Seasons of Prayer A CBM Prayer Guide
sept to nov
2026
And a harvest of righteousness is sown in peace for those who make peace. — James 3:18 (nrsv)
Seasons of Prayer is published three times a year by Canadian Baptist Ministries. Copies are distributed free of charge. Bulk quantities available by request. 7185 Millcreek Drive, Mississauga, ON L5N 5R4 905.821.3533 | communications@cbmin.org
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An Invitation to Sow Peace through Prayer Dear friends, Fall often draws our attention to the harvest, but every harvest begins much earlier. It begins with a seed placed in the ground and tended over time, often before there is any sign of growth. James uses this same image when he speaks about peace. Peace is something we hope and pray for, but it is also something we sow. It takes root in the ways we treat one another, the choices we make, and the work we are willing to do together. The prayers in this issue bring before us people living through war and displacement; workers seeking dignity and fair opportunities; Indigenous communities continuing the long work of truth and reconciliation; and women and children whose safety and well-being are at risk. In these prayers, peace is not simply the end of conflict. It looks like justice, safety, enough food to eat, relationships being repaired, and people being treated with dignity. It is found wherever hope is restored and people are able to flourish. Prayer is part of how we sow that peace. As we bring the needs of the world before God, we also ask God to shape us. Prayer helps us pay attention, listen more carefully, and recognize where we may be called to respond. Most seeds of peace are small. They are found in a conversation, an act of generosity, a willingness to listen, or the decision to stand alongside someone who is hurting. We may not always see what grows from them, but we can trust God with the harvest. As you pray through this issue, may you see where God is already at work, bringing life and hope in difficult places. And may we each be willing to sow peace wherever God has placed us. Thank you for praying with us.
In Christ,
Jennifer Lau, Executive Director, CBM
Notes & Reflections What is God bringing to your attention?
What would you like to hold in prayer?
Where might you sow peace this season?
week of sept 6
Lord, may your will be done in the work of our hands according to Micah 6:8 and Isaiah 58:6–7
God of all creation, You have always been present in the places where people work — in tended fields, in built homes, in the hands that care for the sick, and the voices that shape communities. You are ever-present in the early morning commute, in the warehouse, in the classroom, in the quiet labour of those who are rarely thanked. This Labour Day week, draw us gently into looking again — at the systems around us, at the people beside us, at the structures that lift some and leave others behind. We think of newcomers to Canada still finding their footing. Of workers without benefits or breaks. Of those whose gifts have never quite been given room to grow.
Prayer for
Labour Day
Beth Kamathi Marketplace Engagement Coordinator, East Africa
We don't come with easy answers, only open hands — and a willingness to be shaped by what you care about. Thank you for the work of organizations like CBM and its Vennture initiatives, that are daring to imagine economies built on dignity and trust. Go before them, and through them, into communities that are longing for something better. May we be people who see, who ask, and who act — together. Amen.
p r ay e r p o i n t s
For newcomers and vulnerable workers to find fair opportunities, welcoming communities, and be drawn near to you in the process.
For livelihood initiatives through CBM/Vennture that partnerships deepen, resources grow, and communities have dignity restored.
For justice in leadership and policy among courageous, wise leaders choosing fairness and building economies that serve all people.
week of sept 13
Prayer for
CBM’s CanadianBased Staff Week Robin Clark Director of Operations and Human Resources
Lord, We thank you for the gift of work and for each person you have called to serve at CBM. Thank you that you made each of us with different gifts, strengths, and perspectives. Lord, we pray that you bless our work. Strengthen our hands, guide our thinking, and give us wisdom in every decision. When work feels heavy, renew our energy. When challenges arise, give us perseverance and peace. Teach us, Lord, how to be attentive to your leading and ever mindful of the rhythms of grace you so kindly invite us into. May we work together with unity, encouragement, and shared purpose, finding joy in both the work and one another. This week, as the CBM office staff come together, we pray that you guide our conversations and decisions. Help us support and encourage one another, building strong relationships and true fellowship. Let there be moments of laughter, encouragement, and lightness that strengthen our team and refresh our spirits. In your name we pray, Amen.
p r ay e r p o i n t s
As our office staff meets, please pray for God to guide our conversations and provide wisdom as we make decisions.
Pray for our Global Staff as they serve and work alongside our partners.
With busy schedules this fall, pray that staff will find times of rest and opportunities to pause and recharge.
week of sept 20
Dear God, As the world grows more chaotic, we long for a peace that only you can give. We long for the day when the Prince of Peace will return and make all things new. As we observe International Day of Peace this week, we remember the many people around the world living in fear, uncertainty, violence, and displacement — realities far beyond what many of us can fully imagine. We pray for communities torn apart by war, injustice, and conflict; for families grieving loss; for children growing up surrounded by fear; and for those forced to leave their homes in search of safety. We also pray for churches, ministries, and local believers who continue to serve faithfully amid pain, while offering comfort, hope, and the presence of Christ. Help us to understand that peace is more than ringing a solemn bell or observing a moment of silence. Teach us to seek the peace you offer that heals, restores, reconciles, and draws people closer to you. Through your global Church, make us people who reflect that peace in our words, our actions, and our relationships.
Prayer for
International Day of Peace
Abishek Varghese Senior Communications Specialist
We trust that even in a hurting world, you are still at work. May the Lord bestow upon us his peace and be with us all. Amen.
p r ay e r p o i n t s
That God’s healing and hope would be made known in places torn by war, violence, and injustice.
That God would protect, strengthen, and sustain CBM staff, partners, and local believers serving with courage and compassion in conflictaffected regions.
That churches would be faithful witnesses of Christ’s love and reconciliation, offering peace and care in divided communities.
week of sept 27
Prayer for
National Day for Truth and Reconciliation
Indigenous Voice Creator, You have always been present in this land, among its peoples, and throughout all Creation. We carry truths that must be spoken, griefs that cannot be hurried, and wounds that still shape our families and communities. Yet we also carry the wisdom and strength of our ancestors, the resilience of our peoples, and the life that continues among us.
Settler Echo Creator God, we receive this truth with humility. Teach us to listen without defensiveness, to lament without rushing past pain, and to walk the long road of repair with honesty and love.
Indigenous Voice: Danny Zacharias Associate Dean, Acadia Divinity College
Settler Echo: Catherine Cole Team Lead, Communications
Indigenous Voice The land remembers our prayers, our ceremonies, our promises, and the relationships that have been broken. Teach us again to live as relatives — with one another, with the waters and the lands, and with all the life you have placed around us. Where relationships have been wounded, make room for truth, justice, and relationships renewed through faithful action.
Settler Echo Jesus, our peace, forgive us for the ways we have benefited from broken relationships and systems of harm. Lead us away from empty words and into lives shaped by justice, mercy, and humble companionship.
Indigenous Voice Creator, hold close the residential school survivors and their families, the children who never returned home, and the families and communities who continue to carry their absence.
Strengthen our Elders, encourage our youth, and breathe new life into our languages, stories, ceremonies, and communities. Bring healing without erasing memory, and let the gifts, wisdom, humour, and joy of Indigenous peoples flourish.
Settler Echo Spirit of truth and healing, make us willing to learn what we were never taught, to honour stories that have too often been silenced, and to stand alongside Indigenous neighbours with courage and respect.
Indigenous Voice Lead us together upon the bright path — not by forgetting what has happened, but by facing the truth with courage. Help us honour the treaties and responsibilities that bind us to one another and to this land. May we walk side by side in the light of the Creator and the power of the Spirit, seeking justice, restoring relationships, and becoming good relatives.
Settler Echo Together, may we become people of peace — not peace that avoids truth, but peace rooted in repentance, dignity, and love. Guide your Church to walk in your ways, as neighbours, relatives, and members of one body in Christ. Amen.
p r ay e r p o i n t s
Pray for survivors, families, Elders, children, and youth; for healing across generations; and for Indigenous languages, ceremonies, stories, cultures, and communities to be strengthened and sustained.
Pray that Christians will listen without defensiveness, learn the histories they were not taught, honour treaties and Indigenous rights, and allow repentance to take on tangible forms.
Pray for CBM and Canadian Baptist churches to move beyond apology into faithful action and ways of being, building reciprocal relationships with Indigenous communities and embodying reconciliation through their work.
week of oct 4
Prayer for
International Day of the Girl Child Laura Muema Program and SENT Coordinator, Africa
Father of every daughter, We come on behalf of all the girls in our world. On this day, the International Day of the Girl Child, we thank you for making us fearfully, for loving us and for calling us by name. Your Word says, “For surely I know the plans I have for you, says the Lord, plans for your welfare and not for harm, to give you a future with hope.” (Jeremiah 29:11, NRSV). Lord, let that promise take root in the hearts of girls all over the world — from the rural to urban areas, from cities to provinces and states, from countries across all continents, and through every region that CBM operates in. We pray with CBM’s global partners. Teach us mutuality as we listen to girls’ voices, to honour their gifts, and make space for them to lead and thrive. Where education is out of reach, open doors; where safety is threatened, be their defender; where dreams are silenced, breathe courage again, dear Lord. Make us people who pray and act, believing you are already at work. Through Christ our hope we pray, Amen!
p r ay e r p o i n t s
For girls to have safe learning spaces, to be educated, grow, and lead with confidence.
For girls at risk to feel safe and valued, that those who minister to them have wisdom, resources, and offer God’s protection.
For emerging women leaders, that their gifts be nurtured as co-workers in God’s mission.
week of oct 11
God of Peace, our Jehovah Jireh, You have called us to be the peacemakers in a world full of conflict; help us to rise to this occasion. We pray for the millions of people who face hunger, all too regularly — especially those whose food insecurity is caused by violence. Bring them comfort and grant them safety and provisions.
Prayer for
World Food Day
We pray for tables to be filled with nutritious food, while being surrounded by warm hearts. And we pray for those who do not know hunger, that their hearts will be filled with compassion for the people who do. That we all seek the simple justice for everyone to have enough to eat.
Christina Phillips
Help us to remember to pray for peace, both near and far, and guide us to be your instruments of harmony and justice in both big and small ways.
Director of Resources and Public Engagement, Canadian Foodgrains Bank
Bless those who grow the food around the world; bless their efforts and the soil on which they work. Protect the seeds that they have planted from the violence that comes from other people as well as from nature itself. May their harvests be plentiful and shared freely. In the name of Jesus, the Prince of Peace, Amen.
p r ay e r p o i n t s
For humanitarian workers providing food in dangerous situations, that they be encouraged and find needed supplies.
For CBM’s programs working with small-scale farmers, that they will experience harvests to feed their families and earn a livelihood.
That we remember to pray for peace and that global leaders seek peace above wealth and power.
week of oct 18
Prayer for
Africa, Europe, and MENA
Victor Odinda Program Officer
Gracious and compassionate God, We bring before you all the partners serving communities affected by war, disease, and displacement within Middle East and North Africa (MENA), Africa, and Europe. We pray for every family longing for peace, every child seeking hope, and every caregiver offering comfort and treatment. May your grace be upon CBM staff, community volunteers, health professionals, and our partners as they respond to these challenges by working tirelessly to restore dignity and lasting peace. May their work be marked by faith, genuine love, and unwavering compassion for all people. In particular, we ask for your presence in DR Congo, South Sudan, and Lebanon. Your Word reminds us, “Learn to do right; seek justice. Defend the oppressed.” (Isaiah 1:17). May this call shape our actions and deepen our commitment to those most in need. We also hold firmly to your promise: “God is our refuge and strength, an ever-present help in trouble.” (Psalm 46:1). May all who are affected by conflict find comfort, protection, and renewed hope through your abiding presence. Grant that our current interventions in these areas bear fruit by restoring lives, nurturing peace amid conflict, bringing your healing where there is illness, and opportunity where there is despair. In your mercy and love, we pray. Amen.
p r ay e r p o i n t s
For political resolution in South Sudan and with our partner, FEBAC, in their peacebuilding, humanitarian, and development interventions.
For God’s healing and the CBCA, as they partner in humanitarian response efforts amid the Ebola outbreak in DR Congo, Uganda, and South Sudan.
For a resolution to the humanitarian crisis in Lebanon and the many lives affected.
week of oct 25
Everlasting Father, We thank you that you are present with us, wherever we might find ourselves. You, O Lord, are always at work. Give us eyes to see what you are doing and to have the courage to answer your invitation to participate in Kingdom work. Today we lift up our partners across the Americas and Asia. We think of how they are answering your call to be the salt and light in their communities. We pray for the churches within these regions. We ask that you strengthen and encourage them, so they can continue to be an example of grace and love. We pray that when people think of the Church, whether in the Dominican Republic, the Philippines, Canada, or throughout the Americas and Asia, they would see believers marked by love. That the love they have for God and one another would radiate. And that the world would see lives transformed by the redeeming work of Jesus Christ.
Prayer for the
Americas and Asia
Kathryn Scott Global Staff, Dominican Republic
Thank you, Lord, for your faithfulness, unending grace, and mercy. Be glorified today and forever. Amen.
p r ay e r p o i n t s
For the Global Staff serving in these regions to be strengthened and sustained with the joy of the Lord.
For the dedicated pastors, leaders, and volunteers of partners, such as IBAREDO, to effectively serve the vulnerable in their communities.
For God to transform the next generation to live radically in their faith in the Lord.
week of nov 1
Prayer for
CBWC Sunday
If your presence does not go with us, do not send us up from here. — Exodus 33:15
Gracious God, As we pray for the churches, leaders, and ministries of the CBWC, remind us that our greatest need is not greater resources, clearer plans, or easier circumstances — it is your presence. Like Moses, teach us to desire you more than the places you lead us. Form us into a people who seek your voice before our own, who listen before we speak, and who discern together the way you are calling us to walk.
Clint Mix Executive Minister, Canadian Baptists of Western Canada
Where relationships need strengthening, grant us humility. Where decisions must be made, grant us wisdom. Where we grow weary, renew our hope. May our lives bear witness not merely to what we accomplish, but to the reality that you are among us. Shape our leadership, our relationships, and our witness so that they flow from lives transformed by your presence and reflect the character of Christ. As Moses prayed, may your presence distinguish your people from all the peoples of the Earth. May those who encounter the churches of the CBWC recognize not our strength or success, but the living presence of Jesus among us. In the name of Christ, who promises to be with us always. Amen.
p r ay e r p o i n t s
To embody Christ with humility, grace, and love, as a faithful witness of the gospel.
For ears to hear Jesus and hearts willing to pray, “Not my will, but yours be done.”
For CBWC board, staff, and ministry partners as they serve our family of churches to have God’s wisdom, joy, and the grace that Jesus offers.
week of nov 8
Lord, We remember those who sacrificed their lives to restore peace and freedom for the generations that followed. Our world is imperfect, broken, and in continual need of you. Through wars and conflicts you provide hope as noted in John 16:33, “I have said these things to you, that in me you may have peace. In the world you will have tribulation. But take heart; I have overcome the world.”
Prayer for
Remembrance Day
You are the one who brings ultimate peace through your death and resurrection, and will one day bring the ultimate justice to this world. In the meantime, we are reminded to continually live out your Kingdom message here on Earth despite its imperfections. We pray for safety and protection of those in conflict zones. We pray for strength and providence for their daily needs. We remember those who are in service, risking their own safety so that communities and countries could be free from conflict and strife. We pray for their families who are supporting them at home and patiently anticipating their safe return.
Holly Ho Director of Finance
Last, we boldly pray for your peace to reach all corners of this world, for your love and presence to be felt by all. Amen.
p r ay e r p o i n t s
For resolution of wars and conflicts in the Middle East, Ukraine, Sudan, DR Congo, and Myanmar, particularly for the displaced.
For protection and strength for our partners and churches building resilience and hope in their communities.
For safety of those in military service, and for resources to strengthen them in their work toward peace.
week of nov 15
Prayer for
World Children’s Day
Carol Anne Janzen Pastor, Pereaux Baptist Church, Nova Scotia
God of Love and Grace, We come before you on behalf of the world’s children — those we hold close and those we will never meet, yet who are always close to your heart. We remember that Jesus welcomed children, took them in his arms, and blessed them, calling them signs of your Kingdom. Teach us to see every child as precious and worthy of protection and delight. In a world that can be uncertain, dangerous, and unjust, strengthen us, both as individuals and communities of faith, to advocate for the vulnerable. May your love be made visible through our kindness, generosity, and courage. Guard children from exploitation and harm. And awaken us to defend and protect them with holy determination. For the children in our own communities, help us to reflect Christ’s gracious welcome. May we honour each child as your image-bearer and receive with gratitude the spontaneity, creativity, and joy they offer to a weary world. Bless them and keep them, in Jesus’ name. Amen.
p r ay e r p o i n t s
For children everywhere to know they are loved, safe, and valued, and to have the care they need to grow and thrive.
That children would experience the freedom, creativity, and healing that comes through play. Restore their joy, ease their stress, and protect unstructured moments of laughter.
For families, churches, schools, and communities to listen to children, stand alongside those who are vulnerable, and create places where every child can belong.
week of nov 22
God of justice and compassion, You created every woman and girl in your image (Genesis 1:27) to live in dignity, safety, and peace. We grieve the violence, abuse, exploitation, discrimination, and brokenness experienced by so many women. Thank you that in Christ you revealed your heart by welcoming, protecting, and restoring those who were marginalized and oppressed. Draw near to those who are wounded, for you are “close to the broken hearted and save those who are crushed in spirit” (Psalm 34:18). Bring healing where there is trauma, hope where there is despair, and restoration where relationships have been broken. We pray for our Partners — Miqlat Ministry, Samaritan Home, Shalom Tribal Trust in India, and KPM in the Philippines, as they walk alongside women and families affected by domestic violence, substance abuse, and exploitation. Grant wisdom and courage to staff, local churches, and communities “to act justly and to love mercy and to walk humbly” (Micah 6:8). Teach us to love as Christ loved (Ephesians 5:25), to “carry each other's burdens” (Galatians 6:2), and to put away all bitterness, rage, and malice (Ephesians 4:31–32). By your Holy Spirit, transform hearts, restore families, and raise communities where every person is valued, protected, and loved. Through Jesus Christ our Lord,
Prayer for the
Elimination of Violence Against Women
Suraj Komaravalli Regional Team Leader, Asia
Amen.
p r ay e r p o i n t s
For the Miqlat Ministry as they support women and girls recovering from abuse, exploitation, and trauma.
For the Samaritan Home, Shalom Tribal Trust (India) & KPM (Philippines) as they serve families affected by substance abuse and domestic violence.
For our partner churches in Nepal, Myanmar, Thailand, and Kazakhstan, to be places of refuge, justice, and restoration.
contributors
Beth Kamathi
Catherine Cole
Marketplace Engagement Coordinator, East Africa
Team Lead, Communications
Beth works with CBM’s partners across East Africa to connect faith, work, and mission. She also serves in theological education and has experience in pastoral ministry and leadership.
Catherine leads CBM’s communications team, sharing stories across print and digital platforms. She values honest storytelling that makes room for people to speak in their own voices.
Robin Clark
Laura Muema
Director of Operations and Human Resources
Program and SENT Coordinator, Africa
Robin oversees CBM’s operations and human resources. She enjoys helping people find roles that suit their strengths and ensure staff have the support they need.
Abishek Varghese Senior Communications Specialist Abishek tells stories through film and digital media, helping people see the impact of CBM’s global partnerships. His background includes documentaries, short films, television, and other productions.
Danny Zacharias Associate Dean, Acadia Divinity College Danny is a Cree and Anishinaabe scholar, ordained minister, and Associate Dean at Acadia Divinity College. He also teaches with NAIITS: An Indigenous Learning Community.
Laura works with CBM’s partners across Africa to support programs and host SENT teams. Her work focuses on children, families, gender equity, and women’s empowerment.
Christina Phillips Director of Resources and Public Engagement, Canadian Foodgrains Bank Christina leads communications, public engagement, and supporter relations at Canadian Foodgrains Bank, helping Canadians give, pray, learn, and advocate in the effort to end global hunger.
Victor Odinda
Holly Ho
Program Officer
Director of Finance
Victor supports CBM’s partners and programs across Africa. His experience includes food security, sustainable agriculture, livelihoods, climate change, community development, and program monitoring and evaluation.
Holly oversees CBM’s finances with a strong commitment to careful stewardship. She holds a Bachelor of Commerce and a CPA, CA designation.
Kathryn Scott Global Staff, Dominican Republic Kathryn serves alongside IBAREDO in the Dominican Republic, supporting leadership training, youth discipleship, integral mission, and SENT experiences. She has a background in education and cross-cultural ministry.
Clint Mix Executive Minister, Canadian Baptists of Western Canada Clint serves the Canadian Baptists of Western Canada, walking alongside churches as they develop leaders, strengthen relationships, and take part in God’s mission in their communities.
Carol Anne Janzen Pastor, Pereaux Baptist Church, Nova Scotia Carol Anne serves as Pastor of Pereaux Baptist Church in Nova Scotia. Her ministry is shaped by experience in theological education, children’s programming, and spiritual formation.
Suraj Komaravalli Regional Team Leader, Asia Suraj leads CBM’s partnerships and integral mission work across Asia. Since joining CBM in 2008, he has drawn on years of experience in theological education and New Testament scholarship.
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