Nazareth Hosts Prayer Service for LCWR 100 Days Initiative
LCWR’s 100 Days of Prayer, Fasting, and Advocacy is a coordinated effort by women religious to commit to daily prayer, simple fasting, and public action on key justice issues over a set period of time.
Nazareth joined women religious across the country in LCWR’s 100 Days of Prayer, Fasting, and Advocacy with a prayer service focused on care for Earth during International Mother Earth Month.
The gathering opened with a call to reflect on the beauty of creation and the shared responsibility to protect it. Participants were invited into quiet reflection and song, beginning with “Canticle of the Sun,” which set a tone of gratitude for the natural world.
A reading from St. Hildegard of Bingen named the presence of life moving through all creation. Those gathered paused in silence to consider where they see signs of renewal and growth in their own lives.
A second reflection, written by Sister Sarita Manavalan, described Earth through vivid images of land, water, and living beings. The prayer connected human life to the wider world and emphasized unity with all creation. Participants reflected on which images spoke most clearly to their own experience.
Intercessions followed, lifting up concerns tied to environmental justice and human dignity. Prayers named the leadership of Indigenous communities, the needs of migrants and climate refugees, and the right of all people to clean air and water. Each petition called the group to deeper awareness and shared responsibility.
The service closed with a prayer that called attention to the sacredness of all life, from the smallest creatures to the largest ecosystems. A final song continued the theme of praise and connection to creation.
As part of the broader initiative, participants were encouraged to fast from electronic screens and spend time listening to the natural world and to one another. The effort links prayer with action and invites advocacy on global climate concerns, including support for vulnerable nations facing the effects of climate change.
The 100 Days initiative runs from Feb. 18 through June 7 and reflects LCWR’s ongoing commitment to prayer, public witness, and advocacy on issues affecting people and the planet.