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.

Holy Trinity, Cycle B (May 30, 2021)

Isaiah 6:1-8 (“Holy, holy, holy is the Lord of hosts!”)

Psalm 29 (The voice of the Lord is a powerful voice; in his temple, all cry, “Glory!”)

Acts 2:14a,22-36 (“This Jesus, God raised up… ³³having received from the Father the promise of the Holy Spirit, he has poured out this, that you both see and hear”)

                ELW: Romans 8:12-17 (We have received the Spirit of adoption, cry out “Abba, Father”)

John 3:1-17 (Jesus and Nicodemus; the Spirit blows where it wills; God gave his only-begotten Son….)

THE PRAYERS 

In the power of the Holy Spirit, let us pray to the Father of our Lord Jesus Christ for the Church, the world, and all people according to their need.

A brief silence

Most holy God, ravish us with your splendor and beauty. Take our breath away with your holiness and purity. Then fill us with your presence, your word, your breath, so that our lives cry out, “Holy, holy, holy is the Lord God of hosts! Heaven and earth are full of his glory!

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

Make your Church radiant with your holiness.  Keep it steadfast in faith; sound in doctrine; loving in service; generous in giving; ardent in worship; and holy in living. Make it a lamp filled with the light of your presence, welcoming and guiding many to salvation in your holy Name.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

Be the shelter, strength, and inheritance of all who are hated because of your holy Name. Give them courage, graciousness, and hope; and soften the hearts of their enemies.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

Kindle the hearts and minds of the people of this congregation with your Spirit. Unite us to your Son, and use us to proclaim the gospel in words and deeds to all those we meet.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

This weekend in particular, we remember our beloved dead, especially those who have given their lives for their country. Keep them ever in your care. Hasten the day when sin, warfare, and death shall be no more, and your eternal peace reigns undisturbed in every heart.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

There is no other God beside you. Give faith, wisdom, and righteousness to all people, especially those who take counsel for the nations. Conform the hearts of all people to your will, and grant us grace to love one another as you love us.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

With your mighty hand and outstretched arm, protect, guide, and defend all those who stand in harm’s way on behalf of others. Use them to establish safety and order in places of danger and chaos; and bring them home safely and soon.

Gather in your Son’s embrace all who suffer in body, mind, or spirit, especially: {List}. Visit them with your salvation. Support them, and all who love them, with your holy and life-giving Spirit.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

Most Holy and Blessed Trinity, we praise you for welcoming into your presence all who died trusting in you. Keep our hearts firmly fixed on you, the Lord and Giver of life. Bring us, with the whole company of the redeemed of every time and place, every nation, tribe, and tongue, into your presence, where we shall forever adore: Father, Son and Holy Spirit, our Lord and our God.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

Gracious Father, through the inspiration of your Holy Spirit, we are bold to ask these things in Jesus’ name. Whatever is in accordance with your will, grant us for your dear Son’s sake. Amen.

Day of Pentecost, Cycle B (May 23, 2021)

Ezekiel 37:1-14 (Mortal, can these bones live?!)

                ELW: Ezekiel 37:1-14 OR Acts 2:1-21 Spirit descends; disciples proclaim: “All who call on Name of Lord shall be saved!”)

Psalm 139:1-16 (You search and know us; none can escape from your Spirit)

                ELW: Psalm 104:24-34, 35b (God’s manifold works; he gives food in due season; bless his name. Oh, v. 35a is omitted, the bit about the wicked being no more…)

Acts 2:1-21(Spirit descends upon disciples. All who call on the Name of the Lord shall be saved!)

                ELW: Romans 8:22-27 (Creation groans, waiting for our redemption; Spirit intercedes in sighs too deep for words)

John 15:26-27; 16:4b-15 (The Advocate Spirit will testify; prove the world wrong; guide you in all truth; glorify me by taking what is mine and giving it to you)

THE PRAYERS 

In the power of the Holy Spirit, let us pray for the Church, the world, and all people according to their need.

A brief silence

Most holy and gracious Spirit, it feels odd praying to you, not just in your power! Like the air around us, we almost take you for granted, even though we can’t live or breathe except you move in us. Thank you for being “Incognito God,” blowing where you will even when we don’t notice you. Renew our life, faith, and love, now and always.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

Renew your Church. Fill it with boldness in witnessing to Jesus. Fill it with faithfulness in proclaiming his Word and celebrating his Sacraments. Fill it with zeal for ministering to all people in his name – especially to the least of those whom he calls sisters and brothers.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

Renew the faith of your persecuted Church. Give it grace to endure suffering for Jesus’ sake; and grant that its faithful witness may cause many to turn to Christ and live.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

Renew the people and the ministry of this congregation. Fill us with joyfulness in worship; eagerness in service; gentleness in fellowship; generosity in giving; and persistence in faithful witness in Jesus’ name.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

Renew the faith in all who are confirmed, commissioned, or ordained today. Be for them the true Spirit of wisdom and understanding, counsel and might, knowledge and fear of the Lord, and joy in his presence.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

Renew the minds of worldly leaders. Fill their hearts with wisdom and humility as they wield power and authority. Fill the spirits of the world’s citizens with love for God, neighbor, and the world around them. Fill creation with fruitfulness and peace.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

Renew the minds and direct the actions of all who take protect life, health, justice, and freedom. Strengthen and protect them. Bless all they do that is in accordance with your will. Bring them safely home when their task is done.

Renew the hope, faith, and health of all whose need is great, especially: {List}. Fill them with the comfort of your presence and lead them into the joy of your salvation.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

Come, Holy Spirit, and cheer the hearts of all who grieve the loss of loved ones. Fill them, and all of us, all with faith in you, the Lord and Giver of life; in the communion of saints in heaven and on earth; in the forgiveness of sins, in the resurrection of the body; and in life everlasting.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

Grant us, dear Lord, all that is in accordance with your will, to your glory, and for the building up of your people. Amen.

7^th Sunday of Easter, Cycle B (May 16, 2021)

(May also be used for Ascension, Transferred)

 7^th Sunday of Easter texts:

 Acts 1:12-26 (Matthias chosen to replace Judas)

                ELW: Acts 1:15-17, 21-26 (no references to Judas)

Psalm 1 (Blessed is the one whose delight is in the law of the Lord!)

1 John 5:9-15 (And this is God’s testimony: God gave us eternal life, and this life is in his Son. Whoever has the Son has life; if we ask anything according to his will, he hears us.)               

ELW: 1 John 5:9-13 (nothing about praying according to his will)

John 17:11b-19 (Jesus prays that his Father would protect and sanctify all who believe in him)

                ELW: John 17:6-19 (adds “They have known everything I have from you”)

 #####

Ascension Texts:

Acts 1:1-11(Promise of Holy Spirit and ascension of Jesus) 

Psalm 47 (God has gone up with a shout! He rules over the nations)

Ephesians 1:15-23 (Paul’s prayer for eternal inheritance in Christ, whom God has raised, given all power and authority, and made him head over all things for the Church, his body) 

Luke 24:44-53 (Jesus reminds followers of Scriptures; blesses them and ascends)

 THE PRAYERS 

Let us pray in the name of our risen and ascended Savior for the Church, the world, and for all people according to their needs.

A brief silence

Heavenly Father, with joy we cry, “Jesus has gone up with a shout! The Lord has ascended on high!” Thank you for his triumph over sin and death. Keep us faithful unto death, until Jesus gives us his crown of life.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

Give your Church faith, joy, and boldness to proclaim Jesus’ Lordship to all the world until he comes again in glory.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

Ease the suffering of all who are persecuted for naming Jesus as Lord. Give gentleness to their words and peace in their hearts. Bring to repentance and humble faith all who torment them.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

This congregation thanks and praises you for the triumph of Christ our Savior. Grant us grace to live in accordance with his commands; to proclaim him as Lord and King; and to share his forgiveness and grace with those who need them most.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

Be with all students graduating this Spring! Bless them with wisdom as well as knowledge. Give them integrity along with passion. Help them to use all they have learned in ways that glorify you and help others.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

Your Son has ascended on high, and is king of all nations. We pray for the earthly leaders of those nations, especially our own. Make them righteous and merciful, and conform them to your will. Teach all people to live together in peace and unity, until the day Christ comes to judge the living and the dead.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

We lift before you the needs of all whose lives are shadowed by suffering or sorrow— especially: {List}. Grant to them the abundant life promised by Jesus; fill them with the grace and comfort of your Holy Spirit; and bless those who care for them.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

Heavenly Father, we await the coming of that day when we, shall live with you and with all of your people in joy and glory everlasting. We entrust into your care those who have died trusting your promised inheritance. Keep us in union with them, with all of your saints, and with you, in the power of your Holy Spirit, for the sake of Christ our Savior.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

Hear and graciously answer our prayers in accordance with your will, dear Father, for the sake of your beloved Son, who lives and reigns with you and the Holy Spirit, one God, now and forever. Amen.