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12/17/06
Prayers of the People
Almighty and loving God, Father, Son and Holy Spirit, we seek at this
very time to offer our prayers to you, for you have taught us to pray,
not only for ourselves but for people everywhere.
And it is in the Spirit of joy for all you have done for us in
Jesus Christ that we desire to lay aside our worries and anxieties, and
rejoice as we offer our supplications in this time of worship.
Give grace to all who proclaim the gospel through the Word and Sacrament
and deeds of mercy, that by their teaching and example they may reveal
your love for all people. Inspire
the whole church—and we certainly pray for ourselves here—with your
power, unity, and peace. Grant
that in the midst of the worldly struggles in our lives, we may trust
you, seek your will in our lives, and obey your Word to us.
And may we grow in what it is to live together in your love.
Lead all nations in the way of justice and goodwill.
Direct those who govern, that they may rule fairly, maintain
order, uphold those in need, and defend oppressed people; that this
world may claim your rule and know the true peace which is ours in
Christ Jesus.
Comfort and relieve, O Lord, all who are in
trouble…sorrow…poverty…sickness…grief…especially those known
to us, whom we name before you in silence…Heal them in body, mind, or
circumstance, working in them, by your grace, wonders beyond all they
may dream or hope.
Guide us to know in our hearts that you are the center of our lives.
Show us how to love you by giving of ourselves to the love and
care of others. And help us
to experience the power of the Holy Spirit coming into situations we
cannot control. Lead us to
live in this life relating to Jesus Christ as our Lord and our brother
in our relationship to you.
In Christ’s name we pray.
Amen
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