Lord our God, you have revealed yourself as One
whose desire it is to bring justice, peace, and joy to all people.
In a world that turns away from and participates in injustice,
You cast your eyes on the destitute, the poor, and the wronged;
You have called us to follow you, to preach good news to the poor,
to proclaim release for the captives, and recovery of sight for the blind,
to set at liberty those who are oppressed, and to proclaim the time of your blessing.
Lord our God, be present with your church as we respond to your call.
Open our eyes to those in need, especially the lonely and the isolated.
Fill us with compassion for refugees and immigrants who seek safe refuge
Fill us with mercy for those who struggle with addiction and mental illness, or bear the weight of abuse in its many forms..
Fill us with gifts of caregiving for the sick, those who suffer pain whether in mind, body, or spirit……
May your healing grace surround the most vulnerable amongst us, especially those in long term care. We pray for all impacted by covid: the sick, the suffering, the grieved, and all health care and essential workers. May hope burn bright for those receiving treatment or awaiting surgery. Comfort the hurting, encourage the weary, grant full healing and restoration to broken bones and tired spirits. May the hope of gentle healing and the gift of accompaniment of family and friends be a deep source of comfort for all who grieve.
God of peace hear our prayers for our Households of Faith. We pray for continued good health, patience for this journey, and energy and joy for the task of parenting. We give thanks for health and the gifts of love and joy in their work, their rest, and recreation. Keep their families safe and in your watchful care. We pray for days filled with meaningful connections, work, and loving relationships. May the peace of God surround our households of faith.
Lord our God, fill us to overflowing with joy. No earthly thing can ever give us complete joy. Our joy comes from you. The same joy that flooded the hearts of the shepherds, the angels, the wise men, the hosts of heaven, and Mary and Joseph, is the joy that still has the power to overwhelm hearts with rejoicing. Through the gift of joy, lead us, strengthen us, give us courage that we may share bread with the hungry, extend and receive hospitality, and generously share our resources with all who stand in need. We offer our prayers in the name of Jesus who taught us to pray, Our Father………….… Amen