Prayers of the People
November 6, 2016

As we gather at this time for prayer, we seek renewal for our age throughout the church, the world, and all of creation. In doing so, let us pause to center our minds and lift our prayers to our Father.

We pray for all Christian churches and especially our church family of New Beginnings. Move us by Your love for us to love others as You first loved us. Guide each one of us to strengthen ties with neighbors, respect the laws that create a civil society and examine the shadow of bias, fear, and hatred that may be in our own speaking or acting. Let your love change all of our hearts to love You with all of our heart, strength, and mind, and our neighbors as ourselves. Lord in Your Mercy, hear our prayer.

We lift before you Tuesday’s elections and pray for all of the candidates not just those for whom we agree with or support. As You have taught us, all are leaders and potential leaders need our prayers. We pray today for candidates for office they will take brave stands for righteousness, even when it may not be well received. Protect their families from harm and unnecessary scrutiny. And may the elected focus on the issues we face as a nation and not on personal attacks on other parties or peoples. Lord in Your Mercy, hear our prayer.

We pray for all who are persecuted on account of naming Jesus as Lord. Guide them and provide them with Your word of truth and forgiveness, so that their tormentors may repent and be saved. We also ask that You protect the men and women risking their lives in defense of life, liberty and justice. Protect their families from fear; bring the military servants home safety; heal wounds to their bodies and spirits; and use their service as building blocks for a happier and safer world. Lord in Your Mercy, hear our prayer.

We pray for guidance to see all who are afflicted with pain, suffering, or sorrow of mind, body and soul, known and unknown. We pray that you will strengthen their bodies, refresh their hearts, take away their fears, and give them your peace. Bless all who care for them with kindness and skill. Lord in Your mercy, Hear our prayer.

We remember the saints that have been a part of our lives and now live in Your presence. With reverence and affection, we remember all those that have gone before us and helped to shape our faith and influenced our lives in godly ways: parents and grandparents; spouses and siblings; teachers and pastors and the countless throng of anonymous saints who have faithfully served you. Grant that we may likewise help others until we too abide with You in Heaven. Lord in Your Mercy, hear our prayer.

We pray for protection us as we leave this place and go about our business, work and leisure in the coming week. Be by our side as we openly share our Christian faith with humility and love. We lift our prayers to you, O God, trusting your promise to hear us; through Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen.