INTERCESSIONS
16th September 2001
This morning we will focus our prayers on people who, for one reason or another, feel lost.
Good and gracious Shepherd, we rejoice in your protection and care, we know that you will seek us out and save us.
Let us listen to the voices of those who are lost:
I no longer feel safe and secure in my country.
I can't forget what I have seen.
I feel very vulnerable and bewildered.
We pray for all victims of terrorism and especially this week for people in America, in this and other nations who are suffering after devastating tragedy. May your Spirit bring sustenance to the injured, courage to the emergency services, comfort to the bereaved and support to those who live with uncertainty.
We pray for President Bush and for the leaders of nations that they may act wisely; with propriety, mercy and compassion to bring justice and freedom from fear to their peoples.
Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.
I have lost everything: my home, family and friends.
No-one seems to understand my culture and language.
We pray for all those caught up in the consequences of war, famine and natural disaster; for the thousands of refugees seeking a new life in strange and sometimes unwelcoming countries. We pray for them, those deciding their future, and those trying to help them. May we proclaim that you include everyone, everywhere in your family.
Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.
I feel cut off from God, I have lost all sense of direction.
I loathe myself for the terrible things I have done.
Sometimes I walk in darkness.
We pray for those who despair of finding their way to forgiveness, and to love, peace and joy. We pray for befrienders, counsellors and community workers who help people cope with their emotions, losses, loneliness and depression.
We pray for ministers and pastors, our Bishops and Chairman, for Charlie, Sam and Peter, and for Jennie Cappleman and her ordination to the priesthood next Sunday, that they may be given the gifts they need to do your work.
Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.
I am afraid. I am ill. I am in
pain.
I have many anxieties and worries.
We ask your blessing on all who are ill at home or in hospital. May your love give peace in their hearts. Make us quick to discern those who are troubled and be ready to relieve them with our love. Teach them and us that nothing can separate us from your love.
Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.
I have lost someone I love.
I don't know how to go on.
I am full of grief and sorrow.
We pray for all who mourn, that they may be comforted and sustained. We give thanks for the promise of eternal life and the hope of glory.
Jesus Christ is the light of the world, a light which no darkness can
quench.
We commend to your everlasting love and care those who have died, and light
a candle to symbolise our prayers and the light of Christ which eternally
shines and brings hope. We remember everyone whose lives have been touched
by the American disaster.
 |
You turn our darkness into light, |
Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.
We thank you for the gifts of love shown to us in Jesus Christ, for all the
ways it is manifested, for courage and self-sacrifice shown this week, for
acts of heroism and love.
We thank you that love conquers evil.
Merciful Father:
accept these prayers for the sake of your Son,
our Saviour, Jesus Christ.
Amen