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THE PRAYERS,

Fourth Sunday in Advent, Cycle B (December 24, 2017)

Let us come before the Lord with true hearts, trusting that he will hear and answer our prayers on behalf of the Church, the world, and all people according to their need.

A brief silence

O Wisdom, proceeding from the mouth of the Most High, fill the Church with your Spirit. Sustain and order its proclamation and its works of charity, especially in the presence of its enemies, according to your most holy will. Come, and teach us prudence.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

O Emmanuel, the ransom of your people Israel: deliver also your persecuted Church from captivity and torment. Keep it patient, faithful and steadfast. Help us to honor their witness and provide for their needs; and turn their tormentors from their evil ways. Come; and teach them courage.

Lord, in your mercy, Hear our prayer.

O Adonai, ruler of the House of Israel, rule also in the hearts, lives and ministries of your people in this congregation. Give us your Word and show us your glory. Look with favor upon our sister congregations, and upon your missionaries around the world.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

O Bright and Morning Star, you gladden the hearts of those who sit in darkness. Shine upon all who are overwhelmed by grief, despair, doubt, anger, confusion, hatred, or unbelief. Come; and lead them into the brightness of your holy love.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

O King of the nations, the ruler they long for, unite all people under your glorious and gentle reign. Teach us those things that make for peace. Come and save us all, whom you formed out of clay.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

O Root of Jesse, you stand as an ensign before the peoples. Guard and guide all who stand in harm’s way in defense of justice and freedom. Come quickly, and deliver them.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

O Key of David, you open what no one can close; you close what no one can open. Free those imprisoned by the powers of sin, evil, and death, especially {LIST}. Come, and close the path to misery.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

O Dayspring, splendor of life everlasting, keep safe in your mighty arms all those who died trusting in your promises, especially {LIST}. Come, and enlighten us, who still sit in the shadow of death, and open wide our heavenly home.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

Graciously answer our prayers according to the love you bear for your people through your Son, Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen.