THE PRAYERS,
4th Sunday after Pentecost, Proper 6, Cycle B (June 17, 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
Most merciful Lord, clothe your Church with the beauty, holiness and righteousness of Christ. Nurture it with the living water of your Word and Sacraments, so that it may become the lovely dwelling-place for people of every nation, race, and tribe. Grant that its words and deeds may bear the fruit which you desire, and which last unto eternity.
Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.
We lift before you the plight of Christians around the world who are persecuted and reviled for your Name’s sake. Grant that their suffering may bear a rich harvest of faith, endurance, and forgiveness, until every knee should bow to adore you. Shield and defend your missionaries, especially when they are met with hostility and rejection.
Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.
Plant this congregation firmly in Christ, our living water; so that we may abide in his love, share his forgiveness, teach his commandments, and share in his righteousness.
Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer
Heavenly Father, in you all good and faithful earthly fatherhood finds its source, its guide, and its consummation. Bless all fathers, and all who act with a father’s love, not just this day but always. Fill them with holy wisdom, gentle strength, steadfast care, and patient hope; and grant that in their care, all children may find protection, guidance and love.
Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.
Teach our earthly rulers to walk not in the counsel of the ungodly; nor to stand in the way of sinners; nor to sit in the seat of scoffers. Teach them rather to delight on your Law; to meditate on it day and night; and to establish it as the source of justice, truth, and well-being among all people.
Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.
Keep in your special care all who take up arms in defense of life and liberty. Teach them your commandments; fill their minds with wisdom, their hearts with integrity, and their arms with courage and strength. Bless their loved ones, and grant them a swift and joyful homecoming.
Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.
Give to all who suffer in mind, body, or spirit, the refreshing waters of your compassion and healing; and grant that they may dwell in the safety of your care even in the midst of all that troubles them. Especially we remember before you: {List}. Bless those who care for them; help us all to speak words of encouragement and offer deeds of kindness to them; and bring us all into the unending joy of your Kingdom.
Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.
Thank you for gathering into the spacious branches of your heavenly Kingdom all the redeemed who have gone before us, especially those we love and miss the most. Grant that we may always find refreshment in your Word, blessing in your Sacraments, guidance in your Spirit, and forgiveness in your Son, so that, with all your people, we may be gathered into the welcoming shelter of your embrace and may abide there in joy forever.
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.
