THE PRAYERS OF THE CHURCH
5th Sunday in Lent, Cycle C (April 7, 2019)
For the Church, the world, and our poor sinful selves, let us pray to our Lord, who is slow to anger and abounding in steadfast love.
A brief silence
Lord Jesus, when we contemplate your self-sacrificing love for us, we can only repeat the words of two beloved hymns: “Were the whole realm of nature mine, that were a tribute far too small. Love so amazing, so divine, demands my soul, my life, my all!” “Thousand thousand thanks are due, dearest Jesus, unto you!”
Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.
Grant that your Church should count everything as loss, compared to the surpassing worth of knowing you as Savior, Lord, and God. Fill it with the overwhelming desire to make you known to every sinner throughout the world, until you truly are the “all in all,” for all. Especially we pray for the persecuted Church, and for missionaries and evangelists throughout the world.
Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.
Strengthen and guide this congregation in faithful worship, loving fellowship, generous outreach, and holy living. Make this place a true sanctuary, a place of refreshment and refuge for souls battered by sin, sorrow, and suffering.
Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.
We pray for those preparing for Baptism at Eastertide; for everyone seeking to renew their relationship with you; and for all pastors, congregations, and ministries in the midst of transition. Be their companion and guide along their pilgrim path; refresh them with the joy of your saving help; and bless them with your lovingkindness.
Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.
Give peace, justice, health and safety to every nation, especially our own. Grant wisdom and integrity to all who have been entrusted with authority and power, especially our elected and appointed leaders. Teach us to love one another through deeds of mercy and words of understanding.
Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.
There are so many people who hunger for healing and thirst for reconciliation; who long for encouragement and seek understanding; who desire forgiveness, comfort, faith, and hope. Refresh them in the wilderness of their suffering, dear Lord – especially those we lift before you now {List}.
Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.
In gratitude and hope, we entrust our beloved dead into your keeping, dear Lord. Bestow the Holy Spirit, the Comforter upon us all, especially upon all who mourn. Through the same Spirit’s power and gifts, grant that throughout our life, we may know you, O Christ, and the power of your resurrection. Give us grace to share in your suffering. Claim us as your own, clothe us with your righteousness, and, of your mercy, welcome us and all whom you have redeemed into your Father’s everlasting Kingdom.
Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.
Hear us, dear Lord; and answer our prayers according to your will, to your glory and for the benefit of the people you long to save.
Amen.
