Prayer of the Day

Forgiving God,
You long for your lost children to return to you. Lead us homeward on the path of repentance, that we might be restored to you and to your community through Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen.

Prayers of Intercession

L:      We pray for the church, the world, and all those in need, saying “Merciful God,” and responding “Hear our prayer.”

A brief silence.

L:      Gracious God, we have continued to allow things to come between us and others, and between us and you. Renew us in your love, and continue to renew your church. Merciful God,

C:      Hear our prayer.

L:      Be with all the children around the world who are lost to their families and whose fate is unknown. Protect the innocent, comfort the bereaved, bring loved ones back together, and bring perpetrators to justice for their unspeakable deeds. Merciful God,

C:      Hear our prayer.

L:      Forgive us for all the species which have gone extinct on our watch, blessed creator. Make us diligent workers to guard the precious life upon this planet, with whom we are so closely bound. Merciful God,

C:      Hear our prayer.

L:      Hearts need healing as much as bodies. Bring us to a state of repentance which opens us to your Spirit’s renewal and restores lost connections. Heal all those who ask for your help, especially… Merciful God,

C:      Hear our prayer.

L:      We remember Perpetua and Felicity, and all those who gave themselves as martyrs for the sake of your gospel. Give us a similar faith in your promises of redemption and eternal life. Merciful God,

C:      Hear our prayer.

Here other petitions may be offered.

L:      You hear all your children’s prayers and gather the lost into your loving arms. Teach us to put our trust in you, and in our Lord and savior Jesus Christ. Amen.

Adapted from Clergy Stuff Resources 2021