THE PRAYERS OF THE CHURCH,
3rd Sunday in Lent, Cycle B (March 7, 2021)
Exodus 20:1-17 (God gives Israel the 10 Commandments)
Psalm 19 (Heavens tell the glory of God; his law is perfect, reviving the soul)
1 Corinthians 1:18-31 (Message of Cross is foolish, weak; but is God’s wisdom, strength)
John 2:13-25 (Jesus cleanses the Temple)
THE PRAYERS OF THE CHURCH
Let us humbly beseech God for his mercy upon the Church, the world, and one another.
A brief silence
Thank you, Father, for your dear Son. Thank you for making him your living Temple. Thank you for making him our eternal “house of prayer.” Give us faith to pray together, with him, “Our Father, who art in heaven, hallowed be thy name.”
Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.
Cleanse and purify your Church. Make it into a house of prayer for all people. Give it pastors, bishops, and leaders who preach, preside, and teach faithfully, and whose lives adorn the Gospel with holiness. Use it to draw all people to yourself.
Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.
Bless your suffering Church, that it may never be overcome by bitterness or despair, but may be a beacon of your saving love in a sin-darkened world.
Lord, in your mercy, Hear our prayer.
Give to the members of this congregation such zeal for your house, so that we may worship you joyfully; care for one another tenderly; and proclaim your Word boldly.
Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.
We pray for fathers and mothers; foster parents; and everyone entrusted with the care and nurture of your little ones. Give them the grace and faith to they may teach their children your commandments and to bring them to your House, there to receive your gracious Word and Sacraments.
Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.
Guide the rulers of the nations to seek your will, and give them the strength to do it. Teach us all to live by your commandments; give wisdom and prudence to our elected leaders; and grant us your peace.
Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.
Give strength, wisdom, courage, and integrity to all who stand between us and the threatening dangers of this fallen world. We thank you for their labors and pray for their safety. Prosper all they do that helps to establish justice, health, peace, and unity.
Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.
You are the strength of all who suffer and the joy of all who are sorrowful. Be present with your merciful care to all whose need is great, especially: {List}. Give them, and all who love them, grace to trust in Christ Jesus. He alone is their life, health, hope, and salvation.
Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.
Gracious heavenly Father, we entrust into your merciful care all our departed loved ones. Comfort all who grieve. Keep our feet in the path of your commandments; our hearts firmly fixed on your forgiving love; and our eyes forever focused on the Cross of Christ Jesus, until you bring us safely into your welcoming embrace and eternal home.
Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.
For these things, and for whatever else is needful, dear Father, we pray in the name of your Son, Jesus Christ, our Lord, who with you and the Holy Spirit reigns, one God, now and forever. Amen.
