Prayers of the Church, 2nd Sunday After Pentecost, Proper 5 (June 6, 2021)
Prayers of the Church, 2nd Sunday After Pentecost, Proper 5 (June 6, 2021)
Genesis 3:8-15 (The consequences of the Fall)
Psalm 130 (Out of the depths…)
2 Corinthians 4:13 – 5:1 (Outer nature wastes away, but prepares for weight of glory)
Mark 3:20-35 (How can Satan cast out Satan; who is my mother, brother, sister?)
THE PRAYERS
Let us pray to the Father of our Lord Jesus Christ on behalf of the Church, the world, and one another.
A brief silence
Father, thank you for having mercy on us, even when we rebel against you. Thank you for sending us your dear Son, to free us from the devil’s tyranny. Thank you for preparing us to bear the weight of your glory in our bodies, hearts, minds, and souls.
Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.
Purify and renew your Church. Strengthen all who are baptized to do your will, speak your word, care for your people, and live as true sisters and brothers of your Son.
Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.
Cast out the forces of evil which torment and seek to destroy your Church. Gather in your care all who are persecuted for naming Jesus as Lord. Soften the hearts of their enemies, so that they repent and strive to do your will.
Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.
Renew the people of this congregation day by day. Give us generous and willing hearts as we seek ways of serving you and sharing your love with those around us.
Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.
Strengthen bonds of affection, respect, and care in all families. Heal those afflicted by discord, abuse, or grief. Help us to believe that in loving you, our heavenly Father, we also draw closer to one another.
Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.
Bless and guide the elected and appointed leaders in our nation and communities. Despite the brokenness of creation and the suffering inflicted by sin and evil, give your people a foretaste of the freedom, justice, and peace that only you can bestow.
Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.
Equip those who stand harm’s way on behalf of others with courage, wisdom, and skill. Bless all they do which is in accordance with your will. Shield them when they fall, and give patient hope to their loved ones. Bring them home swiftly and safely when their task is done.
We remember before you all who suffer, especially: {List}. Refresh them with the healing power of your life-giving Spirit. Help us to minister to them with compassion and patience. Restore them to fellowship with all who love them.
Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.
Father, we thank you for the lives of our loved ones who have died in your embrace. Grant comfort to all whose grief runs deep. Keep us safely in your Son’s faithful care. Cheer us with your Holy Spirit. Guide our steps and shape our lives in accordance with your will. And give us a joyful reunion with all whom Christ claims as sister and brother, mother, and friend.
Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.
Hear and graciously answer our prayers, dear Lord, as it is best for us and most glorifies your holy name. Amen.