Prayers of Intercession - The Waiting Room (Advent Sunday)

The Waiting Room, Norman Rockwell, 1937

Prayers of Intercession adapted from Common Worship:Times and Seasons for the Choral Eucharist at St George’s Bloomsbury on Sunday 28th November 2021 (Advent Sunday, Year C) based on readings from Jeremiah 33.14-16, 1 Thessalonians 3.9-end and Luke 21.25-36.

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 amidst the fear and foreboding of this time. Strengthen the hearts of your church in holiness; renew us in faith. We pray for all who ministers in your Holy name; may they find moments of stillness and renewal in the busyness of this season. Awaken us all to the signs of your Kingdom; grant us the courage to leave behind our own to journey towards the mystery of your eternal love.

Lord in your mercy
Hear our prayer.

Almighty God, come to us as King of the Nations. Bless all in positions of responsibility throughout the world, this nation and this city. May they be guided by the Lord, our righteousness, as they continue to 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 tending the new shoots of 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 in this cold weather for all who find the changing seasons difficult, for the homeless of this City and those who support them. May we bring comfort to those arriving in this country as migrants and refugees 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. We pray especially for Fr Ronald, Sue and Angela. Awaken us to the needs of all who are suffering including all those whose names are written on our hearts.

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 marvellous light in the knowledge of your resurrection life and the promise of your coming again with all the saints in glory.

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

Image : The Waiting Room, Norman Rockwell, 1937