Prayers of Intercession: Sunday, September 14

Gracious God, we come to you in prayer for the church, the world, and all in need.

A brief silence.

Merciful God, pour out your grace upon your church. Forgive us for the times when we have been unfaithful, and renew our commitment to your gospel of love. Empower us to live as a community of mercy. God of grace,

receive our prayer.

Merciful God, we ask forgiveness for the ways we have neglected and harmed this earth and its creatures. Confirm our commitment to care for all you have made, and grant us wisdom and strength to take action toward restoring your creation to its fullness. God of grace,

receive our prayer.

Merciful God, govern all who hold positions of power and authority. Instruct them to make just decisions that serve the common good. Make them instruments of your mercy in the world, working to heal divisions and promote peace. God of grace,

receive our prayer.

Merciful God, we lift up all who suffer. Bring healing, comfort, and peace to those who are sick, grieving, or in pain (especially Larry Smith, Caleb Schmitz, Dick Frush, Kyle Fiddler, Bonnie Thompson, Sam and Baker Phillips). Give us compassionate hearts to accompany those who are hurting and courage to work for justice and mercy. God of grace,

receive our prayer.

Merciful God, bind us together as a community of forgiveness and love. Supply us with humility to seek forgiveness when we have wronged one another and generosity to extend mercy when we have been wronged. God of grace,

receive our prayer.

Merciful God, we remember in love those who have departed this life. Console those who mourn, and give them the hope of resurrection. God of grace,

receive our prayer.

We entrust these prayers to you, O God, in the name of Jesus Christ, our redeemer and friend.

Amen.