Prayers of Intercession for use in Church Ordinary 22 Year C

With special prayers for the people of Syria

Sunday 1 September 2013

Lord Jesus your life was characterised by service towards others. You touched those who were considered spiritually unclean and you washed the dirty feet of your disciples. Help us to understand that in serving others we are learning to walk in the path to which you have called your disciples.

Lord Jesus you suffered at the hands of corrupt human power and authority. You were pursued by religious leaders threatened by your compassion and example of servanthood. You were handed over to powerful leaders who were unprepared to uphold the standards of truth and justice. We pray that our leaders would recognise and be worthy of the responsibility which they hold. May those who are in positions of authority know the power of humility and service.

God of history, Witness of the struggles within families; we pray for the divided family of Syria as brother fights against brother, and sister rejects sister. We pray for those whose love of neighbour has been destroyed in the bitterness of enmity. May fear be submerged in compassion. May distrust be diluted by hope, as a vision of peace illuminates darkened minds and hate-filled hearts. We pray in the name of Christ, our source of light and love. Amen.

A Prayer for Peace in Syria

Spirit of wisdom and grace,the power of truth and judgement; we pray for all who are working for peacein the tangled conflict of Syria today.

For international leaders holding a thread of control,for the politicians holding a thread of power,
for the religious leaders holding a thread of authority,
for the fighters holding a thread of influence,
and the citizens clinging to a thread of hope.

Bring unity through the untangled order of justice.
Bring reconciliation through truthful dialogue.
Bring new life through patient diplomacy,determined mediation and courageous peace-making.

We pray in the name of Christ,our source of inspiration and confidence. Amen.

A Prayer for the Victims of the Syrian conflict

We pray for those damaged by the fighting in Syria.

To the wounded and injured: Come Lord Jesus.
To the terrified who are living in shock: Come Lord Jesus
To the hungry and homeless, refugee and exile: Come Lord Jesus
To those bringing humanitarian aid: Give protection Lord Jesus
To those administering medical assistance: Give protection Lord Jesus.
To those offering counsel and care: Give protection Lord Jesus.

For all making the sacrifice of love: Give the strength of your Spirit and the joy of your comfort.In the hope of Christ we pray. Amen.