda Robson, Viola Desmond’s youngest sister, together with important but previously unpublished documents and other primary sources in the history of Blacks in Canada.”

https://fernwoodpublishing.ca/book/viola-desmonds-canada

Remember always that you are loved!
Stay safe, and keep in touch.
Blessings and peace to you all,
The Leadership Team of St. Peter’s Evangelical Lutheran Church

‘I Wish I Knew How it Would Feel to Be Free’, by Nina Simone
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-sEP0-8VAow&list=RD-sEP0-8VAow&start_radio=1
*******************
UPDATE February 23, 2026

Separate But Equal (1991 Miniseries)
Running Time 3hr 10min (Parts 1&2 run about 1hr 35min each, but are presented together via the link shown)
Directed by George Stevens, Jr.

From YouTube
‘The outstanding 1991 miniseries, "Separate But Equal," tells the story of the landmark case of "Brown v. Board of Education" from start to finish.  All the important players are featured here:  the schoolchildren forced to attend substandard, segregated schools; Thurgood Marshall (Sidney Poitier) and the other attorneys in the civil rights movement; and Chief Justice Earl Warren (Richard Kiley) and the other Supreme Court justices who decided the case.  This miniseries is largely based on Richard Kluger's non-fiction book, "Simple Justice," and it takes pains to be historically accurate.  Winner of the 1991 Emmy for Best miniseries, this is a must-see for any student of the Supreme Court and/or civil rights in America.’

This documentary is available for you to watch for free on YouTube:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=KHV4FW3DRZs

Remember always that you are loved!
Stay safe, and keep in touch.
Blessings and peace to you all,
The Leadership Team of St. Peter’s Evangelical Lutheran Church

‘Lord Remember Me’, by Ruthie Foster ft The Blind Boys of Alabama
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1Dx8jcLjUQA&list=RD1Dx8jcLjUQA&start_radio=1
*******************
UPDATE February 22, 2026

Fields of Endless Day (Documentary)
1978; Running Time: 58 Min
Directed by: Terence Macartney-Filgate
Produced by: Beryl Fox, Nick Ketchum, Terence Macartney-Filgate, Jennifer Hodge

From the National Film Board’s website:
In a series of dramatic and documentary episodes, Fields of Endless Day outlines the presence of Black people in Canada, from the 17th century to the wartime participation and activist groups of the first half of the 20th century. The film seeks to uncover the "roots" of Canada's Black population, tracing the history of their struggles and triumphs over a period of almost three hundred and seventy-five years.

This film is available for you to watch for free at the National Film Board’s website:
https://www.nfb.ca/film/fields-of-endless-day/

Remember always that you are loved!
Stay safe, and keep in touch.
Blessings and peace to you all,
The Leadership Team of St. Peter’s Evangelical Lutheran Church

‘Freedom Highway’, by The Staple Singers
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=f7_b_jyRVRc
*******************
UPDATE February 21, 2026

Ku Klux Klan: 150 Years of Racism, Hate, and Violence (Documentary)
Directed by:  David Korn Brzoza
Production: Roche Productions
2020; Running Time: 53 Min

The Ku Klux Klan is the oldest terrorist group in the United States. This secret society, created in 1865, has survived throughout the decades and has always managed to rise from its ashes. It has been making the news for over 150 years. 150 years of hatred, racism and horror. A cruel history whose demons still haunt America.

In 1865, a handful of Southern Civil War veterans founded a secret society: the Ku Klux Klan. Very quickly, the Klan instituted a reign of terror among the recently freed black population. Murders and lynchings were common. In Washington, Congress launched an offensive against the invisible empire, which was officially destroyed in 1872. The Ku Klux Klan was reborn in 1915 thanks to the film The Birth of a Nation by D. W. Griffith. Under new leadership, it evolved to fit into an America undergoing major changes and broadened its trade in hatred. The KKK became anti-immigrant, anti-urban, anti-communist, anti-Semitic, and anti-Catholic. Nearly four million Americans joined what would become a highly influential mass lobbying organization. But at the end of the 1920s, scandals and the economic crisis weakened the movement, which eventually disappeared again after the Second World War.

This documentary is available for you to watch for free on YouTube:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=94mdSOlKdHk

Remember always that you are loved!
Stay safe, and keep in touch.
Blessings and peace to you all,
The Leadership Team of St. Peter’s Evangelical Lutheran Church

 ‘Can’t Turn Me Around’, by The Roots
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ta6UmkqzZA0
*******************
UPDATE February 20, 2026

Willie: The Game-Changing Story of the NHL's First Black Player (Book)
by Willie O'Ree, Michael McKinley

From the Goodreads website:
“An inspiring memoir that shows that anyone can achieve their dreams if they are willing to fight for them.

In 1958, Willie O'Ree was a lot like any other player toiling in the minors. He was good. Good enough to have been signed by the Boston Bruins. Just not quite good enough to play in the NHL.

Until January 18 of that year. O'Ree was finally called up, and when he stepped out onto the ice against the Montreal Canadiens, not only did he fulfil the childhood dream he shared with so many other Canadian kids, he did something that had never been done before.

He broke hockey's colour barrier. Just as his hero, Jackie Robinson, had done for baseball.

In that pioneering first NHL game, O'Ree proved that no one could stop him from being a hockey player. But he soon learned that he could never be just a hockey player. He would always be a black player, with all that entails. There were ugly name-calling and stick-swinging incidents, and nights when the Bruins had to be escorted to their bus by the police.

But O'Ree never backed down. When he retired in 1979, he had played hundreds of games as a pro, and scored hundreds of goals, his boyhood dreams more than accomplished.

In 2018, O'Ree was inducted into the Hockey Hall of Fame in recognition not only of that legacy, but of the way he has built on it in the decades since. He has been, for twenty years now, an NHL Executive and has helped the NHL Diversity program expose more than 40,000 boys and girls of diverse backgrounds to unique hockey experiences.

Inspiring, frank, and shot through with the kind of understated courage and decency required to change the world, Willie is a story for anyone willing to persevere for a dream.”

https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/54227862-willie?from_search=true&from_srp=true&qid=umUk2D4xgR&rank=4

Remember always that you are loved!
Stay safe, and keep in touch.
Blessings and peace to you all,
The Leadership Team of St. Peter’s Evangelical Lutheran Church

‘Keep Your Eyes on the Prize’, by Mavis Staples
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0ZWdDI_fkns
*******************
UPDATE February 19, 2026

Ice Breakers (Documentary)
2019; Running Time: 15 Min
Written & Directed by: Sandi Rankaduwa
Produced by: Rohan Fernando

From the National Film Board’s website:
Josh Crooks is a promising teen hockey star in a sport where Black players like him are chronically underrepresented. Ice Breakers reveals the buried history of a pioneering Black hockey league in Atlantic Canada, as Crooks discovers that his unshakable passion is tied to a rich and remarkable heritage.

This film is available for you to watch for free at the National Film Board’s website:
https://www.nfb.ca/film/ice-breakers/

Remember always that you are loved!
Stay safe, and keep in touch.
Blessings and peace to you all,
The Leadership Team of St. Peter’s Evangelical Lutheran Church

‘God is Trying to Tell You Something’, From The Color Purple (1985)
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=uEv_d6zAYHk
*******************
UPDATE February 18, 2026

The Long Walk Home (Feature Film)
Starring: Whoopi Goldberg, Sissy Spacek, Dwight Schultz, Ving Rhames
1990; Directed by Richard Pearce; Running Time: 1Hr 35m

From Google:
The Long Walk Home is a 1990 American historical drama. Set in Alabama, it is based on a screenplay about the Montgomery bus boycott (1955–1956) by John Cork and a short film by the same name, produced by students at the University of Southern California (USC) in 1988.

While USC selected Cork's script for production, the department assigned Beverlyn E. Fray, another student, to direct it. The scenario on which the film is based, actually happened to Cork and his maid, Elizabeth Gregory Taylor, in his hometown of Montgomery, Alabama. The short film won several awards, including first place at the Black American Cinema Society. Cork, however, was unhappy with the finished project and unsuccessfully tried to block screenings of the short film.

The film was expanded as a feature. Set in Montgomery, Alabama, during the 1955 Montgomery bus boycott, it follows Odessa Cotter (Whoopi Goldberg), an African-American woman who works as a maid/nanny for Miriam Thompson (Sissy Spacek). Odessa and her family confront typical issues faced by African Americans in the South at the time: poverty, racism, segregation, and violence. The black community has begun a widespread boycott of the city-owned buses to end segregation; Odessa is forced to take long walks both ways to work.

This film is available for you to watch for free on YouTube:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0FJSosGKclM

Remember always that you are loved!
Stay safe, and keep in touch.
Blessings and peace to you all,
The Leadership Team of St. Peter’s Evangelical Lutheran Church

‘Highway to Heaven’, by Montreal Jubilation Gospel Choir
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-JYVMHMT4os&list=RD-JYVMHMT4os&start_radio=1
*******************
UPDATE February 17, 2026

The Rev. Jesse L. Jackson, Sr. died this morning surrounded by his family following a lengthy battle with Parkinson’s and palsy. The civil rights icon got his start at the feet of Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr, and was with Dr. King in Memphis TN the night he was assassinated. He continued with the movement, and expanded it to include building up all marginalized people and making them know that they were ‘somebody’. Rev. Jackson ran for president twice, in 1984 and 1988. The picture I will remember of him was taken on election night 2008 when Barack Obama was elected as the first African-American president of the United States. He was in the crowd in Grant Park in Chicago with tears streaming down his face, most certainly marvelling at a day he thought he might never live to see. God bless your Homegoing, Rev. Jackson. Well done, good and faithful servant.-LC

Keeping Hope Alive: Sermons and Speeches of Rev. Jesse L. Jackson, Sr. (Book)
By Jesse L Jackson
Edited by: Grace Ji-sun Kim
Foreword by: Otis Moss
2024; Publisher: Orbis Books

From Indigo
For over fifty years, the Rev. Jesse L. Jackson Sr., a Baptist minister, activist, and organizer, has worked for civil rights, peace, and the promise of true democracy. From his years in the Civil Rights movement, his work as founder of the Rainbow/PUSH Coalition, and as an international ambassador for human rights, he has left an indelible mark on the history of our time. These speeches and sermons, delivered both to the downtrodden and the powerful, from Senegal and Bangkok to Chicago include the famous speeches he delivered at the Democratic Party conventions of 1984 and 1988 following his historic campaigns for the presidential nomination.

Remember always that you are loved!
Stay safe, and keep in touch.
Blessings and peace to you all,
The Leadership Team of St. Peter’s Evangelical Lutheran Church

‘How I Got Over’, by Montreal Jubilation Gospel Choir
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4CQp0AqSfJE&list=RD4CQp0AqSfJE&start_radio=1
*******************
UPDATE February 16, 2026

His Truth Is Marching On: John Lewis and the Power of Hope (Book)
By Jon Meacham
ISBN-10‏: ‎ 1984855026;
ISBN-13: ‎ 978-1984855022

From Amazon:
“John Lewis, who at age twenty-five marched in Selma, Alabama, and was beaten on the Edmund Pettus Bridge, was a visionary and a man of faith. Drawing on decades of wide-ranging interviews with Lewis, Jon Meacham writes of how this great-grandson of a slave and son of an Alabama tenant farmer was inspired by the Bible and his teachers in nonviolence, Reverend James Lawson and Martin Luther King, Jr., to put his life on the line in the service of what Abraham Lincoln called “the better angels of our nature.” From an early age, Lewis learned that nonviolence was not only a tactic but a philosophy, a biblical imperative, and a transforming reality. At the age of four, Lewis, ambitious to become a minister, practiced by preaching to his family’s chickens. When his mother cooked one of the chickens, the boy refused to eat it—his first act, he wryly recalled, of nonviolent protest. Integral to Lewis’s commitment to bettering the nation was his faith in humanity and in God—and an unshakable belief in the power of hope.

Meacham calls Lewis “as important to the founding of a modern and multiethnic twentieth- and twenty-first-century America as Thomas Jefferson and James Madison and Samuel Adams were to the initial creation of the Republic itself in the eighteenth century.” A believer in the injunction that one should love one's neighbor as oneself, Lewis was arguably a saint in our time, risking limb and life to bear witness for the powerless in the face of the powerful. In many ways he brought a still-evolving nation closer to realizing its ideals, and his story offers inspiration and illumination for Americans today who are working for social and political change.”

Remember always that you are loved!
Stay safe, and keep in touch.
Blessings and peace to you all,
The Leadership Team of St. Peter’s Evangelical Lutheran Church

‘Come, Jesus Come’, by CeCe Winans & Shirley Caesar
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Djw8HqJiRSE
*******************
UPDATE February 15, 2026

King in The Wilderness (Documentary)
Directed by Peter Kunhardt; Produced by George & Teddy Kunhardt
HBO Documentary Films and Kunhardt Film Foundation
2018; Running Time: 1Hr51m

From YouTube
King in the Wilderness chronicles the final chapters of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.’s life, revealing a conflicted leader who faced an onslaught of criticism from both sides of the political spectrum. While the Black Power movement saw his nonviolence as weakness, and President Lyndon B. Johnson saw his anti-Vietnam War speeches as irresponsible, Dr. King’s unyielding belief in peaceful protest became a testing point for a nation on the brink of chaos.

Dr. King’s leadership during the bus boycotts, the sit-ins and the historic Selma to Montgomery marches is now legendary, but much of what happened afterward – during the last three years of his life – is rarely discussed. It’s a time when Dr. King said his dream “turned into a nightmare.” From the passage of the Voting Rights Act in 1965 to his assassination in 1968, King remained unshakably committed to nonviolence in the face of an increasingly unstable country.

The documentary debuted at the 2018 Sundance Film Festival and is directed by Peter Kunhardt (HBO’s Emmy-winning Jim: The James Foley Story). Drawing on conversations with those who knew Dr. King well, including many fellow members of the Southern Christian Leadership Conference (SCLC), King in the Wilderness reveals stirring new perspectives on Dr. King’s character, his radical doctrine of nonviolence and his internal philosophical struggles prior to his assassination in 1968. The documentary also features archival footage, behind-the-scenes video of Dr. King’s private moments, intimate archival photographs and phone conversations recorded by President Johnson, who was both ally and adversary in King’s fight for civil rights.

This documentary is available for you to watch for free on YouTube:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9eQXD_44Kso

Remember always that you are loved!
Stay safe, and keep in touch.
Blessings and peace to you all,
The Leadership Team of St. Peter’s Evangelical Lutheran Church

‘At the Cross’, by CeCe Winans
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=EFPaKEW-TDw
*******************
UPDATE February 14, 2026

Olympic Pride, American Prejudice (Documentary)
Written and Directed by Deborah Riley Draper
Narrated by Blair Underwood
2016; Running Time: 1Hr 20 min

From YouTube:
Narrated by Blair Underwood, ‘Olympic Pride, American Prejudice’ is set in the strained and turbulent atmosphere of a racially divided 1930's America, torn between boycotting Hitler's Olympics or participating in the Third Reich's grandest affair.

The film follows 16 men and two women through their heroic turn at the Summer Olympic Games in Berlin, 1936. The athletes represented a country that considered them second-class citizens and competed in a country that rolled out the red carpet in spite of an undercurrent of Aryan superiority and Anti-Semitism.

18 athletes carried the weight of a race on their shoulders and stood tall in the middle of a political firestorm. They made the team, travelled to Berlin and did the unexpected with grace and dignity. Their presence on the world stage is a seminal precursor to the Civil Rights Movement.

History forgot all except one. This is the story of the other 17.

This documentary is available for you to watch for free on YouTube:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=gFUMMyUnv9s

Remember always that you are loved!
Stay safe, and keep in touch.
Blessings and peace to you all,
The Leadership Team of St. Peter’s Evangelical Lutheran Church

‘Church’, by Tasha Cobbs Leonard ft John Legend
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Wy-hJ0V7v2U
*******************
UPDATE February 13, 2026

Into the Light (Documentary)
Produced by: Nathalie Cloutier
Writen & Directed by: Gentille M. Assih
2020; Running Time: 1 Hr 19 MIn

From the National Film Board Website:
Into the Light features the liberating life stories and powerful words of inspiring Quebec women of African origin who’ve regained control over their lives after suffering from domestic violence. The film transcends prejudice and breaks the silence, pulling back the curtain on a poorly understood, hidden world, while testifying to the tremendous power that comes from overcoming isolation and accepting one’s self. It’s a luminous dive into the quest for personal healing and universal humanity. This is Togo-born director Gentille M. Assih’s third documentary.

This documentary is free for you to watch from the National Film Board website at the following link:
https://www.nfb.ca/film/into-the-light/

Remember always that you are loved!
Stay safe, and keep in touch.
Blessings and peace to you all,
The Leadership Team of St. Peter’s Evangelical Lutheran Church

‘My Lord, What a Morning’, by DEM
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=bP9Pj8O6Pdo
*******************
UPDATE February 12, 2026

Once Upon a Black Halifax (Documentary)
2020; Running Time 19 Min
Produced & Directed by: George Akintokun

From YouTube
Once Upon A Black Halifax captures the history of the black community in Halifax, Nova Scotia. It talks about what it was like as they struggled to gain acceptance in the society at that time.

This documentary is available for you to watch for free on YouTube:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=jCFsRcOZT7A

Remember always that you are loved!
Stay safe, and keep in touch.
Blessings and peace to you all,
The Leadership Team of St. Peter’s Evangelical Lutheran Church

‘Hold On’, by DEM
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=TfvLZjofEXA
*****************
February 11, 2026
Canadians today are broken by the unspeakable violence that took place yesterday in the town of Tumbler Ridge, British Columbia. A young man killed two members of his family before opening fire at the local high school. In the end, nine people were killed, including the shooter. At the school, five students and one educator were also killed, while 27 others were injured. Tumbler Ridge is a small community of 2,400 people with about 160 students attending the school. A community of this size having to deal with this type of horrific tragedy will need all of our deepest thoughts and most heartfelt prayers. We have certainty that God is already in the midst of the people of Tumbler Ridge and the surrounding area, the province of British Columbia, and indeed the entire country of Canada. We can share the grief of our neighbours on the west coast and uphold them as best we can as they seek to comfort each other in their grief and begin the long journey to healing. May God surround all in love.—ED

Prayer for After Mass Shootings

God of healing and grief,

We know that light dawns in a weary world,
but we are too numb to notice it today.
Regardless, we pray mightily,
during this time when no words san salve our ache.
Protect our hearts,
we are to broken and exhausted.
Sit with us when we are overwhelmed
help us to endure
the waiting,
the media,
the investigating,
those eavesdropping on our tragedy,
those making this tragedy about themselves,
those who say offensive things trying to help
and everything else that will bug us.
help us to care for ourselves
mind, body, spirit and psyche,
to remember to eat,
to sleep when we can,
to make the healthiest choices available,
to accept help when we need it
and to say ‘no’ when we need to
help us to lean into hope, light, and love,
To cherish our life and live it fully,
to advocate for other who are vulnerable,
to eventually transform anger into medicine
and to prevent days like this
from ever happening again

We are angry that Your healing hand
was unable to prevent this tragedy.
We demand Your unending streams of justice come again,
quickly,
to repair what was broken

Provide wisdom, safety and love to all the first responders.
Guide the hands of nurses, doctors and coroners
who are caring for those who were injured or died.

Mend our community,
knit us together into a kin-dom of loving kindness,
unite us in mutual support of one another
and help us to breathe together
when there is nothing else we can do.

Above all, be with us today and every day
Amen
—Rev. Dr. Megan D. Rohrer
https://www.revrohrer.com/books

‘You Are Mine’, by Oasis Chorale
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=uA8oqefEw3M
****************
UPDATE February 11, 2026

We Are the Roots: Black Settlers and their Experiences of Discrimination on the Canadian Prairies (Documentary)
Produced and directed by Dr. Jenna Bailey
In collaboration with Dr. David Este and Deborah Dobbins

From the Bailey and Soda films website:

An intriguing and moving new documentary.”

– Paula Simons, Edmonton Journal
We are the Roots: Black Settlers and their Experiences of Discrimination on the Canadian Prairies tells the story of a wave of African American immigrants who moved to Alberta and Saskatchewan between 1905-1912 to escape racism and persecution in the United States. Taking advantage of Canada’s offer of 160 acres of land for a $10 fee, 1000-1500 individuals moved to the Prairies and helped develop several settlements throughout the provinces. Through the stories of 19 descendants of the original settlers, We are the Roots focuses on the experiences of discrimination these individuals encountered while living in the rural communities and in Edmonton.

This documentary is available for you to watch for free
https://vimeo.com/257364347

Remember always that you are loved!
Stay safe, and keep in touch.
Blessings and peace to you all,
The Leadership Team of St. Peter’s Evangelical Lutheran Church

‘Ave Maria/Deep River’, by SistaStrings
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=jh5OaQX6RjE&list=RDjh5OaQX6RjE&start_radio=1
************************
UPDATE February 10, 2026

4 Little Girls (Documentary)
Directed by Spike Lee,
1997; Running Time 1hr 42min

From YouTube
“4 Little Girls is a 1997 American historical documentary film about the 15 September 1963 case of four African-American girls (Addie May Collins, Carol Denise McNair, Cynthia Wesley, Carole Rosamond Robertson) in the 16th Street Baptist Church bombing in Birmingham, Alabama. It was directed by Spike Lee and nominated for an Academy Award for Best Documentary.

In 2017, the film was selected for preservation in the United States National Film Registry by the Library of Congress as being "culturally, historically, or aesthetically significant".”

This documentary is available for you to watch for free at either of the following two links:
https://drive.google.com/file/d/1h3PcGLIFACFOWJh3u4s3k1zuFOjmXxSa/view
or https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ebuKaY0KIbI

Remember always that you are loved!
Stay safe, and keep in touch.
Blessings and peace to you all,
The Leadership Team of St. Peter’s Evangelical Lutheran Church

‘Open My Heart’, by Yolanda Adams
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8p4sMV_N6jQ
*******************
UPDATE February 9, 2026

Seeking Salvation-A History of the Black Church in Canada (Documentary)
Directed by Phillip Daniels,
2004, Running Time: 1hr 30min

From YouTube:
“Spanning four centuries on a joyful voyage of music and heritage, Seeking Salvation traces the history of the Black Church and considers its future in a changing society.”

This documentary is available for you to watch for free on YouTube:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=81OFeofdksw

Remember always that you are loved!
Stay safe, and keep in touch.
Blessings and peace to you all,
The Leadership Team of St. Peter’s Evangelical Lutheran Church

‘Oh, Mary Don’t You Weep’, by Yolanda Adams
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9zu__H8l_DA
***************
UPDATE February 8, 2026

Dear Church: A Love Letter from a Black Preacher to the Whitest Denomination in the US (Book)
by Lenny Duncan

From the Goodreads website:
“Lenny Duncan is the unlikeliest of pastors. Formerly incarcerated, he is now a black preacher in the whitest denomination in the United States: the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America (ELCA). Shifting demographics and shrinking congregations make all the headlines, but Duncan sees something else at work--drawing a direct line between the church's lack of diversity and the church's lack of vitality. The problems the ELCA faces are theological, not sociological. But so are the answers.

Part manifesto, part confession, and all love letter, Dear Church offers a bold new vision for the future of Duncan's denomination and the broader mainline Christian community of faith. Dear Church rejects the narrative of church decline and calls everyone--leaders and laity alike--to the front lines of the church's renewal through racial equality and justice.

It is time for the church to rise up, dust itself off, and take on forces of this world that act against God: whiteness, misogyny, nationalism, homophobia, and economic injustice. Duncan gives a blueprint for the way forward and urges us to follow in the revolutionary path of Jesus.”

https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/43602206-dear-church?from_search=true&from_srp=true&qid=fNWmCon3Bf&rank=1

Remember always that you are loved!
Stay safe, and keep in touch.
Blessings and peace to you all,
The Leadership Team of St. Peter’s Evangelical Lutheran Church

‘Wonderful Counselor’, by Whitney Houston, Cissy Houston, & Gary Houston
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6PTymWL5khs
***************
UPDATE February 7, 2026

Ghosts of Mississippi (Feature Film)
Starring: Alec Baldwin, Whoopi Goldberg, James Woods
1995, Directed by Rob Reiner, Running Time 2hr 10min
A film about the conviction of the murderer of Medgar Evers in 1963.
Medgar Evers was an American civil rights activist and the NAACP's first field secretary in Mississippi who was assassinated by a white supremacist.

A Description of the film from Google
In this film based on actual events, black activist Medgar Evers (James Pickens Jr.) is murdered in 1963, and much of the evidence points toward white supremacist Byron De La Beckwith (James Woods). However, after two trials, De La Beckwith is acquitted twice by a jury of whites. Now, decades later in 1989, Evers' widow, Myrlie (Whoopi Goldberg), thinks she has evidence to finally convict him. But no lawyer will touch the case except the young and brash Bobby DeLaughter (Alec Baldwin).

This film is available for you to watch for free on YouTube:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8JmYsbZHjgk

Remember always that you are loved!
Stay safe, and keep in touch.
Blessings and peace to you all,
The Leadership Team of St. Peter’s Evangelical Lutheran Church

‘Will the Circle Be Unbroken’, by The Staple Singers
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Lwa1MQsqHwM
*******************
UPDATE February 6, 2026

Medgar and Myrlie: Medgar Evers and the Love Story That Awakened America (Book)
By Joy-Ann Reid
2024; Mariner Books

From goodreads.com
The host of MSNBC’s  The ReidOut  and  New York Times  bestselling author of  The Man Who Sold America  traces the extraordinary lives and legacy of civil rights icons Medgar and Myrlie Evers, situating Medgar Evers’s assassination as a catalyzing moment in American history. Myrlie Louise Beasley met Medgar Evers on her first day of college. They fell in love at first sight, married just one year later, and Myrlie left school to focus on their growing family. Medgar became the field secretary for the Mississippi branch of the NAACP, charged with beating back the most intractable and violent resistance to black voting rights in the country. Myrlie served as Medgar’s secretary and confidant, working hand in hand with him as they struggled against public accommodations and school segregation, lynching, violence, and sheer despair within their state’s “black belt.” They fought to desegregate the intractable University of Mississippi, organized picket lines and boycotts, despite repeated terroristic threats, including the 1962 firebombing of their home, where they lived with their three young children. On June 12, 1963, Medgar Evers became the highest profile victim of Klan-related assassination of a black civil rights leader at that time; gunned down in the couple’s driveway in Jackson. In the wake of his tragic death, Myrlie carried on their civil rights legacy; writing a book about Medgar’s fight, trying to win a congressional seat, and becoming a leader of the NAACP in her own right. In this groundbreaking and thrilling account of two heroes of the civil rights movement, Joy-Ann Reid uses Medgar and Myrlie’s relationship as a lens through which to explore the on-the-ground work that went into winning basic rights for Black Americans, and the repercussions that still resonate today.

Remember always that you are loved!
Stay safe, and keep in touch.
Blessings and peace to you all,
The Leadership Team of St. Peter’s Evangelical Lutheran Church

‘Touch a Hand, Make a Friend’, by The Staple Singers
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=DFR2XQ-UHug
***************
UPDATE February 5, 2026

Hidden Figures (Book)
by Margot Lee Shetterly

From the Goodreads website:
‘The #1 New York Times Bestseller. Set amid the civil rights movement, the never-before-told true story of NASA’s African-American female mathematicians who played a crucial role in America’s space program. Before Neil Armstrong walked on the moon, a group of professionals worked as ‘Human Computers’, calculating the flight paths that would enable these historic achievements. Among these were a coterie of bright, talented African-American women. Segregated from their white counterparts, these ‘coloured computers’ used pencil and paper to write the equations that would launch rockets and astronauts, into space. Moving from World War II through NASA’s golden age, touching on the civil rights era, the Space Race, the Cold War and the women’s rights movement, ‘Hidden Figures’ interweaves a rich history of mankind’s greatest adventure with the intimate stories of five courageous women whose work forever changed the world.’

https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/25953369-hidden-figures

Remember always that you are loved!
Stay safe, and keep in touch.
Blessings and peace to you all,
The Leadership Team of St. Peter’s Evangelical Lutheran Church

‘Respect Yourself’, by The Staple Singers
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=InYaB16xEd0
*******************
UPDATE February 4, 2026

Good Trouble (Documentary)
Directed by: Dawn Porter
Produced by: Laura Michalchyshyn, Dawn Porter, Erika Alexander, Ben Arnon
2020; Running Time: 96 Min

From Wikipedia
John Lewis: Good Trouble is a 2020 American documentary film directed by Dawn Porter about the life of civil rights activist and United States congressman John Lewis. John Lewis: Good Trouble premiered at the Circle Cinema Theater in Tulsa, Oklahoma, on June 19, 2020. The date and place were chosen to commemorate Juneteenth, the celebration of the emancipation of slaves in the United States, and to protest against a Donald Trump presidential re-election campaign rally planned in Tulsa for the same day; the rally was rescheduled for the following day after widespread criticism. The film was originally scheduled to premiere in April 2020 at the Tribeca Film Festival, before the festival was canceled due to the COVID-19 pandemic.

This documentary is free for you to watch at CBC Gem https://gem.cbc.ca/  but you will need to set up a free account.
https://gem.cbc.ca/john-lewis-good-trouble

Remember always that you are loved!
Stay safe, and keep in touch.
Blessings and peace to you all,
The Leadership Team of St. Peter’s Evangelical Lutheran Church

‘I’ll Take You There’, by The Staple Singers
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=IhHBr7nMMio
*****************
UPDATE February 3, 2026

Soundtrack for a Revolution (Documentary)
Written & directed by Bill Guttentag & Dan Sturman
2009; Running Time: 1Hr 23m

Taking a fresh approach to the story of the American Civil Rights Movement, Soundtrack for a Revolution features the powerful music from the movement. Focusing on the freedom songs sung by protesters on picket lines, in mass meetings, in paddy wagons and in jail cells, this film celebrates the vitality of the music and the infectious energy that it provided.

Freedom songs evolved from slave chants, the labor movement, and from the Black church, and were a vital tool as protestors stood up against adversity. They energized and empowered them, enabled them to sing the things they couldn’t say, and allowed them to meet aggression with dignity and non-violence. Written and directed by Bill Guttentag and Dan Sturman, this 2009 documentary brings songs of the movement back to life again through new performances by top artists, including John Legend, Joss Stone, Wyclef Jean, and The Roots.

This documentary is available for you to watch for free
https://vimeo.com/87053287

Remember always that you are loved!
Stay safe, and keep in touch.
Blessings and peace to you all,
The Leadership Team of St. Peter’s Evangelical Lutheran Church

‘Up to the Mountain’, by Charlean Carmon, ft Michiko Hill
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=u4H-eHpMWhk
*****************
UPDATE February 2, 2026

Freedom Riders (Documentary 2010)
Director/Writer : Stanley Nelson

The film chronicles the story behind hundreds of civil rights activists called the Freedom Riders who challenged the racial segregation of the American interstate transport and by traveling together in small interracial groups and sitting where they chose on the buses and trains to demand equal access to terminal restaurants and waiting rooms, and to bring racial segregation national attention.

This documentary is available for you to watch for free on YouTube
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=srIcN1Eo_y8

‘A Change is Gonna Come’, by Sam Cooke
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=wEBlaMOmKV4

***************
UPDATE February 1, 2026

A Prayer for Black History Month
Give thanks for the gifts,
accomplishments, influence and
witness of our African-descent
neighbors and siblings in Christ—
we stand together to glorify God
as partners in the gospel, doing
God’s work in the world together.

Though unified as siblings in
Christ, we ask God to guide our
church in its pursuit of racial
justice, socioeconomic equity,
racial reconciliation and an end to
hatred and mistrust. Amen.
--Prayer Ventures
https://www.livinglutheran.org/prayer-ventures/prayer-ventures-feb-1-5/

Remember always that you are loved!
Stay safe, and keep in touch.
Blessings and peace to you all,
The Leadership Team of St. Peter’s Evangelical Lutheran Church

‘Just Like Selma’, by Zacardi Cortez & Beverly Crawford, featuring the Wheeler Avenue Baptist Church Mass Choir
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=OfNS5ZsvtdE
******************
UPDATE January 31, 2026

We pray for our communities -
that snapshot of humanity
with all ages, backgrounds,
education, employment status,
politics and religious viewpoint
who are our neighbours
in the streets where we live.
We pray for all of them;
not only those we know by name
and chat to through the day,
but also less familiar faces
about whom we know so little
and pass by with just a smile.
Bless their homes and families,
and let your love and peace
so shine within this community
that smiles turn to conversations,
and strangers become friends.
We pray this through Jesus Christ,
the Prince of Peace. Amen
https://www.faithandworship.com/prayers_love_your-neighbor.htm#gsc.tab=0

Remember always that you are loved!
Stay safe, and keep in touch.
Blessings and peace to you all,
The Leadership Team of St. Peter’s Evangelical Lutheran Church

‘I Will Rise’, by Laudate Mennonite Ensemble
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=JXcLBN6ypno
********************
UPDATE January 30, 2026

Bless the givers,
eyes open
for those in need
of prayer,
encouragement,
support,
a little time,
the gift of love.
In the act of giving
and receiving
may both be blessed.
https://www.faithandworship.com/prayers_love_your-neighbor.htm#gsc.tab=0

Remember always that you are loved!
Stay safe, and keep in touch.
Blessings and peace to you all,
The Leadership Team of St. Peter’s Evangelical Lutheran Church 

‘Heaven Knows’, by Kathy Troccoli
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=WVh3jDIp99c
********************
UPDATE January 29, 2026

Help us to put aside
preconceptions
about other people,
because that alters
our behaviour,
and simply accept
that they, like us,
are precious in your eyes.
https://www.faithandworship.com/prayers_love_your-neighbor.htm#gsc.tab=0

Remember always that you are loved!
Stay safe, and keep in touch.
Blessings and peace to you all,
The Leadership Team of St. Peter’s Evangelical Lutheran Church

‘How Long?’, by Oasis Chorale
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=NMSbitUUsjI
********************
UPDATE January 28, 2026

For those of us who have been around for more than a couple of decades, this time of year is a difficult and dark period in our collective remembrance. Specifically your attention is drawn to the disasters that befell those who sought to explore the expanse of outer space. It is also a time of renewed willingness to find joy through tragedy, life, through loss, and hope through defeat. The tragedies of Apollo 1 (January 27, 1967), Challenger (January 28, 1986) and Columbia (February 1, 2003) all happened six days apart across the span of thirty-six years. Each one of these incidents, on their own, with such a tragic loss of life, could have ended the exploration of space altogether, being a price higher than we were willing to pay. But, our human eagerness and need to ‘see what else there is to see’ pushed us to learn from each of these disasters, to fix the flaws and faults that caused them, and to return to our exploration of space with renewed purpose. Each time the space programme returned to the launch pad following tragedy, they carried on the legacy of those who were lost in such a public way, as well as those who perished along the journey in unseen training accidents and whose names we might never have heard of. We forged on, and we continue to do so, thus honouring their lives and their sacrifice. 

May God bless the crews of Apollo 1, Challenger STS-51, and Columbia STS-107, as well as all who died in the field of space exploration. Take a moment throughout this next week to say a prayer or two for those they left behind, and prayer of thanks for the lives they so willingly gave seeking new horizons.--ED

Remember always that you are loved!
Stay safe, and keep in touch.
Blessings and peace to you all,
The Leadership Team of St. Peter’s Evangelical Lutheran Church

‘Flying for Me’, by John Denver
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=e0xW6d4zGTg
********************
UPDATE January 27, 2026

A Prayer For Holocaust Memorial Day
Loving God, we come to you with heavy hearts, remembering the six million Jewish souls murdered during the Holocaust.

In the horrors of that history, when so many groups were targeted because of their identity, and in genocides which followed, we recognise destructive prejudices that drive people apart.

Forgive us when we give space to fear, negativity and hatred of others, simply because they are different from us.

In the light of God, we see everyone as equally precious manifestations of the Divine, and can know the courage to face the darkness.

Through our prayers and actions, help us to stand together with those who are suffering, so that light may banish all darkness, love will prevail over hate and good will triumph over evil.
Amen
https://hmd.org.uk/resource/a-prayer-for-holocaust-memorial-day/

Remember always that you are loved!
Stay safe, and keep in touch.
Blessings and peace to you all,
The Leadership Team of St. Peter’s Evangelical Lutheran Church

‘Ilse Weber: Wiegala‘, by Esther Abrami & Esther Abrami Ensemble
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=OY9-wBia_4E
********************
UPDATE January 26, 2026

Lord, teach us to be good neighbours,
not just to the folk who live nearby
but to everyone that we meet,
to see the best in, and want the best
for all your precious children,
who might one day return
to their Father’s house
and the warmth of your embrace.
https://www.faithandworship.com/prayers_love_your-neighbor.htm#gsc.tab=0

Remember always that you are loved!
Stay safe, and keep in touch.
Blessings and peace to you all,
The Leadership Team of St. Peter’s Evangelical Lutheran Church

‘Rise My Soul the Lord Is Risen’, by Keith & Kristyn Getty, Matt Boswell, Matt Papa
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=S_Ptp8phzF8
********************
UPDATE January 25, 2026

Bless the paths that cross today;
the old friends and strangers
with whom we might share
a pleasant greeting, a smile
or maybe something deeper.
Grant us a word in season
that might resonate within
and bring a blessing to these,
your precious children, Gracious God
https://www.faithandworship.com/prayers_love_your-neighbor.htm#gsc.tab=0

Remember always that you are loved!
Stay safe, and keep in touch.
Blessings and peace to you all,
The Leadership Team of St. Peter’s Evangelical Lutheran Church

‘Praise My Soul, The King of Heaven’, by Keith & Kristyn Getty ft Sing!
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=DEq0PBO03c4
********************
UPDATE January 24, 2026

May we look at others
as if through your eyes,
less judging, more loving,
and seeing them, like us,
as not perfect or finished
but as a work in progress
that will be completed
in due time by your hands.
https://www.faithandworship.com/prayers_love_your-neighbor.htm#gsc.tab=0

Remember always that you are loved!
Stay safe, and keep in touch.
Blessings and peace to you all,
The Leadership Team of St. Peter’s Evangelical Lutheran Church

‘If God is For Us’, by Jordan Kauflin & Laura Story
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Fha2yE8RS5A
********************
UPDATE January 23, 2026

Lord, you have said
that to truly love you
then I must also
love my neighbour,
which can be difficult
when we disagree
or lifestyles clash.
Yet in overcoming
those difficulties
it is possible to see
the miracle that you
love someone like me.
Teach us to love, Lord,
as you have loved us
that this world might be
a better neighbourhood
in which to live and share.
https://www.faithandworship.com/prayers_love_your-neighbor.htm#gsc.tab=0

Remember always that you are loved!
Stay safe, and keep in touch.
Blessings and peace to you all,
The Leadership Team of St. Peter’s Evangelical Lutheran Church

‘Sanctuary (Together), by Chad Lawson ft Esther Abrami
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=yW_2LNsOOlo
********************
UPDATE January 22, 2026

For the courage of relief workers
operating in desperate conditions
bring a blessing to their lives.
For the generosity of ordinary people
giving to those who have lost so much
bring a blessing to their lives.
For selfless love wherever it is shown
which gives without considering cost
bring a blessing to their lives.
https://www.faithandworship.com/prayers_signs_of_hope.htm#gsc.tab=0

Remember always that you are loved!
Stay safe, and keep in touch.
Blessings and peace to you all,
The Leadership Team of St. Peter’s Evangelical Lutheran Church

‘Come As You Are’, by Nathan Pacheco
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=gjkaP1_zzbs
********************
UPDATE January 21, 2026

For small miracles
in the midst of tragedy
we thank you, Lord.
For refugees rescued
from sinking ships,
earthquake victims
brought alive from
upturned buildings,
and the many others
that go unnoticed
in our daily lives,
where acts of love
and selfless bravery
confront misfortune
and catastrophe
and from the darkness
bring light and life.
https://www.faithandworship.com/prayers_signs_of_hope.htm#gsc.tab=0

Remember always that you are loved!
Stay safe, and keep in touch.
Blessings and peace to you all,
The Leadership Team of St. Peter’s Evangelical Lutheran Church

‘Abide With Me’, by Nathan Pacheco
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9mMf04X9gjM
********************
UPDATE January 20, 2026

Bless those whose faith,
even when tested
by pain, loss or sorrow,
still shines through
the darkness of their lives
as a witness to you,
and speaks so clearly
of your love for them.
Bless them, for their witness
to your grace and mercy,
and hold them gently
in the comfort of your arms.
https://www.faithandworship.com/prayers_signs_of_hope.htm#gsc.tab=0

Remember always that you are loved!
Stay safe, and keep in touch.
Blessings and peace to you all,
The Leadership Team of St. Peter’s Evangelical Lutheran Church

‘He Looked Beyond My Fault’, by The Nelons
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Za1DyuDaaLQ
********************
UPDATE January 19, 2026

Bless those who, with a word
or hug, can bring a smile
onto the face of someone
who is struggling with life -
a simple, inexpensive
but infinitely precious gift
from one heart to another.
https://www.faithandworship.com/prayers_signs_of_hope.htm#gsc.tab=0

Remember always that you are loved!
Stay safe, and keep in touch.
Blessings and peace to you all,
The Leadership Team of St. Peter’s Evangelical Lutheran Church

‘Jesus and Gravity’, by Dolly Parton
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_gyqjSn-q34
********************
UPDATE January 18, 2026

Yours is the Love
Yours is the love
that in a moment of divine joy
announced, “Let there be light!”
and in a blaze of glory
revealed the master plan
of a garden we now walk upon.
Creative love,
Enduring love,
Patient love,
Forgiving love,
Yours is the love
that in such suffering and pain
announced, “The price is paid!”
and in a blaze of glory
revealed the Master’s plan
of Salvation that we depend upon.
Yours is the love!
Amen
https://www.faithandworship.com/prayers_signs_of_hope.htm#gsc.tab=0

Remember always that you are loved!
Stay safe, and keep in touch.
Blessings and peace to you all,
The Leadership Team of St. Peter’s Evangelical Lutheran Church

‘Hello God’, by Dolly Parton
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=VvgHfqXHS-8
********************
UPDATE January 17, 2026

This is your world
These are your people
and we bring them to you now

To the powerful bring humility
To the rich bring generosity
To the influential bring opportunity
To the oppressor bring understanding
To the hard-hearted bring compassion
To the suffering bring perseverance
To the hungry bring sustenance
To the grieving bring comfort
To the sick bring wholeness
And to all your people bring love
That binds all these together
In cords that cannot be broken

This is your world
These are your people
and we leave them in your hands.
https://www.faithandworship.com/prayers_a_damaged_world.htm#gsc.tab=0

Remember always that you are loved!
Stay safe, and keep in touch.
Blessings and peace to you all,
The Leadership Team of St. Peter’s Evangelical Lutheran Church

‘Light of a Clear Blue Morning’, by Dolly Parton ft. Lainey Wilson, Miley Cyrus, Queen Latifah & Reba McEntire
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=McaD2PG8jOE
********************
UPDATE January 16, 2026

Your Will Be Done
For all whose image of your creation
is marred by pain and suffering
your kingdom come
your will be done

For those who wake each morning
to shellfire and destruction
your kingdom come
your will be done

For children dispossessed of childhood
and transformed into soldiers
your kingdom come
your will be done

For orphans wandering lonely roads
to uncertain futures
your kingdom come
your will be done

For victims of rape or cruelty
and those suffering from Aids
your kingdom come
your will be done

For each persecuted family
carrying your Cross
your kingdom come
your will be done
https://www.faithandworship.com/prayers_a_damaged_world.htm#gsc.tab=0

Remember always that you are loved!
Stay safe, and keep in touch.
Blessings and peace to you all,
The Leadership Team of St. Peter’s Evangelical Lutheran Church

‘Dona Nobis Pacem’, by Six de Choeur
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xozf8-SRHi0
********************
UPDATE January 15, 2026

This beautiful world
can be cruel
destroying life
and livelihood
in an instant,
challenging our faith
in a God who cares.
This beautiful world
is yours, Lord
created in love
gifted by grace.
Help us
understand it
care for it
protect it
and when disaster strikes
be there
if not in person
then in prayer.
https://www.faithandworship.com/prayers_a_damaged_world.htm#gsc.tab=0

Remember always that you are loved!
Stay safe, and keep in touch.
Blessings and peace to you all,
The Leadership Team of St. Peter’s Evangelical Lutheran Church

‘I Love You Lord’, by Steffany Gretzinger
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=FIddDiGJKAo
********************
UPDATE January 14, 2026

For all who question
‘Why?’
when disaster strikes
bring compassion.
For all whose faith is
shaken
by death or loss
bring peace.
For all who have no
answers
to life’s hard questions
bring love.
For all who are
victims
of the misdeeds of others
bring justice.
For all who face
suffering
every day they wake
bring release.
https://www.faithandworship.com/prayers_a_damaged_world.htm#gsc.tab=0

Remember always that you are loved!
Stay safe, and keep in touch.
Blessings and peace to you all,
The Leadership Team of St. Peter’s Evangelical Lutheran Church

‘Fanfare for the Common Man’, by Charles Reardon
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=bNHphFj6Av8
********************
UPDATE January 13, 2026

When oppression
cruelty and fear
are all that is known
and suffering the daily experience
When famine
hunger and thirst
greet every morning
denying basic sustenance
How easy to say
there is no God
to turn aside
and label you an irrelevance
You who are
living water
bread of life
the one who offers deliverance
Who suffered
died and rose
bringing hope
that there is more to life than this
Bless all those
who in despair
and dark places
look to you for reassurance
Bring comfort
peace and where
there is neither
bring to them abundance
https://www.faithandworship.com/prayers_a_damaged_world.htm#gsc.tab=0

Remember always that you are loved!
Stay safe, and keep in touch.
Blessings and peace to you all,
The Leadership Team of St. Peter’s Evangelical Lutheran Church

‘We Find Our Joy in You’, by Celtic Worship
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=732dkRJZOLE
********************
UPDATE January 12, 2026

This can seem a cruel world
when viewed
from a different perspective.
Rains fail
winds blow
seas rise
precious crops
wither and die
and children
are hungry
thirsty
displaced
dying.
Make us generous
we who have enough.
Give us compassion
for those in need
and may our prayers
be not only
in the words of our mouths
but in the action of our lives.
https://www.faithandworship.com/prayers_a_damaged_world.htm#gsc.tab=0

Remember always that you are loved!
Stay safe, and keep in touch.
Blessings and peace to you all,
The Leadership Team of St. Peter’s Evangelical Lutheran Church

‘Winter from The Four Seasons by Vivaldi’, by Sergey Sadovoy
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=fWV9-zX0DEY
********************
UPDATE January 11, 2026

For John the Baptist
preparing the way by repentance and baptism
we thank you
For Jesus Christ
proclaimed your Son by water and Spirit
we thank you
For Good News
that Salvation has come to the earth
we thank you
For your love
undeserved and graciously given
we thank you
For the Holy Spirit
transforming and empowering lives
we thank you
For your promise
of an eternity in which to praise you
we thank you
https://www.faithandworship.com/prayers_Epiphany.htm#gsc.tab=0

Remember always that you are loved!
Stay safe, and keep in touch.
Blessings and peace to you all,
The Leadership Team of St. Peter’s Evangelical Lutheran Church

‘Be Still My Soul’, by Mount Royal Kantorei
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=CmNXeReZqAg
********************
UPDATE January 10, 2026

 Your majesty is beyond
imagination
The eternal King
high and lifted up
to whom the angels worship.
Your power is beyond
understanding
The Creator God
who shakes the heavens
yet holds us in his hands.
Your mercy is beyond
our deserving
The Saviour God
once born for us
now sacrificed in love.
Forgive the smallness
of our faith
the magnitude
of our need,
the depth
of our sorrow.
Raise us up to new life
and new ways of service
through Jesus Christ
Your Son, our Lord. Amen
https://www.faithandworship.com/prayers_Epiphany.htm#gsc.tab=0

Remember always that you are loved!
Stay safe, and keep in touch.
Blessings and peace to you all,
The Leadership Team of St. Peter’s Evangelical Lutheran Church

‘Cada Manana (Every Morning)’, by Beatrix Kovacx
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=HDHwcXUqCUs
**********************
UPDATE January 9, 2026

(based on Isaiah 43:1-7)
The God who breathed this world alive
And sustains it day by day
Whose hands flung stars into space
And controls our destiny
Says, “Do not be afraid, for I am with you.”
The God who filled the ocean depths
And set tides on their way
Who caused mountains to be raised up
And rainbows to display
Says, “I have called you by name, you are mine.”
The God who made the fertile earth
And seed within to sow
Whose artistry creates butterflies
And the early morning dew
Says, “You are precious in my sight.”
https://www.faithandworship.com/prayers_Epiphany.htm#gsc.tab=0

Remember always that you are loved!
Stay safe, and keep in touch.
Blessings and peace to you all,
The Leadership Team of St. Peter’s Evangelical Lutheran Church

‘Shelter’, by Brian Doerksen
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=EA_cl9n5moY
******************

Following the events in Minneapolis, MN yesterday, January 7th, where an unarmed, young woman in her vehicle was fatally shot by ICE agents, Pastor Ingrid Rasmussen posted this message on her Facebook page. Pastor Ingrid is the Lead Pastor of Holy Trinity Lutheran Church in Minneapolis (ELCA) which is located not too far from where this tragic shooting occurred. Pastor Ingrid provided powerful ministry witness during the time following the murder of George Floyd in 2020, and reflected on yesterday’s horrific events. Please pray for the victim of this unnecessary shooting, Renee Good, the family she leaves behind, the traumatized neighbourhood, community and city, and for clergy like Pastor Ingrid who must try to minister to, and answer questions for, confused souls who just want to know, ‘how could this happen?’

Pastor Ingrid writes:

”Dear ones,
If I’m honest, I’m not sure where to begin this message.

Is it in the lobby of Whipple this morning, where we witnessed someone detained after appearing for his hearing? Is it on Lake Street, where businesses all along the corridor were closed out of fear? Is it at Portland and 34th, where Renee Nicole Good was shot by a federal agent? Is it at Roosevelt High School, where a young man was taken into ICE custody?

Words feel insufficient for what we’re experiencing—and what our neighbors are experiencing. A reporter asked me today if I would be willing to talk about why prayer is important in this moment. I told him that I didn’t have anything to say about prayer, but I could say why I was there—at the site of the shooting. Because communities grieve together. Because communities call for accountability together. And because God has created this community as a good one—a gorgeous one—teeming with beauty and possibility and worthy of care and protection.

As evening falls around us, I’m praying for every person in hiding, for those in detention near and far, for the family of Renee Good, for immigrant-owned businesses, for the spirit of the community—and I’m trusting the ancient words that read: “Likewise the Spirit helps us in our weakness; for we do not know how to pray as we ought, but that very Spirit intercedes with sighs too deep for words.””

With compassion,
Pastor Ingrid
***************

UPDATE January 8, 2026

For those who seek a Saviour
we lead them to the Stable
To the One who was born
To bring freedom
Forgiveness
Liberty
For those who seek Assurance
we lead them to the Light
To the One who opens eyes
to understanding
God's Word
Truth
For those who seek Forgiveness
We lead them to a Grace
beyond comprehension
To wholeness
Healing
Peace.
https://www.faithandworship.com/prayers_Epiphany.htm#gsc.tab=0

Remember always that you are loved!
Stay safe, and keep in touch.
Blessings and peace to you all,
The Leadership Team of St. Peter’s Evangelical Lutheran Church

‘Jesu, Joy of Man’s Desiring’, by Duo Roseanna
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=KialZHRdD7A
********************
UPDATE January 7, 2026

We are drawn to your feet in worship
Your creation facing its creator
Hearts laid bare by your light
Humbly asking for your mercy.
We come to you as a people in need
of assurance and forgiveness.
We come to you as a people in need
of healing and wholeness.
We come dependent upon your love.
Draw us close.
Enfold us in your arms.
Fill us with your Spirit
that we might reflect your light
within this dark world,
speak your Word with boldness
and draw others to your feet.
We ask this through your dear Son Jesus Christ.
Amen
https://www.faithandworship.com/prayers_Epiphany.htm#gsc.tab=0

Remember always that you are loved!
Stay safe, and keep in touch.
Blessings and peace to you all,
The Leadership Team of St. Peter’s Evangelical Lutheran Church

‘Wandering Pilgrim’, by Twila Paris
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=nQyE_xVbhZc
********************
UPDATE January 6, 2026

Arise, shine, for the Light of the World has come!
Darkness covers the earth and its people,
but the radiance of God's Light
burns away its shadows,
illuminates the smallest corner,
and heralds in the start
of a new dawn,
where hearts no longer fear,
souls might be set free,
and sister shall follow brother,
nation shall follow nation,
and kings and princes bow down in awe
before the one who comes to reign.
Arise, shine, for the Light of the World has come!
Alleluia!
https://www.faithandworship.com/prayers_Epiphany.htm#gsc.tab=0

Remember always that you are loved!
Stay safe, and keep in touch.
Blessings and peace to you all,
The Leadership Team of St. Peter’s Evangelical Lutheran Church

‘Star in the East (Brightest and Best)’, by LA Choral Lab
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=uSY2MYEvGBI
********************
UPDATE January 5, 2026

O God, who hast caused this holy night to shine
with the illumination of the true Light:
Grant us, we beseech thee,
that as we have known the mystery of that Light upon earth,
so may we also perfectly enjoy him in heaven;
where with thee and the Holy Spirit
he liveth and reigneth, one God,
in glory everlasting. Amen
(1979 Book of Common Prayer)
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=lCpXMy5GalI&list=RDlCpXMy5GalI&start_radio=1

Remember always that you are loved!
Stay safe, and keep in touch.
Blessings and peace to you all,
The Leadership Team of St. Peter’s Evangelical Lutheran Church

‘Imagine’, by Jamie Dupuis
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=KMqMjsWRuQU
*****************
UPDATE January 4, 2026

Almighty God and Father of light,
a child is born to us an a Son is given to us.
Your eternal Word leaped down from heaven
in the silent watches of the night,
and now your Church is filled with wonder
at the nearness of her God.
Open our hearts to receive His life
and increase our vision with the rising of dawn,
that our lives may be filled with His glory and His peace,
who lives and reigns for ever and ever.
(International Committee on English in the Liturgy (ICEL))
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=lCpXMy5GalI&list=RDlCpXMy5GalI&start_radio=1

Remember always that you are loved!
Stay safe, and keep in touch.
Blessings and peace to you all,
The Leadership Team of St. Peter’s Evangelical Lutheran Church

‘Tears Are Not Enough’, by Northern Lights
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Phur-qdfzkY
*****************
UPDATE January 3, 2026

Your nativity, O Christ our God,
has shed the light of knowledge upon the world.
Through it,
those who had been star-worshipers
learned through a star to worship you,
O Sun of Justice,
and to recognize in you the one who rises
and who comes from on high.
O Lord, glory to you!
(Feast of the Nativity Liturgy)
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=lCpXMy5GalI&list=RDlCpXMy5GalI&start_radio=1

Remember always that you are loved!
Stay safe, and keep in touch.
Blessings and peace to you all,
The Leadership Team of St. Peter’s Evangelical Lutheran Church

‘We Are the World’, by USA for Africa
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=s3wNuru4U0I
*****************
UPDATE January 2, 2026

Come, Sun and Savior, to embrace Our gloomy world,
its weary race,
As groom to bride, as bride to groom:
The wedding chamber, Mary's womb.
At your great Name, O Jesus, now
All knees must bend, all hearts must bow;
All things on earth with one accord,
Like those in heaven, shall call you Lord.
Come in your holy might, we pray,
Redeem us for eternal day;
Defend us while we dwell below,
From all assaults of our dread foe.
(Advent Evening Hymn (8th Century))
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=lCpXMy5GalI&list=RDlCpXMy5GalI&start_radio=1

Remember always that you are loved!
Stay safe, and keep in touch.
Blessings and peace to you all,
The Leadership Team of St. Peter’s Evangelical Lutheran Church

‘Do They Know it’s Christmas (Feed the World)’, by Band Aid 1984
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=bjQzJAKxTrE
*****************
UPDATE January 1, 2026

Lamb of God,
You once came to rid the world of sin;
cleanse me now from every stain of sin.
Lord, you came to save what was lost;
come once again with Your salvific power
so that those You redeemed will not be punished.
I have come to know You in faith;
may I have unending joy
when You come again in glory.
(New Saint Joseph People's Prayer Book)
https://www.faithandworship.com/prayers_Christmas.htm#gsc.tab=0

Remember always that you are loved!
Stay safe, and keep in touch.
Blessings and peace to you all,
The Leadership Team of St. Peter’s Evangelical Lutheran Church

‘Peace on Earth/The Little Drummer Boy’, by Bing Crosby & David Bowie
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=lCpXMy5GalI&list=RDlCpXMy5GalI&start_radio=1
*****************
UPDATE December 31, 2025

From Ordinary to Extraordinary
There were thousands of babies
born that day
all helpless
dependent
needful of love
warmth
and sustenance
some no doubt did not survive
to see another dawn
their tiny light extinguished
through lack of appropriate care
some would grow up to be kings
queens
leaders of men
others slaves
prostitutes
beggars
murderers and thieves
most however
would live ordinary lives
among ordinary people
and live and die
whilst the world scarce noticed
their existence
But not you
Who rose from the ordinary
to the extraordinary
from stable to cross
and beyond
whilst the world tried its best
to ignore you
and failed
https://www.faithandworship.com/prayers_Christmas.htm#gsc.tab=0

Remember always that you are loved!
Stay safe, and keep in touch.
Blessings and peace to you all,
The Leadership Team of St. Peter’s Evangelical Lutheran Church

‘Away in a Manger’, by Luther College Nordic Choir
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=MOGrlb-nlJI
*****************
UPDATE December 30, 2025

A Christmas Prayer
In a humble stable,
ignored by all
within Bethlehem’s walls,
the divine touched this earth,
breathed the air we breathe
and walked the ground we walk.
Born to sacrifice.
Born to bring us life.
Forgive our reluctance
to proclaim this to the world,
forgive our ingratitude
when we disregard your word.
Bring us to that place
where shepherds heard
the angels sing,
and send us out
to share that glorious song.
https://www.faithandworship.com/prayers_Christmas.htm#gsc.tab=0

Remember always that you are loved!
Stay safe, and keep in touch.
Blessings and peace to you all,
The Leadership Team of St. Peter’s Evangelical Lutheran Church

‘Night of Silence/Silent Night’, by Luther College Nordic Choir
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4hy9j_mHjUw
*****************
UPDATE December 29, 2025

For These Things, We Give You Thanks
For the brightness
of Bethlehem’s star
announcing
to all who can see
that a Saviour is to be born,
we give you thanks.

For the beauty
of the angels’ song
announcing
to all who can hear
that the time is drawing near,
we give you thanks.

For the pure joy
of a mother’s cry
announcing
God’s blessing on her,
with such faith and humility,
we give you thanks.
https://www.faithandworship.com/prayers_Christmas.htm#gsc.tab=0

Remember always that you are loved!
Stay safe, and keep in touch.
Blessings and peace to you all,
The Leadership Team of St. Peter’s Evangelical Lutheran Church

‘Cradle in Bethlehem’, by Vince Gill
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=kzJj8wJz5gU
*****************
UPDATE December 28, 2025

The Divine Touched the Earth
It is easy
on this of all days
to remember the moment
the divine touched this fragile earth
and in humility
uttered his first cry.
It is harder in our daily lives
to remember the moment
you touched these fragile hearts
and in graceful love
caused us to cry,
'My Lord, and my God!'
Forgive us,
and draw us back
to the stable door
in our daily journeying
that we might remember
that day the divine touched the earth.
https://www.faithandworship.com/prayers_Christmas.htm#gsc.tab=0

Remember always that you are loved!
Stay safe, and keep in touch.
Blessings and peace to you all,
The Leadership Team of St. Peter’s Evangelical Lutheran Church

‘Breath of Heaven (Mary’s Song)’, by Amy Grant
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=FWo3qlqyW1c
*****************
UPDATE December 27, 2025

I Am There
Now God says to us
What He has already said to the earth as a whole
Through His grace-filled birth:

I am there. I am with you.
I am your life. I am your time.
I am the gloom of your daily routine. Why will you not hear it?
I weep your tears - pour yours out to me.
I am your joy.
Do not be afraid to be happy; ever since I wept, joy is the standard of living
That is really more suitable than the anxiety and grief of those who have no hope.

I am the blind alley of all your paths,
For when you no longer know how to go any farther,
Then you have reached me,
Though you are not aware of it.

I am in your anxiety, for I have shared it.
I am in the prison of your finiteness,
For my love has made me your prisoner.

I am in your death,
For today I began to die with you, because I was born,
And I have not let myself be spared any real part of this experience.

I am present in your needs;
I have suffered them and they are now transformed.

I am there.
I no longer go away from this world.
Even if you do not see me now, I am there.

My love is unconquerable.
I am there.
It is Christmas.
Light the Candles! They have more right to exist then all the darkness.
It is Christmas.
Christmas that lasts forever.
- Karl Rahner, S.J., "The Eternal Year"
https://www.xavier.edu/jesuitresource/online-resources/prayer-index/advent-and-christmas-prayers

Remember always that you are loved!
Stay safe, and keep in touch.
Blessings and peace to you all,
The Leadership Team of St. Peter’s Evangelical Lutheran Church

I Heard the Bells on Christmas Day’, by Johnny Reid
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5lPvv0IEY4o
*****************
UPDATE December 26, 2025

We Greet Your Coming
We greet your coming, God, with wonder:
You come to be with us; yet you remain far greater than we can imagine.
You are near; yet your wisdom sets you apart from us.
You appear among us; yet we cannot describe your glory.

We greet your coming, God, with repentance:
We are more or less satisfied with ourselves; but your presence exposes our sin and failure.
We are self-confident; but you challenge our confidence in ourselves.
We are proud of our understanding; but you show us that we do not know everything.

We greet your coming, God, with joy:
We had no true idea of what you are like; but you have shown us yourself in Jesus Christ.
We felt our human life could be of no importance to you; but you have shown its value by appearing among us as a man.
We are aware of the gulf between us and you; but you have bridged it with love.
God, we greet your coming in Jesus Christ our Lord!
- Caryl Micklem, Contemporary Prayers for Public Worship
https://www.xavier.edu/jesuitresource/online-resources/prayer-index/advent-and-christmas-prayers

Remember always that you are loved!
Stay safe, and keep in touch.
Blessings and peace to you all,
The Leadership Team of St. Peter’s Evangelical Lutheran Church

‘Mystery’, by Selah
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=UJaQM8egwE4
*****************
UPDATE December 25, 2025

Christmas Day

Keeping Christmas

Are you willing...
To forget what you have done for other people, and to remember what other people have done for you?
To ignore what the world owes you, and to think what you owe the world?
To put your rights in the background, and your duties in the middle distance and your changes to do a little more than your duty in the foreground?
To see that men and women are just as real as you are, and try to look behind their faces to their hearts, hungry for joy?
To own up to the fact that probably the only good reason for your existence is not what you are going to get out of life, but what you are going to give to life?
To close your book of complaints against the management of the universe, and look around you for a place where you can sow a few seeds of happiness?

Are you willing to do these things even for a day? Then you can keep Christmas.

Are you willing..
To stoop down and consider the needs and desires of little children?
To remember the weakness and loneliness of people growing old?
To stop asking how much your friends love you, and ask yourself whether you love them enough?
To bear in mind the things that other people have to bear in their hearts?
To try to understand what those who live in the same home with you really want, without waiting for them to tell you?
To trim your lamp so that it will give more light and less smoke, and to carry it in front so that your shadow will fall behind you?
To make a grave for your ugly thoughts, and a garden for your kindly feelings, with the gate open?

Are you willing to do those things, even for a day? Then you can keep Christmas.

Are you willing...
To believe that love is the strongest thing in the world, stronger than hate, stronger than evil, stronger than death - and that the blessed life which began in Bethlehem two thousand years ago is the image and brightness of the Eternal Love?

Then you keep Christmas.
And if you can keep it for a day, why not always?
But you can never keep it alone.
- Henry Van Dyke
https://www.xavier.edu/jesuitresource/online-resources/prayer-index/advent-and-christmas-prayers

Remember always that you are loved!
Stay safe, and keep in touch.
Blessings and peace to you all,
The Leadership Team of St. Peter’s Evangelical Lutheran Church

‘Gesu Bambino’, by Maggie Beth Phelps
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4Cm8PSvWi_k&list=RD4Cm8PSvWi_k&start_radio=1
*****************
UPDATE December 24, 2025

Christmas Eve

Praise for the Ordinariness of Christmas
God of Goodness,
We give you praise for the ordinariness of Christmas -
that the day comes the same as any other day.
We give you praise that there is no sign in the heavens, and no bright star but the light of your presence in the ordinary birth of the child.
We give you praise that unobtrusively you are in the center of human affairs, involved in the struggle of life, and sharing human experience.
We give you praise that out of compassion you take our part, and open to us a new way of life. We pray that this day we shall be able to see its true glory.
- Caryl Micklem, Contemporary Prayers for Public Worship
https://www.xavier.edu/jesuitresource/online-resources/prayer-index/advent-and-christmas-prayers

Remember always that you are loved!
Stay safe, and keep in touch.
Blessings and peace to you all,
The Leadership Team of St. Peter’s Evangelical Lutheran Church

‘Oh Holy Night’, by John Berry
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8UPar71vybk&list=RD8UPar71vybk&start_radio=1
*****************
UPDATE December 23, 2025

Fourth Tuesday in Traditional Advent
Almighty ever-living God,
as we see how the Nativity of your Son
according to the flesh draws near,
we pray that to us, your unworthy servants,
mercy may flow from your Word,
who chose to become flesh of the Virgin Mary
and establish among us his dwelling.
Through our Lord Jesus Christ, your Son,
who lives and reigns with you in the unity of the Holy Spirit,
one God, for ever and ever.
https://onlineministries.creighton.edu/fourth-tuesday-advent

Remember always that you are loved!
Stay safe, and keep in touch.
Blessings and peace to you all,
The Leadership Team of St. Peter’s Evangelical Lutheran Church

‘The Huron Carol (English/French/Wendat)’, by Adam Ruzzo
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=nG_j6C5Y5WY
*****************
UPDATE December 22, 2025

Fourth Monday in Traditional Advent
Oh, God-With-Us,
For so long you have promised
forgiveness, peace, salvation.
Now in my heart, I am filled with joy
because of your coming.

Thank you for your promises
and for the way I can trust in you.
I feel a new freedom in my life
and a courage I have not known before.

I know you came to save me and bring new life
and I am so grateful to you.
Let me show my thankfulness
with my life.
You have brought me through the darkness
and into the light of your saving grace.