Prayers of the People
July 17, 2016
May we join together to lift prayer and praise to our Heavenly Father beginning with a moment of silence during which we may call upon the Lord in our minds and open our hearts to His presence.
We thank you that from the darkness of this world the light of Jesus remains as in the prophetic Word: “Be comforted. After darkness comes light, after night comes day!” Open our minds and encourage our awareness that we can come asking forgiveness because Jesus lives and comes to meet each one of us. May we greet Him. Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.
Build up your Church in mature faith, patient suffering, generous service, and gracious hospitality. Through its preaching, teaching and worship, reveal the mysteries of your strong saving love, so that many may eagerly seek your face and live. Strengthen the people of this church to be grounded in faith, to grow in love, to blossom with acts of charity and forgiveness, and to show forth the mature fruits of your Holy Spirit. Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.
Give to all missionaries the faithfulness and fortitude of Saint Paul. Use them, and the words and work of our companion congregations and dioceses, to lead many people to “the one thing needful” – the strong saving love of their Savior. Your servant Paul suffered for the sake of the Gospel, as do many Christians in this day. Strengthen their desire to glorify you, to encourage one another, and to witness to their Savior, who suffered and prayed even on behalf of his persecutors and theirs. Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.
We pray for our nation, for our world, for all leaders and peoples, and for your presence to dwell with us all. Grant that we may know your will and seek your peace. Teach us to sit at your feet, to love your Law, display your mercy, and share your blessings with one another. Bless our homes with such love, respect, and harmony, that all who enter may find a warm welcome, a safe haven, and a joyful fellowship. When strife, suffering or sorrow damage households and lives, bring to them your forgiveness and healing. Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.
Be the strength and shield of all who stand in harm’s way to protect life and liberty, especially Keegan and Alex. Give them courage and competence; heal their wounds of body, soul and mind; restore them swiftly to their loved ones; and help them find new ways to serve you, their communities, and their nation, when their tours of duty are ended. Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.
Be the light and salvation of all who are afflicted with pain, suffering, or sorrow. Strengthen their bodies, refresh their hearts, take away their fears, and give them your peace. Bless all who care for them with kindness, gentleness, competence, and common sense. Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.
We thank you for the lives of your faithful servants whom we have known and loved, and who have received that good portion that shall never be taken from them. Help us to comfort those who mourn; to nourish those who hunger for food, for fellowship, or for forgiveness; and to help one another become mature in faith. Welcome us, and all your servants of every time and place, into your spacious House; where we shall no more be strangers, servants or guests, but your dear children who see you face to face, at home with you forever. Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.
In the name of Jesus Christ and in his name alone we ask you to remember the needs of our time. We do not want anything that comes from ourselves. May we feel your presence as we move forward through this day, feel the summer sun and heat on our faces and celebrate the passing of another season around us. In Jesus name, Amen.