Oh Lord, as heat and dry weather envelope our country, we in the Marquette University community pray for our family, friends, alumni and benefactors who have been affected by the devastating fires currently burning throughout our land.

Fire is so very necessary for our existence, and yet, when it gets out of control, it can be more damaging than anything else. We ask God for protection against destroying fire. Keep our lives, our homes, buildings, woods and fields safe from this scourge. Help us to always use care and caution in our use of fire. Bring the waters of refreshment to quench the fires and the thirst of those who fight to protect and save us from fires.

Give us a saving fear of the fires that destroy. Help us to control them. Give us the fire of passion in our hearts that we may help those in need.

Amen.