THE PRAYERS, 

2^nd Sunday after Christmas, Cycle B (January 3, 2021)

With joy and gratitude for the gift of Christ our Savior, let us draw near to God the Father, praying on behalf of the Church, the world, and all who need his loving-kindness.

A brief silence

Heavenly Father, thank you for Jesus. Thank you for your love, made flesh in his flesh. Thank you for the glorious inheritance you have prepared for all who love him.

Lord, in your mercy, please hear our prayer.

Transform your Church into a Temple worthy of your Son. Fill bishops, pastors, theologians and deacons with wisdom and understanding, counsel and might, knowledge and fear of the Lord, that all may have joy in your presence. Draw many through its doors to meet Jesus their Lord.

Lord, in your mercy, please hear our prayer.

Grant to all Christians who are persecuted a foretaste of the glorious inheritance you have stored up for them in Christ. Fill them with wisdom and faith. Let them confound and convert their tormentors. Give us grace to provide for their needs and speak in their defense.

Lord, in your mercy, please hear our prayer.

Give the people of this congregation wisdom, faithfulness, kindness, generosity and joy. Fashion this church into a temple that is lovely with the light of Christ. Make us true sisters and brothers to our elder Brother, Jesus.

Lord, in your mercy, please hear our prayer.

We pray for all theologians and instructors in the faith – especially those who teach future pastors. Give them hearts centered in Christ; minds that delight in your commands; mouths that speak faithful words of your Law and Gospel; and souls that are pure and holy as they guide and shape those whom you call to be your servants.

Lord, in your mercy, please hear our prayer.

Make the world’s leaders desire wisdom. Equip them to seek the good of the people entrusted to their care. Teach them to fear and love you above all earthly power or riches. Bestow upon this death-shadowed a foretaste of your eternal life and peace. Grant that this New Year may bring hope, prosperity, health and concord to all.

Lord, in your mercy, please hear our prayer.

We plead on behalf of all whose lives are clouded by sorrow or shadowed by suffering – especially: {List}. Bring them healing and hope. Help us to ease the burdens of those who care for loved ones day in and day out. And bless with compassion and competence all who practice the healing arts.

Lord, in your mercy, please hear our prayer.

Dear Father, thank you for the gift of your Son, and for the salvation you give to all who call upon his Name. We entrust our beloved dead into your care. Shed the light of your love upon those who grieve. Bestow your Spirit upon all of us in this New Year. Renew us in faith, strengthen us for service, and unite us in bonds of concord and charity. Lead us, and all whom you have redeemed, into the bright courts of heaven, and into your endless day.

Lord, in your mercy, please hear our prayer.

Into your hands, merciful Father, we commend all for whom we pray, trusting in your mercy; for the sake of your Son, Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen.

THE PRAYERS, 

1^st Sunday after Christmas, Cycle B (December 27, 2020)

Or St. John, Apostle and Evangelist (add these italicized petitions)

O come, let us adore Christ our Lord, and kneel before him with our prayers and supplications.

A brief silence

Father, we praise you for your Word made flesh, Jesus Christ our Savior. {We thank you for St. John, the Beloved Disciple, who knew and loved him so well.} Let Jesus fill us with grace and truth, so that our joy may be complete.

Provide the Church with pastors, bishops, and theologians who teach and admonish your people in all wisdom. ^*17By the gift of your Spirit, let the Church’s every word and deed

be in the name of the Lord Jesus, to your glory and for the good of all whom he came to save.

Lord, in your mercy, please hear our prayer.

We pray for those who are persecuted for the sake of Jesus. They are your chosen ones, holy and beloved. Adorn them with compassion, meekness, and patience. Let the peace of Christ rule their hearts, so that their tormentors repent, and flee to the Savior for forgiveness.

Lord, in your mercy, please hear our prayer.

Make this congregation a company of the upright. Let us delight in, study, and proclaim your mighty works of salvation. ²Clothe us with love, binding us together in perfect harmony. Let our lives display your redeeming power. Help us to draw our neighbors, friends, and families to faith in your dear Son.

Lord, in your mercy, please hear our prayer.

Bless grandparents, parents, and all who share with our children the joy of knowing you. Let them cradle little ones in your love and goodness.

Lord, in your mercy, please hear our prayer.

Give our earthly leaders the holy fear that is the beginning of wisdom. Help them to study your works and perform your precepts. Let faithfulness and uprightness, graciousness and mercy, guide those who take counsel for the nations. Bestow upon all peoples the blessings of food, shelter, health, employment, justice, and peace.

Lord, in your mercy, please hear our prayer.

Angels proclaimed peace and good will at Jesus’ birth. But many evils still trouble the world. Shield and guide all who risk their lives on behalf of others. Prosper all they do that conforms to your will. Give their loved ones hope and patience. Bring healing and comfort to the wounded, and redemption to the fallen. Establish your peace among us all, that weapons of war can be fashioned into instruments of your peace.

Lord, in your mercy, please hear our prayer.

Be gracious and merciful to all whose lives are shadowed by suffering in this season of light, especially: {List}. Grant that they behold your salvation,³¹ dwell in your love, and glorify you in the company of all who love them.

Lord, in your mercy, please hear our prayer.

Dear Father, you have bestowed on our beloved dead the fullness of your salvation, and we commend them into your care. While we walk the pilgrim-path of life, grant that your dear Son should dwell in us richly, filling us with peace, love, forgiveness, compassion, kindness, humility, meekness, and patience. For these are the gifts of Christmas that shall last forever.

Lord, in your mercy, please hear our prayer.

Receive our prayers, dear Father, for the sake of your dear Son, our Savior Jesus Christ. Amen.

THE PRAYERS, 

Christmas Eve, Cycle B (December 24, 2020)

Christmas Day (December 25, 2020)

O come, let us adore Christ our Lord, and kneel before him with our prayers.

A brief silence

O Word of the Father, now in flesh appearing: enflesh yourself in your Church. Let all its words and deeds “speak you,” the Living Word. Let the Church be a star of hope, burning in the world’s darkness. By its deeds of mercy, draw many to kneel in awe and wonder before you, and there find life.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

O loveliest blooming rose, adorn the suffering of your persecuted followers with the beauty of your love. Be their refuge and Lord. Gladden their hearts. Shine so brightly in their lives that their tormentors turn to you in repentance and faith.

Lord, in your mercy, Hear our prayer.

O mighty king and gentle friend, be all that and more to this congregation. Let us know, proclaim, and share you as heaven’s gift and treasure. Caress us with your blessing. Heal our hearts. Let all our words and deeds help families, friends, and neighbors to love and praise you.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

O Jesus, our Emmanuel, you lay your glory aside “to raise each child of earth.” Bring light and life to those who do not know you or believe that you are God, veiled in human flesh. Give them eyes to see your divine love, and hearts to enthrone you as Lord, God, and King.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

O Heaven-born Prince of Peace, reconcile all peoples and nations, all races and tribes, under your glorious and gentle rule. Lift up all whose forms bend low beneath life’s crushing load. Free them from all that afflicts them. Make us all, from greatest to least, children of your light, and partakers of your peace.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

O Savior of our fallen race, bestow a measure of your peace to all who stand in harm’s way, protecting others, in this death-shadowed world. Renew their courage; purify their hearts; and use their labors to bring hope and healing in communities fractured by hatred and violence.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

O Savior, child of Mary, you felt our human woe. Bring healing, peace, and hope to all who suffer and to all who mourn, even on this holy and joyful night. O Sun of Righteousness, rise upon them with healing in your wings!

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

O Savior, King of Glory, you have triumphed over our ancient foes: sin, evil, and death. Thank you for your love, which guarded, guided, and kept our loved ones in your care until their life’s end. And now, Lord Jesus, dearest friend: Bring us at length to heaven and into your endless day. With all whom you have redeemed, let us praise, adore, and delight in you; for with your Father and the Holy Spirit, you live and reign forever and ever and unto the ages of ages.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

Be near us, Lord Jesus; and hear when we pray. Stay by us forever and love us always. Bless all your dear children in your tender care. And fit us for heaven, to dwell with you there. AMEN.

The Lessons, Hymns, and Prayers, 4^th Sunday in Advent, Cycle B (December 20, 2020)

2 Samuel 7:1-11,16 (David won’t build God’s house; God promises David’s house will endure)

Luke 1:46b-55 (Magnificat) (ELW alternate: Psalm 89:1-4, 19-26)

Romans 16:25-27 (Mysteries long hidden now revealed; final blessing)

Luke 1:26-38 (Annunciation of Gabriel to Mary)

Opening hymn: O Come, O Come, Emmanuel (LBW #34, ELW #257, LSB #357)

(if you didn’t use this the 1^st Sunday in Advent. Or, heck, even if you did!)

Hymn of the Day: My Soul Now Magnifies the Lord (LBW #180, ELW #573, LSB #934)

OR I Will Greatly Rejoice in the Lord (LSB #929, Chanted Canticle)

OR The Angel Gabriel From Heaven Came (WOV #632, ELW #265, LSB #356)

Communion Hymn #1: O Jesus So Sweet, O Jesus So Mild (LSB #546)

OR O Little Town of Bethlehem (LBW #41, LSB #361, ELW #279)

Communion Hymn #2: Lo, How A Rose E’er Growing/Blooming

(ELW #58, ELW #272, LSB #359) (ELW and LSB use the familiar words and harmonization) 

Closing Hymn: Let Our Gladness Have No End (LBW #57, ELW #291, LSB #381)

                OR My Soul Proclaims Your Greatness (ELW #251)

+++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++

THE PRAYERS

Based on the Great O-Antiphons, which are paraphrased in “O Come, O Come, Emmanuel”

Let us pray to the Lord on behalf of the Church, the world, and all people according to their need.

A brief silence

O come, O come, Emmanuel, that the Church, your people Israel, and the whole world may rejoice in the splendor of your appearing.

Lord, in your mercy, please hear our prayer.

O Wisdom, proceeding from the mouth of the Most High, fill the Church with your Spirit. Sustain and order its proclamation and its works of charity, especially in the presence of its enemies, according to your most holy will. Come, and teach us prudence.

Lord, in your mercy, please hear our prayer.

O Emmanuel, the ransom of your people Israel: deliver also your persecuted Church from torment. Keep it patient, faithful, and steadfast. Help us to honor their witness and provide for their needs. Turn their tormentors from their evil ways. Come; and teach them courage.

Lord, in your mercy, please hear our prayer.

O Adonai, ruler of the House of Israel, rule also in the hearts and lives of your people in this congregation. Give us your Word and show us your glory. Come; and make our hearts glad.

Lord, in your mercy, please hear our prayer.

O Bright and Morning Star, you gladden the hearts of those who sit in darkness. Shine upon all who are overwhelmed by grief, despair, doubt, anger, confusion, hatred, or unbelief. Come; and lead them into the brightness of your holy love.

Lord, in your mercy, please hear our prayer.

O King of the nations, the ruler they long for, unite all people under your glorious and gentle reign. Teach us those things that make for peace. Come and save us all, whom you formed out of clay.

Lord, in your mercy, please hear our prayer.

O Root of Jesse, you stand as an ensign before the peoples. Guard and guide all who stand in harm’s way in defense of justice and freedom. Come quickly, and deliver them.

Lord, in your mercy, please hear our prayer.

O Key of David, you open what no one can close; you close what no one can open. Free those imprisoned by the powers of sin, evil, and death, especially {LIST}. Come, and close the path to misery.

Lord, in your mercy, please hear our prayer.

O Dayspring, splendor of life everlasting, keep safe in your mighty arms all those who died trusting in your promises. Come and enlighten us, who still sit in the shadow of death; and open wide our heavenly home.

Lord, in your mercy, please hear our prayer.

Graciously answer our prayers for the sake of your Son, Jesus Christ our Lord, who with you and the Holy Spirit reigns, one God, now and forever. Amen.

The Lessons, Hymns, and Prayers, 3^rd Sunday in Advent, Cycle B (December 13, 2020)

Isaiah 61:1-4, 8-11 (God has anointed me with his Spirit; clothed me

with joy of his salvation)

Psalm 126 (God restored fortunes of Jerusalem; those who go out weeping

come back rejoicing)

                (ELW: this, or Luke 1:46b-55, the Magnificat)

1 Thessalonians 5:16-24 (Rejoice; don’t quench Spirit; be holy)

John 1:6-8, 19-28 (John says who he isn’t, there’s one greater than he)

Opening hymn: Rejoice, Rejoice, Believers (LBW #25, ELW #244, LSB #515)

Hymn of the Day: Hark! A Thrilling Voice is Sounding

(LBW #37, ELW #246, LSB #345; the tune used in ELW and LSB is much superior to the LBW tune. Since they don’t have the tune “Merton” in LBW, use “Omni Dei,” used for For the Bread Which You Have Broken)

Communion Hymn #1: Soul, Adorn Yourself with Gladness (LBW #224, LSB #636)

Communion Hymn #2: Hail to the Lord’s Anointed (LBW #87, LSB #398)

 (Can also sing this hymn to tune of LBW #369, “The Church’s One Foundation. In fact, if you use it during communion, or have a congregation unfamiliar with the hymn, I’d recommend it.)

Closing Hymn: People, Look East (WOV #626, ELW #248)

                OR There’s a Voice in the Wilderness (ELW #255)

                OR, Hark, the Glad Sound! (LBW #35, LSB #349, ELW #239)

+++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++

THE PRAYERS

Let us pray to the Lord on behalf of the Church, the world, and all people according to their need.

A brief silence

O Lord, we long for your salvation; make haste and help us. Come quickly with blessing and comfort for your people, O strong Deliverer of Israel and the Redeemer of the world.

Lord, in your mercy, please hear our prayer.

Clothe your Church with the joy of your salvation. Cover it with the righteousness of Christ. Adorn it with the jewels of your Word and Sacraments. Through it, let the poor hear the Good News, the sorrowful find comfort, and captives to sin and death experience your salvation.

Lord, in your mercy, please hear our prayer.

Restore the fortunes of Christians who are persecuted for confessing Jesus as Lord. Turn their weeping into rejoicing. Cause those who hate them to repent and believe in the Good News.

Lord, in your mercy, please hear our prayer.

Bless and guide the people of this congregation. Give us faithful hearts; ears attentive to your Word; eyes which see the needs of others; hands skilled in building up the body of Christ; and tongues swift to pray, forgive, and encourage.

Lord, in your mercy, please hear our prayer.

Guide and strengthen our seminarians and all considering your call to serve the Church. Make them faithful, true, and bold, and let them find joy in your service.

Lord, in your mercy, please hear our prayer.

Anoint the rulers of the world with your Spirit, so that, like you, they love justice and hate evil. Use them to repair lives and cities ruined by violence. Direct their words and their works in your truth. Establish your peace among the nations. Make each of us into trees of righteousness, the planting of the Lord, bearing much fruit to your glory, and for the building up of your people.

Lord, in your mercy, please hear our prayer.

Until your great and acceptable day has dawned, good people must risk their lives for the sake of justice, liberty, and safety. Shield, strengthen and direct them. Help them to serve with competence and integrity. Keep them from harm; heal and raise them when they falter. Give them a joyful reunion with their loved ones when their task is done.

Lord, in your mercy, please hear our prayer.

Grant your healing to the brokenhearted and to all who suffer in body, mind or spirit, especially {LIST}. Give them beauty for ashes; the oil of joy for mourning; and the garment of praise for the spirit of heaviness. Strengthen all who care for them; and give them, and all of us, your everlasting joy.

Lord, in your mercy, please hear our prayer.

Most holy Father, we entrust to your care all who have died trusting your promises. Thank you for their lives. Thank you for making them—and us—your servants: a royal priesthood and holy nation, your children and portion whom you have blessed. Bring us into the beauty of holy Zion, where with all the redeemed, we shall be adorned as a bride for our heavenly Bridegroom, the Lamb of God who has taken away the sins of the whole world, our Savior Jesus Christ.

Lord, in your mercy, please hear our prayer.

Graciously answer our prayers for the sake of your Son, Jesus Christ our Lord, who with you and the Holy Spirit reigns, one God, now and forever. Amen.

The Lessons, Hymns, and Prayers, 2^nd Sunday in Advent, Cycle B (December 6, 2020)

Isaiah 40:1-11 (Comfort my people; prepare way of the Lord; here is your God,

                who feeds his flock like a shepherd)

Psalm 85:1-2, 8-13 (righteousness and peace kiss)

2 Peter 3:8-15a (1000 years like a day; end will come suddenly; live in

righteousness and peace until the Lord comes)

Mark 1:1-8 (John the Baptist announces One who is greater than he)

Opening hymn: Comfort, Comfort Now My People

(LBW #29, ELW #256, LSB #347)

Hymn of the Day: On Jordan’s Banks the Baptist’s Cry

(LBW #26, ELW #249, LSB #344)

                (feel free to teach the choir my version: On Jordan’s banks, the Baptists cry; the Methodists are standing by; the Presbyterians all do sing, while Lutherans a hot dish bring….)

Communion Hymn #1: O God, Our Help in Ages Past

(LBW #320, ELW #632, LSB #733)

                OR Light One Candle to Watch for Messiah (WOV #630, ELW #240)

Communion Hymn #2: The Advent of Our God

 (LBW #22, LSB #331, The Advent of Our King)

OR Come Now, O Prince of Peace (ELW #247)

Closing Hymn: Prepare the Royal Highway (LBW #26, ELW #264, LSB #343)

+++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++

THE PRAYERS

Let us pray to the Lord on behalf of the Church, the world, and all people according to their need.

A brief silence

O Lord, we long for your salvation; make haste and help us. Come quickly with blessing and comfort for your people, O strong Deliverer of Israel and the Redeemer of the world.

Lord, in your mercy, please hear our prayer.

Prepare your Church for the coming of your Son. From valleys of lukewarm worship and half-hearted service, raise it to heights of praise and compassion. Level mountains of false teaching and self-importance. Lead it along level pathways of faithfulness and humility, so that many may journey to your Kingdom.

Lord, in your mercy, please hear our prayer.

Be merciful to our persecuted brothers and sisters who proclaim the name of Jesus even amidst their enemies. Make their witness to shine as a light in the world’s darkest places. And pierce the hearts of their tormentors with the truth of the Gospel.

Lord, in your mercy, please hear our prayer.

Prepare the people of this congregation for the coming of our Savior. Help us to exalt the humble; to bring low the mountains of self-will in our lives; and to make level pathways for leading others to Jesus. Look with favor upon those learning the way of discipleship, and upon your missionaries around the world.

Lord, in your mercy, please hear our prayer.

Prepare the hearts of our children for the coming of their dear Savior. Protect and bless them; and help us teach them to love Jesus and to trust him always.

Lord, in your mercy, please hear our prayer.

Prepare the world for the coming of its King. Give our leaders the will to raise people from depths of poverty. Level the mountains of injustice throughout the world. Let nation no longer raise sword against nation. And guide all people in pathways of righteousness and peace.

Lord, in your mercy, please hear our prayer.

Prepare the hearts of first responders and military personnel for the coming of the King of Peace. Raise up every righteous deed. Level mountains of suspicion and misunderstanding. Lead those we pray for along level pathways to safety and loved ones.

Lord, in your mercy, please hear our prayer.

Prepare the hearts of those who suffer for the coming of Christ, the Great Physician. We lift before you the needs of: {LIST}. Raise them up from sickness and sorrow; lay low the mountains of pain; and by your Son’s gentle hand, lead them and their loved ones along level pathways into health and hope.

Lord, in your mercy, please hear our prayer.

Holy God, thank you for the lives of all who have died trusting in your promises, especially: {LIST}. Prepare our hearts for the near approach of our Savior. Let him raise us up from death’s dark valley. Let him crumble the mountains of your wrath at our sins. Let him lead us along level roads of faith, hope, and love into your welcoming and eternal embrace.

Lord, in your mercy, please hear our prayer.

Graciously answer our prayers for the sake of your Son, Jesus Christ our Lord, who with you and the Holy Spirit reigns, one God, now and forever. Amen.

The Lessons, Hymns, and Prayers, 1^st Sunday in Advent, Cycle B (November 29, 2020)

Isaiah 64:1-9 (tear open heavens and come; we are clay; do not be angry forever)

Psalm 80:1-7, 17-19 (stir up your might and come; do not be angry forever)

1 Corinthians 1:3–9 (God strengths you; wait for Christ to be revealed)

Mark 13:24-37 (stay alert; lesson of fig tree; parable: master comes unexpectedly)

                OR Mark 11:1-10 (Jesus enters Jerusalem on a donkey)

Opening hymn: The King Shall Come (LBW #33, ELW #260, LSB #348)

Or my “Advent hymn” sung to the same tune as above)

With glory bright and heavenly peace, come quickly, Lord, again.

With judgment true the earth renew; the gates of life unpen.

God, Father, glory gilds your name; we worship and adore,

We bless and praise, our thanks we raise; your mercy we implore.

O glorious Sun of righteousness, bring healing on your wing.

By your dear grace, reveal your face, unbar our hearts to sing:

Sing, “Glory be to you, O Lord; to you, O Christ, be praise,

God’s Lamb of love from heav’n above, Redeemer of our race.”

Most glorious Spirit, Holy Lord, conform us to the Son,

To rightly praise through all our days what he for us has done.

O glory to the Father, Son, and Spirit ever be!

God, bring your life amidst our strife; Lord Jesus, come quickly.

Hymn of the Day: O Lord, How Shall I Meet You (LBW #23, ELW #241, LSB #355)

(if the tune is unfamiliar, use the tune for “All Glory, Laud and Honor,” especially if the Palm Sunday

processional gospel is used today. However, the words are also great for Isaiah text and Psalm)

OR O Come, O Come, Emmanuel (LBW #34, LSB #357, ELW #257)

Communion Hymn #1: Come, Thou Long-Expected Jesus

(LBW #30, LSB #338, ELW #254)

Communion Hymn #2: My Lord, What a Morning

(WOV #627, ELW #438, LSB #986)

Closing Hymn: Savior of the Nations, Come (LBW #28, ELW #263 LSB #332)

+++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++

THE PRAYERS

Let us pray to the Lord on behalf of the Church, the world, and all people according to their need.

A brief silence

O Lord, we long for your salvation; make haste and help us. Come quickly with blessing and comfort for your people, O strong Deliverer of Israel and the Redeemer of the world.

Lord, in your mercy, please hear our prayer.

Tear open the heavens and visit your people with salvation. Anoint your Church with your Holy Spirit. Make it radiant with holiness, lovely with compassion, and bright with faithfulness. Fill it with hope as it awaits the coming of your Son in power and great glory.

Lord, in your mercy, please hear our prayer.

Tear open the heavens and visit your people with salvation. Come with healing and gladness for your persecuted servants. Make their words and deeds shine with your goodness and glory. Give the grace of repentance to their tormentors; and draw all people to yourself.

Lord, in your mercy, please hear our prayer.

Tear open the heavens and visit your people with salvation. Anoint this congregation with your Holy Spirit. Make us generous in sharing the grace given to us in Christ. Through us, lift the heads and hearts of our neighbors and those in need. Grant that, with us, they eagerly await the day of Jesus’ return as victorious Lord of all.

Lord, in your mercy, please hear our prayer.

Tear open the heavens, O Lord; and visit your people with salvation. Give wisdom and prudence to those who lead the nations, especially those newly elected. Make them good stewards of the authority granted them. Bless our nation with peace, prosperity, and justice. Teach us all to care for one another until your son comes as our great Lord of might.

Lord, in your mercy, please hear our prayer.

Tear open the heavens, O Lord; and visit your people with salvation. Give courage, honor, and strength to those who serve and protect our country. Grant healing to those who have been wounded; patience and hope to their loved ones; and a swift, safe homecoming to them all.

Lord, in your mercy, please hear our prayer.

Tear open the heavens, O Lord; and visit your people with salvation. Kindle hope within the hearts of all who suffer – especially {List}. Bring them comfort and healing. Give their caretakers patience and compassion. To those who are despairing, imprisoned, abandoned, or dying, bestow the presence of your Son, the Dayspring who puts death’s shadows to flight.

Lord, in your mercy, please hear our prayer.

Tear open the heavens, O Lord; and visit your people with salvation. We give you thanks for the lives of all whom you have given victory over the grave. Disperse the clouds of gloom and grief that overshadow us. Lead us to our heavenly home, opened to us by the Key of David, your Son, our Savior Jesus Christ.

Lord, in your mercy, please hear our prayer.

Graciously answer our prayers for the sake of your Son, Jesus Christ our Lord, who with you and the Holy Spirit reigns, one God, now and forever. Amen.

Prayers of the Church, Christ the King Sunday – November 22, 2020

Let us approach the Throne of Grace, there to pray for the Church, the world, and one another.

A brief silence is kept.

Holy Father, we praise and adore you for your Son, Christ Jesus, our Beautiful Savior, the King of Creation. We thank you for his holy life, his innocent suffering and death in our place, and his glorious resurrection that bestows life, forgiveness, health, and salvation on us. Though we are your poor unworthy servants, you have made us the sisters and brothers of your beloved Son and heirs of your Kingdom. Blessing and honor, praise and adoration be yours, Holy Father, for the sake of your Son, in the power of your Spirit.

Lord, in your mercy, please hear our prayer.

You have made your Son King of creation and head of your holy Church. Bind that Church to Christ with cords of love; make it unswerving in faith and bold in witness to him, especially where it endures persecution for his sake; and use it to draw all people to his Cross, there to acclaim him as Lord, King, and Savior.

Lord, in your mercy, please hear our prayer.

You have made your persecuted Church a visible sign of the suffering of Christ himself. Grant that all who are afflicted for his sake may also, like the sun, moon, and stars, bear witness to the beauty of his holiness and the glory of his love.

Lord, in your mercy, please hear our prayer.

You have made your Son our Savior and Lord. Fill the people of this congregation with your Holy Spirit, so that in all we say and do, among all people we encounter, we acclaim Jesus Christ as Son of God and Son of man.

Lord, in your mercy, please hear our prayer.

You have made this land rich with resources, and resplendent with the virtues of freedom, justice, opportunity, and honesty. Grant that all who live here may be responsible stewards of those resources; tireless examples of those virtues; and thankful sharers of every blessing with which you have graced us.

Lord, in your mercy, please hear our prayer.

You have made your Son Lord of the nations. By your Holy Spirit, conform the hearts of rulers and people to the heart of Christ; and let his peace reign undisturbed in every land.

Lord, in your mercy, please hear our prayer.

You have made your Son our light, joy, and crown. Grant that his strong saving love might accompany those who serve our country, here and abroad. Fill them with honor, courage, and wisdom; and bring them home in safety.

Lord, in your mercy, please hear our prayer.

You have made your Son fairer than sunlight, stars, meadows, or woodlands. Let his beauty, healing, and compassion cause all sorrowing hearts to sing, especially: {List}. Deliver them from their afflictions, and restore them to the fellowship of all who care for them.

Lord, in your mercy, please hear our prayer.

Gracious Father, you have made your Son to shine more brightly than all of heaven’s angels. We thank you for the lives of the faithful departed, who already see his glory face to face. Fill us with such faith and love that, in your good time, we shall join them in singing, “Glory and honor, praise, adoration, now and forever more be thine.”

.

Lord, in your mercy, please hear our prayer.

Hear our prayer; and graciously grant all that glorifies you and benefits our poor broken world, for the sake of your Son, Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen.

Prayers of the Church, 24^th Sunday after Pentecost, Proper 28 – November 15, 2020

Let us approach the Throne of Grace, there to pray for the Church, the world, and one another.

A brief silence is kept.

Father, thank you for entrusting to us the treasures of your Kingdom and the gifts of your Holy Spirit.

Thank you for your confidence in us – for commending wise risk taking and condemning fearful inaction. Give us grace to be faithful stewards of your bounty, to your glory and for the good of your people.

Lord, in your mercy, please hear our prayer.

Give your Church pastors, bishops and theologians who rightly and tirelessly proclaim your Word of Law and Gospel. Make the Church shine with the holiness and humility of Jesus, guiding many, by the light of his Cross, to seek his promised forgiveness and salvation.

Lord, in your mercy, please hear our prayer.

Make the faithful witness of your suffering Church into a beacon of hope for all who love Christ, and into an urgent warning to all who hate him. Give to us, who can scarcely comprehend the suffering of our persecuted sisters and brothers, the willingness to defend and provide for them as we can; and to adorn their sacrifices with our smaller acts of faith and love.

Lord, in your mercy, please hear our prayer.

Make this congregation into a “Discipleship Boot Camp,” in which we learn, strive, and grow in taking risks in your service. Help us to be daring and bold in forgiving one another; in telling others about the hope that is in us; in shining the light of Jesus’ holy love in the ugly corners of sin-darkened lives; and in easing the burdens of others for whom he gave his life.

Lord, in your mercy, please hear our prayer.

We pray for all who have been richly blessed with skills of mind and hand, and gifts of imagination and wise judgment. Guide them in using their gifts to your glory and for the benefit of others. We also pray for those whose talents seem meager; who are afraid to use them; or are convinced they are worthless. Give them the grace to value what you have given them, and to use all their resources to their utmost. Help all of us to risk much as we seek to please you, help our neighbor, and heal our world. Remind us that you have prepared for us joys that are infinitely greater than any treasure we lay at your feet.

Lord, in your mercy, please hear our prayer.

Give teachable minds and willing hearts to the leaders of the nations. Remind them that they must give you an account of their stewardship of power, authority, and talents. Do not let them squander these gifts through hard hearts, rivalries, misuse, or disuse. Give to each of us the gifts of kindness, humility, and generosity, so that all our lives may be touched by happiness and brightened by hope.

Lord, in your mercy, please hear our prayer.

Deep and solemn skills are needed by those who risk their lives to protect the lives and liberty of others. Abundantly grant them all they need, dear Lord. Use their skills to bring calm in chaos, and justice in troubled places. Shield their loved ones from fear; and bring them home safely and soon.

Lord, in your mercy, please hear our prayer.

We beseech you to come speedily to the rescue of all who cry out for healing of body, mind, heart or spirit – especially: {List}.  Deliver them from their afflictions, and restore them to the fellowship of all who care for them.

Lord, in your mercy, please hear our prayer.

Keep in your sheltering arms all those who have died trusting in your promises. And as you have called us to ventures of which we cannot see the ending, by paths as yet untrodden, through perils unknown, we pray: Give us faith to go out with good courage, not knowing where we go, but only that your hand is leading us and your love supporting us, until you bring us home, through Jesus Christ our Lord.

Lord, in your mercy, please hear our prayer.

Hear our prayer; and graciously grant all that glorifies you and benefits our poor broken world, for the sake of your Son, Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen.

Prayers of the Church, 23^rd Sunday after Pentecost, Proper 27 – November 8, 2020

Let us approach the Throne of Grace, there to pray for the Church, the world, and one another.

A brief silence is kept.

Heavenly Father, we are sometimes foolish, not wise; scatterbrained, not prudent; reactive, not responsive. Forgive our less commendable words and deeds. Remind us of the wonderful honor and high privilege of being called to your Son’s wedding feast! Give us the grace and wisdom of your Holy Spirit. Let us always rejoice; believe; and show the light of faith, hope, and love even in this dark world.

Lord, in your mercy, please hear our prayer.

Make your Church wise, faithful, pure, and watchful, rejoicing in the near approach of her Bridegroom and Savior. Make her worship joyful and pleasing in your sight. Make her labors glorify you and help those in distress. Make her feasts a foretaste of your heavenly wedding banquet, feeding all with truth, righteousness, and salvation.

Lord, in your mercy, please hear our prayer.

Give patience, kindness, comfort, and hope to your persecuted Church. Help us provide for their needs and bear witness to their suffering. Turn the hearts of their enemies to seek your forgiveness.

Lord, in your mercy, please hear our prayer.

Make this congregation, and each of us, into lamps shining with your light and love. Do not let us grow weary in praising you and serving others. Fill us to overflowing with your Holy Spirit, so that we may constantly share your grace and favor with those whose lights are flickering out.

Lord, in your mercy, please hear our prayer.

Let your justice roll down like waters upon this parched and broken world. Let your righteousness fill the hearts and minds of all who are entrusted with authority. Especially we pray for our elected and appointed leaders. Give them your Spirit of wisdom and understanding, counsel and might, so that they may bring concord, peace, prosperity, justice, and healing to our land.

Lord, in your mercy, please hear our prayer.

On this Veteran’s Day weekend, we pray for all who have honorably served their country. Grant wisdom, courage, integrity, and sound judgment to everyone currently serving in the military, and to all who risk their lives on behalf of community and country. Use their skills to bring freedom, safety, and justice wherever they serve. Keep them safe; shield their loved ones from grief and fear; and grant them a swift and joyful homecoming.

Lord, in your mercy, please hear our prayer.

Let all who seek your help in their times of trial find deliverance from all that troubles them. We remember before you: {List}. Grant them health and salvation; justice and comfort; hope and guidance. When their lamp of faith seems ready to flicker and fade, rekindle them with the grace and comfort of the Holy Spirit. And give a double portion of that same Spirit to all who minister to their needs.

Lord, in your mercy, please hear our prayer.

Heavenly Father, we grieve for our dead, but not without hope. Thank you for receiving them into your merciful care. Renew our confidence in your goodness in this time of our earthly pilgrimage. Help us to encourage and help one another along the way. Lead us, by the Cross of Jesus, into the Kingdom which you have prepared for all who have been redeemed by his suffering, death, and resurrection.

Lord, in your mercy, please hear our prayer.

Hear our prayer; and graciously grant all that glorifies you and benefits our poor broken world, for the sake of your Son, Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen.