PRAYERS OF THE CHURCH, Cycle C: 5th Sunday after Epiphany, Proper 4, February 10, 2019
Let us draw near to the Light of Christ, offering prayer and supplication on behalf of the Church, the world, and one another.
A brief silence
Thank you, dear Father, for seeking and sending us, even though we, like Peter, are sinful mortals! Thank you for providing every spiritual gift necessary, so we can faithfully follow Jesus and fearlessly proclaim the Gospel of repentance and forgiveness he bestows.
Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.
Do not let your dear Son depart from your Church, though it is sinful and broken. Bless, purify, forgive and transform it, so that it may fish for all those who do not know Jesus; draw them to his Cross; and teach them to love and serve you with all their heart.
Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.
Bless every missionary and evangelist who boldly speaks your Word to those who have never heard or heeded it. Protect and strengthen them and let their words and deeds show forth the strong saving love of Jesus to everyone to whom they minister.
Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.
Your Son called Peter, James and John to follow him, and now calls the people of this congregation to do likewise. Equip us with faithfulness, boldness, humility and compassion; keep us focused on your Word; and use our words and our work to bring many to faith in Christ their Savior.
Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.
Give right judgment to the leaders of nations and captains of industry, to educators and scientists, military and emergency personnel, to medical and social workers, and to all who exercise authority and responsibility for their communities. Use them to keep those in their care righteous, healthy, and safe. Strengthen the hearts of every person, so that we give generously of time and treasures when our neighbor’s need is great.
Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.
We ask your dearest blessing upon those who suffer in body, mind, or spirit, especially: {LIST}. Free them from bondage to sorrow, sin, and suffering; and raise them to health and wholeness.
Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.
We commend into your care our loved ones who have died and are at rest in you. Comfort those whose grief runs deep. Help us to be so gentle, patient, and kind to one another that we may indeed endure all things that afflict us in this mortal life. Lead us at last, with all whom you have redeemed by the love revealed in your Son, into your Kingdom, where faith becomes sight, hope becomes joy, and your love is our all in all.
Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.
For all these things, dear Father, and for whatever else you will for us in your wisdom and compassion, we pray in the name of Jesus, our Savior, Lord, and King. Amen.
