Sunday Intercessions for the Church Year Lent-Holy Week-Easter 1996 Year A by Michael Mills and Colleen Shantz Preface to the Complete Collection The intercessions which follow, embracing Advent, Christmas, Epiphany, and Good Friday, were written by Michael Mills, pastor at St. Philip Lutheran Church, Kitchener, Ontario. The intercessions for Lent, Holy Week, and Easter were written by Colleen Shantz, doctoral student at St. Michael's College, University of Toronto. These intercessions are intended as expressions of our unity of faith and our solidarity in service, and relate the ELCIC Calendar of Emphasis and particular current concerns to the Church Year Calendar. Congregations may freely duplicate Sunday Intercessions for worship planners and congregational leaders. The artwork by pastor Mills may also be freely duplicated. Copyright 1995 Evangelical Lutheran Church in Canada About These Prayers These intercessions are offered to help those whose high calling it is to lead prayer in the corporate worship of our congregations. In even the simplest of services, worship leaders will want to augment these petitions to include those concerns which uniquely reflect the life of their people: government decisions, neighbourhood issues, specific prayers for those who suffer illness or bereavement, a petition emphasizing the theme of the day's sermon, etc. These prayers have an internal logic. Generally, the first petition is for the church catholic, which includes different worshipping communities around the globe, as well as ELCIC missionaries overseas, mission congregations in Canada, and all bishops. The next petition embraces nations, often focusing on issues concerning peace and justice. Following this, petitions are offered for those in need, local parish interests, and catechumenal concerns. A final petition embraces special issues. During festivals, when the Brief Order for Confession and Forgiveness is omitted, this final petition is replaced with a prayer which is confessional in nature. While many of the intercessions reflect the familiar Litany type prayer, Bidding Prayers, Pastoral Prayers, and Collects are also offered. Worship leaders who want to acquaint their communities with these different prayer styles will find a handy resource in GATHERED FOR WORSHIP, section 9, CRAFTING THE PRAYERS, copyright 1995, ELCIC. See also Crafting and Praying the Prayers available on the home page of the ELCIC's Interim Working Group on Worship at http://www.golden.org/worship. The intercessions have been formatted in large type for use in public worship. Ash Wednesday, Year A February 21st, 1996 Throughout Lent, we are using bidding-type prayers. A: On this solemn day the words of Jesus invite us to offer our prayers with integrity and humility. We pray, "Trusting in your mercy," and respond, "Amen." A: Let us pray for Christians throughout the world. P: God of All Compassion, you wait for your people to return to you. Guide your church through the days of Lent, that we might look honestly at our lives, seek reconciliation with our neighbours, and turn again to you. We pray, trusting in your mercy, C: Amen. A: Let us pray for nations in conflict. P: God of Reconciliation, transform the desires of those who fuel conflict. May they seek human dignity, not domination; the welfare of their people before territory, and the kingdom of which you are the ruler. We pray, trusting in your mercy, C: Amen. A: Let us pray for those who will not repent or do not know their need for forgiveness. P: God of All Consolation, we seek cures for the sicknesses of heart and soul that only you can heal. Change the minds of all who believe they can live without your forgiveness and welcome them with your mercy. We pray, trusting in that mercy. C: Amen. A: Let us pray for this parish in all that keeps us from realizing God's reign. P: God of All Truthfulness, you call us to join your reign. Make us people who readily see you in the face of the stranger, people who seek and offer forgiveness, people who love your kingdom. We pray trusting in your mercy. C: Amen. P: Loving God, we give you thanks that you hear our prayers and mercifully welcome all who seek you in faith. We commend to your care all for whom we pray. Amen. First Sunday in Lent, Year A February 25th, 1996 Throughout Lent, we are using bidding-type prayers. A: As Jesus entered the wilderness to be tested by the devil, let us enter this season of Lent to examine our hearts. We pray, "Waiting on you," and respond, "Amen." A: Let us pray for the church's witness in the world. P: O Holy One, you have strengthened your church as a sign of your compassion and holiness. Direct us in this calling so that all who look on the church may catch sight of your greater goodness. We pray, waiting on you, C: Amen. A: Let us pray for those who govern Canada. P: Sovereign God, you reveal your power on the side of the weak and disenfranchised. Help our leaders, that among the many voices calling for their attention, they might hear the voice of those who do not have the means to provide for themselves: children, the unemployed, and those who need medical or psychological care. We pray, waiting on you, C: Amen. A: Let us pray for those who do not have enough to eat. P: Gracious God, you desire equally that all might know you and that all may eat their fill. Be with the hungry, we pray, that in addition to your word they might have daily bread. We pray, waiting on you, C: Amen. A: Let us pray for the youth in our congregation. P: O God, you know what it is to be tested. We seek your presence with the youth of our parish, that amidst the tempting choices that face them, they may choose to follow you. We pray, waiting on you, C: Amen. A: Let us pray for all catechumens enrolled today for baptism. P: Faithful God, empower your servants ____________, that in their own forty days of preparation they may follow the example of Christ and face that which would most keep them from your kingdom. We pray, waiting on you, C: Amen. P: God of the wilderness, we give you thanks that you lead us to the other side. Strengthen us for the journey, that we may emerge renewed to celebrate the resurrection of your Son, who is Lord forevermore. Amen. Second Sunday in Lent, Year A March 3rd, 1996 Throughout Lent, we are using bidding-type prayers. A: Trusting in God's assurance that Jesus came not to condemn, but to save, let us lift our voices to God. We pray, "Through the gift of your Son," and respond, "Amen." A: Let us pray for the renewal of the church. P: God of Abraham and Sarah, renew your church that we might bring the gospel to our present world with relevance and faithfulness. We pray through the gift of your Son, C: Amen. A: Let us pray for all who draft environmental policies. P: God of All Creation, you have given us life and made the good earth to sustain us. Awaken in our politicians and corporate leaders a sense of awe for your creation, so no one will exploit it as a commodity, but will treasure it as a gift from you. We pray through the gift of your Son, C: Amen. A: Let us pray for those struggling with loss of faith. P: O Persistent God, you know the depth of our fears and the emptiness of our doubt; you keep faith with us when we have no faith in you. Be with all who struggle under the weight of their questions, that even while their doubt will not go away, they may know that you will not leave them. We pray through the gift of your Son, C: Amen. A: Let us pray for our own renewal as children of God. P: God of Death and Rebirth, give us new life that we might see your kingdom with clear vision and live with restored courage. As we grow old, may we ever grow new in grace. We pray through the gift of your Son, C: Amen. A: Let us pray for the catechumens blessed here today. P: God of the Wilderness, we seek your presence with __________, who are called to prepare for baptism. May their time of preparation be marked by an increased knowledge of both the power of Satan's temptation and the victory of your reign. We pray through the gift of your Son, C: Amen. P: Bless all for whom we pray, O God, and bring us to newness of life through your Son, Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen. Third Sunday in Lent, Year A March 10th, 1996 Throughout Lent, we are using bidding-type prayers. A: Let us offer our prayers trusting that the Holy One, who gives living water, will provide for all our needs, saying, "In Christ we pray," and respond, "Amen." A: Let us pray for the church throughout the world. P: God of Every Tongue, be with your Church that all who believe in you might learn more fully how to worship you in spirit and truth. In Christ we pray, C: Amen. A: Let us pray for our Jewish and Muslim sisters and brothers. P: God of Every Land, your desire for peace is not limited by geographical or historical boundaries, but embraces all people. Bless the people of the Middle East, that despite their history, they may grow together in truth and mutual respect. In Christ we pray, C: Amen. A: Let us pray for all those who suffer because of discrimination. P: God of Every Race, we pray that you might comfort those who are hated because of their colour or nationality. May those who have come to Canada find welcome here. May we who are free uplift the outcast and the oppressed. In Christ we pray, C: Amen. A: Let us pray for forgiveness for failing to recognize Christ among us. P: God of Every Time and Place, you reach out again and again to reveal yourself to us. Forgive us for the clutter of our lives that squeezes out any room for you. Like the Samaritan woman, give us faith that reaches out to meet you. In Christ we pray, C: Amen. A: Let us pray for those who live in shame. P: God of Every Soul, your love for us stretches far beyond our ability to imagine it. Open those who live in shame to a sense of your acceptance which encompasses every sin. In Christ we pray, C: Amen. P: We give you thanks, God of Truth, for the faith of the Samaritan woman. Like her, we offer these prayers, trusting in the One who is a living well. Amen. Fourth Sunday in Lent, Year A March 17th, 1996 Throughout Lent, we are using bidding-type prayers. A: Through baptism, we have been made children of God. Let us, therefore, be bold to offer our prayers to the One who stoops to hear us. We pray, "Through Christ our Lord," and respond, "Amen." A: Let us pray for the unity of the church. P: Bountiful God, we pray for the church, present in many nations and many denominations. Restore our vision that we might see in one another the variety and bounty of your kingdom. We pray through Christ our Lord, C: Amen. A: Let us pray for countries where the truth is suppressed. P: God of Righteousness, as Jesus' followers suffered for speaking the truth, so do many others today. Support and uphold those who are prisoners of conscience and victims of political corruption, even as you lead us to work for their liberation. We pray through Christ our Lord, C: Amen. A: Let us pray for all those in need of healing. P: Merciful God, grant comfort to the suffering and health to the sick. Shore up all those who falter that, whatever their condition, your love may bring them joy. We pray through Christ our Lord, C: Amen. A: Let us pray for the courage to speak of our faith. P: Patient God, give us faith like that of the man born blind, that we might speak courageously of your presence with us. We pray through Christ our Lord, C: Amen. A: Let us pray for catechumens, confirmands and all who study God's word. P: God of Wisdom, stir up the spirits of all who seek to know you more fully, especially _____________, that they might long for a clearer vision of your truth. We pray through Christ our Lord, C: Amen. P: We commend all for whom we pray into your care through Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen. Fifth Sunday in Lent, Year A March 24th, 1996 Throughout Lent, we are using bidding-type prayers. A: In our baptism we are called to rise from the dead and live new life as children of God. In the hope of the resurrection, let us offer our prayers, responding, "Amen." A: Let us pray for Christians who are scattered and isolated. P: Great God, we remember those who are gathered in small communities, especially the Lutheran churches in Yellowknife, Chetwynd and Mackenzie. Strengthen them with the knowledge that they are linked to your people across nations and generations, in service of Christ through whom we pray, C: Amen. A: Let us pray for those who are dying. P: O Compassionate One, you see those who are dying of starvation, forced migration and as casualties of war or torture. Comfort all your people, and move those in power to revere life, even the lives of their enemies. We pray through Christ who is Life, C: Amen. A: Let us pray for all those who mourn. P: God of Solace, as Christ wept at the tomb of Lazarus so you grieve with all who suffer loss. We remember those who mourn, especially _________, and ask that you who are resurrection and life might light their way forward. We pray in hope, C: Amen. A: Let us pray for those in our congregation who work with the sick and dying. P: Great Healer, we give you thanks for all who care for the sick and dying, especially health care workers, counsellors, visitors, and pastors. Use them as your agents to turn illness to health, despair to hope, and longing to fulfillment. Grant that all people might share in the life to be found in Jesus Christ. C: Amen. A: Let us pray for all who will be baptized. P: We give you thanks, O God, for all who will rise from death to life in baptism at Easter. May their lives be filled with grace, and may their witness renew the church. In thanks for your gift of life we pray, C: Amen. P: O God, you are sovereign over the mysteries of life and death. To you we commend ourselves and all for whom we pray, trusting in your mercy, through your Son, Jesus Christ our Lord, Amen. Palm Sunday Sunday of the Passion, Year A March 31st, 1996 Today we are using bidding-type prayers. A: We are baptized into Christ's death and united by our hope in the resurrection. In that hope, we offer our prayers for the church, ourselves, and the world in which we live, saying, "We pray to you, O Lord," and respond, "Amen." A: Let us pray for the suffering church. P: Suffering God, you have called your church to a discipleship which bears the cross. Unite the people of God with those who suffer for the sake of the gospel, that we may support them in prayer and deed. We pray to you, O Lord, C: Amen. A: Let us pray for the sick, the marginalized, the poor, and the sorrowful. P: Suffering God, your passion shows us that you have bound yourself to those who suffer. Uphold those who are in pain, even as you lead us to relieve their suffering. We pray to you, O Lord, C: Amen. A: Let us pray for ourselves, the people of ________, that we might be open to Christ who is among us. P: Suffering God, we long to know and serve you fully. Make us people of vision, that we may see the needs of our neighbors, and the possibilities of the kingdom. Help us to make room for your triumphal entry into our midst. We pray to you, O Lord, C: Amen. A: Let us pray for those on the threshold of faith. P: Suffering God, you have stirred up in all of us a longing for you. We pray for those who do not yet know that you satisfy their yearning. May this Holy Week touch their longing and call them to faith. We pray to you, O Lord, C: Amen. P: Great God, through your passion you brought victory and through your death you offer life. Turn our lives to the mysteries of your ways and hear our prayers offered through Christ who is Lord forevermore. Amen. Maundy Thursday, Year A April 4th, 1996 Today we are using a pastoral prayer. A: On this night, generations ago, Jesus gathered together his friends around a table and shared with them the gifts of bread and wine. Knowing that we are welcomed to that same table of fellowship, let us offer our prayers in thanksgiving for all God has given us. P: Blessed are you, O Lord our God, Sovereign of the Universe, for you uphold all of creation with blessings that come so consistently and quietly, that we forget they are gifts from you. In your compassion you nourish us with gifts of bread and wine. Together we pray for all who eat and drink these gifts: that the Church may be strengthened to carry your presence into the world; that we may be instruments of your grace even to the unlovable; and that we might see the whole human family through the eyes of Christ. In your tenderness you meet our need for love. We give you thanks for your gift of community, especially as we are gathered around this table which you share with your friends. Together we pray for the world and all who are without such communion: that the lonely and those who mourn may find companionship for their journey; that those who have betrayed their loved ones may seek forgiveness; and that world leaders may build the community of the whole human family. In your goodness you show us how to live. We give you thanks for the gift of Christ as he lived among us. Together we pray for our own congregation: that we might learn how to live by his example; that we might grow in our love for one another and so be a sign of your greater love; and that you might show us what it means to take up a towel and basin and serve one another. In your mercy you have given Christ to die for us and baptized us into his death. We give you thanks most of all for the mystery of your power which overcomes death. Together we pray that we might come to know more fully what our own death means: teach us how to die to all that keeps us outside of the kingdom; bless those preparing for baptism with a deepened sense of their own movement from death to life; and prepare us through these days of remembering that we might celebrate your resurrection with joy. We pray through Jesus Christ who lives forevermore, Amen. Good Friday, Year A April 5th, 1996 Today we are using a bidding-type prayer. An extended bidding prayer has traditionally been a part of this day's solemn worship with petitions embracing the church, leaders of the church, candidates for baptism, Christian unity, the people of Israel, those separated from the Church, those separated from God, those in public office and those in need. Worship leaders will want to incorporate into these prayers, periods of silence for reflection, and may invite worshippers to stand for the bids and kneel for the petitions. The Lord's Prayer completes the intercessions. A: Let us pray, sisters and brothers, for Christ's holy, catholic church, that we who have been baptized might daily embrace death and allow new life to fill our words and actions. Silence P: Crucified God, death could not bind you. You rise in those who encounter oppression and despair. Guide your church that all who share in your death through baptism might share also in your resurrection. Help us to be agents of your salvation in the world. For the sake of Christ, C: Amen. A: Let us pray, sisters and brothers, for Telmor and __________ our bishops; John Paul, Bishop of Rome; His All Holiness Bartholemaios, Patriarch of Constantinople; George Carie, Archbishop of Canterbury; Ishmael Noko, General Secretary of the Lutheran World Federation; Milan Opocensky, General Secretary of the World Alliance of Reformed Churches; ___________ our pastor(s); _________ our parish deaconess(es); and for all servants of the church. Silence P: Gracious God, your Spirit guides the church and binds diverse peoples into one body. Strengthen and uphold those in every land who are called to lead your people; keep them holy, catholic and forgiving. And help each to fulfill the task to which they are called. For the sake of Christ, C: Amen. A: Let us pray, sisters and brothers, for those preparing for baptism and those preparing to affirm their baptismal vows, especially ____________________. Let us pray that their journey of faith might renew all who follow Christ. Silence. P: Loving God, through catechumens you promise to bring renewal to your church. Help all who enter the waters of baptism to reject the ways of evil. Gather them to your holy people that they may be living witnesses to the resurrection. For the sake of Christ, C: Amen. A: Let us pray, sisters and brothers, for our church where it has been separated by religious practice and belief. Silence P: God of All Creation, the foolishness and pride of your people does not escape you. Where we have been unforgiving with one another, forgive us. Help your church to be both evangelical and catholic and unite us in our common task of building a home for Christ on earth. For the sake of Christ, C: Amen. A: Let us pray for the Jewish people, the first to hear the Word of God, that their witness to God's covenant may inspire the church to live in faith and hope. Silence P: Eternal God, long ago you gave your promise to Abraham and Sarah and their descendants. Hear the prayers of your church that we, with all your people, may arrive at the fullness of redemption. For the sake of Christ, C: Amen. A: Let us pray for those who have learned to distrust both Christ and Christ's people, that life, hope and salvation might come to them even in unbelief. Silence P: God of Compassion, you delight in your children and desire that no one be separated from you. Help your church learn the ways of humility and grace that we might truly be a place of welcome for those who seek you. For the sake of Christ, C: Amen. A: Let us pray for those who have not yet encountered God, that they might discover the One who is the foundation of all existence. Silence P: Almighty God, your grace touches our world in a thousand ways. Help those who seek fulfillment to see your hand at work in their lives. Bestow upon them the peace, freedom and well-being you desire for all your people. For the sake of Christ, C: Amen. A: Let us pray for Jean Chrétien, our Prime Minister and ___________, our Premier that they, with all world leaders, might place the needs of the poor foremost on their political agendas. Silence P: God of Grace and Mercy, you were crucified by a world blind to human suffering. Stir the hearts of leaders and lawmakers and fill them with compassion for those in poverty and despair. Help them to see you where hunger and want prevail. For the sake of Christ, C: Amen. A: Let us pray, sisters and brothers, for those who know loneliness, loss, hunger and rejection, that they might know a goodly share both of the treasures of the earth and the riches of God. Silence P: God of Mercy and Compassion, in this world of abundance it is hard to believe so many of our sisters and brothers can be in want. Where there is grief in the human family, sow hope. Where there is hunger sow, justice. Help us, the church, to be a foretaste of your promised reign. For the sake of Christ, C: Amen. A: Finally, let us pray for our wills to be united with the will of God. C: Our Father in heaven, hallowed be your name. Your kingdom come, your will be done, on earth as in heaven. Give us today our daily bread. Forgive us our sins as we forgive those who are indebted to us. Save us from the time of trial, and deliver us from evil. For the kingdom, the power, and the glory are yours, now and forever. Amen. The Vigil of Easter, Year A April 6th, 1996 Throughout Easter, we are using litany-type prayers. A: The joy of this great and holy night calls us to pray for all people and for the whole of creation saying, “Hear us, Lord." We respond, "Hear us, Alleluia!" A: That the Church might be a sign to all the world that Christ is alive. Hear us, Lord. C: Hear us, Alleluia! A: That the nations of the earth, remembering the source of creation, might care for the air, the water and all living things. Hear us, Lord. C: Hear us, Alleluia! A: That those who are without hope might be transformed by the story of the resurrection, let us pray to the Lord. Hear us, Lord. C: Hear us, Alleluia! A: That our eyes might be opened to see Christ in the face of our neighbour. Hear us, Lord. C: Hear us, Alleluia! A: That we might have the courage to speak of what we have seen and the grace to do so wisely. Hear us, Lord. C: Hear us, Alleluia! A: That _____________ baptized tonight, might die to sin and rise to life in Jesus Christ. Hear us, Lord. C: Hear us, Alleluia! A: That we may be a community of prayer and encouragement for all who are here baptized. Hear us, Lord. C: Hear us, Alleluia! When the Brief Order for Confession and Forgiveness is omitted, the following is said: A: For embracing hatred, sin, contempt of neighbour, contempt of self, and for failing to die daily, we ask forgiveness. Hear us, Lord. C: Hear us, Alleluia! P: O God, your gift of life fills us with joy. In thankfulness we commend ourselves and all for whom we pray to your care through Jesus Christ who lives forevermore. Amen. The Resurrection of our Lord, Year A April 7th, 1996 Throughout Easter, we are using litany-type prayers. A: Because the tomb no longer holds us, let us lift joyful voices saying, "Hear us, Lord," and respond, "Hear us, Alleluia!" A: For the baptized, who share in Christ's crucifixion and resurrection, that we might always give witness to this day's good news. Hear us, Lord. C: Hear us, Alleluia! A: For the nations of the world, that, honouring the Feast of the Resurrection, peace might grow and flourish. Hear us, Lord. C: Hear us, Alleluia! A: For those in our parish family who have recently been visited by death, especially ___________, that they might encounter hope through the same Spirit that raised Jesus from the dead. Hear us, Lord. C: Hear us, Alleluia! A: For all catechumens who have entered the water of life, especially ___________, that their nakedness might gently be clothed in Christ's own righteousness. Hear us, Lord. C: Hear us, Alleluia! A: For those catechumens whose journeys have not yet brought them to the font, especially _________, that they might walk with Christ with joy and thanksgiving until the day of their baptism. Hear us, Lord. C: Hear us, Alleluia! When the Brief Order for Confession and Forgiveness is omitted, the following is said: A: For this community here gathered, that our failure to come to the aid of the earth's starving peoples might be forgiven, and that by breaking bread and sharing wine we might discover anew how to live as citizens of God's earth. Hear us, Lord. C: Hear us, Alleluia! P: Lord of Life, you triumph over death. Forgive us when we cling to ways that bring decay, and fill us with hope for tomorrow. For the sake of Christ, crucified and risen. Amen. Second Sunday of Easter, Year A April 14th, 1996 Throughout Easter, we are using litany-type prayers. A: Believing without seeing, we offer our prayers to God, saying, "Hear us, Lord," and respond, "Hear us, Alleluia!" A: For Lisa and Cito Ariza in Sogamoso, Colombia and all Volunteers in Mission, that the spirit of the risen Christ might strengthen them in their Christian vocations. Hear us, Lord. C: Hear us, Alleluia! A: For the governments and nations of our world, that they might use all the resources at their disposal to feed their people. Hear us, Lord. C: Hear us, Alleluia! A: For the sick and dying, especially _____________, that they might know joy in the midst of sorrow, and trust in the power of the resurrection. Hear us, Lord. C: Hear us, Alleluia! A: For all children in worship today, that they might continue to witness to the love of Jesus Christ. Hear us, Lord. C: Hear us, Alleluia! A: For all catechumens, especially ___________, as they explore their unique ministries as servants of Christ, that they might be filled with wisdom and grace. Hear us, Lord. C: Hear us, Alleluia! When the Brief Order for Confession and Forgiveness is omitted, the following is said: A: Our anxiety over our own security and our jealousy over our neighbour's success we confess before you, O Lord. Help us both to trust in you and delight in the abundance that already fills our lives. Hear us, Lord. C: Hear us, Alleluia! P: Your words to Thomas and your words to us are the same, O Lord: "Stop doubting and believe." May it be so. Alleluia! Third Sunday of Easter, Year A April 21th, 1996 Throughout Easter, we are using litany-type prayers. A: That the Lord might appear to us as he once appeared on the road to Emmaus, we pray saying, "Hear us, Lord." In response we offer, "Hear us, Alleluia!" A: That all missionaries of our church, especially Nusrat & Luther Symons in Garoua Boulai, Cameroon, might continue to discover the risen Christ in the presence of friend and stranger alike. Hear us, Lord. C: Hear us, Alleluia! A: That the evil of our age might be trod under foot by the One who triumphs over the grave. Hear us, Lord. C: Hear us, Alleluia! A: That those who are poor and those who are rich might see each other with the eyes of Christ. Hear us, Lord. C: Hear us, Alleluia! A: That we might be reconciled to our neighbour, including that neighbour next to us in our pew. Hear us, Lord. C: Hear us, Alleluia! A: That all who have come to new birth in Holy Baptism might serve God's world with willing hearts. Hear us, Lord. C: Hear us, Alleluia! When the Brief Order for Confession and Forgiveness is omitted, the following is said: A: Because we utter our cruelest words to friends, partners and those we love most, we seek your forgiveness, O Lord. Restore to life the relationships which we have caused to die. This we pray, saying: Hear us, Lord. C: Hear us, Alleluia! P: You have walked with us, O Lord, and shared our concerns. Be present now, we pray, in the breaking of bread. Amen. Fourth Sunday of Easter, Year A April 28th, 1996 Throughout Easter, we are using litany-type prayers A: The thief comes to steal and destroy, but you, O Christ, come that we might have life. We pray to you saying, "Hear us, Lord," and respond, "Hear us, Alleluia!" A: For the communities of faith in our neighbourhood, especially those in the Pentecostal tradition, including the congregation of __________, that together we might model the unity that is the body of Christ. Hear us, Lord. C: Hear us, Alleluia! A: For eyes to see and ears to hear, that we might discern the gospel in institutions and individuals who do not profess belief in Jesus Christ. Hear us, Lord. C: Hear us, Alleluia! A: For those in our community who have been molested, that they might experience peace and have their joy restored. Hear us, Lord. C: Hear us, Alleluia! A: For those who have been received into the church through Holy Baptism, that their study of the catechism might lead them deeper in the ways of grace. Hear us, Lord. C: Hear us, Alleluia! When the Brief Order for Confession and Forgiveness is omitted, the following is said: A: As a community, we turn blind eyes to those who suffer pain in their marriages. For this we seek forgiveness. That we might have the courage reach out in compassion we pray, saying, Hear us, Lord. C: Hear us, Alleluia! P: Good and Graceful God, hear and answer these petitions we place before you. Fill our lives to overflowing. Amen. Fifth Sunday of Easter, Year A May 5th, 1996 Throughout Easter, we are using litany-type prayers A: You promised that we may ask for anything in your name and you will answer. To you we now pray, saying, "Hear us, Lord," and respond, "Hear us, Alleluia!" A: That a spirit of respect might fill Alice and Barry Lang and the Lutheran Church in Madang, Papua New Guinea, so that they might continue to uphold one another in the ways of grace. Hear us, Lord. C: Hear us, Alleluia! A: That the proud might be brought low and the mighty scattered. Hear us, Lord. C: Hear us, Alleluia! A: That the young people of our congregation might continue to offer their hands in service to Christ's holy church. Hear us, Lord. C: Hear us, Alleluia! A: That catechumens, and all who thirst after living water might be filled. Hear us, Lord. C: Hear us, Alleluia! When the Brief Order for Confession and Forgiveness is omitted, the following is said: A: The earth suffers because we are enslaved in body and spirit to wealth, influence and ease. That we might be forgiven and have the chains of our bondage broken, we pray, saying, Hear us, Lord. C: Hear us, Alleluia! P: Because you are more willing to give than we are to ask, O God, we place these prayers before you in confidence through Jesus Christ. Amen. Sixth Sunday of Easter, Year A May 12th, 1996 Throughout Easter, we are using litany-type prayers A: Our love for God is expressed in obedience to Christ's commands. Let us pray for courage and strength, saying, "Hear us, Lord." In response let us offer, "Hear us, Alleluia!" A: That Christ, crucified and raised, might boldly be proclaimed in Lutheran churches across the land in weekly celebrations of word and sacrament. Hear us, Lord. C: Hear us, Alleluia! A: That the message of grace might become flesh in political and economic terms. Hear us, Lord. C: Hear us, Alleluia! A: That those who will die this week might discover reconciliation in their families and peace with God. Hear us, Lord. C: Hear us, Alleluia! A: That sponsors, and all who serve Christ in ministries of example, might always regard themselves as servants of the church. Hear us, Lord. C: Hear us, Alleluia! When the Brief Order for Confession and Forgiveness is omitted, the following is said: A: For allowing mediocrity to be an acceptable standard for our faith, we ask forgiveness. Hear us, Lord. C: Hear us, Alleluia! P: Gracious God, hear our prayers this day. Keep us faithful in the calling you have given us. For the sake of Christ. Amen. The Ascension of our Lord, Year A May 16th, 1996 Throughout Easter, we are using litany-type prayers A: This truth was made known among the first disciples: that Christ will suffer and rise from the dead on the third day. Let us rejoice that it has also been made known among us. We pray, saying, "Hear us, Lord," and respond, "Hear us, Alleluia!" A: That all members of the Church might be faithful in their promise to forgive sins. Hear us, Lord. C: Hear us, Alleluia! A: That those who are not baptized might receive the gift of faith. Hear us, Lord. C: Hear us, Alleluia! A: That new fathers and mothers might be supported in this time of wonder and uncertainty. Hear us, Lord. C: Hear us, Alleluia! A: That the newly baptized, their sponsors, each new catechumen and all who have been joined to the death and resurrection of Jesus Christ might work towards a world of justice and peace. Hear us, Lord. C: Hear us, Alleluia! When the Brief Order for Confession and Forgiveness is omitted, the following is said: A: For our refusal to be stirred by the cries of the hungry we ask forgiveness and pray for hearts quick to respond. Hear us, Lord. C: Hear us, Alleluia! P: God of All Truth, help us to embrace death and resurrection, even as we make our prayers to you. Amen. Seventh Sunday of Easter, Year A May 19th, 1996 Throughout Easter, we are using litany-type prayers A: As Jesus prayed for his first disciples so also does he pray for us. Let ask that our prayers be joined with his, saying, "Hear us, Lord," and respond, "Hear us, Alleluia!" A: For Bishop Allan Grundahl on his upcoming anniversary of ordination, that guided by the Holy Spirit, he might speak prophetically on behalf of the poorest members of our communities. Hear us, Lord. C: Hear us, Alleluia! A: For bankers and leaders of financial institutions who seek to live their Christian faith at work, that they might be strengthened in their desire to use wealth to help the homeless and the poor. Hear us, Lord. C: Hear us, Alleluia! A: For those who suffer from the anxiety of a stress-filled work place, that they might know peace through the transforming power of God's love. Hear us, Lord. C: Hear us, Alleluia! A: For catechumens, especially _________, as they prepare to affirm their vocations as Christians in the world, that they might hear God's great call to lose their lives in order that their lives might be fulfilled through service in Christ's name. Hear us, Lord. C: Hear us, Alleluia! When the Brief Order for Confession and Forgiveness is omitted, the following is said: A: For our silence in the face of our government's neglect of the poor, for our failure to speak in the face of renewed nuclear testing, and for our fear which keeps us from reaching out in love, we ask forgiveness. Redeem us, and strengthen us for renewed service in your name. Hear us, Lord. C: Hear us, Alleluia! P: We offer these prayers trusting fully that they will be heard. Amen. The Vigil of Pentecost, Year A May 25th, 1996 Throughout Easter, we are using litany-type prayers A: Moved by God's own Spirit the church is Christ's body in the world. That we might be strengthened for service we pray, saying, "Hear us, Lord," and respond, "Hear us, Alleluia!" A: That the spirit of Christ might keep the church evangelical: welcoming equally the privileged, the lost, the wealthy and the forgotten. Hear us, Lord. C: Hear us, Alleluia! A: That all who have been granted power and special privilege in the human community might use their abilities to welcome and uphold the powerless and weak. Hear us, Lord. C: Hear us, Alleluia! A: That individuals and families in our parish might continue to be encouraged in their faith to the honour of the church. Hear us, Lord. C: Hear us, Alleluia! A: That those in our parish who have the gift of welcoming strangers might see themselves as apostles and evangelists. Hear us, Lord. C: Hear us, Alleluia! A: That ________________, our parish's catechumens, might discover their true and God-given vocations as Christians in the world. Hear us, Lord. C: Hear us, Alleluia! When the Brief Order for Confession and Forgiveness is omitted, the following is said: A: Where your church has sought riches instead of servanthood, we ask to be converted. Help us to remember that the good news of resurrection is a gift which grows out of crucifixion. Hear us, Lord. C: Hear us, Alleluia! P: Ceaseless God, fill your people with your Spirit that we might hunger for justice in our world. Amen. The Day of Pentecost, Year A May 26th, 1996 Throughout Easter, we are using litany-type prayers A: The Holy Spirit moved the apostles to act on Christ's behalf. So does the same Spirit move the church of every generation. With joy and thanksgiving we pray, saying, "Hear us, Lord," and respond, "Hear us, Alleluia!" A: That the Spirit who flows through the church might continue to call those who are baptized to seek justice for the poor. Hear us, Lord. C: Hear us, Alleluia! A: That the Spirit who humbles nations might lead governments and political leaders in the way of compassion and peace. Hear us, Lord. C: Hear us, Alleluia! A: That the spirit of Christ might embrace all lands and open the people of earth to the joy of reconciliation. Hear us, Lord. C: Hear us, Alleluia! A: That the spirit of tenderness might fill our parish family, allowing us to confess to one another our sins and wrongdoings that we might also share with one another words of forgiveness. Hear us, Lord. C: Hear us, Alleluia! A: That the Spirit's call to humility and service might rest upon all who today affirm their vocations as Christians in the world, especially ___________________. May they, aided by the prayers of this community, strive to fulfill God's life-giving call. Hear us, Lord. C: Hear us, Alleluia! When the Brief Order for Confession and Forgiveness is omitted, the following is said: A: We are aware of the numerous ways in which we fail to be the church. We are self-serving, fearful, blind. We ask forgiveness. We ask also that the life-giving Spirit would transform our timidity into boldness. Hear us, Lord. C: Hear us, Alleluia! P: God of Abundance, your Holy Spirit longs to fill all people. Give us ears to hear and eyes to see, for the sake of Christ. Amen.