“‘Oh that men would praise the Lord for his goodness, and for his wonderful works to the children of men!’”

Pastor Sedgwick stepped away from the pulpit and raised his hands. “Let us spend this time in prayer for our loved ones who are on the lake—who battle the stormy seas.”

Gloriana bowed her head. She couldn’t count the number of times she’d heard that psalm read. Some considered it in part or whole to be the “Sailor’s Psalm.” It definitely spoke to the perils of the sea.

Lord, You are good to us.

She always liked to begin her prayers in praise. It was something her mother had done, and it seemed only right to continue the tradition.

We put our trust in You because You are faithful and worthy of our trust. Even when bad times come like these, we know Your love is perfect and casts out fear.

JT giggled, and Gloriana nudged him, knowing he and Jimmy were probably not praying.

Father, I know You hold our lives in Your hands. You are with each and every man out there on the water and You know what they need. I pray for safety for each one—safety for them and their ships—safety for us on land.

Gloriana licked her dry lips. A shiver ran down her spine. Each time she faced these moments with her mother, Gloriana had taken strength from her. Now Mama was gone, and poor Sally sat in her place. Sally had faith in God, but she was a new Christian, and that faith had not been tested very much. Sally was terrified, and Gloriana could feel her trembling. Gloriana wished she could offer the younger woman the same strength Mama had given her, but she wasn’t sure she had any to spare.

An older man got up to offer his prayer aloud. “O great God of the universe, we humbly bow before You—seeking You. Draw near to us, we pray. Put a guard over our loved ones. Calm the lake and the storms that rage around her. Bring our loved ones home without injury or loss. We commit this to You, great Father—thankful that You hear our prayers.” He sat back down and folded his hands in silent prayer.

Gloriana added an “amen” and continued with her own prayers.

The service went on for an hour, with people speaking up from time to time to offer their prayer aloud. It calmed Gloriana’s spirit. Unfortunately, it seemed only to bring on tears for Sally. Slipping her arm around the younger woman’s shoulders, Gloriana held Sally close.

“Let’s head home,” Gloriana murmured as folks started to leave. “Maybe we can get a ride from someone.”

“I’ll go ask Mr. Griggs,” JT offered. “I saw he had his wagon.”

Gloriana nodded. “Go ahead, JT.”