THE PRAYERS, 2nd Sunday in Lent, Cycle B (February 25, 2018)
THE PRAYERS OF THE CHURCH
Let us humbly beseech God for his mercy upon the Church, the world, and one another.
A brief silence
Holy Father, you inspired Peter to confess Jesus as your Son, and as Messiah and Lord. Inspire your Church to boldly and faithfully acclaim Jesus to the world as your only Son, and as its only Savior.
Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.
Your Son did not shrink from suffering and death. Grant grace to all who are persecuted for Jesus’ sake, so that they glory in his Cross, and rejoice in his resurrection. We pray also for our companion synods and for your missionaries throughout the world.
Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.
Teach the people of this congregation to follow Jesus in humility, service, and faithful cross-bearing. Grant that all our programs, projects, and ministries; and our worship, words and lives, may glorify you and build up the Body of Christ.
Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.
Give courage and joy to our college students and young adults; and keep their faith strong and true. Help them dedicate their energy, creativity and talents to caring for other people and glorifying your holy Name.
Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.
Through your covenant with Abraham and Sarah, you blessed all nations. Grant to all people the blessings of peace, freedom, and righteousness, which apart from you cannot flourish. Direct and guide our nation, that our words and deeds may please and glorify you, the Lord of the whole earth.
Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.
Look with favor on first responders, those who serve in our country’s military, and all who stand in harm’s way on behalf of others. Give them wisdom, courage, and competence; protect them in times of danger; strengthen their loved ones; and when their task is done, bring them home swiftly and safely.
Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.
We lift before you the needs and prayers of all who cry out to you for help, especially: {List}. Grant to them the joy of your saving help; bless all who care for them; and restore them to health and hope.
Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.
Most holy Father, we thank you for fulfilling your covenantal promises to those who have died and are at rest in you, especially: {List}. Wipe away the tears of those whose grief runs deep. Keep us calm and fearless, ever trusting your love which shines from Jesus’ Cross and lights our path throughout our earthly pilgrimage. Bring us, and those of every nation whom you have redeemed, to the final fulfillment of your blessing, won for us by Abraham’s glorious offspring, your Son, Christ Jesus our Lord.
Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.
For these things, and for whatever else is needful, dear Father, we pray in the name of your Son, Jesus Christ, our Lord, who with you and the Holy Spirit reigns, one God, now and forever. Amen.