A Prayer For A Child’s Friendship

A Prayer for a Child’s Friendship

O God of community,

We aren’t meant to do life alone.

May we remember that

This sacred truth

Goes for the youngest among us too.

We pray for friendship

To be extended and received

All the days of our child’s life.

May their relationships build bridges,

And may they dance across divides

To the tune of a new friend.

May their relationships broaden their world

And help them grow in empathy

And understanding, too.

We pray for camaraderie

That sparks wonder and joy,

Laughter and adventure

In all the ages and stages

Of our child’s life.

Whether they have a group of friends

Or just one kindred spirit,

Whether the friendships last a lifetime

Or are treasured for just a season,

May our child find the kinship of another

Steeped in mutual merriment and respect.

Help us as parents to support our child

And trust You as we do.

Help us to encourage them

As they develop their own personality

And cultivate their own friendships

In their own ways.

Build a trusting relationship

Between us, O Lord,

So that they feel comfortable

To confide when friendship troubles arise.

And when conflicts do bubble over,

Protect their heart, O Lord.

Guard them against creating cliques,

And give them a spirit of kindness

To sow grace

Where there is misunderstanding

And hope

Where there is hurt.

Thank You, O God,

For the gift of friendship.

May all of us,

Children and grown-ups too,

Love one another

As You have loved us.

Proverbs 18:24; John 15:12-13