This Week’s Intercessions
ASCENSION SUNDAY – 12TH MAY 2024
Let us pray. Heavenly Father we come to you in the greatness of your love and lift up our hearts in prayer and praise. We thank you that the way to your presence is always open through Jesus Christ and that you invite us to draw near in full assurance of faith. Help us to pray simply and sincerely, unselfishly and gratefully, remembering the needs of others as well as our own, and giving thanks always for everything in the name of Christ our Lord.
Lord, hear us, Lord, graciously hear us
Let us pray for our church. 0 God our Father, as we pray for your blessing to rest upon this Church, we are grateful for its worship and fellowship; for the care and teaching of everyone who comes to this place. Help us to see the kind of church you need today. May we not lose sight of the many and varied needs of the community of Hinchley Wood. Hold up before us the vision of your kingdom, a kingdom of justice and mercy, truth and compassion. Help us to grasp the meaning of the gospel which you have entrusted to us, and give us grace to live by it.
Lord, hear us, Lord, graciously hear us
We pray for those who are less fortunate than ourselves; those who live in developing countries, countries where there is very little stability and countries where there is war and starvation. Teach us to be ever mindful of those who are weary with the relentless struggle to keep alive; for those who can never look forward to a good meal and a comfortable bed, and those who barely have the necessities of life, much less its extras. We pray for all who are experiencing the terror of war and conflict, particularly those who are forced to flee their homes in fear. May God grant that they find open doors, minds and hearts wherever they seek shelter and peace.
Lord, hear us, Lord, graciously hear us
Lord, we remember all those young people who are sitting public examinations at school, college or university and pray that their efforts will be justly rewarded and that they will achieve what is necessary to move forward along their chosen path. Lord, we pray for all those who are going away on a holiday at this time. May they travel safely and enjoy a well-earned rest from their daily routines.
Lord, hear us, Lord, graciously hear us
We pray for people who are frightened because they are ill. Reassure them that because of the knowledge that you give to us, many diseases can now be cured. Help them to have confidence in those with medical knowledge to diagnose illness and care for the sick. Give them courage, hope and peace, and the knowledge that you are present in their weakness, pain and suffering. We pray especially for those who have no one to help them, that in their loneliness they may know that you are with them.
Lord, hear us, Lord, graciously hear us
Heavenly Father, we pray for those whose hearts have been saddened by the death of someone close and dear to them, for family and friends who have died and whose anniversary we recall. Today we particularly remember Ted who died 10 days ago. We pray for comfort and support for Jenny and ask you to be with her and all of the family. We pray for families throughout the world who have lost loved ones this week both through tragic events and through natural causes. May they also experience the comfort of your presence within them and the love and fellowship of people around them.
Lord, hear us, Lord, graciously hear us
Lord, your ascended Son has sent us into the world to spread the good news of your kingdom, inspire us this week wherever we are and whatever we are doing to act in ways that reflect your love.
Merciful God, accept these prayers for the sake of your Son, our Saviour Jesus Christ. Amen.