Prayers of Intercession: Sunday, August 31

Let us pray for the church, the creation, and the whole people of God, for God is near.

A brief silence.

For the leaders of the church, we pray. Inspire deacons, pastors, Sunday school teachers, and Christian education directors with a passion for speaking the word of God. Equip all the baptized to share your word of grace. Hear us, O God.

Your mercy is great.

For the well-being of creation, we pray. Sustain farm workers and all who labor in fields and vineyards to grow the food we eat. Revive plains and pastures, and provide for the cattle and creatures who rely on the land for their sustenance. Hear us, O God.

Your mercy is great.

For the leaders of towns, cities, provinces, states, and nations, we pray. Guide them to enact equitable laws and policies for all. On this Labor Day weekend, make us mindful of workers whose labor often goes unnoticed. Hear us, O God.

Your mercy is great.

For the lowly and those who are ignored, we pray. Provide for the needs of vulnerable communities, those who are unemployed, burdened by debt, or struggle to make ends meet. Accompany all who need reassurance of your loving presence (especially Larry Smith, Caleb Schmitz, Dick Frush, Phil Smith, Kyle Fiddler, Bonnie Thompson, Sam and Baker Phillips, April McClain (Mahood), Leon and Pauline McClain, and Kristi and Steve Wagner). Hear us, O God.

Your mercy is great.

For the hospitality ministries of this congregation, we pray. Give ushers and greeters a spirit of welcome for visitors, and bless the work of those who feed and nourish us. Hear us, O God.

Your mercy is great.

For all the saints who from their labors rest, we give thanks. With them, we offer our sacrifice of praise to you, O God, the same yesterday and today and forever. Hear us, O God.

Your mercy is great.

Confident in God’s presence and promise, we entrust our prayers to the one who always receives them; through Jesus Christ, our wisdom and companion.

Amen.