4 January 2026 Prayer for the Chaplain + Deacon + Pastor

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Gracious God, thank you for yet another day. It’s a new year and also, it is another day of life in you. Ease my mind about all the pressures of “new beginnings” and “fresh starts” and “new yous” with the turn of the calendar year. Set my eyes and expectations on today – another day in life with you. In the light of your promises, your love, mercy, and your grace. Help me to know that whatever it is I am able to do today it will be enough. That you take care of all the things. So set my mind and spirit at ease today. It’s not about what I do but who you are, anyway. So reset my heart to that rhythm instead.

Draw me close in your love to my beloveds, my family. It feels like a miracle to have come through all of the gatherings and expectations and preparations and letdowns and travel and weather and all that togetherness that comes with the holidays. So create in me a new heart for my family.

And for my friends and colleagues who also know the pressures and burdens of this work, along with the delight and the joy. Remind them that their work in you is not in vain. Stir up your Holy Spirit in them so that they sense your love in new ways today.

I pray especially for my friends and colleagues in CGP. Especially those in the midst of change, transition, loss and grief.

Krista Strum (Hosanna, Rochester) as she grieves the death of her dad, Maurice.

Gretchen Pierskalla (Zion, Arlington) as she grieves the death of her sister Marlene.

Kristi Mitchell (Redeemer, Alden, Concordia, Pickeral Lake), as she grieves the death of her husband Bill.

Drew Yackel (Our Savior’s, Faribault), who had surgery to repair a torn patellar tendon– for his healing, and for patience.

Dale Degner (Trinity, Benson), as the chemo schedule takes hold as well as side effects. Bring him your comfort and joy.

Ben Hilding (Gustavus, St. Peter), as 6 weeks of radiation has begun and so has time away from his family.

Nissa Peterson (Chatfield Lutheran & Root Prairie), as she and her family accompany Grandpa Roger in hospice care.

Peg Marose (Good Hope Parish, Thompson, IA · Kiester, MN · Bricelyn, MN), for rest and rejuvenation.

Becca Krogstad (Bethany, Moran and St. Matthews, Evan), as she grieves the recent death of her mom.

Scott Richards (St. Paul’s and Trinity, Gaylord), grieving the death of his dad.

Help me stand in awe and wonder of your presence in my life today, God. Thank you for your faithfulness to me. For your trust in who you continue to make me to be. Amen.

Deep breaths dear friends. Don’t be afraid – God is with you!

If you have a prayer request for the CGP prayers, please email Laura at: aase@gustavus.edu. It can be as specific or as vague as you request. Don’t be shy – being prayed for is so powerful. Especially by other pastors, deacons, and chaplains.