Prayers of Intercession - Come to us Lord

Anselm Kiefer - nubes pluant, 2016

Prayers written for the Sung Eucharist at St Stephen Walbrook on Thursday 3rd December 2020 – the First Week in Advent.

Let us pray.

Almighty God, come to us as Lord and Saviour. Help us to live each day in the light of your presence; a light of hope and love in the darkness of this age. We pray for all who minister in your church; may they find moments of stillness and renewal in the busyness of this season. Awaken us to the plight of all who worship you under threat of persecution and abuse.

Lord in your mercy
Hear our prayer.

Almighty God, come to us as King of the Nations. Bless all those in positions of responsibility throughout the world, this nation and this city. Guide them as they lead us through the consequences of this pandemic. Awaken us to the cries of those living in the midst of conflict, injustice and oppression and all facing uncertainty of employment. Strengthen all working to bring justice and peace.

Lord in your mercy
Hear our prayer.

Almighty God, come to the suffering as comforter. Help us to be generous with our time and our love, supporting those in need. We pray especially for the homeless of this City and those who support them. We remember those living in the dark cloud of mental illness and all who feel empty, isolated and alone. Awaken us to the knowledge of your loving presence with us this day and always.

Lord in your mercy
Hear our prayer.

Almighty God, come to the sick as healer. Bless the work of Lucy and all healthcare workers and those funding and developing treatments for the coronavirus. Awaken us to the needs of the sick. We pray especially for Bryan, Doris and Eve, David, Jane and Daisy, Shelley, Patrick, Martin and Sam, Sophia and Freddie, Sue, Marie, Emma and Michael and to Melvyn, Ian and John, Gladys, Lucy, Amelia, Matt and Sarah, Barbara and Kim, Shalani, Alistair and Iona.

Lord in your mercy
Hear our prayer.

Almighty God, come to us as shepherd and guardian of our souls. Receive with mercy all who have died. Awaken us to those experiencing the emptiness of loss; the recently bereaved and those remembering painful anniversaries at this time. Lead us out of darkness into your marvelous light in the knowledge of your resurrection life and the promise of your coming again in glory.

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

Link
A reflection inspired by Anselm Kiefer's nubes pluant at the VCS (Visual Commentary on Scripture)