Prayers

Walking in the light of the coming Savior, let us pray for the church, the world, and all who await God’s justice.

Like a potter working clay, shape and mold our church leaders into vessels fit to serve your people and the world according to your purpose. Hear us, O God.  Your mercy is great.

Awaken us to the majesty and beauty of your creation—sun, moon, stars, and all living things—and teach us to be good stewards of these gifts. Hear us, O God.  Your mercy is great.

Stir up your might and bring justice to all lands. Where there is war, bring peace; where there is ethnic strife, bring reconciliation; where there is hunger, provide food; and where there is oppression, bring freedom. Hear us, O God. Your mercy is great.

Give ear and hear the cries of all in need: those who mourn, those without hope, those who live in fear, those who are sick especially those on our
congregational prayer list and those we name aloud or in the silence of our hearts . . . . . . . We remember all those who have died and suffered from the effects of AIDS and pray that you bring an end to the suffering and a cure for the disease. Hear us, O God. Your mercy is great.

Guide us as a shepherd throughout this Advent season; turn us away from the temptations of consumerism and lead us to see and respond to the needs of those in our community. Hear us, O God.  Your mercy is great.

Here other intercessions may be offered.

Sustain us by your grace, just as you sustained the saints who called on your name and whose lives gave witness to you. Hear us, O God. Your mercy is great.

Into your hands, gracious God, we commend all for whom we pray, trusting in your steadfast love and faithfulness, through Jesus Christ, our Savior and Lord.   Amen.