As many times I've walked along this dirt road I have never (before now) laid eyes on this humble July-flowering plant whose Latin name is Prunella Vulgaris. Its everyday name is Heal-all or Self-Heal. Prunella apparently gets the more friendly name from her wide use as an herbal remedy for throat ailments. Considering the plant's ability and will to heal, what an affront to its dignity that some sources call it "a common lawn weed." Huh! Along with the plant-discovery, I've also come across this lovely healing prayer in the Anglican Book of Common Prayer. What a happy combination!
O God, our creator and preserver, we humbly beseech you for all sorts and conditions of humankind; that you would be pleased to make your ways known to us, your saving health to all nations. More especially we pray for your holy Church in every place; that it may be so guided and governed by your good Spirit, that all who profess and call themselves Christians may be led into the way of truth, and hold the faith in unity of spirit, in the bond of peace, and in righteousness of life. Finally, we commend to your fatherly goodness all those who are in any ways afflicted or distressed, in mind, body or spirit, especially those for whom our prayers are desired; that it may please you to comfort and relieve them in their necessities, giving them patience under their sufferings, and a happy way out of their afflictions. And this we beg for Jesus Christ's sake. Amen.
