Lord, today we hear John the Baptist preparing the way for your son, Jesus Christ. Let us too, prepare the way, let us hear your call, and ready ourselves for your great coming. Hear our prayers we bring before you.
We pray for world leaders not to postpone action and to craft concrete and cohesive responses for the well-being of our common home for future generations.
We pray for the medics working in the Gaza Strip. We also pray for the many wounded children, with no surviving family. May the Holy Spirit stay close to them through their sorrow.
We pray for families and friends of all those recently bereaved, especially as the Christmas season often makes the loss more poignant.
We pray for all those suffering from ill health and in pain. May they receive the help and support they need to lead healthier, brighter days.
We pray for all those that are caring for others, be that NHS staff, care assistants and those looking after loved ones at home. We especially think of young carers that are responsible for the care and wellbeing of their parents.
We pray to prepare our hearts this Advent to welcome Jesus at Christmas. Fill us with love and energy this Christmastime.
Loving Lord, help us hear your call to come alive this Advent and see God’s plan for us. Amen.