Blessing of the Hands

What a Blessing of the Hands on May 6 as St. Joseph Hospital kicked off its 2010 Nurses Week. I loved the blessing offered:

Creator God, Giver and Sustainer of Life, bless the noble work to which these many hands have been dedicated. Enable us all to be truly wise in our clinical judgments, courageous in our dedication to doing good and avoiding harm; compassionate in responding to the human need for healing. Guide our minds and hands. Inspire us with words of comfort that we may be a supportive presence to others. Endow us with the gifts that will enable us to provide the sick and suffering with the care and attention each human life deserves.

Strengthen us in times of trial and discouragement. Keep our hearts from becoming indifferent when faced with our own limitations in curing human ills. Grace our perceptions that we may behold the wonders of your healing power working through our hands. May we not lose sight of the divine truth: That is is Your consoling love that brings forth peace where there is anxiety; healing where there is injury; and new life when our journey on earth is complete. In your love, bless all our hands this day, and everyday. Amen