Prayer of the Day

O God, by the passion of your blessed Son you made an instrument of shameful death to be for us the means of life. Grant us so to glory in the cross of Christ that we may gladly suffer shame and loss for the sake of your Son, Jesus Christ, our Savior and Lord, who lives and reigns with you and the Holy Spirit, one God, now and forever.

Amen.

Prayers of Intercession

Trusting in God’s promise to reconcile all things, let us pray for the church, the well-being of creation, and a world in need.

A brief silence.

Holy God, we turn to you for meaning. Nurture in your children the gifts of the Spirit poured out in baptism, and let the mind of Christ guide the church. Give wisdom and discernment to our bishops, pastors, deacons, teachers, and leaders. Hear us, O God.

Your mercy is great.

We turn to you for renewal. Save lives and ecosystems threatened by pollution and a changing climate. Cleanse the earth’s waters and restore the soil. Preserve rainforests, deserts, and wildlife, that generations to come may cherish your creation. Hear us, O God.

Your mercy is great.

We turn to you for justice. Uphold the worth and dignity of every person, especially any who experience hatred and rejection because of gender, ability, sexual orientation, color, ethnicity, or religion. Hear us, O God.

Your mercy is great.

We turn to you for healing. Send compassionate helpers to any who suffer because of war and violence. Shelter unhoused people, befriend those who are lonely, bring hope to any in despair, and heal those who are ill (especially those we name either silently or aloud…). Hear us, O God.

Your mercy is great.

We turn to you for purpose. Remind us of your faithfulness to this congregation. Increase our trust in your guidance and keep us near the cross. Grant that our acts of service will express Christ’s sacrificial love. Hear us, O God.

Your mercy is great.

Here other intercessions may be offered.

We turn to you for peace. We honor the saints who lived in service to others (especially Elizabeth Fedde, deaconess, whom we commemorate today). Inspire us by their example until you gather us into your kingdom. Hear us, O God.

Your mercy is great.

Accompany us on our journey, God of grace, and receive the prayers of our hearts, through Jesus Christ, our Savior.

Amen.

Adapted from sundaysandseasons.com 2024