THE PRAYERS,
6th Sunday after Pentecost, Proper 11, Cycle C (July 21, 2019)
By the power of the Holy Spirit, let us pray to God our Father in the name of Christ Jesus our Lord, making intercession for the Church, the world, and for all people according to their need.
A brief silence
Lord, thank you for the gift of hospitality by which we may entertain angels unaware – or even Christ himself. Give us glad and generous hearts, so through our efforts, we refresh and gladden the hearts of others. And give us your Spirit, so that by faith, we discern and gratefully receive the hospitality of heaven that you give us in your well-beloved Son.
Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.
Build up your Church in mature faith, patient suffering, generous service, and gracious hospitality. Through its preaching, teaching and worship, reveal the mysteries of your strong saving love; so that many may eagerly seek your face, and live.
Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.
Help the people of this congregation – men, women, and children – to rightly balance the loving hospitality of Martha with the loving listening of Mary. Use all that we say and do to to lead many people to “the one thing needful” – the strong saving love of their Savior.
Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.
Your servant Paul suffered for the sake of the Gospel, as do many Christians in this day. Make them desire to glorify you; to encourage one another; and to be a witness to their Savior, who suffered and prayed even on behalf of his persecutors, and theirs.
Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.
We pray for our nation; for our world; for its leaders and peoples; and for your presence to dwell with us all. Grant that we may know your will, and seek your peace. Teach us to sit at your feet; to love your Law; to display your mercy; and to share your blessings with one another.
Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.
Be the strength and shield of all who stand in harm’s way to protect life and liberty. Give them courage and competence; heal their wounds of body, soul and mind; restore them swiftly to their loved ones; and help them find new ways to serve you, their communities, and their nation, when their tours of duty are ended.
Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.
Be the light and salvation of all who are afflicted with pain, suffering, or sorrow – especially: {List}. Strengthen their bodies; refresh their hearts; take away their fears; and give them your peace. Bless all who care for them with kindness, gentleness, competence, and common sense.
Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.
Heavenly Father, we thank you for the lives of your faithful servants whom we have known and loved, and who have received that good portion that shall never be taken from them. Help us to comfort those who mourn; to nourish those who hunger for food, fellowship, or forgiveness; and to help one another become mature in faith. Welcome us, and all your servants of every time and place, into your spacious House; where we shall no more be strangers, servants or guests, but your dear children who see you face to face, at home with you forever.
Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.
In the power of the Holy Spirit, we entrust our prayers and petitions into your hands, gracious Father, for the sake of your beloved Son, Jesus Christ our Lord.
