THE PRAYERS, 

5^th Sunday after Pentecost, Proper 7, Cycle B (June 24, 2018)

Let us pray to the Father of our Lord Jesus Christ on behalf of the Church, the world, and one another.

A brief silence

Most holy God, still the storms of division, heresy, and selfish ambition among your people. Make your Church an ark of safety for all who are overwhelmed by the floodwaters of sin and suffering; and make it a rock against which faithless words and evil deeds are dashed. Grant that through its words and works, many people may see your strong saving love in action, turn to you, and be saved.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

 Like Job, your persecuted servants cry out for a sign that their suffering has meaning; that their faithfulness is precious to you; and that their Redeemer lives and will vindicate them. Deliver them from evil; reveal your mighty arm and never-failing love; and reveal yourself to their tormentors, so that they should repent and believe in you. Shield and defend your missionaries, especially when they are met with hostility and rejection.

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, persistent in prayer, and tireless in loving service to all who find themselves sinking beneath the waves of suffering, sorrow or shame.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer

Bless all farmers, gardeners, and other stewards of creation. Make them wise and generous in their care for the earth and its creatures. By their labors, give food, raiment, and refreshment to all your people.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

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

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

 Bless with courage, prudence and patience all who work to keep us safe. Give them such integrity and clarity of purpose that all who are in danger or distress may turn to them without hesitation or fear. Shield them from harm; shelter their loved ones in your mighty arms; and bring them home in safety when their task is done.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

We plead on behalf of 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 the 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. Particularly this day we pray for: {List}.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

Thank you for bringing to safe harbor all who have 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, strife and fear. And, 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.

THE PRAYERS, 

4^th Sunday after Pentecost, Proper 6, Cycle B (June 17, 2018)

Let us pray to the Father of our Lord Jesus Christ on behalf of the Church, the world, and one another.

A brief silence

Most merciful Lord, clothe your Church with the beauty, holiness and righteousness of Christ. Nurture it with the living water of your Word and Sacraments, so that it may become the lovely dwelling-place for people of every nation, race, and tribe. 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 and reviled for your Name’s sake. Grant that their suffering may bear a rich harvest of faith, endurance, and forgiveness, until every knee should bow to adore you. 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; so that we may abide in his love, share his forgiveness, teach his commandments, and share in his righteousness.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer

Heavenly Father, in you all good and faithful earthly fatherhood finds its source, its guide, and its consummation. Bless all fathers, and all who act with a father’s love, not just this day but always. Fill them with holy wisdom, gentle strength, steadfast care, and patient hope; and grant that in their care, all children may find protection, guidance and love.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

Teach our earthly rulers to walk not in the counsel of the ungodly; nor to stand in the way of sinners; nor to sit in the seat of scoffers. Teach them rather 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 special care all who take up arms in defense of life and liberty. Teach them your commandments; fill their minds with wisdom, their hearts with integrity, and their arms with courage and strength. Bless their loved ones, and grant them a swift and joyful homecoming.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

Give to all who suffer in mind, body, or spirit, the refreshing waters of your compassion and healing; and grant that they may dwell in the safety of your care even in the midst of all that troubles them. Especially we remember before you: {List}.  Bless those who care for them; help us all to speak words of encouragement and offer deeds of kindness to them; and bring us all 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.

THE PRAYERS, 

3^rd Sunday after Pentecost, Proper 5, Cycle B (June 10, 2018)

Let us pray to the Father of our Lord Jesus Christ on behalf of the Church, the world, and one another.

A brief silence

Holy Father, purify and renew your Church, so that all who are baptized should do your will, speak your word, care for your people, and live as true sisters and brothers of your Son, our Savior.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

Cast out the forces of evil from this world which seek to destroy your suffering Church. Gather in your tender care all who are persecuted for naming Jesus as Savior, Lord, and Brother; and soften the hearts of all their foes, until they, too, repent and strive to do your will. Give a double portion of your Spirit to all missionaries of the Gospel, especially in places most hostile to its proclamation.

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 the bonds of affection, respect, and care in all families. Give peace and health to homes filled with discord, abuse or grief. Enthrone yourself in every heart, so that, in loving and serving you, our true and heavenly Father, family members also draw closer to one another.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

Give us leaders who work to do your will as they take counsel for the nations. We ask your blessing and guidance especially upon the elected and appointed leaders in our own nation and communities. Despite the brokenness of creation and the suffering inflicted by sin and evil, give your people a foretaste of the true freedom and lasting peace that only you can bestow.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

 Arm those who stand harm’s way on behalf of others with courage, wisdom, integrity and skill. Crown with your blessing 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.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

We remember before you all who suffer, especially those who have asked for our intercession on their behalf, including: {List}. Refresh them with the healing power of your life-giving Spirit; help us to minister to them with compassion and gentle patience; and restore them to fellowship with all who love them.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

Most merciful and gracious Father, we thank you for the lives of our loved ones who have died in the shelter of 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 bring us to the joyful homecoming 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.

THE PRAYERS, 

2^nd  Sunday after Pentecost, Proper 4, Cycle B (June 3, 2018)

Let us pray to the Father of our Lord Jesus Christ on behalf of the Church, the world, and one another.

A brief silence

Lord God, grant that throughout the world, your Church may enter into your Sabbath rest. Teach it to more perfectly love, praise, and worship you. Refresh and strengthen it for witness and service. And make it a haven of peace, joy, and fellowship where many may find health and salvation through the merits of your dear Son.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

Give renewed strength and courage to your persecuted servants. Make their words, deeds, and lives shine with the love of Jesus. By their faithful witness, confound and convert their tormentors. And give a double portion of your Spirit to all missionaries of the Gospel, especially in places most hostile to its proclamation.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

We remember before you all who must work on the Sabbath, on holidays, through the night, or in long or swing shifts. Renew their strength and dedication. Grant that they may pray and glorify you amid the challenges of their labors. And let them be an example and an encouragement to all with whom they work.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

We pray for our earthly leaders – whether their responsibilities are in government, education, business, the military, or elsewhere in our culture, community, and country. Make them wise, good, and just. Remind them that they must give an account of their leadership to you, the Lord, Judge, and King of all nations. And grant that, under their guidance, all people may live peaceable and goodly lives.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

 You delivered your people Israel from earthly bondage to cruel overlords. We beseech you on behalf of all who are in bondage. Some are slaves to drugs, violence, or pornography. Others have been coerced into hopeless, brutal servitude. Deliver them from evil, dear Lord; and help us to be instruments of your Sabbath peace to them as they heal.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

The healing you bring to all who suffer is a foretaste of your eternal Sabbath rest. Bestow it upon all who are burdened and sorrowful – especially {List}. Restore them to health and hope, and to fellowship with all who love them.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

Most holy Father, thank you for receiving our blessed dead into the perfect peace and abundant life of your Kingdom. Bring your comfort, strength, and peace to all who labor under sorrow’s load. Refresh all of our hearts, so that we may be of good courage throughout our earthly pilgrimage. And receive us, with all whom you have redeemed through the death and resurrection of Jesus, into that joy-filled Sabbath rest which has no end.

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.

THE PRAYERS, 

Holy Trinity, Cycle B (May 27, 2018)

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

Gracious Father, bless and preserve your holy Church, purchased with the blood of your dear Son and sanctified with the fire of your Spirit. Keep it steadfast in faith; sound in doctrine; loving in service; generous in giving; ardent in worship; and holy in living. In all things, 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. Visit with your light and salvation our sister synods and companion congregations; and prosper the work of your missionaries throughout the world.

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; and 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, who are Father, Son and Holy Spirit. Give your incomparable gifts of faith, wisdom, and righteousness to all people, especially to those who take counsel for the nations. Conform the hearts of all people to your will, and grant us grace to participate in your loving communion.

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.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

Dearest Father, gather in your Son’s embrace all who suffer in body, mind or spirit, especially: {List}. Visit them with your salvation; and support them, and all who love, care, and pray for them, with your healing and holy Spirit.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

Most Holy and Blessed Trinity, we praise and adore you for welcoming into your eternal communion of life and love all who died trusting in you. Keep our hearts firmly fixed on you, the Lord and Giver of life, the Alpha and the Omega, the Creator, Savior, and Renewer of the world. Bring us, with the whole company of the redeemed of every time and place, every nation, tribe and tongue, into the joy of your presence, where we shall behold you face to face and adore you as 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.

THE PRAYERS, 

Day of Pentecost, Cycle B (May 20, 2018) 

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

Come, Holy Spirit, and renew the Church. Fill it with boldness in witnessing to Jesus’ strong saving love. 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.

Come, Holy Spirit, and 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. Kindle the faith and inspire the proclamation of all missionaries of the Gospel, and of our sister congregations and synods.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

Come, Holy Spirit, and 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.

Come, Holy Spirit, and stir up the faith in all who are confirmed 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.

Come, Holy Spirit, and renew the face of the earth. Fill the minds of worldly leaders with wisdom in guiding the nations towards peace and justice. Fill their hearts with 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.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

Come, Holy Spirit, and bring peace in all places of danger, violence and strife. Fill the minds and direct the actions of all who take up arms in defense of life and liberty. Strengthen and protect them; bless all they do that works for peace and justice; and bring them safely home when their task is done.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

Come, Holy Spirit, and bring joy, peace, and healing to 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 steadfast 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 the 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.

THE PRAYERS, 

The Seventh Sunday of Easter, Cycle B (May 13, 2018)

(May also be used for the Ascension of Our Lord)

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, your Church worships and blesses you for the triumph of your Son over the powers of sin, evil and death. We praise you for his ascension to your right hand; and we pray that you would give your Church steadfastness, joy, and boldness to proclaim his rule to all the world, until he comes in glory.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

Ease the suffering of all who are persecuted for naming Jesus as Lord; and give gentleness to their words and peace in their hearts. Bring to repentance and humble faith all who torment them. We also ask your gracious favor upon all missionaries of the Gospel, and upon our sister congregations and synods.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

This congregation thanks and praises you for the passion, resurrection, and ascension of Christ our Savior. Grant us grace to live in accordance with his commands; to proclaim his Lordship over the world; and to share his forgiveness and grace with those who need them most.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

You care tenderly for your people, especially the littlest who are laid in your arms. We therefore ask your blessing upon all mothers and those who act with a mother’s love. Give them your own patience, steadfastness, tenderness and wisdom. Share your deep gentleness and strong love as they care for their children.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

Your Son has ascended on high, and rules as king of all nations. Grant wisdom, humility, and fairness to the leaders of the earth; and teach all people to live together in peace and unity, until the day Christ comes to judge the living and the dead. Bless this nation with peace, honor, and goodness; and conform it to your will.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

We lift before you the sacrifices made by all who risk their lives on behalf of others, especially those who have been wounded; we thank you for those who gave their lives in defense of their country; and we ask your blessing and protection upon all who currently. Bless them, their loved ones, and those whose lives they protect and defend.

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, as Christ has ascended to heaven to reign in glory forever, we await the coming of that day when we, too, 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.

THE PRAYERS, 

The Sixth Sunday of Easter, Cycle B (May 6, 2018)

Let us pray to our victorious Savior on behalf of the Church, the world, and all people according to their needs.

A brief silence

Lord Jesus, bless your Church with the continued power and presence of your Holy Spirit, so that your love fills and overflows it. Nourish it with Word and Sacrament; and through its words and actions, let the world see, desire, and dwell in your love forever.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

Cheer the hearts and strengthen the spirits of all who are persecuted for your Name’s sake, and use their witness to cause many to repent and believe in you. We ask your richest blessing also upon our companion synods, sister congregations, and upon your missionaries throughout the world.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

Bless the people of this congregation with love, respect, and kindness towards each other, so that others in our community may truly know we are your followers. Fill us with wisdom and prudence, and through the gift of your Holy Spirit, make us glad to obey your commandments.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

Cause your love and goodness to flourish in our young adults, so that they may be salt, light, leaven, and example to their friends, fellow students, and coworkers.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

Pour out upon the leaders of the nations the Spirit of wisdom and understanding, counsel and might. Teach them to love justice; to act with mercy toward the poor and hungry in their lands; and to walk humbly before your Father. Grant to all people the blessings of peace and unity on earth.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

Lord Jesus, bless those in the military and all first responders, with courage, wisdom and integrity. Guide, protect, and strengthen them. Let their labors help create a safe, just world where the innocent may live in peace; and bring them home swiftly when their work is done.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

Grant the refreshment and joy of your life-giving Spirit to all who cry to you for help. Especially we pray for: {List}. Grant them wholeness of body and mind; a joyful and confident hope in your goodness, and the peace which the world cannot give them.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

Lord Jesus, thank you for choosing, forgiving, and saving the faithful who have gone before us. Thank you for working those deeds in us as well. Do whatever is needed so that we may bear the rich fruits of love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control. And gather us to your eternal Kingdom, where those fruits may fully ripen and be perfected, to your glory and to the delight of all whom you have redeemed.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

Grant to us all that is in accordance with your will, dear Jesus, and accomplish your salvation among us; for you are risen from the dead and dwell in majesty with your Father and the Holy Spirit, one God, now and forever. Amen.

THE PRAYERS, 

The Fifth Sunday of Easter, Cycle B (April 29, 2018)

Let us pray to our victorious Savior on behalf of the Church, the world, and all people according to their needs.

A brief silence

Lord Jesus, grant that your holy Church may always abide in you, and you in it. Make it fruitful in words of faith and hope, and deeds of love. Through its witness, graft many souls to yourself, the living Vine.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

Give to your persecuted servants the knowledge that they shall bear rich fruit that refreshes and nourishes many hearts. We ask your richest blessing also upon our companion synods, sister congregations, and upon your missionaries throughout the world.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

You are the vine, we are the branches. Keep the people of this congregation united to you and to one another. Help our ministries to bear much fruit in the lives of those around us. Give us joy in knowing and serving you, our Savior and Brother.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

Abide in our high school students, so that their lives may be rooted and grounded in you, not the fads and fancies of this world.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

Prune the hearts of all who take counsel for the nations. Cut away the greed, pride, and lust for power that leads to hatred and violence. Build up everything that enriches the lives of the poor and dispossessed. Grant that the desire to do your Father’s will might abide in the hearts and minds of leaders and peoples everywhere.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

You have overcome the world; therefore, be the joy and strength of all those who defend us against those things that still trouble our world. Guide, protect, and strengthen them. Prosper all their works that make for peace, safety and justice; and bring them home safely and soon.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

Grant to all who suffer in mind, body or spirit a double portion of your life-giving Spirit. Especially we pray for: {List}. Fill them with your abundant life; keep them steadfast in faith; and strengthen and bless all who care for them.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

Lord Jesus, those who abide in you shall never have death be the last word over them. We thank you for speaking your words of forgiveness and eternal life to all who have fallen asleep in you. Abide with us and in us; and lead us to that place where we shall dwell with you and with all the redeemed, and shall feast at you heavenly Table forever.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

Grant to us all that is in accordance with your will, dear Jesus, and accomplish your salvation among us; for you are risen from the dead and dwell in majesty with your Father and the Holy Spirit, one God, now and forever. Amen.

THE PRAYERS, 

The Fourth Sunday of Easter, Cycle B (April 22, 2018)

Let us pray to our victorious Savior on behalf of the Church, the world, and all people according to their needs.

A brief silence

Lord Jesus, you are the Good Shepherd. Defend the Church from peril; provide for its needs; lead it in paths of righteousness and holiness; and through its ministry, lead many to hear your voice and follow you. Bless pastors and bishops, and make them faithful sheepdogs for your flock.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

You are the Faithful Shepherd for all your people who are set upon by wolves and persecutors. Protect, guide, and bless them; and give them such grace under pressure that their enemies may repent of evil. We ask your richest blessing also upon our companion synods, sister congregations, and your missionaries throughout the world.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

You are the Good Shepherd of this congregation. Lead us with your Word; prepare our table with your Body and Blood; teach us to do your will with glad and faithful hearts; and use us to lead many into your safe keeping.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

Keep in your special care our middle schoolers, so they may always hear and heed your voice above the noises and distractions that beset them. Guide them, and all our children, into pathways of righteousness, life, and safety all the days of their lives.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

You are the Gate of your sheep. Protect all people from false shepherds; from rulers who care nothing for their welfare; and from all the threatening dangers of this world. Bring peace in places of violence; rich pasture in places of poverty; and true righteousness in places of injustice.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

Lord Jesus, you are the Rod and Staff of all who stand in harm’s way on behalf of others. Guide, protect, and strengthen them. Prosper all their works that make for peace, safety and justice; and bring them home safely and soon.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

You are One who leads us through dark valleys shadowed by suffering. Be the strong Guide and sure comfort of all who call upon you, especially: {List}. Fill them with your abundant life; keep them steadfast in faith; and strengthen and bless all who care for them.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

Lord Jesus, you prepare a place for us even in the presence of our last enemy, death itself. We thank you for leading safely home all those who listened to your voice in this earthly life, especially {List}. Keep us close to your side; and lead us to that place where we shall dwell with you and with all the redeemed, and shall feast at you heavenly Table forever.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

Grant to us all that is in accordance with your will, dear Jesus, and accomplish your salvation among us; for you are risen from the dead and dwell in majesty with your Father and the Holy Spirit, one God, now and forever. Amen.