God,
You are the Creator of every people and every nation. You formed us in your image and have called your creation good. We confess that we too often forget this truth. We confess the ways fear has shaped our hearts, the ways prejudice has hardened our hearts, and the ways silence has allowed injustice to reign.
Lord, we lift up before you this morning the destructive nature of racism within our society, within our institutions, and within our own hearts.
Where we have benefited from systems that wound others, forgive us. Where we have judged based on skin color, accent, or culture, have mercy on us. Teach us to see each person as you see them: beloved, worthy, and created with purpose. Help us to join and continue the work of Martin Luther King Jr. who challenged racial segregation, discrimination, and injustice through nonviolent resistance. We know there is much more work to do to unite us…help us be a people that works towards that end.
We also pray for those who journey in search of safety, opportunity, or belonging. For immigrants and refugees—those welcomed and those turned away, those documented and undocumented—surround them with your protection and peace. Strengthen families separated by borders and policies, and guide leaders to act with wisdom and compassion.
Jesus, you were once a refugee yourself. You crossed boundaries, welcomed the outsider, and called us to love our neighbor as ourselves. Shape us into a people who reflect that love—not just in words, but in actions. Give us courage to listen, humility to learn, and grace to walk together even when it is uncomfortable.
May your church be a place of refuge, reconciliation, and hope. Unite us by your Spirit, and lead us in the way of your kingdom, where every tribe and tongue gathers at your table.
We pray all this in the name of Christ,
Amen.
