THE PRAYERS,
Christmas Eve, Cycle A (December 24, 2019)
As we worship the newborn Son of God, let us also pray that he may bring healing, salvation and peace to the church, the world, and all its people.
A brief silence
Lord Jesus Christ, we come to your cradle with joy and wonder! We adore you for your loving-kindness. We thank you for making yourself small and meek, that we might approach you gladly and without fear. Thank you, dear Jesus; accept our hearts as our best and loving gift.
Lord, in your mercy, please hear our prayer.
Make the Church your manger and your throne. Bless it with your dear presence, your great goodness, and your holy love. Like herald angels, let it constantly announce your mercy and favor to all who will receive you into their hearts and lives.
Lord, in your mercy, please hear our prayer.
Make this congregation into a welcoming Bethlehem stable. Give us joyful souls, eager to adore and proclaim your precious Name. Give us generous hearts, so that we see and welcome you in the unexpected people touching our lives. Give us tireless hands and feet, so we may hurry to share your great love with those who need it most.
Lord, in your mercy, please hear our prayer.
O Prince of Peace, silence the taunts and break the spears of persecution against your servants, especially during this season of light. Turn their suffering for the sake of your Name into great joy. And transform their tormentors into confessors of your undeserved mercy.
Lord, in your mercy, please hear our prayer.
Little Lord Jesus, bless all the dear children who most need your tender care. Kindle faith in their hearts, and keep them safe from every danger. And give childlike and humble faith to everyone who doubts your existence or despairs of your forgiveness, and give them peace.
Lord, in your mercy, please hear our prayer.
Born a Child, you are the King of all nations, and their Lord. Conform the rulers of this world to your glorious and gentle rule. Teach them to do your will; to love justice and mercy; to walk humbly with you; and to be a blessing to the people entrusted to their care.
Lord, in your mercy, please hear our prayer.
Angels sang of peace and good will at your birth. In this sinful world, violence troubles your people even on this holy night. Let your holy angels shield, strengthen, and direct the words and actions of all in the military; all first responders; and anyone whose work is difficult and dangerous, this night and in the coming days. Bring justice and mercy to places of discord and chaos; and bestow the blessings of your peace upon us all.
Lord, in your mercy, please hear our prayer.
O Sun of Righteousness, arise with healing in your wings and bestow the light of your salvation upon all who sit in the darkness of suffering and the shadow of death. Restore them to life and hope; encourage all who care for them; and let the good news of your birth among us adorn their suffering with unconquerable joy.
Lord, in your mercy, please hear our prayer.
Lord Jesus, you have come to save us from evil, from our sins, and from death. Deal mercifully with the tears and sorrow of those whose grief is raw and deep. Stay near us, Lord Jesus, and love us and guide us throughout our lives. Bless us with your love, so we may be a blessing to others. And bring all your dear children to heaven, to live with you forever in the holy light of your love, which you have shared eternally with your Father and the Holy Spirit, for with them you are one God, now and unto the ages of ages.
Lord, in your mercy, please hear our prayer.
Hear and mercifully answer our prayers, dear Lord, according to the favor you bear for your people. Amen.
