PRAYERS OF THE CHURCH, Cycle C: 5th Sunday after Epiphany, Proper 4, February 6, 2022
Isaiah 6: 1-13: (Isaiah’s vision of God and commissioning as a prophet of judgment)
Psalm 138: (All shall praise God; he is high, yet regards the lowly. Preserve and save me from my foes, and fulfil your purpose for me!)
1 Corinthians 14:12b-20: (Spiritual gifts; interpretation is greater than tongues)
RCL/ELW: 1 Corinthians 15:1-11: (Proof and witnesses of the Resurrection)
Luke 5:1-11: (Jesus calls his first disciples; “Depart from me for I am a sinful man!”)
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Let us draw near to the Light of Christ, offering prayer and supplication on behalf of the Church, the world, and one another.
A brief silence
Thank you, dear Father, for seeking and sending us, even though, like Peter, we are sinners! Thank you for providing every spiritual gift, so we can follow Jesus and proclaim the Gospel to other sinners.
Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.
Do not let your dear Son depart from your Church, though it is sinful and broken. Bless, purify, forgive, and transform it. Teach it to fish for all those who do not know Jesus, and draw them to his Cross. Teach all who gather at that Cross to love Jesus with all their heart.
Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.
Bless every missionary and evangelist who boldly speaks your Word to those who have never heard or heeded it. Protect and strengthen all who are persecuted for sharing and living the Gospel. Soften the hearts of unbelievers, so they turn to you and live.
Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.
Your Son called Peter, James, and John to follow him. Now he calls this congregation to do likewise. Equip us with faithfulness, boldness, humility, and compassion. Keep us focused on your Word. Use our words and work to bring many to faith in Christ their Savior.
Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.
Give right judgment to the leaders of nations and captains of industry, to educators and scientists, military and emergency personnel, to medical and social workers, and to all who exercise authority and responsibility for their communities. Teach them to seek your will, and give them strength to do it. Help all of us to give generously of time and treasures when our neighbor’s need is great.
Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.
We ask your dearest blessing upon those who suffer in body, mind, or spirit, especially: {LIST}. Free them from bondage to sorrow, sin, and suffering. Raise them to health and wholeness.
Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.
We commend into your care our loved ones who have died and are at rest in you. Comfort all who grieve. Help us to be so patient and kind to one another that we all pass safely through the afflictions of this mortal life. Lead us, with all whom you have redeemed by the love revealed in your Son, into your Kingdom, where faith becomes sight, hope becomes joy, and your love is our all in all.
Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.
For all these things, dear Father, and for whatever else you desire for us in your wisdom and compassion, we pray in the name of Jesus, our Savior, Lord, and King. Amen
