Intercessions for Sunday 19th December 2021
Almighty God, in faith we bring our prayers to you; for the church, the world and ourselves. Give us grace to be ready to welcome you as you come to us, just as Mary did and so fulfilling the words of the prophets.
Father of all, we pray that the church will proclaim you as Lord throughout the world, praying especially for those persecuted for their faith, often living in fear for their lives. May they continue to speak boldly about the Gospel as you give them courage and protection. Bless the work of the many Christian organisations around the world, especially Open Doors, Christian Aid, Tear Fund and World Vision.
Lord in your mercy, Hear our prayer
God of Love, we pray for our churches here at St Peter’s & St Mary’s and all Saints and the community we serve, as we prepare for your coming. We give thanks for those who lead, teach and direct us, and for those who lovingly prepare services and outreach activities, for those who cook and clean, for all who live out their faith in practical ways, often unseen. Help us all to be generous with our time and may all we do be done with pure motives. Give us insight to know how to take things forward, in ways which will communicate your love to everyone we meet.
Let us take a moment to bring before God the neighbours in our streets, asking that we would have meaningful conversations with them, beyond the small talk…………….
Lord in your mercy, Hear our prayer
God of Peace, we pray that you will strengthen our determination to work for a world of peace and justice – help us to remember that whatever our nationality or race, we are all people of the same world, together in Christ.
As we think of the many places where there is much suffering and poverty, often the result of wars and corruption, give us the courage to challenge those in power with the values of the Gospel.
Lord in your mercy, Hear our prayer
Gracious God, as we face new Covid restrictions which may affect our Christmas plans, help us to be respectful of others we come into contact with. Show us ways to adapt so that we may still joyfully celebrate the birth of your son, Jesus. Give wisdom to all who govern and integrity in their words and motives.
Lord in your mercy, Hear our prayer
God of Compassion, we pray for those who find this time of year a struggle – the lonely, the hungry and the homeless; for those who feel rejected or isolated, for separated families and the unemployed. As many enjoy good food and the warm comfort of home, we give thanks for those who work in food banks and community schemes, for those who minister to people living on the streets and those who provide shelter. As we think of those who feel empty, unwanted and unloved, we ask that through the loving actions of others, they may be aware of your unconditional love for them.
Lord in your mercy, Hear our prayer
Loving God, we pray for those who are ill or in pain, those dealing with a life changing diagnosis, the frail, the confused and those in hospital or hospice. Give peace and patience to those who care for them, especially those working in our overstretched health service. May your love sustain them all through these anxious times.
Lord in your mercy, Hear our prayer
Heavenly Father, we remember those departed from this life and are now in your heavenly presence. We pray for those who love and miss them. Give them the comfort which only you can give, as we rejoice that we too shall one day see you face-to-face.
Lord in your mercy, Hear our prayer
Father, you chose Mary to be the mother of the promised saviour. May we also have the courage to say “yes” to your Holy Spirit and proclaim the Good News. Fill us with your grace and send us out to finish our Advent journey, ready to receive Jesus afresh into our lives.
Merciful Father, accept these prayers for the sake of your Son,
our Risen Saviour Jesus Christ.