THE PRAYERS,
3rd Sunday in Lent, Cycle B (March 4, 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 God, cleanse and purify your Church. Make it into a house of prayer for all people. Give it pastors, bishops, and leaders who preach, preside, and teach faithfully, and whose lives adorn the Gospel with holiness. Use it to draw all people to yourself.
Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.
Bless your suffering Church, that it may never be overcome by bitterness or despair, but may be a beacon of your saving love in a sin-darkened world. We pray also for our companion synods and for your missionaries throughout the world.
Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.
Give to the members of this congregation such zeal for your house, so that we may worship you joyfully; care for one another tenderly; and proclaim your Word boldly.
Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.
We pray for fathers and mothers; foster parents; and everyone entrusted with the care and nurture of your little ones. Give them the grace and faith to they may teach their children your commandments and to bring them to your House, there to receive your gracious Word and Sacraments.
Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.
Guide the rulers of the nations to seek your will, and give them the strength to do it. Teach us all to live by your commandments; give wisdom and prudence to our elected leaders; and grant us your peace.
Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.
Grant integrity, courage and wisdom to first responders and those in our military. Shield them when they are wounded; give hope and patience to their families; and bring them swiftly home when their work is done.
Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.
You are the strength of all who suffer and the joy of all who are sorrowful. Be present with your merciful care to all whose need is great, especially: {List}. Give to them, and to all who love them, grace to trust in Christ Jesus; for he alone is your life, forgiveness, power and wisdom incarnate.
Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.
Gracious heavenly Father, we entrust into your merciful care all our departed loved ones. Comfort all who grieve. Keep our feet in the path of your commandments; our hearts firmly fixed on your forgiving love; and our eyes forever focused on the Cross of Christ Jesus, until you bring us safely into your welcoming embrace and eternal 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.
