Prayers of Intercession - Trinity 4

Christ Carrying the Cross, Patrick Hayman

Prayers of intercession for the Sung Eucharist at St Stephen Walbrook on Thursday 9th July 2020 (Trinity 4) based on readings from Romans 7:15–25a and Matthew 11:16–19, 25–end.

“No one knows the Son except the Father, and no one knows the Father except the Son and anyone to whom the Son chooses to reveal him.”

Almighty God we thank you for revealing yourself to us through your Son, our Saviour Jesus Christ. May we, who in the renewal of our baptismal promises have been restored in the image of his glory, take his yoke and learn from him; may this wisdom be shown forth in our deeds.

We pray for the church, for all those gathered around this altar and for those who are unable to be with us in person today. We pray for the leaders of the church, for the Archbishops of Canterbury and York, for the Bishop of London, for Stephen our priest and for all priests and deacons.

Guided by your light, help us all to be your disciples even while distancing; to find serenity in the sanitising; to know the person behind the mask.

Lord in your mercy,
Hear our prayer.

Almighty God, may all those who think themselves wise in the ways of this world learn to trust the truth of the Kingdom that you came to share. Restored in your image, may we live our lives with a gentle and humble heart. Shine your light so that we may see the burdens being carried by those around us. Help us to lighten their load. Give us the humility to work for the relief of poverty, hunger and injustice throughout the world.

We pray for all in our community who are bowed down by heavy loads as the lockdown eases; those who work in retail and hospitality, the receptionists, security guards and cleaners in our offices, all who serve on the frontline in public life. 

Lord in your mercy,
Hear our prayer.

Almighty God, look with mercy on those who are wearied by sickness and anxiety. Hold them close to you, bring them comfort and assurance in your love. We pray especially for Melvyn, Patrick, Ian, Martin and Sam, Sophia and Freddie, Sue, Judith, Amelia, Sarah, Liam and for all those known only to us.

Lord in your mercy,
Hear our prayer.

We remember with gratitude all those who have laid down their burdens and found eternal rest for their souls. Lord we thank you for receiving them into the joy of heaven, in the company of St Stephen and all the saints, we pray;

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