Prayer of the Day

God of Life,
You astounded the women at the tomb with the surprising news of Jesus’ resurrection. May their awe and joy be ours as we also go out to spread the gospel of life and salvation, in the name of Christ our Lord. Amen.

Prayers of Intercession

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

A brief silence.

L:      Gracious God, give us the faith of the women who ran to share the news of your resurrection despite their shock and amazement at the empty tomb. Forgive us when we fail to believe and discredit the witness of others, as the disciples did. Risen Lord,

C:      Hear our prayer.

L:      Disrupt our routine with the inbreaking of your amazing grace, and shake up our world so that we pay attention to your Spirit at work today. Risen Lord,

C:      Hear our prayer.

L:      As the earth bursts forth with new life, we see, smell, and feel resurrection all around us. May we also be part of the renewal of this planet with new strategies and technologies to clean it and preserve it for future generations. Risen Lord,

C:      Hear our prayer.

L:      Comfort those who feel no joy on this day, due to grief, illness, or other life challenges. Use us to reach out to those who need a companion or a listening ear. Bless all those whom we know need your healing, especially those we name before you now… Risen Lord,

C:      Hear our prayer.

L:      We remember St. Benedict of Sicily, known for his monastic and charitable work as well as his humble service and deep spiritual understanding. Bless all those who use their gifts for the benefit of others rather than attempting to glorify themselves. Risen Lord,

C:      Hear our prayer.

Here other petitions may be offered.

L:      Incline your ear to our prayers and fill us with power to live out our faith, through our savior, Jesus Christ. Amen.

Adapted from Clergy Stuff Resources 2021