THE PRAYERS,
3rd Sunday after Pentecost, Proper 5, Cycle B (June 10, 2018)
Let us pray to the Father of our Lord Jesus Christ on behalf of the Church, the world, and one another.
A brief silence
Holy Father, purify and renew your Church, so that all who are baptized should do your will, speak your word, care for your people, and live as true sisters and brothers of your Son, our Savior.
Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.
Cast out the forces of evil from this world which seek to destroy your suffering Church. Gather in your tender care all who are persecuted for naming Jesus as Savior, Lord, and Brother; and soften the hearts of all their foes, until they, too, repent and strive to do your will. Give a double portion of your Spirit to all missionaries of the Gospel, especially in places most hostile to its proclamation.
Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.
Renew the people of this congregation day by day. Give us generous and willing hearts as we seek ways of serving you and sharing your love with those around us.
Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer
Strengthen the bonds of affection, respect, and care in all families. Give peace and health to homes filled with discord, abuse or grief. Enthrone yourself in every heart, so that, in loving and serving you, our true and heavenly Father, family members also draw closer to one another.
Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.
Give us leaders who work to do your will as they take counsel for the nations. We ask your blessing and guidance especially upon the elected and appointed leaders in our own nation and communities. Despite the brokenness of creation and the suffering inflicted by sin and evil, give your people a foretaste of the true freedom and lasting peace that only you can bestow.
Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.
Arm those who stand harm’s way on behalf of others with courage, wisdom, integrity and skill. Crown with your blessing all they do which is in accordance with your will. Shield them when they fall, and give patient hope to their loved ones. Bring them home swiftly and safely when their task is done.
Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.
We remember before you all who suffer, especially those who have asked for our intercession on their behalf, including: {List}. Refresh them with the healing power of your life-giving Spirit; help us to minister to them with compassion and gentle patience; and restore them to fellowship with all who love them.
Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.
Most merciful and gracious Father, we thank you for the lives of our loved ones who have died in the shelter of your embrace. Grant comfort to all whose grief runs deep. Keep us safely in your Son’s faithful care; cheer us with your Holy Spirit; guide our steps and shape our lives in accordance with your will; and bring us to the joyful homecoming with all whom Christ claims as sister and brother, mother and friend.
Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.
Hear and graciously answer our prayers, dear Lord, as it is best for us and most glorifies your holy name. Amen.
