Prayers of the Church for March 18, 2018

written by Cathy Ammlung | February 17, 2018

THE PRAYERS,  5th Sunday in Lent, Cycle B (March 18, 2018)

THE PRAYERS OF THE CHURCH

Let us humbly beseech God for his mercy upon the Church, the world, and one another.

A brief silence

Put a new and right heart within your Church, O Lord, so that it may always cling in perfect faith to Jesus, and may always do your will. Cleanse it from wrongful teaching and shameful deeds; and by the power of your Holy Spirit, make it shine with your Son’s forgiveness, compassion and mercy.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

Put a new and faithful heart in your people when they are persecuted for Jesus’ sake. Give them the joy of knowing that they indeed drink with Jesus from his cup. We pray also for our companion synods and for your missionaries throughout the world.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

Put a new and joyful heart within this congregation. By the power of your Holy Spirit, unite us to Jesus’ death and rising; cause us to bear much fruit in his name; and use us to draw others to his cross.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

Put a new and patient heart within all who care for family members with special needs. Give them compassion, strength, and the joy of knowing that what they do for their loved one, they do for you.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

Put a new and wise heart within the rulers of the nations, so that they may always do justice, love mercy, and walk humbly before you. Give to all of us a desire to help our neighbors, especially those who are struggling in these difficult times; and teach us to live together in peace.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

Put a new and steadfast heart into all who serve our country, here and abroad. Give them courage, wisdom, and competence in all they do; strengthen and shield their loved ones; and bring them home in safety when their work is done.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

Put a new and trustful heart into all who cry to you for help; especially: {List}. Give them the joy of your saving help; and give to all who care for them the comfort and guidance of your Holy Spirit.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

Dear Father, your Son was buried in the ground like a grain of wheat; rose to triumphant and eternal life; and promised that his life would bear much fruit in all who trust in him. We commend into your care all his servants who have departed this life.  Put a new and faith-filled heart into each of us, so that with all who have been buried with Christ, we might likewise be raised with him, and share the joy of your kingdom with all your saints in light.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.For these things, and for whatever else is needful, dear Father, we pray in the name 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 for March 11, 2018

written by Cathy Ammlung | February 17, 2018

THE PRAYERS,  4th Sunday in Lent, Cycle B (March 11, 2018)

THE PRAYERS OF THE CHURCH

Let us humbly beseech God for his mercy upon the Church, the world, and one another.

A brief silence

We thank you, dear Father, for giving us your Son. Grant that through the Church’s faithful witness to Him, many people may know of your great love for them; believe in you; and receive everlasting life.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

Give hope and healing when your Church experiences persecution. Lift it up as a sign of your saving love in a sin-darkened world. We pray also for our companion synods and for your missionaries throughout the world.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

We ask for your blessing upon the people of this congregation. Center our hearts in your love, shown for us in Christ Jesus, and help us to share that love with others.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

We pray this day for those who are single by choice or by circumstance. Be their dear Friend and wise counselor. Help them to be good and true friends to others; and to find deep joy in serving you.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

Save your world through the sacrifice of your Son.  Teach the leaders of the nations the ways of wisdom, integrity, and humility. Keep them from being seduced by power and praise. Fill them with a hunger for justice; a love of mercy; and a desire to work for peace among all people.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

We pray to you on behalf of our military personnel, and all who shield others from harm. Through their labors, bring safety and justice in dangerous places. Protect and defend them when they are in peril; heal them when they fall; and reunite them with their loved ones when their task is done.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

As the Israelites looked upon the bronze serpent and were healed, grant that all who suffer may look upon the Cross of Christ and find healing, comfort, forgiveness, hope and life. Especially we pray for {List}. Restore them to our fellowship; and bestow upon us all the joy of your salvation.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

We praise you, heavenly Father, for receiving into eternal life those who believed on Jesus Christ in their mortal life. Keep also our minds and hearts firmly fixed on Jesus, so that we may journey safely through the wilderness of this world into the blessedness and joy of your Promised Land.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.For these things, and for whatever else is needful, dear Father, we pray in the name 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 for March 4, 2018

written by Cathy Ammlung | February 17, 2018

THE PRAYERS, 

3rd Sunday in Lent, Cycle B (March 4, 2018)

THE PRAYERS OF THE CHURCH

Let us humbly beseech God for his mercy upon the Church, the world, and one another.

A brief silence

Holy God, cleanse and purify your Church. Make it into a house of prayer for all people. Give it pastors, bishops, and leaders who preach, preside, and teach faithfully, and whose lives adorn the Gospel with holiness. Use it to draw all people to yourself.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

Bless your suffering Church, that it may never be overcome by bitterness or despair, but may be a beacon of your saving love in a sin-darkened world. We pray also for our companion synods and for your missionaries throughout the world.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

Give to the members of this congregation such zeal for your house, so that we may worship you joyfully; care for one another tenderly; and proclaim your Word boldly.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

We pray for fathers and mothers; foster parents; and everyone entrusted with the care and nurture of your little ones. Give them the grace and faith to they may teach their children your commandments and to bring them to your House, there to receive your gracious Word and Sacraments.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

Guide the rulers of the nations to seek your will, and give them the strength to do it. Teach us all to live by your commandments; give wisdom and prudence to our elected leaders; and grant us your peace.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

Grant integrity, courage and wisdom to first responders and those in our military. Shield them when they are wounded; give hope and patience to their families; and bring them swiftly home when their work is done.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

You are the strength of all who suffer and the joy of all who are sorrowful. Be present with your merciful care to all whose need is great, especially: {List}. Give to them, and to all who love them, grace to trust in Christ Jesus; for he alone is your life, forgiveness, power and wisdom incarnate.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

Gracious heavenly Father, we entrust into your merciful care all our departed loved ones. Comfort all who grieve. Keep our feet in the path of your commandments; our hearts firmly fixed on your forgiving love; and our eyes forever focused on the Cross of Christ Jesus, until you bring us safely into your welcoming embrace and eternal home.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.  

For these things, and for whatever else is needful, dear Father, we pray in the name 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 for February 25, 2018

written by Cathy Ammlung | February 17, 2018

THE PRAYERS, 2nd Sunday in Lent, Cycle B (February 25, 2018)

THE PRAYERS OF THE CHURCH

Let us humbly beseech God for his mercy upon the Church, the world, and one another.

A brief silence

Holy Father, you inspired Peter to confess Jesus as your Son, and as Messiah and Lord. Inspire your Church to boldly and faithfully acclaim Jesus to the world as your only Son, and as its only Savior.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

Your Son did not shrink from suffering and death. Grant grace to all who are persecuted for Jesus’ sake, so that they glory in his Cross, and rejoice in his resurrection. We pray also for our companion synods and for your missionaries throughout the world.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

Teach the people of this congregation to follow Jesus in humility, service, and faithful cross-bearing. Grant that all our programs, projects, and ministries; and our worship, words and lives, may glorify you and build up the Body of Christ.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

Give courage and joy to our college students and young adults; and keep their faith strong and true. Help them dedicate their energy, creativity and talents to caring for other people and glorifying your holy Name.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

Through your covenant with Abraham and Sarah, you blessed all nations. Grant to all people the blessings of peace, freedom, and righteousness, which apart from you cannot flourish. Direct and guide our nation, that our words and deeds may please and glorify you, the Lord of the whole earth.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

Look with favor on first responders, those who serve in our country’s military, and all who stand in harm’s way on behalf of others. Give them wisdom, courage, and competence; protect them in times of danger; strengthen their loved ones; and when their task is done, bring them home swiftly and safely.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

We lift before you the needs and prayers of all who cry out to you for help, especially: {List}. Grant to them the joy of your saving help; bless all who care for them; and restore them to health and hope.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

Most holy Father, we thank you for fulfilling your covenantal promises to those who have died and are at rest in you, especially: {List}. Wipe away the tears of those whose grief runs deep. Keep us calm and fearless, ever trusting your love which shines from Jesus’ Cross and lights our path throughout our earthly pilgrimage. Bring us, and those of every nation whom you have redeemed, to the final fulfillment of your blessing, won for us by Abraham’s glorious offspring, your Son, Christ Jesus our Lord.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

For these things, and for whatever else is needful, dear Father, we pray in the name of your Son, Jesus Christ, our Lord, who with you and the Holy Spirit reigns, one God, now and forever. Amen.



The Prayers, 1st Sunday in Lent, Cycle B (February 18, 2018)

written by Cathy Ammlung | February 17, 2018

1st Sunday in Lent, Cycle B (February 18, 2018) 

THE PRAYERS OF THE CHURCH

Let us humbly beseech God for his mercy upon the Church, the world, and one another.

A brief silence

Lord God, purify your holy Church. When it is tempted by the allure of power, success, or convenience, turn its eyes to the Cross of your dear Son.  By the power of your Spirit, keep it faithful in its proclamation of repentance, forgiveness, and the close approach of your Kingdom.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

Purify your persecuted people; and shield them from the temptation to forsake your Word when they are threatened by the powers arrayed against them. Keep them steadfast in their faith. We pray also on behalf of our sister congregations companion dioceses, and for your missionaries throughout the world.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

Purify and guide the people of this congregation. When we are tempted to focus on peripheral matters, turn our eyes to Christ, the center of our existence. Give us grace to prefer nothing whatsoever to him.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

Purify and defend our youth in middle and high school. Strengthen them to resist the allure of popularity; dangerous pleasures; and anything that would draw them away from loving and trusting you.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

Purify this sin-shadowed world. Grant that we may not be seduced by promises of peace and plenty that do not proceed from your holy will. Teach the leaders of the nations that, while people surely need food and justice, their lives are in your hands; and you alone are their sovereign Lord.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

Purify all first responders and military personnel.  Turn their eyes to you, the King of all nations. Keep them faithful and honorable in their service; and bring them home safely when their task is done.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

Purify and heal the minds, hearts and bodies of all who suffer and cry to you for help —especially: {List}. When they are tempted to despair, turn their eyes to the Cross, on which was hung the life and salvation of the whole world.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

Most holy Father, we commend into your keeping the lives of all who died trusting in your mercy. When we are tempted by doubt, confusion, or the cares and pleasures of this world, turn our eyes to our Lord Jesus, our hope and heart’s desire. Fill us with your Spirit, and keep us safely on the path that leads to your eternal home and welcoming embrace.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

For these things, and for whatever else is needful, dear Father, we pray in the name 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, Ash Wednesday, February 14, 2018

written by Cathy Ammlung | February 17, 2018

Ash Wednesday, Cycle B (February 14, 2018)

THE PRAYERS OF THE CHURCH

Let us humbly beseech God for his mercy upon the Church, the world, and one another.

A brief silence

Have mercy on your Church, O Lord. Cleanse it from false teaching, feigned holiness, and fake discipleship. Form it in the likeness of your dear Son, fill it with your Holy Spirit, and use it to draw all people to yourself.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

Have mercy on your persecuted servants, O Lord. Cleanse them from bitterness, hatred, or thirst for revenge. Form them into the likeness of your dear Son, fill them with your Holy Spirit, and use them to lead the enemies of Christ to repentance and salvation.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

Have mercy on this congregation, O Lord. Cleanse us from apathy, inattention, and contention. Form us into the likeness of your dear Son, fill us with your Holy Spirit, and use us to draw our families, friends, and communities to the foot of Jesus’ Cross.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

Have mercy on all who doubt your existence or your goodness, O Lord. Cleanse them from spiritual darkness, intellectual pride, or emotional despair. Form them into the likeness of your dear Son, fill them with your Holy Spirit, and bless them with faith and trust in you, their Savior, Lord, and Friend.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

Have mercy upon all who are entrusted with power and authority in this sin-shadowed world, O Lord. Cleanse them from cruelty, lust for power, and worship of self. Form them into the likeness of your dear Son, fill them with your Holy Spirit, and use them to bring your blessings of peace, prosperity, and concord to all people.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

Have mercy upon all who stand in harm’s way on behalf of others, O Lord. Cleanse them from wrong judgment or base motives in the execution of their duties. Form them into the likeness of your dear Son, fill them with your Holy Spirit, and use them to bring a measure of safety, justice, and freedom in places of chaos and danger.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

Have mercy on all whose lives are shadowed by suffering, sorrow, or any kind of evil, O Lord. Cleanse them from all that troubles them and prevents them from turning to you, their Strength and their Redeemer. Form them into the likeness of your dear Son, fill them with your Holy Spirit, and restore them to wholeness and hope, in the company of all who love them.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

Most holy and gracious Father, we commend into your mercy all our beloved dead. We who are but ashes and dust humbly beseech you for your mercy upon us as well. Cleanse us from every sin which separates us from you and from one another. Form us into the likeness of your dear Son, fill us with your Holy Spirit, and use us to help lighten our neighbor’s burdens throughout our earthly pilgrimage. Lead us, with all whom you have redeemed by the Cross and Resurrection of Jesus, into your Kingdom, where, untroubled by sin, evil, or death, we may rejoice in your goodness and gaze upon your glory forever.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

For these things, and for whatever else is needful, dear Father, we pray in the name 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, 1st Sunday in Lent, February 18, 2018

written by Cathy Ammlung | February 17, 2018

THE PRAYERS (with Lessons and Hymns following), 

1st Sunday in Lent, Cycle B (February 18, 2018)

 

THE PRAYERS OF THE CHURCH

 

Let us humbly beseech God for his mercy upon the Church, the world, and one another.

 

A brief silence

 

Lord God, purify your holy Church. When it is tempted by the allure of power, success, or convenience, turn its eyes to the Cross of your dear Son.  By the power of your Spirit, keep it faithful in its proclamation of repentance, forgiveness, and the close approach of your Kingdom.

 

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

 

Purify your persecuted people; and shield them from the temptation to forsake your Word when they are threatened by the powers arrayed against them. Keep them steadfast in their faith. We pray also on behalf of our sister congregations companion dioceses, and for your missionaries throughout the world.

 

Lord, in your mercy, Hear our prayer.

 

Purify and guide the people of this congregation. When we are tempted to focus on peripheral matters, turn our eyes to Christ, the center of our existence. Give us grace to prefer nothing whatsoever to him.

 

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

 

Purify and defend our youth in middle and high school. Strengthen them to resist the allure of popularity; dangerous pleasures; and anything that would draw them away from loving and trusting you.

 

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

 

Purify this sin-shadowed world. Grant that we may not be seduced by promises of peace and plenty that do not proceed from your holy will. Teach the leaders of the nations that, while people surely need food and justice, their lives are in your hands; and you alone are their sovereign Lord.

 

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

Purify all first responders and military personnel.  Turn their eyes to you, the King of all nations. Keep them faithful and honorable in their service; and bring them home safely when their task is done.

 

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

 

Purify and heal the minds, hearts and bodies of all who suffer and cry to you for help —especially: {List}. When they are tempted to despair, turn their eyes to the Cross, on which was hung the life and salvation of the whole world.

 

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

 

Most holy Father, we commend into your keeping the lives of all who died trusting in your mercy. When we are tempted by doubt, confusion, or the cares and pleasures of this world, turn our eyes to our Lord Jesus, our hope and heart’s desire. Fill us with your Spirit, and keep us safely on the path that leads to your eternal home and welcoming embrace.

 

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

 

For these things, and for whatever else is needful, dear Father, we pray in the name of your Son, Jesus Christ, our Lord, who with you and the Holy Spirit reigns, one God, now and forever. Amen.

 

 


 

February 18, 2018, 1st Sunday in Lent

 

Genesis 22:1-18 (The near-sacrifice of Isaac)

ELW: Genesis 9:8-17 (God’s rainbow covenant with Noah)

Psalm 25:1-10 (Be mindful of your mercy; do not remember the sins of my youth)

James 1:12-18 (God doesn’t tempt us to do evil; all good gifts come down from Father of lights)

            ELW: 1 Peter 3:18-22 (Christ suffered for all; the Flood prefiguring baptism)

Mark 1:9-15 (Temptation in the wilderness)

 

Opening hymn: LSB #99, O Lord, Throughout These Forty Days

(LSB #418, ELW #319)

OR ELW #320, The Glory of These Forty Days

OR ELW #334, Tree of Life and Awesome Mystery, v.1-3; verse for Lent 1; end with “General” verse

Hymn of the Day: LBW #88, Oh Love, How Deep, How Broad, How High

(LSB #544, ELW #322)

Communion Hymn #1: WOV #660, I Want Jesus to Walk With Me (ELW #325)

Communion Hymn #2: LBW #541, Jesus, Still Lead On (ELW #624)

(LSB #718, Jesus, Lead Thou On)

Closing Hymn: LBW #228/9, A Mighty Fortress (LSB #656/7; ELW #503-505)

Or LSB #547, The Lamb, the Lamb

OR WOV #771, Great is Thy Faithfulness (LSB #809, ELW #733)

 



Prayers of the Church, Ash Wednesday, February 14, 2018

written by Cathy Ammlung | February 17, 2018

 

THE PRAYERS (with Lessons and Hymns following), 

Ash Wednesday, Cycle B (February 14, 2018)

 

THE PRAYERS OF THE CHURCH

 

Let us humbly beseech God for his mercy upon the Church, the world, and one another.

 

A brief silence

 

Have mercy on your Church, O Lord. Cleanse it from false teaching, feigned holiness, and fake discipleship. Form it in the likeness of your dear Son, fill it with your Holy Spirit, and use it to draw all people to yourself.

 

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

 

Have mercy on your persecuted servants, O Lord. Cleanse them from bitterness, hatred, or thirst for revenge. Form them into the likeness of your dear Son, fill them with your Holy Spirit, and use them to lead the enemies of Christ to repentance and salvation.

 

Lord, in your mercy, Hear our prayer.

 

Have mercy on this congregation, O Lord. Cleanse us from apathy, inattention, and contention. Form us into the likeness of your dear Son, fill us with your Holy Spirit, and use us to draw our families, friends, and communities to the foot of Jesus’ Cross.

 

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

 

Have mercy on all who doubt your existence or your goodness, O Lord. Cleanse them from spiritual darkness, intellectual pride, or emotional despair. Form them into the likeness of your dear Son, fill them with your Holy Spirit, and bless them with faith and trust in you, their Savior, Lord, and Friend.

 

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

 

Have mercy upon all who are entrusted with power and authority in this sin-shadowed world, O Lord. Cleanse them from cruelty, lust for power, and worship of self. Form them into the likeness of your dear Son, fill them with your Holy Spirit, and use them to bring your blessings of peace, prosperity, and concord to all people.

 

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

Have mercy upon all who stand in harm’s way on behalf of others, O Lord. Cleanse them from wrong judgment or base motives in the execution of their duties. Form them into the likeness of your dear Son, fill them with your Holy Spirit, and use them to bring a measure of safety, justice, and freedom in places of chaos and danger.

 

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

 

Have mercy on all whose lives are shadowed by suffering, sorrow, or any kind of evil, O Lord. Cleanse them from all that troubles them and prevents them from turning to you, their Strength and their Redeemer. Form them into the likeness of your dear Son, fill them with your Holy Spirit, and restore them to wholeness and hope, in the company of all who love them.

 

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

 

Most holy and gracious Father, we commend into your mercy all our beloved dead. We who are but ashes and dust humbly beseech you for your mercy upon us as well. Cleanse us from every sin which separates us from you and from one another. Form us into the likeness of your dear Son, fill us with your Holy Spirit, and use us to help lighten our neighbor’s burdens throughout our earthly pilgrimage. Lead us, with all whom you have redeemed by the Cross and Resurrection of Jesus, into your Kingdom, where, untroubled by sin, evil, or death, we may rejoice in your goodness and gaze upon your glory forever.

 

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

 

For these things, and for whatever else is needful, dear Father, we pray in the name of your Son, Jesus Christ, our Lord, who with you and the Holy Spirit reigns, one God, now and forever. Amen.

 

 


 

Scriptures and Suggested Hymns, February 14, 2018: Ash Wednesday

 

Joel 2:12-19 (Rend you heart, not your garments)

ELW: Joel 2:12, 12-17, OR Isaiah 58:1-12 (True fasting is doing justice)

Psalm 51:1-19 (Create in me a clean heart, O God)

2 Corinthians 5:20b-6:10 (Ambassadors for Christ; now is the acceptable time Matthew 6:1-6, 16-21 (Prayer, fasting, alms that are acceptable to God)

 

Opening Hymn may be omitted if Psalm 51 is spoken or chanted here):

LBW #99, O Lord, Throughout These Forty Days (LSB #418, ELW #319)

Hymn of the Day: LBW #307, Forgive Our Sins as We Forgive

(LSB #843, ELW #605)

OR WOV #659, O Sun of Justice (2nd verse great if you preach on 2 Corinthians text; tune is simple plainsong chant, or sing to the Doxology)

Communion 1: ELW #328, Restore in Us, O God

            OR LBW #103, O Christ, Thou Lamb of God

Communion 2: LBW #304, Today Your Mercy Calls Us (LSB #915)

OR  WOV 734, Softly and Tenderly Jesus is Calling (ELW #608)

Closing Hymn: LBW #218, Strengthen for Service, Lord (ELW #497)

 

 



The Transfiguration of Our Lord (February 11, 2018)

written by Cathy Ammlung | February 17, 2018

The Transfiguration of Our Lord, Cycle B (February 11, 2018)

THE PRAYERS OF THE CHURCH

Let us lift our hearts, hands, and voices to the Father of light, beseeching him through his Son Jesus to have mercy upon his Church, his world, and his people.

A brief silence

Most holy Father, let your Son rule gloriously in the Church throughout the world, so that the light of his forgiveness and mercy shines in all its words and deeds. Make the Church truly into your new Zion, so that many people may be drawn to the perfection of Christ’s beauty, and be saved.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

Shed the light of Jesus’ love on Christians who suffer at the hands of others for his sake; and let that holy love touch, purify and transform them and even those who hate them. We also ask your blessing upon our sister congregations and companion synods, and upon all missionaries of your Gospel.

Lord, in your mercy, Hear our prayer.

Give such grace to this congregation that all who gather here in Jesus’ name should day by day see him more clearly, love him more dearly, and follow him more nearly.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

We ask a special blessing on little children – not only those dear to us, but each of them throughout the world.  Shelter them from every evil; shine the light of your love upon them; and give them the grace to hear Jesus’ voice in our words, and to see his dear face in our deeds.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

Moses the Lawgiver and Elijah the Prophet bore witness to your Son, the King of the nations. Grant, we pray, such wisdom and righteousness to the leaders of the world, that through their decisions and actions, they too should bear witness to their coming King; should use their authority with wisdom and integrity; and should lead the people entrusted to their care into paths of justice, righteousness, and peace.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

Clothe in the armor of light all who risk their lives to protect the innocent and to defend liberty and justice. Grant that all they do may serve your purpose. Help us to honor their service; care for their wounds; support their families; and rejoice in their homecoming when their work is done.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

We beseech you to shed the light of your strong saving love upon all who sit in the darkness and shadows of pain, fear, loneliness, despair or sorrow. Especially we name before you: {List}. Let them see the light of your countenance, and grant them your saving help.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

Most holy and gracious Father, through the suffering, death and resurrection of your dear Son, you promised the imperishable light of your glory to all who die trusting in you. We commend into your keeping our departed loved ones. Let Christ be the lamp to our feet and the Light to our pilgrim path. Give us ears eager to listen to him and eyes willing to see him, alone, in every circumstance of life. And bring us to that day when, with all the redeemed, we gaze upon his face and worship him in the splendor of light and life which he shares eternally with you and the Holy Spirit, God forever.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

Graciously hear, and generously answer our prayers and petitions, dear Father, as may be best for us and to your greater glory, thorough your Son, Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen.



Epiphany 5 (February 4, 2018)

written by Cathy Ammlung | February 17, 2018

5th Sunday after Epiphany, Proper 4, Cycle B (February 4, 2018)

THE PRAYERS OF THE CHURCH

Let us lift our hearts, hands, and voices to the Father of light, beseeching him through his Son Jesus to have mercy upon his Church, his world, and his people.

A brief silence

Holy God, renew and strengthen your Church. Grant wings to its words of faithful proclamation, so that many hearts may be reached with the Gospel of salvation. Make it swift to accomplish deeds of forgiveness and mercy in your name. Make it tireless in bearing witness to you. Conform it to your will; and use it to draw all people to yourself.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

Renew and strengthen all who suffer for the sake of Jesus. Help them to constantly trust in your strong saving love.  Help us, who do not experience such suffering, to pray for them; defend them; provide for them as we are able; and to live in a way that glorifies you and honors their witness. We also ask your blessing upon our sister congregations and companion synods, and upon all missionaries of your Gospel.

Lord, in your mercy, Hear our prayer.

Renew and strengthen this congregation. Grant us such confidence in you that we willingly wait upon you for guidance; and gladly obey what you command. Use us to encourage and help our families, friends and neighbors, especially those who most need to know your love.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

Renew and strengthen your servants who are nearing or in retirement. Fill them with your Spirit, so that they may continue to walk tirelessly in the way of faithfulness and service which you set before them.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

Renew and strengthen the leaders of the nations. Grant them wisdom and understanding, counsel and might, knowledge and fear of the Lord, so that they might rightly care for their people, especially the poor and all who suffer from natural disaster or manmade calamities. Give all of us a teachable heart, eager to learn what makes for righteousness and peace in our communities and world.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

Renew and strengthen all whose work is difficult and dangerous, including those in our military. Grant them courage and honor; use their labors to accomplish your will; shield them and their loved ones when they are overtaken by adversity; and grant them a swift and joyous homecoming when their task is done.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

Renew and strengthen all those who suffer in body, mind, or spirit—especially {List}. Give them hope: to wait upon your gifts of health and wholeness. Give them faith: to rise above doubt, despair and sorrow. And give them your love, shared through each of us: to strengthen, shield, and surround them always.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

Most blessed and glorious Lord, we thank you for the great and final healing you bestow upon all who have died clinging to your promises. Grant us joy in the midst of sorrow; patience in suffering; courage in the face of danger; wisdom when we face hard choices; compassion and mercy as we minister to each other. And, at the last, vouchsafe to us the joy of being welcomed, with all whom you have healed from sin and death, into your eternal kingdom.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayerGraciously hear, and generously answer our prayers and petitions, dear Father, as may be best for us and to your greater glory, thorough your Son, Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen.