Proper 23 C intercessions 9 October 2022
In these prayers I will say a short introduction and then leave time for your prayers. Except the last one, these prayers are in couples: one of thanks, the other a petition.
Let us thank God for the autumn; for the kaleidoscope of colours surrounding us as the countryside around us prepares to go to sleep for the winter; for the harvests in the fields and in the gardens; for the bright sunshine that has lit us today, but also for the rains that have watered the ground.
Lord in your mercy, Hear our prayers
Let us remember before God those who cannot see the autumn through the same rose-tinted glasses that I am wearing. For those to whom the harvest has brought nothing. For those who fear the coming winter; for those who lack hope that they can survive through the short cold days and the long dark nights that are coming.
Lord in your mercy, Hear our prayers
Let us give thanks for God for his Church and the support it gives us in our daily lives. For Gemma and Jenny as they lead and guide us through our journey. The joy of the word made flesh and yet dwelling in our hearts; for the faith that we can practice openly.
Lord in your mercy, Hear our prayers
Let us remember before God those who have no faith to sustain them; those who have faith but are persecuted for it; for those who wonder what life is all about; for those whose doubt themselves and have no confidence in God.
Lord in your mercy, Hear our prayers
Let us gives thanks to God for the riches of this world in which we live; for the relative security in which we live; for the support of friend and neighbour.
Lord in your mercy, Hear our prayers
Let us remember before God those who have no opportunity to benefit from what the world provides. Those entangled in war; those who cannot trust that their neighbour will not betray them; those who suffer from the greed and callousness of others; those suffering from famine and drought.
Finally let us give thanks to God for our own lives and for his place in them. Let us pray that we may be faithful stewards for his word, his love and his resources.
Heavenly father, you have promised that when two or three are gathered together that you will be there amongst them. Hear our prayer we beg and inspire in our hearts the same faith that made the Samaritan come back and say “thank you”. This we ask in the name of Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen.