St Mary's Church, Mudford
Intercessions
Prayers of Intercession
Sunday 20th April, Easter Day
Alleluia, Christ is risen
Christ is Risen, and the power of His resurrection fills the world today with new life, hope and expectation and so we bring to him all our needs.
Ever living God, help us now to celebrate, with joy, the resurrection of Jesus. We see the signs in nature all around us of new life: like plants, which appeared dead, showing green shoots; birds and butterflies looking for mates. But the greatest sign of all is that your Son, Jesus Christ rose from the dead and is alive today. An extraordinary God, revealed in the circumstances of our ordinary, untidy lives.
Loving God, at the Last Supper, Jesus washed his disciples’ feet as an example of service. We pray for all those who serve in our community at this time – all those in the NHS, social care and other essential services; all who volunteer or are good neighbours.
Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer
O Lord, how majestic is your name in all the earth! When we see the work of your hands – the earth, the heavens, the moon, the stars, the beauty of your creation – we thank you for all your creation and for your people throughout the world in all their differing cultures and environments.
Lord, on this special day we ask that you will bring your peace where there is war and where communities are broken.
We pray for the leaders of this nation, that their words and actions will always be influenced by what is right rather than by what is expedient.
Bless and guide Charles our King; give wisdom to all in authority; and direct this and every nation in the ways of justice and of peace; that we may honour one another, and seek the common good.
Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer
We commit to you, Lord, all those for whom this day will seem long and hard; for those struggling with despair or depression, the elderly, the housebound, and those in care homes, hospital and hospices. Lord, help us to do our part in creating a society where both young and old, gifted and less able, feel valued and proud to be a part.
Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer
Heavenly Father, we remember all those who have died in our own community. We also pray for all those suffering the loss of loved ones. The empty bed or chair, an unaccustomed quietness, a life now incomplete. May they know your presence in the stillness of the day, and through the love of friends.
At the end of our days on earth be with us and with those we love. May those who have gone before us rest in your eternal peace.
Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer
Faithful God, we think of your Church today celebrating the Resurrection all over the world. Language, race and nationalities may be different but our worship and our joy on the Day of Resurrection make us one in the Gospel. We pray that The Holy Spirit may guide and strengthen us in mission and service, praying that day by day we may grow in love for you and for our brothers and sisters in Christ.
Merciful Father, accept these prayers for the sake of your Son, our Saviour, Jesus Christ. Amen.