Form for Prayers of the People (Eighth Week of Trinitytide 2016)

Form for Prayers of the People

(based on Psalm 25, Colossians 1, and Luke 10:25-37)

During this time of prayer I will pause in between prayers and say,

Let us pray to the Lord.”

Together, you will respond with the words,

“In you, Lord, we put our trust.”

Feel free to add your own prayers (names of places, people, and concerns) during the times of silence in between.

Let’s practice this response together.

Let us pray to the Lord.

In you, Lord, we put our trust.

Lord, we come before you in prayer and faith, so that we, like the psalmist, may learn to trust in you and listen to your promises:

Father, you gather us into the life of your Church, then send us out to love our neighbors. Give us common mission and unity through your Spirit. Guide your Church in this place and around the world…

Let us pray to the Lord.

In you, Lord, we put our trust.

For our country and our region, for political and spiritual leaders, and that Christians may be witnesses to your life and unity…

Let us pray to the Lord.

In you, Lord, we put our trust.

Holy Spirit, heal our wounded souls and misshaped desires. Show us your ways and teach us your paths. Free us from anxiety and lead us to trust you…

Let us pray to the Lord.

In you, Lord, we put our trust.

Jesus, your faithfulness enables us to remain faithful to you: Do not remember the sins of our youth. Keep us steady in faith and set our hearts to desire your Kingdom and learn your ways…

Let us pray to the Lord.

In you, Lord, we put our trust.

Lord, you rule over all earthly powers, yet are familiar with our poverty. Defend the weak and the fatherless; uphold the cause of the poor and the oppressed. Rescue the needy and support those who are going through trials. Help us to be willing to suffer for those in need.

Let us pray to the Lord.

In you, Lord, we put our trust.

For families and friends, for all who have asked for our prayers and who pray for us…

Let us pray to the Lord.

In you, Lord, we put our trust.

Strengthen this church in its work and worship. Fill us with knowledge of your will and the understanding that the Spirit gives, so that we may live a life worthy of the Lord: bearing fruit in every good work and giving thanks to the Father, who has rescued us from the dominion of darkness and brought us into the kingdom of the Son he loves, in whom we have redemption, the forgiveness of sins.

Nourish us with your Word and sacraments, that we may faithfully minister in your name and bear witness to your grace. Strengthen those who serve our congregation and help us to discern the ways in which you call us to further service.

Lord, show us how to take joy in the gifts your have given us. Show us how to use these gifts to create things which lead to life and participate in your love.

Praise Father, Son, and Holy Spirit. Amen.