Prayers of Intercession - Trinity 7

The Sower at Sunset, Vincent van Gogh, 1888

Prayers of intercession for the Sung Eucharist at St Stephen Walbrook at 12.45pm on Thursday 30th July 2020 (Trinity 7/Proper 12) based on readings from Matthew 13.31-33, 44-52 and 1 Kings 3.5-12.

Almighty God, your Son showed us that the seeds of the kingdom of heaven are hidden in plain sight. Help us to find and cultivate these precious seeds, so that we may grow in His likeness each day.

Grant wise and discerning minds to all Bishops, Priests and Deacons. Reveal to them in the great inheritance of our faith, the treasures that are both old and new; may your Spirit strengthen them with the courage to change; to add new yeast to your church, so that all may rise and glorify you. 

Lord in your mercy
Hear our prayer

Loving God, you have taught us not to fill our hands with earthly possessions; clinging to power and status, but to empty them; opening our arms as wide as your Son on the cross, so that we may be ready to receive the unfailing treasure in heaven. We pray that the leaders of the world, this nation and this city all those in authority may do likewise, modeling their lives on His life; that of a servant king.

Lord in your mercy
Hear our prayer

Generous God, whose living bread sustains the whole world, help us to discern and develop the gifts that you have given each of us – no matter how small they may seem – and direct these to your service, not our own. May we all learn to see the seeds that you have sown during this time of lockdown; to find the joy in encouraging ourselves and those we love to flourish; to grow each day towards your kingdom.

Lord in your mercy
Hear our prayer

Merciful God, we pray that your healing hands will fall upon all our brothers and sisters who are sick in mind, body and spirit this day. For all affected by the Covid virus. We pray especially for Melvyn, Patrick, Ian, Martin and Sam, Sophia and Freddie, Sue, Amelia, Sarah, Liam, Emma and David. Hold them close to you, bring them comfort and assurance in your love.

Lord in your mercy
Hear our prayer

Eternal God, we commend to your mercy all the faithful departed, including Dorothy. May they find eternal rest amongst the abundant treasures of your Kingdom.

In the company of St Stephen and all the saints in heaven, we pray.

Merciful Father,
accept these prayers
for the sake of your Son,
our Saviour, Jesus Christ
Amen.