Prayers for Advent 3

Prayers by The Nash family

In the power of the Spirit and in union with Christ, let us pray to the Father.

Almighty God, as we prepare in advent for the coming of your son to the world, we pray that your kingdom will come. We pray for your Church. We pray that like John the baptist we and all who confess your name may prepare the way for Jesus in our lands, communities and our own hearts. We pray for our church leaders that they may seek God’s kingdom, know his peace and reveal His glory in the world. Lord, In your mercy, Hear our prayer.

We pray that your kingdom will come in all the world. We pray that you would give wisdom to all in authority and government and ask that your wisdom and justice will reign at the Copenhagen climate talks beginning this week. We pray for Afghanistan, that there will be an end to the violence and war and that you will bring a lasting peace to the people there. We pray for all those serving there and remember their families at home and all those whose lives have been shattered by the conflict. Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

We pray your kingdom will come in our local community and in our families. the family and Give us grace to live together in your love, serving one another. We pray especially for the Kings Arms project in Bedford. We pray for the team caring for the poor that you would protect them from evil, keep them strong and healthy and bless them with a deep and real understanding of your love. We pray for the clients of the project, that they may meet You through the hands of your servants, that you would release them from all that binds them and help them to find their way forwards. We pray for all who are homeless and sleeping rough this Christmas and ask that your kingdom will come in their lives. Lord, In your mercy, Hear our prayer

We pray that your kingdom would come to comfort and heal all those who suffer in mind, body or spirit. We remember before you those we know who are suffering today . We pray that you would give them courage and hope in their troubles and bring them to the joy of your salvation. Lord, in your mercy, Hear our prayer.

We pray that your kingdom would come to comfort and protect those who mourn…... Jesus Christ is the light of the world, a light which no darkness can quench. We remember before God those who have died and light a candle to symbolise the light of Christ which eternally shines and brings hope. We remember Andrew John Weller, Mark Hall and Jean Eleanor Fensome You turn our darkness into light; in your light shall we see light.

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