The Church of Christ Creation,
The Sovereign and those in authority
The local community and human society,
Those who suffer
The communion of saints
These responses may be used:
Lord, in your mercy
Hear our prayer
Lord, hear us.
Lord, graciously hear us.
Let us pray for the Church and for the world, and let us thank God
for his goodness.
Almighty God our heavenly father, you promised
through your Son Jesus Christ to hear us when we pray in faith.
God of Creation, your Church is the body of Christ, and within that body eternal life is to be found. When the Church is imperfect and the kingdom therefore feels less than congenial, help us to hang on in there, knowing that you work through pain and difficulties. And help each of us in your body to play our own special part, that your kingdom may be recognised and enjoyed by all.
Today with the world-wide church we continue to pray especially for ...
Strengthen N our bishop and all your Church in the service
of Christ; that those who confess your name may be united in your truth, live
together in your love, and reveal your glory in the world.
God of
justice, while wars and violence continue and human beings learn hate rather
than love, it sometimes feels like your kingdom will never come. Remind us that
it's already here, and we only have to turn to you to discover it. Enable the
leaders of the nations to dare to follow your path, so that your kingdom may
emerge wherever there are human beings.
Bless and guide Elizabeth our queen; give wisdom to all in authority; and direct this and every nation in the ways of justice and of peace; that we may honour one another, and seek the common good.
God of compassion, when Jesus called those first disciples they immediately followed him, apparently without a second thought. But it's more difficult for us in the modern world. We have networks of responsibilities, and it's seldom possible to make sudden decisions without affecting all those around us. But help us to get our priorities straight, so that we respond quickly and willingly whenever we hear your voice.
Give grace to us, our families and friends, and to all our neighbours; that we may serve Christ in one another, and love as he loves us.
God of the future, we bring into your presence those of our friends and families who are sick, holding them before you for your love and compassion and healing strength to pour into them. And so we ask you to lay your healing hands upon them as we name them in our own hearts...
Comfort and heal all those who suffer in body, mind or spirit...; give them courage and hope in their troubles; and bring them the joy of your salvation.
God of love, some of our friends feel hurt and bereft because someone they love has died, either recently, or in previous years at this time. May they know the reality of your kingdom here on earth, so that they can begin to feel a part of the great community of saints - the community of those who have died but who now live with you in heaven. And may they feel your arms around them, giving them the strength and support and love they need. Especially we remember the family of ...., and those for whom this time of year brings a sad anniversary....
Hear us as we remember those who have died in the faith of Christ....; according to your promises grant us with them a share in your eternal kingdom.
Rejoicing in the fellowship of (N and of) all your saints, we commend ourselves and all people to your unfailing love.
Merciful Father,
Accept these prayers for the sake of your Son, our Saviour Jesus Christ. Amen.
