A Prayer for October – Rev. Jennifer Geary

As nature changes clothes from greens to reds and golds, we turn to you God seeking your grace. We confess the unfulfilled promises made in spring, for what we would accomplish during summer which are still undone as we enter autumn. Help us, like the trees, let go of those lost plans as they wither and dry up, that they might be composted and recycled into nourishment for next spring’s goals. (Or give us warmth for just a little bit longer so we can hurriedly get them done.)

Bless the creatures that are making and filling their winter nests. May we be equally wise, not to hoard, but to gather the relationships, the prayers, the rituals, and the community that will help us through winter.

The decreasing humidity gives us clear, crisp air. Give us eyes to clearly see those around us who need our care and support. As we begin to add layers of clothing and blankets, remind us of those who wear all their layers year-round because they have no closet in which to store the basics.

We notice the darkness increasing; help us continue to be outside, to engage in meaningful activity and to not just hibernate in front of a glowing screen.

As in all seasons some of us are in stellar health and some of us are struggling; give strength to our bodies and our souls. Renew our physical, spiritual, and mental health. Should autumn bring to us, like so much of nature, our time to pass from this life to the next, we ask for a smooth transition accompanied by your presence and grace.

Thank you, God, for the fullness of summer which we cherish in the harvest. Continue to open our awareness to the bounty of blessings that surround us.  Grant us to have grateful hearts and may words of gratitude be often on our lips.

Bless O God, those people who live in the southern hemisphere who are beginning to thaw out and who look forward to spring. In the name of Jesus. Amen.

Read the full version of the October Spire here.