The First Sunday after Christmas - Prayers of Intercession

Family Group, Henry Moore (1949)

These prayers of intercession were written for St George's Bloomsbury on Sunday 29th December 2019 and are based on the readings for the day: Isaiah 63.7-9z, Psalm 148, Hebrews 2.10-end and Matthew 2.13-end and incorporated text from the sermon by Bishop Michael Marshall. 

As the psalmist sings; “Let us praise the name of the Lord, for his name only is exalted, his splendour above earth and heaven;” let us pray. 

We pray for the church throughout the world, for our Bishops, Priests and Deacons. We pray for the clergy of this parish; David and Jennie and for our visiting clergy, especially Bishop Michael. Lord, help us to support them so that they may find - not only in these twelve days of Christmas, but every day - time for refreshment and reflection. Inspired by the mystery of the incarnation, may they faithfully preach the gospel amidst each new congregation. 

Lord in your mercy
Hear our prayer

We are God’s people who are near him; his children. Lord, as we hear the story of Herod’s massacre of innocent young life, help us all, including all those in authority, to turn away from our own rage and destructive desires; and turn to you, the Prince of Peace. 

We bring before you all those who suffer at the hands of others, who live in fear of death or persecution. All who are displaced due to war, flood, fire or famine. We pray for those working to support them and for peace and justice throughout the world. 

Help us to remember that because he himself was tested by what he suffered, Jesus Christ is able to help those who are being tested. 

Lord in your mercy
Hear our prayer
 
Lord God you are the one for whom and through whom all things exist. Help us to see your glory in all your creation.Give us the insight to live in harmony with the earth.  May all we think and say and do be an offering of thanks and praise to you.

Lord in your mercy
Hear our prayer 

Jesus is not ashamed to call us brothers and sisters, because we all share one Father. As we remember the Holy Family at this time, let us hold in our hearts our own families and those close to us. Help us to remember that the closer we come to each other, the closer we come to God.

We remember especially the recently departed and those whose years mind falls at this time. Lord, we pray that your healing hands will fall upon all our brothers and sisters who are sick in mind, body and spirit this day.

Lord in your mercy
Hear our prayer 

In the company of St George, the Virgin Mary and all the saints in heaven, we pray.

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