THE PRAYERS
Palm Sunday/Sunday of the Passion, Cycle B (March 25, 2018)
Let us humbly beseech God for his mercy upon the Church, the world, and one another.
A brief silence
Holy God, your Son was acclaimed Son of David and Son of God by the pilgrims in Jerusalem. Fill your pilgrim Church with faithfulness, boldness, and compassion; so that, through its witness, many may join it in singing, “Blessed is He who comes in the name of the Lord. Hosanna in the highest!”
Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.
Your Son was met by people crying “Hosanna,” – Lord, save! Grant his salvation to the Church wherever it is persecuted for his sake. We pray also for our companion synods and for your missionaries throughout the world.
Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.
Your Son accepted the praises of the crowds who worshipped in Jerusalem. Fill this congregation with such love and zeal that we may eagerly worship and praise our Savior, humbly do your will, and lovingly serve our neighbor in His name.
Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.
Your Son was greeted with sweet Hosannas by infants and children. We pray for our little ones, and for children throughout the world, that their mouths might be made perfect in praising your name.
Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.
Your Son entered Jerusalem as the Prince of Peace. Fill the leaders of the nations with a hunger for peace, a thirst for justice, and a love for the people entrusted to their care. Teach us all to do your will and to long for the day when Christ shall return in glory as King of Kings and Lord of Lords.
Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.
Your Son entered Jerusalem on a donkey, not a war horse. Fill all places of warfare and violence with his peace; and protect and bless those who must stand in harm’s way. Bring them home in safety to their loved ones.
Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.
Your Son was greeted with joy as he entered the Holy City. Fill with joy the hearts of all who suffer in mind, body, or spirit, especially: {List}. Turn their sorrow into joy; their suffering into health; and their cries for help into shouts of praise.
Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.
Most gracious heavenly Father, your Son opens the gates of the New Jerusalem for all who die trusting in him. We thank you for receiving them into that glorious city. Bring peace and hope to all who grieve; and fill us with imperishable hope, so that we gladly follow where our Savior leads us – until he leads us safely home.
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.
