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 loved ones in long term care.
We pray for our loved ones who are experiencing limitations due to aging bodies.
As Covid and significant cold/flu viruses circulate in our communities and families, we pray especially for the most vulnerable amongst us – the very young and the aged. May the light of your love shine bright as we journey dark days of illness, uncertainty, pain, and suffering.
We pray for our baptism prep class as they learn, ask questions, and explore faith. May your love and presence become more real to them, especially this Christmas season.
We pray for our Households of Faith. May their work be meaningful and purposeful, their relationships a source of great joy, and may their hearts be filled with the peace of Christ. Amen