Advent God...
Intercession
Prayers usually include these concerns and may follow this sequence:
The Church of Christ
Creation, human society, the Sovereign and those in authority
The local community
Those who suffer
The communion of saints
These responses may be used:
These responses may be used:
Lord, in your mercy
Hear our prayer
Lord, hear us.
Lord, graciously hear us.
Advent God,
When will you come? In each generation we await your coming, yet you don't reappear. And perhaps that's as it should be, for your Church teaches that you are always present, so how can you come again? As we in the Church once more prepare to celebrate your coming at Christmas, may we turn from the anxieties and fears of human life to the hope you offer, that through the dark purple of this sombre season we glimpse at last the promised radiant light.
Advent God,
When will you come? The world continues to experience "distress among nations confused by the roaring of the sea and the waves." Nation rises against nation, and swords are never beaten into ploughshares. When will you come, bringing us peace on earth? As we wait for your life-giving touch, may the realisation dawn within us that we are responsible for our planet, for good or ill. Give us your deep desire for health, that we may properly care for the earth and all human beings within its boundaries.
Advent God,
When will you come? Our local community is a microcosm of the world with its strains and difficulties, its joys and delights. May we begin to realise that the health of the world starts here, in our community. Heal our histories and our damaged relationships, that we may love and be loved into your Kingdom. And may that love then spread out like the ripples on a pond, reaching throughout our neighbourhood and overflowing into surrounding cities, towns and villages.
Advent God,
When will you come? We fight for health, yet still sickness strikes those we love. We name before you (in our own hearts) those who are sick or suffering in any way ... May they know that waiting is unnecessary, for your presence is within them now, filling every fibre of their being. Pour your healing power throughout them, that they may once again find health and strength.
Advent God,
When will you come? You conquered sin and death, yet those we love still die, causing almost unbearable pain. May those who have lost someone they love catch a glimpse of that glorious light which you have given us as our heritage, the light of your Kingdom. And may they know that their loved ones are safe in your arms, part of that great communion of saints who form your Kingdom in the next life. We hold in your presence especially ... and those whose memories still hurt....
Merciful Father,
Accept these prayers for the sake of your Son, our Savior Jesus Christ. Amen.
The Church of Christ
Creation, human society, the Sovereign and those in authority
The local community
Those who suffer
The communion of saints
These responses may be used:
These responses may be used:
Lord, in your mercy
Hear our prayer
Lord, hear us.
Lord, graciously hear us.
Advent God,
When will you come? In each generation we await your coming, yet you don't reappear. And perhaps that's as it should be, for your Church teaches that you are always present, so how can you come again? As we in the Church once more prepare to celebrate your coming at Christmas, may we turn from the anxieties and fears of human life to the hope you offer, that through the dark purple of this sombre season we glimpse at last the promised radiant light.
Advent God,
When will you come? The world continues to experience "distress among nations confused by the roaring of the sea and the waves." Nation rises against nation, and swords are never beaten into ploughshares. When will you come, bringing us peace on earth? As we wait for your life-giving touch, may the realisation dawn within us that we are responsible for our planet, for good or ill. Give us your deep desire for health, that we may properly care for the earth and all human beings within its boundaries.
Advent God,
When will you come? Our local community is a microcosm of the world with its strains and difficulties, its joys and delights. May we begin to realise that the health of the world starts here, in our community. Heal our histories and our damaged relationships, that we may love and be loved into your Kingdom. And may that love then spread out like the ripples on a pond, reaching throughout our neighbourhood and overflowing into surrounding cities, towns and villages.
Advent God,
When will you come? We fight for health, yet still sickness strikes those we love. We name before you (in our own hearts) those who are sick or suffering in any way ... May they know that waiting is unnecessary, for your presence is within them now, filling every fibre of their being. Pour your healing power throughout them, that they may once again find health and strength.
Advent God,
When will you come? You conquered sin and death, yet those we love still die, causing almost unbearable pain. May those who have lost someone they love catch a glimpse of that glorious light which you have given us as our heritage, the light of your Kingdom. And may they know that their loved ones are safe in your arms, part of that great communion of saints who form your Kingdom in the next life. We hold in your presence especially ... and those whose memories still hurt....
Merciful Father,
Accept these prayers for the sake of your Son, our Savior Jesus Christ. Amen.
