THE PRAYERS,
The Fifth Sunday of Easter, Cycle B (April 29, 2018)
Let us pray to our victorious Savior on behalf of the Church, the world, and all people according to their needs.
A brief silence
Lord Jesus, grant that your holy Church may always abide in you, and you in it. Make it fruitful in words of faith and hope, and deeds of love. Through its witness, graft many souls to yourself, the living Vine.
Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.
Give to your persecuted servants the knowledge that they shall bear rich fruit that refreshes and nourishes many hearts. We ask your richest blessing also upon our companion synods, sister congregations, and upon your missionaries throughout the world.
Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.
You are the vine, we are the branches. Keep the people of this congregation united to you and to one another. Help our ministries to bear much fruit in the lives of those around us. Give us joy in knowing and serving you, our Savior and Brother.
Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.
Abide in our high school students, so that their lives may be rooted and grounded in you, not the fads and fancies of this world.
Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.
Prune the hearts of all who take counsel for the nations. Cut away the greed, pride, and lust for power that leads to hatred and violence. Build up everything that enriches the lives of the poor and dispossessed. Grant that the desire to do your Father’s will might abide in the hearts and minds of leaders and peoples everywhere.
Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.
You have overcome the world; therefore, be the joy and strength of all those who defend us against those things that still trouble our world. Guide, protect, and strengthen them. Prosper all their works that make for peace, safety and justice; and bring them home safely and soon.
Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.
Grant to all who suffer in mind, body or spirit a double portion of your life-giving Spirit. Especially we pray for: {List}. Fill them with your abundant life; keep them steadfast in faith; and strengthen and bless all who care for them.
Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.
Lord Jesus, those who abide in you shall never have death be the last word over them. We thank you for speaking your words of forgiveness and eternal life to all who have fallen asleep in you. Abide with us and in us; and lead us to that place where we shall dwell with you and with all the redeemed, and shall feast at you heavenly Table forever.
Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.
Grant to us all that is in accordance with your will, dear Jesus, and accomplish your salvation among us; for you are risen from the dead and dwell in majesty with your Father and the Holy Spirit, one God, now and forever. Amen.
