INTERCESSIONS
8th September 2002
Confident in the knowledge that God comforts and lifts up those who call on the name of the Lord, let us pray for the church, the world, and those in need.
Lord, we give you thanks for the gift of life. Infuse us with your lights and make us vehicles of that life-giving light that here on earth we may demonstrate your love for all mankind.
We come to you conscious of an ever-changing world, but more conscious of your unchanging power; aware of the changing nature of our own devotion, but more aware of the permanence of your care over all mankind.
We ask you to refurbish the hearts of those who serve you in this and other lands,. Give your church the love which knows no barriers of race or culture and strengthen us with your trust so that we may accomplish your work in the world.
Lord, in your mercy,
Hear our prayer
Lord, we pray for the leaders of the nations and all in positions of power and authority. Let them hear your voice above all others and act in a way that brings about healing and reconciliation.
We think of our enemies--the ones for whom we would rather not pray--and of ourselves. Lead us from prejudice to truth, deliver us from hatred and revenge, give us courage to stand strong, to overcome our fears and build bridges that we may stand before you reconciled through Christ our Lord.
We remember those who live with fear, anxiety and uncertainty. Comfort and strengthen them in their time of need, and we pray that they may know the healing power of your love.
Lord, in your mercy,
Hear our prayer
Lord, on this day our hearts are heavy as we remember those who were killed by terrorists in the events of September 11th last year.
Many remain missing, and all of us have been diminished.
Many have been injured, and all of us have been hurt.
Many have given their lives for others, and all of us want to give something.
As we remember with affection those who now rest from their labours, especially those we name before you in our hearts, keep us in fellowship with all your saints and bring us at last to joy in your kingdom, where Jesus Christ is the light of the world, a light which no darkness can quench.
We remember before God all those who have died and light a candle to symbolise the light of Christ which eternally shines and brings hope.
We remember
the 3000 people who lost their lives in New York on September 11th
Jack W--
John F-- L--
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You turn our darkness into light, |
Lord, in your mercy,
Hear our prayer
Lord, as we go out from this church today, lift us above the duties and responsibilities of our daily lives so that we may see them in the light of your loving purpose; broaden our imagination so that now and eternity may be seen as one moment in your time.
Merciful Father, accept these prayers for the sake of your Son, our Saviour, Jesus Christ. Amen
Gathering our prayers and praises into one, let us pray with confidence as our Saviour has taught us using the old form of the Lord's Prayer:
Our Father, who art in heaven, hallowed be Thy Name,
Thy kingdom come, Thy will be done, on earth as it is in heaven.
Give us this day our daily bread, and forgive us our trespasses
As we forgive those who trespass against us.
And lead us not into temptation, but deliver us from evil.
For Thine is the kingdom, the power and the glory,
For ever and ever, Amen.
Bible
Readings and Notes and two sermons:
Loving Our Neighbour and Caring
Communities, both preached on 8th September 2002.
9/11 a short tribute to the anniversary of
the events of 11th September 2001