August 8: 11^th Sunday after Pentecost, Proper 14

1 Kings 19:1-8 (Elijah flees from Jezebel, is fed by angel, to go where God leads him)

            RCL/ELW: 1 Kings 19:4-8 (No Jezebel!)

Psalm 34:1-8 (Look to the Lord, be radiant; taste and see how gracious the Lord is)

Ephesians 4:17-5:2 (Old vs. new life; rules of that new life)        

          RCL/ELW: Ephesians 4:25-5:2 (No mention of lusts, licentiousness)

John 6:35-51 (I am the bread of life; I will raise you up at the last day)

            RCL/ELW: John 6:35, 41-51 (Omits Jesus’s words about doing Father’s will)

THE PRAYERS 

For the Church, the world, and needs of all people, let us pray to the Lord.

A brief silence

O Heavenly Father, let us taste and see how gracious you are! O Jesus, feed us with yourself, now and always! O Holy Spirit, give us eyes of faith to look upon our Savior and be radiant!

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

Father, feed your Church with the life of Christ. By the power of your Spirit, raise it up on the last day as the Bride of Christ. Raise up pastors, priests, bishops, and theologians to feed your people with your living Word. Let many taste and see your graciousness, and be forever blessed for trusting in you.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

Grant strength, encouragement, and refreshment to your persecuted Church. Make their witness shine the light of your judgment and your forgiveness in the hearts of their persecutors.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

You are the life and salvation, the living bread and eternal hope of this congregation. Bless our words and deeds, our worship and fellowship. Use us to glorify your name and to feed our neighbors with food that satisfies hearts, minds, souls, and bodies.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

Bless everyone learning to be true disciples of Jesus, especially as they encourage others to walk with Him. Give them the bread of faith, hope, and love to strengthen them along the way.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

Raise up among us rulers who are guided by your Word. Incline their ears to the cries of the needy, and to the instruction of your prophets. Teach us all that true justice and lasting peace are founded upon your commandments. Give us grace and strength to live by them.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

You fed Elijah in the wilderness, and he journeyed forty days in the strength of that food. Grant the bread of health and salvation to all who dwell in the wilderness of suffering. Strengthen them in their pilgrimage. Surround them with compassion and encouragement. Keep them steadfast in faith and strong in hope. Today we especially plead on behalf of: {List}.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

We bless you for our beloved dead who now taste and see the full measure of your gracious care.  Give us joy in our sorrows and hope in our struggles. Keep us close to Jesus. Raise us up at the last day, and make us radiant as we look upon our beautiful Savior – our life, our joy, and our crown, now and forever.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

Incline your ear to our prayers, dear Lord; and answer them according to your most gracious and holy will, for the sake of your Son, Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen.

August 1: 10^th Sunday after Pentecost, Proper 13

Exodus 16:2-15 (Israelites complain, God sends quail, manna; Moses says complaint is against God)

          RCL/ELW: Exodus 16:2-4, 9-15 (less warning)

Psalm 145:10-21 (The eyes of all look to you, you give them food in due season)

        RCL/ELW: Psalm 78:23-29 (Mortals ate bread of heaven)

Ephesians 4:1-16 (Unity of the Body of Christ, through the Spirit)

John 6:22-35 (My Father gives true bread from heaven. I am the bread of life)

THE PRAYERS 

For the Church, the world, and needs of all people, let us pray to the Lord.

A brief silence

Father, thank you for giving us the bread we need for body and soul, even when we are estranged from you and from one another. Thank you for Jesus, our Life, our Bread, our source of unity with you and with each other.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

Your Church is the body of Christ. Give it unity with him and unity in him. Let your Holy Spirit fashion the Church into the likeness of Jesus, so that when it speaks and acts, people hear and see their Savior.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

Make us mindful of our union with those who are persecuted for Jesus’ sake. Let them know they are not forgotten by you or by the rest of the Church. May their faithful witness feed their enemies with the bread of repentance and faith.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

Feed the people of this congregation with the living Bread of Heaven. Nourish us with the Cup of Blessing from Christ’s hand. Help us to know the depth, height, and breadth of your love. Fill us with your Spirit, so we can share your love with others.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

Thank you for those who maintain food pantries, soup kitchens, community gardens. Thank you for everyone who feed the hungry and help them feed themselves. Grant that, as bodies are nourished, minds, hearts, and spirits are also fed with the living Bread from Heaven.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

Guide the deliberations and actions of our earthly rulers. Let your will be done, so your people receive all they need to live in safety. Teach us to feed one another, not only with food that perishes, but also with your imperishable and holy Word; and establish your peace in our midst.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

You open your hand and fulfil the desire of every living creature. Please open your hand to bestow health, hope, strength, and guidance upon all whose need is great, including: {List}. Feed them with faith and fill them with the refreshing waters of your grace and salvation.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

With reverence and affection, we remember before you all our loved ones who have died and are at rest in you. Keep us in union with them through our union with Jesus. Strengthen bonds of affection with our fellow pilgrims along life’s journey. Bring us all, with all whom you have redeemed, into the joy and life you share in union with your Son and the Holy Spirit.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

Incline your ear to our prayers, dear Lord; and answer them according to your most gracious and holy will, for the sake of your Son, Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen.

July 25: 9^th Sunday after Pentecost, Proper 12

Genesis 9:8-17 (God makes rainbow a sign of his covenant with Noah)           

     RCL/ELW: 2 Kings 4:42-44 (Elisha feeds 100)

Psalm 136:1-9 (Give thanks to God; he is good; his steadfast love endures forever)        

     RCL/ELW: Psalm 145:10-18 (All eyes look to you, you give food in due season)

Ephesians 3:14-21 (Be strengthened by Spirit, rooted and grounded in Christ)

Mark 6:45-56 (Jesus walks on water, heals many in Gennesaret)

        RCL/ELW: John 6:1-21 (Feeding of 5000, walking on water)

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

Dear Father, thank you for our Good Shepherd! Thank you for his compassion and mercy. Thank you for the peace he gives through the blood of his Cross. Thank you. We adore and bless you for your overflowing loving-kindness to sinners like us.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

Most holy God, you have rooted and grounded the Church in the life-giving body of your dear Son. Use it to feed, heal, teach, and draw many people to the foot of Jesus’ Cross.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

Shelter and bless all who suffer greatly for naming Jesus as Lord. By their faithful endurance and charity, soften the hearts of their enemies. Bring many to repentance and salvation.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

Nourish the people of this congregation with the living Bread of heaven. Heal us with your compassion and forgiveness. Give us boldness to proclaim your saving love to those around us who need to hear it most.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

Bless our young adults with strength of character, to resist the follies of the culture. Channel their energy and idealism into deeds of mercy and words of wisdom. Use them to introduce skeptical friends and cynical co-workers to you, the source of all goodness, truth, and beauty.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

Give upright hearts to those entrusted with leadership in government, education, industry, or the arts. Teach them to love wisdom, justice, and mercy. Grant that, through their proper use of authority, all people receive the blessings of food, health, safety, opportunity, and peace.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

We pray for all who risk their lives on behalf of liberty, justice, safety, and health. Equip them with every virtue they need to do their jobs faithfully and well. Help us to honor their service and sacrifice. Help them use their skills in new ways when their duties are completed.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

Bestow your Holy Spirit upon all who cry out to you, especially: {List}. Graciously heal, restore, and strengthen them. Bless everyone who assists them in their time of need. Increase their trust in you, their Strength and their Redeemer.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

Keep in your tender care, dear Father, all who have died trusting in your promises. Heal our grief, strengthen our faith, and forgive our sins of doubt, despair, or bitterness. Nourish us with the Bread of Life and refresh us with your Holy Spirit. And lead us into your heavenly Kingdom, where with all the redeemed, we shall rejoice in your goodness forever.

Hear and graciously answer our prayers, dear Lord, as it is best for us and most glorifies your holy name. Amen.

July 18: 8^th Sunday after Pentecost, Proper 11

Jeremiah 23:1-5 (God will replace Israel’s false shepherds; righteous branch of David)

Psalm 23 (The Lord is my shepherd)

Ephesians 2:11-22 (Joined together in Christ, he is our peace through blood of his cross)

Mark 6:30-44 (Feeding the 5000)

        RCL/ELW: Mark 6: 30-34, 53-56 (Jesus teaches [before feeding 5000] and heals [after; will get feeding miracle from John])

 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

Dear Father, thank you for our Good Shepherd! Thank you for his compassion and mercy. Thank you for the peace he gives through the blood of his Cross. Thank you. We adore and bless you for your overflowing loving-kindness to sinners like us.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

Establish the Church as your living temple, built on the foundation of prophets and apostles, with Christ as its cornerstone. Make its words precious and its actions holy. Use it to feed the world with the living bread of your holy Word.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

 Be the faithful Shepherd to your persecuted Church. Protect them from those who hate the name of Jesus and seek to scatter and destroy his flock.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

Thank you for making this congregation part of the Body of Christ. Keep us in union with him, our Cornerstone and Savior. Build and shape our worship, teaching, outreach, and fellowship on the witness of prophets, apostles, martyrs, saints, and faithful theologians.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

 Give wisdom and guidance to everyone learning to be a spiritual director, discipleship partner, or mentor for those seeking to walk more closely with Christ. Make them humble, faithful, and radiant with the beauty of the Lord.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

 You condemned kings who were abusive shepherds of your people. Warn and guide our earthly leaders. Teach them to use their authority to protect and bless their citizens, especially the most vulnerable. Teach each of us to share what we have with the poor and hungry. Teach us to believe that you bless and multiply our gifts to your glory and for the benefit of all.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

 Be with those whose work is difficult and dangerous, especially military and first responders. Make them brave, wise, and just. Use them to bring safety and hope to dangerous places. Raise and heal them when they fall. Give steadfast hearts to their loved ones until they are reunited.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

We pray for the poor and needy, the sick and injured, the lonely and grieving, the imprisoned and abused, the homeless and dispossessed. Ease their suffering or sorrow. Most especially this day we pray for: {List}. Be their Good Shepherd. Feed them with the bread of healing, forgiveness, and hope. Bless everyone who cares for them, and give them strength and joy.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

 Most merciful Father, keep safe our beloved dead until you reunite us in your own House. Grant us faith in your dear Son to walk confidently through death’s dark vale, encouraging one another in his name. Bring us into your Kingdom, where you feed all whom you have redeemed with the banquet fare and rich wine of the Lamb’s high feast.

 Hear and graciously answer our prayers, dear Lord, as it is best for us and most glorifies your holy name. Amen.

July 11: 7^th Sunday after Pentecost, Proper 10

Amos 7:7-15 (Amos speaks of God’s judgment, and is told by king to take a hike)

Psalm 85:1-13 (Restore us, O God of our salvation; righteousness and peace have kissed)

     RCL/ELW: Psalm 85:8-13 (Eliminates wrath, plea for forgiveness)

Ephesians 1:3-14 (Spiritual blessings in Christ, who has prepared our eternal inheritance)

Mark 6:14-29 (John the Baptist loses his head)

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, we give uneasy thanks for prophets and martyrs. They’re hard to listen to, much less imitate! We give you uneasy thanks for the times you test our faith. Keep reminding us that your grace is sufficient, and the inheritance you have stored up for us in Christ is eternal.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

Judge your Church with mercy. Drive out false teaching and unholy living. Give bishops, pastors, and theologians the courage and faithfulness of John the Baptist. Let your Word of Law and Gospel be proclaimed to all people, so that many be drawn to repentant faith in your Son.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

Like John the Baptist, many of your servants are in danger today. Keep them steadfast in faith, bold in witness, patient in suffering, and joyful in hope, always giving thanks to their Savior.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

Keep this congregation faithful to our mission: to proclaim Christ, crucified and raised from the dead, for the forgiveness of sins unto life everlasting. Make our words winsome; our actions gracious; and our lives lovely, so others want to meet the Lord we love.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

Bless our youngsters as they enjoy their summer vacation. Delight them with the wonders of your creation; and instill in them a love of learning that does not end with classroom bells.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

Give the leaders of the nations advisors who speak truth to power. Set before them the high ideals of justice, integrity, and mercy. Give each of us a teachable spirit. Help us hear your commandments, obey them, and live at peace with our neighbors.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

Prosper the work of all who defend life and liberty, here and abroad. Make them strong, competent, and faithful. Deliver them from evil, and give them a joyful homecoming. Grant healing to those who are injured and honor to all who have died in the line of duty.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

Father, thank you for the imperishable inheritance given to us in Jesus. Thank you for the promise of life everlasting. Thank you for fulfilling your promises to all who died trusting them. Give us strength to trust your Son completely; to confess him boldly; and to rejoice in him always. Bring us, with all whom you have redeemed, into your Kingdom, where with your Son and the Holy Spirit you live and reign, God forever.

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.

July 4: 6^th Sunday after Pentecost, Proper 9; U.S. Independence Day

Ezekiel 2:1-5 (God’s Spirit within the prophet called to speak to rebellious people)

Psalm 123 (Have mercy; we have had enough of contempt)

2 Corinthians 12:1-10 (Paul’s visions, and the thorn in the flesh)

Mark 6:1-13 (Jesus rejected in Nazareth; the 12 are sent on mission trip)

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, sometimes we give you thanks, then gulp. Thank you for your prophets, even when their words are hard. Thank you for your all-sufficient grace, even when it doesn’t remove suffering. Thank you for making us your emissaries and missionaries, even when the world holds you in contempt. Thank you – and deal patiently with us while we gulp!

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

You commissioned Ezekiel to speak to your people; and your Son chose the Twelve to spread the Gospel. Bestow your Spirit upon the Church, so it may speak words of warning and grace to all people. Grant that many are brought to repentance, faith, and redemption in Christ Jesus.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

Grant your all-sufficient grace to your persecuted servants. By their faithful witness, turn their enemies toward the cross of Christ, there to be forgiven and transformed. Bestow your favor and guidance upon your missionaries, especially those serving in dangerous places.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

Thank you for calling this congregation into fellowship with your Son. Give us the gifts of the Holy Spirit, and make us disciples and heralds of your Kingdom. Grant us courage to boldly share the Good News. Give us kindness, so that others may gladly hear it.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

You have given us this good land as our heritage. Make us always remember your generosity and constantly do your will. Save us from violence, discord, confusion, and every evil course of action. Give us what outward prosperity may be your will; but above all things, give us faith in you, that our nation may glorify your name and be a blessing to all peoples.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

Keep our military personnel and first responders in your care. Equip them to secure and further the blessings of peace, justice, and liberty. Help us to support and encourage their families until they are reunited. Heal all whose lives have been shattered by the violence of war.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

St. Paul prayed that his thorn in the flesh might be removed.  We pray for all who suffer, especially: {List}. Heal them according to your will. Give them confidence in your grace, which is sufficient for their needs. Thank you for all caregivers. Give them competence, kindness, and patience. Keep all for whom we pray in close communion with those who love them.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

Most holy Father, we praise you for your never-failing mercy. We entrust to that mercy all our departed loved ones. Wipe away the tears of all who grieve. Keep us close to your heart throughout our lives. Support us with your grace, and heal us with your forgiving love. Lead us by your Spirit into the Kingdom won for us by your Son, Christ Jesus our Lord.

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.

Prayers of the Church, 5^th Sunday After Pentecost, Proper 8 (June 27, 2021)

Lamentations 3:22-33 (God’s steadfast love & compassion never cease)

Psalm 30 (I cried to you for help; you healed me; what profit if I go into the Pit?)

2 Corinthians 8:1-9, 13-15 (Be generous in giving to needs of the saints)

RCL/ELW: 2 Corinthians 8:7-15 (Omits example of Macedonians)

Mark 5:21-43 (A girl restored to life; a woman with flow of blood healed)

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

Dear Father, thank you for the compassion and healing you give us in Jesus! Thank you for your grace, mercy, and steadfast love! Give us the wit and wisdom to share these wonderful gifts with others, especially those who need them the most.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

Have compassion on your Church. Heal it from false teaching, unkind acts, and unfaithful witness. Raise it up from sloth and sin. Provide for its needs so it may generously share your grace with others. Make it lovely in righteousness, to draw many people to the Beautiful Savior.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

Incline your ear to your persecuted Church, so that they may never despair of your goodness but rather give thanks to you forever for your great mercy. Shield and defend your missionaries, especially when they are met with hostility and rejection.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

Fill the people of this congregation with gentleness, generosity, and compassion. Help us reflect Jesus’ goodness to everyone we meet. Let our church becomes a haven of grace to everyone.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

At last, it’s summer! At last, we’re less afraid to travel and enjoy your beautiful world in the company of those we love. Thank you, Lord! Keep us safe, make us joyful, and grant us peace.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

There is so much hatred, violence, injustice, and selfishness in our world, dear Lord. Heal the fever of unrighteous lust for power and retribution. Bestow wisdom, prudence, and goodness on all earthly rulers, especially in our own land. Inflame them only with the earnest desire to love justice, seek mercy, and walk humbly before you, their Lord and King.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

Clothe all who wear the sackcloth of suffering with the clean linen of your salvation and joy. We lift before you the needs of: {List}. Give them such confidence in you that they constantly turn to you for help. Grant to all who love and care for them, such tenderness and skill that suffering and loneliness are eased, and hope and faith are strengthened among us all.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

There is no profit if we go down to the pit; nor shall dust praise your faithfulness. So we praise you for your Son’s triumph over sin and death. We bless you for the eternal life you bestow for his sake. Give us the full measure of your Spirit. Help us to trust you when we are surrounded by our ancient enemies. Equip us to encourage one another along our common pilgrimage. Make us cling to Jesus until he unbars the gates of your Kingdom, and you welcome us home.

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.

Prayers of the Church, 4th Sunday After Pentecost, Proper 7, Father’s Day (June 20, 2021)

Job 38:1-11 (God answers Job from whirlwind)

Psalm 124 (If the Lord had not been our own side, the flood would have taken us)

RCL/ELW: Psalm 107:1-3, 23-32 (God delivered those in peril on sea; praise him!)

2 Corinthians 6:1-13 (Now is the acceptable time: accept God’s grace! Paul’s suffering)

Mark 4:35-41 (Jesus stills the storm)

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

O Eternal Father, you are indeed strong to save! Give us faith to cling to your dear Son in every danger that threatens to undo us. We bless and adore you for your strong, saving love!

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

Still the storms of division, heresy, and ambition among your people. Make your Church an ark of safety against floodwaters of sin and suffering. Make it a rock against which faithless words and evil deeds are dashed. Let many find a refuge there, and turn to you, and be saved.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

Like Job, your persecuted servants long to know their suffering has meaning, their faithfulness is precious, and their Redeemer lives. Deliver them from evil. Reveal your mighty arm and never-failing love. And cause their tormentors to repent and believe in you.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

Speak your word of peace among the people of this congregation. Keep us steadfast in faith, fervent in worship, and persistent in prayer. Make us tireless in loving service to all are overwhelmed by waves of suffering, sorrow, or shame.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

In you, all good and faithful fatherhood finds its source, guide, and fulfillment. Bless all fathers, and all who act with a father’s love. Fill them with your Spirit of wisdom and understanding, counsel and might, knowledge and fear of the Lord, and joy in your presence. Grant that in their care, all children find protection, guidance, and love.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

Bestow wisdom and righteousness to our earthly rulers, especially those elected or appointed to guide this country, state, and community. Teach them to prize integrity over re-election; justice for all, over special interests; and attentiveness to your will over expediency.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

Your Son chided his disciples for their little faith, yet he saved them from the storm. He sent them into a storm-tossed world, to share the Gospel of salvation and life in him. Bless everyone, even those of little faith, who strive to share the Lord Jesus with another shipwrecked soul! Lead them to safe harbor in your embrace.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

We pray for all who are overwhelmed by waves of suffering and sorrow; who have been shipwrecked by abuse, abandonment, or injustice; who have been cast adrift in pathless seas of confusion, delusion, or doubt; and who cry out, fearing that you neither hear or care that they are perishing. Extend your mighty hand and outstretched arm and deliver them. This day we name: {List}.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

Thank you for delivering all who died trusting in you. Give us ears to hear Jesus’ words, “Peace; be still” when all we hear are the wind and waves of turmoil and fear. By his merits, bring us into your Kingdom, where with you and with all whom you have redeemed, we may dwell in joyful and blessed peace forever.

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.

Prayers of the Church, 3rd Sunday After Pentecost, Proper 6 (June 13, 2021)

Ezekiel 17:22-24 (God plants cedar sprig on mountain of Israel; all may find shelter)

Psalm 1 (Blessed is the man who meditates on God’s Law day and night)

RCL/ELW: Psalm 92:1-4, 12-15 (Praise God always; righteous flourish like palm trees)

2 Corinthians 5:1-11 (We will be further clothed, in eternal life)

RCL/ELW: 2 Corinthians 5:6-13 (Walk by faith, not sight; all must appear before judgment seat;

all done in Christ for others, not self)

Mark 4:26-34 (Parable of growing seed & mustard seed)

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

Thank you, dear Lord, for making your Kingdom begin so humbly in our midst! Thank you for making it a place of welcome and shelter for all, even for nesting birds. Thank you for not overwhelming us with your glory and power. Make our faith and love grow like cedar sprigs and mustard seeds, to your glory and for the good of our neighbor.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

Clothe your Church with the beauty, holiness, and righteousness of Christ. Make it a lovely dwelling-place for all people. Grant that its words and deeds may bear the fruit which you desire, and which last unto eternity.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

We lift before you the plight of Christians around the world who are persecuted for your Name’s sake. Let their suffering yield a rich harvest of faith, love, and forgiveness. Shield and defend your missionaries, especially when they are met with hostility and rejection.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

Plant this congregation firmly in Christ, our living water. May we abide in his love, share his forgiveness, teach his commandments, and share in his righteousness.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

Bless our graduates with wisdom and uprightness of heart. Fulfil in them the Psalmist’s words, and make them like trees planted beside streams of living water.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

Teach our earthly rulers to walk not in the counsel of the ungodly; nor stand in the way of sinners; nor sit in the seat of scoffers. Teach them to delight on your Law; to meditate on it day and night; and to establish it as the source of justice, truth, and well-being among all people.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

Keep in your care all who defend life, liberty, and justice. Teach them your commandments. Fill their minds with wisdom, their hearts with integrity, and their arms with courage and strength.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

Give to all who suffer the refreshing waters of your compassion and healing. Make them dwell in the safety of your care even in the midst of all that troubles them. Especially we remember before you: {List}.  Help us to speak words of encouragement and offer deeds of kindness to them. Bring us, with them, into the unending joy of your Kingdom.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

Thank you for gathering into the spacious branches of your heavenly Kingdom all the redeemed who have gone before us, especially those we love and miss the most. Grant that we may always find refreshment in your Word, blessing in your Sacraments, guidance in your Spirit, and forgiveness in your Son, so that, with all your people, we may be gathered into the welcoming shelter of your embrace and may abide there in joy forever.

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.

Prayers of the Church, 2^nd 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.