LCMS Let Us Pray

Transcription

1 Page 1 of 34 LCMS Let Us Pray Table of Contents (To navigate the document, hold down your control key and click the appropriate heading) Epiphany /03/10 Christmas /03/10 - The Epiphany of Our Lord /10/10 - The Baptism of Our Lord /17/10 Epiphany /24/10 Epiphany /24/10 Epiphany /07/10 Epiphany /14/10 The Transfiguration of Our Lord Lent /17/10 Ash Wednesday /21/10 Lent /28/10 Lent /07/10 Lent /14/10 Lent /21/10 Lent /28/10 - Palm Sunday/Sunday of the Passion /01/10 Holy (Maundy) Thursday /02/10 Good Friday... 32

2 Page 2 of 34 Epiphany /03/10 Christmas 2 Prayer of the Church Second Sunday after Christmas P Let us pray to our Father who has done marvelous things through the revelation of His Son, our Lord Jesus Christ, asking Him to grant us favor and aid as we intercede for the Church, the world, and all people (especially ); P For the Church throughout the world, especially for The Lutheran Church--Missouri Synod, and for all those called to lead us, including Gerald, our synodical president, and, our district president, that together we may remain steadfast in the true faith as we joyfully witness to the glad tidings of great joy, let us pray to the Lord: P For all those whom God has called, that the Spirit might lead them into the Father's house to meditate on His wonderful deeds and shine forth His light in the midst of darkness, let us pray to the Lord: P For the servants of God who bear the mockery and insults of the nations, that God may silence their enemies and that they may live as those chosen in Christ before the foundation of the world, let us pray to the Lord: P For the nations of the world to whom the Lord has committed the dominion of all the earth, that they may crown God with glory and honor through their stewardship of His creation, let us pray to the Lord: P For the schools of this community, that the wisdom of God might permeate their instruction, nurturing the growth of children into responsible citizens and servants, let us pray to the Lord: P For the social agencies and hospitals which serve this community, that, established by the Father's creative Word, they may prosper and enrich the lives of those whom they serve, let us pray to the Lord: P For those who have lost children through abduction, miscarriage, stillbirth, death, and other separations, that they may live in the hope of the great Child of God, our Lord Jesus Christ, who is one with His heavenly Father, let us pray to the Lord: P For those who feel cast off and rejected, for the sick and the dying, and for those who mourn, that they may live by the Word of the One who is everlasting, let us pray to the Lord: P For those who will receive the redeeming blood of the Lamb this day, that by faith they may taste the Word that comes forth from Jesus' lips--a Word that is sweeter than honey, let us pray to the Lord.

3 Page 3 of 34 P Let us give thanks for all the saints who have hoped in Christ. That we may possess with them salvation's full inheritance at Christ's return in glory and triumph with all the saints, let us pray to the Lord. P Through the faithful and steadfast love of the Father, who has made known His will to unite all things in Christ, we entrust all for whom we pray, blessing our mighty God forever and ever, saying: Return to Table of Contents

4 Page 4 of 34 01/03/10 - The Epiphany of Our Lord Prayer of the Church P Rejoicing in the Light of Christ who has come to save us, let us pray for ourselves, for the Church in all places, and for the confession of the Gospel throughout the world that, through its light, many may be led to Jesus' eternal kingdom. P O Light of Light, You have come into our dark world to lead us in the way of eternal peace. We praise You, O God, for sending Your Son to become man and for revealing to us Your desire to deliver all people from eternal death. Make Your Church the light of the world that many may be led to You and rejoice in Your kingdom. Lord, in Your mercy, P O eternal Lord, as You accepted the gifts of the Magi, receive our humble gifts that spring forth by the Holy Spirit's work. Use the mouths and minds of Gerald, our synodical president;, our district president;, our circuit counselor; and our pastor(s), that they may be faithful beacons leading to You, the way, the truth, and the life. Lord, in Your mercy, P O King, who once reigned as an infant and escaped the rage of King Herod, according to Your will deliver Your people from violence and from ruthless leaders. Defend the unborn. Bring abortionists and the parents of aborted children to repentance and peace in Your forgiveness. Give success to all authorities in serving the common good, punishing evildoers, and preserving peace. Lord, in Your mercy, P O Savior who once fled to Egypt to be spared for the saving work of Your ministry and cross, look with favor on all refugees. Make us fruitful in providing for those driven from their homes. Frustrate thieves who steal and enrich themselves on the aid sent for those truly in need. Bless the efforts of LCMS World Relief and Human Care in serving the needy, both here and in far away lands. Lord, in Your mercy, P O Brightness of the Father's face, You enlightened the wise men that they might rightly confess You as God and King. By Your Word of truth, enlighten the students and teachers at the schools of Your church, including (our parish school, our Lutheran High School,) the Concordia University system, and the seminaries of our Synod, that they may know true wisdom in You and may be prepared for useful service to others. Lord, in Your mercy, P O great Physician, according to Your will, heal the sick among us (especially ). Comfort them in their time of affliction, give them patience in their infirmities, and point them to the hope of the endless glory to come. Lord, in Your mercy, P O God in human flesh, bless those who commune this day that they may do so in repentance and faith, and with hearts that see Your body and blood hidden under bread and wine for their forgiveness. Lord, in Your mercy,

5 Page 5 of 34 P O Savior, we praise You for those whom You have led through death to heaven's peace. By Your Holy Spirit keep us in fellowship with all who are with You in heaven and all who wait for You on earth, for You live and reign with the Father and the Holy Spirit, one God, now and forever. Return to Table of Contents

6 Page 6 of 34 01/10/10 - The Baptism of Our Lord Prayer of the Church P Rejoicing in the Light of Christ who has come to save us, let us pray for ourselves, for the Church in all places, and for the confession of the Gospel throughout the world that, through its light, many may be led to Jesus eternal kingdom. P Heavenly Father, at Jesus Baptism You honored Your eternal Son and poured out Your Holy Spirit on Him. By that same Spirit keep us, and all the baptized, faithful in the confession of Your holy name: Father, Son, and Holy Spirit. Lord, in Your mercy, P Heavenly Father, at Jesus Baptism He was declared to be the Lamb of God who takes away the sin of the world. Make Your pastors and missionaries, and all Your people, faithful and bold in proclaiming Jesus saving work to all. Encourage and sustain those persecuted for Christ s sake. Lord, in Your mercy, P Heavenly Father, at Jesus Baptism Your Son stood under Your will. Give us cheerful obedience to those who have been placed in authority over us. Make them wise and caring servants. Lord, in Your mercy, P Heavenly Father, Your Son instituted Holy Baptism as a blessed adoption into Your family. Enlighten our catechumens who are preparing to receive Baptism. Watch over pregnant mothers, and parents with young children. Enable them to bring their children to You in Baptism, that together parents and children may have eternal life in Your name. Lord, in Your mercy, P Heavenly Father, at Jesus Baptism He began His ministry as the physician of body and soul. According to Your will, enable doctors, nurses, and all health care workers to be successful in bringing relief to the sick and injured (especially ). Lord, in Your mercy, P Heavenly Father, at Jesus Baptism the gates of heaven were opened. Comfort those who mourn (the death of ) with the open path to heaven given to all who believe and are baptized in Christ. Teach us to number our days and to rejoice in the eternal life already given to us in our heavenly washing. Lord, in Your mercy, P Heavenly Father, at Jesus Baptism He humbled Himself to be anointed by John in order to fulfill all righteousness. Take away our self-righteousness, and keep all who are baptized in Christ clothed with His perfect goodness, that we may be renewed in the joy of Your salvation. Bless those eat and drink Christ s body and blood this day that, receiving Him in repentant faith, they may be strengthened in faith and love. Lord, in Your mercy, P Heavenly Father, at Jesus Baptism He stood at the Jordan with a multitude of sinners. Now He is seated at the right hand of the Father together with a multitude of saints. Receive our thanks for those

7 Page 7 of 34 who have died in Christ and yet still live in Him. Keep us in fellowship with them and with all the saints on earth; through Jesus Christ our Lord, who lives and reigns with You and the Holy Spirit, one God, now and forever. Return to Table of Contents

8 Page 8 of 34 01/17/10 Epiphany 2 Prayer of the Church - Second Sunday after the Epiphany P Dearly beloved, named as Christ's own in Holy Baptism, let us call on our Savior and divine Bridegroom as His own dear bride. P O Christ, at Cana You manifested Your divine glory through Your first miraculous sign. By faithfulness to Your Word, make this congregation and all Your Church a light that shines Your divine love and forgiveness into our darkened world. Lord, in Your mercy, P O Christ, at Cana You pointed to the glory to come at the time when You would be crucified and raised to win salvation for all. Open our hearts and the hearts of fellow sinners everywhere to Your gifts in Word and Sacrament that we may receive and hold fast the gift of eternal life. Lord, in Your mercy, P O Christ, at Cana Mary directed the servants to do whatever You said. Bless the pastors and teachers, missionaries and servants of Your church to follow Your Word in all things for the salvation of Your people. Lord, in Your mercy, P O Christ, at Cana You provided in abundance what was lacking. We thank You for the countless gifts You have given us, including food, clothing, and shelter (and especially for ). Cover and complete our flawed efforts to serve one another so that our neighbors may benefit. Bless the efforts of our rulers to maintain peace and promote justice, and watch over and direct all our military personnel that they may be sustained in times of trial. Lord, in Your mercy, P O Christ, at Cana You blessed a husband and wife by Your presence. Visit our homes with Your forgiveness, peace, and joy. Turn husbands and wives toward each other that they may live together in peace and joy. Bless our families, that parents may serve as examples of righteousness and children may joyfully live under their care, showing obedience and respect. According to Your will, give pious spouses to those who wish to be married, and grant solid friendships to those who are single. In all things, keep us free from every sexual sin. Lord, in Your mercy, P O Christ, at Cana You showed divine compassion--even for our simple, earthly needs. Enable us to pray for all people and their needs. Grant us compassionate hearts for those who are lacking in bodily necessities of this life, that we may show mercy to them. Lord, in Your mercy, P O Christ, at Cana Your disciples put their faith in You. Grant steadfast faith, O Lord, to us and to all who are suffering, ill, injured, or undergoing medical tests (especially ). Answer their cries according to Your loving-kindness. Lord, in Your mercy, P O Christ, at Cana Your showed Yourself to be the true Bridegroom of Your Bride, the Church. Not even death can part You from us. We thank You for the eternal peace You have given to our brothers and

9 Page 9 of 34 sisters who have gone before us and now rest in Your eternal peace. Keep us in fellowship with them until the day of Your return. Lord, in Your mercy, P O Christ, at Cana You provided good wine for a wedding banquet. Now You provide us the best wine, Your precious blood, at this foretaste of the eternal wedding feast to come. Prepare all who commune to receive You in repentance and faith that they may be eternally blessed. Bring us all at last to Your heavenly banquet table where we will praise You without end, for You live and reign with the Father and the Holy Spirit, one God, now and forever. Return to Table of Contents

10 Page 10 of 34 01/24/10 Epiphany 3 Prayer of the Church Third Sunday after the Epiphany P Rejoicing in the Light of Christ who has come to save us, let us pray for ourselves, for the Church in all places, and for the confession of the Gospel throughout the world that through its light many may be led to Jesus' eternal kingdom. P Gracious Father, we praise You that You sent Your Son into our flesh to preach the Gospel of His saving work for all mankind. Continually pour out Your Holy Spirit upon us in Your Word and blessed Sacraments that we, with all Your Church, may faithfully confess Your saving name. Lord, in Your mercy, P Heavenly Father, Your Son proclaimed liberty to the captives and recovery of sight to the blind. Bless all faithful pastors and missionaries that they may carry on Christ's proclamation. Defend them from all harm. Make them bold to be Your Son's voice to all sinners, and uphold and strengthen their families. Lord, in Your mercy, P Lord of Life, we thank You for creating us, giving us life, and providing us opportunity to serve our neighbors. You command us to defend those who cannot defend themselves. Look with mercy on our unborn brothers and sisters and spare them from abortion. Direct us to speak and act in their defense within our vocations. Turn the hearts of people from selfishness and fear to love and joyful service. Bring those responsible for the deaths of others to repentance and eternal freedom in Christ's full forgiveness. Lord, Your mercy, P God of might, You appoint the governing authorities. Direct our governmental officials to come to the aid of the defenseless and to protect them, especially during this time of crisis in Haiti. Watch over our military personnel, both here and in distant lands, and strengthen them and their families during times of loneliness and separation. Lord, in Your mercy, P Lord of mercy, You sent Your Son to heal the brokenhearted. Comfort us with forgiveness for our sins and knowledge of Your peace with us in Christ. Encourage and strengthen those who are ill and frail (including ). According to Your will, give them healing or peace to trust Your wise providence. Lord, in Your mercy, P Eternal Father, we thank You for bringing to eternal life all who trust in Your Son and for delivering to paradise those saints who have died. Send Your peace to ( and) all who mourn, that they may be strengthened by Your gracious promises in Christ and have courage to face their daily challenges. Lord, in Your mercy, P Heavenly Father, we thank You that by Your Son's words You give His true body and blood as food and drink for us dying sinners. Let all who commune this day receive Your Son in repentance and faith, recognizing His hidden coming under bread and wine for forgiveness and peace. Lord, in Your mercy,

11 Page 11 of 34 P Lord God, Heavenly Father, graciously hear our prayers, deliver and preserve us, for the sake of Your Son, our only Savior, who lives and reigns with You and the Holy Spirit, one God, now and forever. Return to Table of Contents

12 Page 12 of 34 01/24/10 Epiphany 4 Prayer of the Church Fourth Sunday after the Epiphany P Rejoicing in the Light of Christ who has come to save us, let us pray for ourselves, for the Church in all places, and for the confession of the Gospel throughout the world, that through its light many may be led to Jesus' eternal kingdom. P O Father of Light, shine the bright beams of Your Word upon Your Church throughout the world that it may proclaim with authority the good news of the kingdom of Your Son. Lord in your mercy, P O Father of Light, fortify like an iron pillar the faith of our brothers and sisters throughout the world who are rebuked and persecuted for extolling Your name. By Your mercy, deliver them from suffering. Lord, in Your mercy, P O Father of Light, overthrow the evil and bloodshed that reign in our world, especially in Iraq and Afghanistan. Support those who live in the midst of danger to body and soul, including those suffering from natural disasters. Lord, in Your mercy, P O Father of Light, grant to journalists in print and broadcast media throughout this nation a desire to write and speak with clarity and fairness and so strengthen the bonds of society. Lord, in Your mercy, P O Father of Light, who forms life in the womb, lead all people to give thanks for Your wonderfully creative work and to preserve the life of all children, born and yet unborn. Lord, in Your mercy, P O Father of Light, enlighten this congregation with the most excellent way of Christ's love, that the baptized in this place may bear with one another and endure trial and temptation as one. Lord, in Your mercy, P O Father of Light, rebuke and cast out the spirits and forces of evil that dominate those under their sway and forget not the afflicted and sick (especially ). Uplift them in body and soul by Your righteous hand, and, according to Your will, heal and preserve them. Lord, in Your mercy, P O Father of Light, nourish all who wait in hope for You with Your steadfast love and faithfulness tasted in the body and blood of Your beloved Son. Lord, in Your mercy, P O Father of Light, in baptismal hope the blessed saints await the revealing of their final salvation in the resurrection to Your eternal Kingdom. Following those marching to Zion strengthen our hope in You and let Your unfailing love rest upon us. Lord, in Your mercy,

13 Page 13 of 34 P By the light of Your Word we entrust all for whom we pray through the Holy One, Your Son, Jesus Christ our Lord, Return to Table of Contents

14 Page 14 of 34 02/07/10 Epiphany 5 Prayer of the Church Fifth Sunday after the Epiphany P Holy are You, O Lord, God almighty, yet You have called us into Your presence that You may take away our sins, restore us as Your own, and listen to the whispered prayers of our hearts. [Silence for prayer] P Holy Lord, open our ears, our minds, and our hearts to the sound of Your voice, that Your Word may dwell within us, transform us by Your grace into Your holy children, and equip us for Your service. Lord, in Your mercy, P Holy Lord, place Your blessing upon Your Church and those who serve her, especially Gerald our Synod President, our District President, our pastor(s), and all missionaries and church workers. We pray also for those now preparing for full-time service to Your church. Grant them gifts sufficient for the task, prosper the work they do in Your name, and make them bold in the proclamation of Your Gospel. Lord, in Your mercy, P Holy Lord, give wisdom to those who lead us in this land and to all the leaders of the nations. Guide them in the path of peace, encourage them to act with justice, and lead them to protect the weakest and most vulnerable among their citizens. Lord, in Your mercy, P Holy Lord, grant us Your Holy Spirit to overcome the fears of our hearts, so that we may with unhindered voice proclaim Jesus Christ to all people. Bless the newly planted congregations of our Synod and the work of outreach here and everywhere. Lord, in Your mercy. P Holy Lord, give Your light to those whose minds and hearts are clouded with darkness and fear. Give Your healing to the sick, the hospitalized, those preparing for surgery, and those recovering, [especially... ]. Surround them with Your presence and Your peace in their day of trouble, according to Your good and gracious will. Lord, in Your mercy, P Holy Lord, be with those families who mourn [especially... ], and with those near death [especially], and grant them the comfort and hope of the resurrection from the dead and the gift of life everlasting through Jesus Christ. Lord, in Your mercy, P Holy Lord, You grant us many and rich gifts, from our talents and abilities to our time and material goods. Inspire us by Your giving love to be generous with the poor, to be faithful in the tithes and offerings that support the work of Your kingdom, and to be grateful to You at all times and in all places. Lord, in Your mercy, P Holy Lord, we come to Your Table bidden by Your promise. Grant us a true faith to acknowledge the presence of Your body and blood in Your Supper, and equip us with Your Spirit so that we may be ready to receive all the gifts that come through this communion. Lord, in Your mercy,

15 Page 15 of 34 P Holy Lord, You know better than we the needs of Your people and the desires of our hearts. Grant all things beneficial to us and to our salvation and keep from us all things harmful, for into Your hands we commend ourselves and all for whom we pray; through Jesus Christ, our Lord. Return to Table of Contents

16 Page 16 of 34 02/14/10 The Transfiguration of Our Lord Prayer of the Church P We are Your house, O Lord, and the people of Your promise; C Help us to hold fast our confidence in Your saving glory. P God of Glory, as You once revealed Yourself to Moses face to face, so You have shown Yourself to the world in the glory of Your Son. Help us by Your Spirit to know Him by faith, to love Him with all our heart, and to serve Him with all of our being. We are Your house, O Lord, and the people of Your promise; C Help us to hold fast our confidence in Your saving glory. P God of Glory, Your disciples once saw Moses and Elijah point to Jesus as the fulfillment of the covenant of Sinai and all the prophets' words. Reveal Yourself now to us in Your Scriptures that we may behold Him whose suffering and death give life to the whole world. We are Your house, O Lord, and the people of Your promise; C Help us to hold fast our confidence in Your saving glory. P God of Glory, we once glimpsed Your face in the waters of our baptism. Guide us by Your Spirit to live out the fullness of Your new life imparted to us in those saving waters. We are Your house, O Lord, and the people of Your promise; C Help us to hold fast our confidence in Your saving glory. P God of Glory, as Your Church once boldly proclaimed Your glory for the salvation of many, grant Your continued blessings to Your Church today. Bless her pastors, leaders, missionaries, and all church workers in the holy calling of proclaiming Jesus Christ, the glory of the Father. We are Your house, O Lord, and the people of Your promise; C Help us to hold fast our confidence in Your saving glory. P God of Glory, You once showed forth Your kingdom to the nations. Show forth today the glory of Your saving love to all the world. Grant to all people the certainty of justice, the gift of freedom, and the blessing of earthly peace. We are Your house, O Lord, and the people of Your promise; C Help us to hold fast our confidence in Your saving glory. P God of Glory, You once came to a world lonely and afraid and showed to us the face of love and hope. Be with those who are alone, those troubled by their fears, and those whose minds are clouded by illness. We are Your house, O Lord, and the people of Your promise; C Help us to hold fast our confidence in Your saving glory. P God of Glory, Your Son came to reveal Your kingdom through words and works of mercy. Give to the sick Your healing, to the suffering Your hope, to the grieving Your comfort, and to the dying Your peace [especially... ], that Your saving will and the glory of Your steadfast love may support all who call upon You in the day of trouble. We are Your house, O Lord, and the people of Your promise; C Help us to hold fast our confidence in Your saving glory. P God of Glory, You once showed Yourself in the surprise of a moment when the veil was lifted and Your disciples saw You as You are. Still You come to us and lift the veil from Your face to show Yourself to us in the Supper where we eat Your body and drink Your blood. Open our eyes to see You there, open our

17 Page 17 of 34 hearts to receive all the gifts of Your mercy in this eating and drinking, and bless the unity of Your people gathered in Your name. We are Your house, O Lord, and the people of Your promise; C Help us to hold fast our confidence in Your saving glory. P God of Glory, You once took Your disciples to a mountain to show forth Your glory but then led them back down to the plain. Though we have seen Your glory in this place and rejoice in all Your blessings here, be with us as we too must go down to the plains and valleys where we live out our baptismal calling and serve You to the glory of Your name. We are Your house, O Lord, and the people of Your promise; C Help us to hold fast our confidence in Your saving glory. P God of Glory, You once spoke through a cloud to Your disciples of old that they might see Jesus by faith even when earthly eyes cannot see. Grant to us this bold and courageous faith that we may see Jesus, trust in Him for our salvation, and be ready to receive Him when He comes again in clouds of glory. We are Your house, O Lord, and the people of Your promise; C Help us to hold fast our confidence in Your saving glory. Amen. Return to Table of Contents

18 Page 18 of 34 Lent /17/10 Ash Wednesday Prayer of the Church P O almighty and everlasting God, Your people come to You with weeping and mourning over all our sins, yet we give You thanks that You are gracious and merciful to us. Grant to us Your Holy Spirit that our hearts may be contrite, our faith steadfast and immovable, and our hope built securely upon Your cross. We praise You for all Your loving care over our lives; for Your Word which accomplishes Your purpose and manifests Your saving glory to the whole world; for those who bring Your Word to us--all pastors, missionaries, church workers and church leaders. Keep us in Your Word that we may rightly divide Your Law and Gospel and hold fast to the doctrine of the apostles all our days. We remember before You those who stand against Your Word and the reign of Your kingdom--both among the nations and their leaders, and those who have closed off their hearts to the voice of Your mercy. Bring them to repentance, and restore all those who have fallen away or been overcome by error. We pray for good weather and good harvest, for good government and good leaders, for good schools and good teachers, for good service from those in the armed services of our nation, police, firefighters, medical and emergency personnel. Protect us against all enemies and from natural and man-made disasters. We invite You into the homes where Your people dwell that they may be places of blessing and faith and love. Help husbands and wives to live in holy love and to be faithful in the vows and promises they have made. Bless the children in these homes that they may grow up to know You and to love You. Be with the widowed, the families broken by divorce, and the orphans. We ask You, O Lord, to teach our hearts gratitude for all Your gifts and generosity toward those in need. Help us to support the poor, to feed the hungry, to assist the unemployed and to care for the hurting. We pray [especially for... names of the sick and those in need] that the suffering may find relief, the sick may find healing, the mourning may find comfort, and the dying may find peace in the arms of Jesus Christ, our Savior. We beg You to keep us from being distracted by the things of this world, to keep us from being overcome by the chances and changes of this mortal life, and to be firmly anchored in the arms of Your mercy and grace in Jesus Christ. As He came among us to walk in holy life to the suffering of the cross, help us as we walk with Him in this Lenten journey, that we may learn to trust in Him evermore and to rejoice in what He has accomplished for us and for our salvation. We look forward to the day when all our troubles and trials will be ended and we shall dwell in Your presence forevermore. Until that day comes, keep us faithful and guard us against all our enemies. And when that day comes, O Lord, receive us into the fellowship of all Your saints, in the blessed reunion

19 Page 19 of 34 with those who have gone before us with the sign of faith and now rest from their labors; through Jesus Christ, our Lord, to whom be glory and honor, now and forevermore. Return to Table of Contents

20 Page 20 of 34 02/21/10 Lent 1 Prayer of the Church P O Lord, You came among us to live in this world of sin and death. You were tempted as we are tempted, yet You did not succumb as we have done and still do. Hear us now as we pray for ourselves and for all people everywhere, as they have need. Silence for personal prayer. P O Lord, we live our lives as wanderers who have rebelled against You but who have found that our way has led only to death and destruction. Lead us home to You that we may not wander any more. Guide us from fear and unbelief into faith and confidence in Your mercy and in Your Word. Lord, in Your mercy, P O Lord, we are weak and vulnerable on our own. Plant us firmly in Your grace and teach us Your Word so that we may be equipped to answer the assaults of the devil, the world, and our own sinful flesh. Lord, in Your mercy, P O Lord, we are divided and set against one another. Give unity to Your Church and to all Christians through the truth of Your Word. Unite us as pastors and people, missionaries and church workers, and all Your baptized that we may serve You faithfully in all our various callings but for Your glory. Lord, in Your mercy, P O Lord, we are prone to doubt and fear. Grant us by your Holy Spirit clarity of mind and courage. Bless all those whose hearts and minds are troubled. Bless those who teach and those who learn Your Word that it may keep us safely anchored in Your truth. Lord, in Your mercy, P O Lord, we presume much, but our pride is our downfall. Guide the nations and all their leaders to promote justice, to protect the weak, to reward virtue, and to punish the evildoer. Bring peace among the nations, and lead us in the responsible exercise of our freedom. Lord, in Your mercy, P O Lord, we hear many voices in addition to Your own. Help us to hear with discernment that we may close our ears to the voices of anger and dispute, oppression and hate. Bless those who protect us here and throughout the world. Lead us in humility to act with integrity and to judge charitably. Lord, in Your mercy, P O Lord, we are wounded and hurting in many ways. Grant to us healing and peace, according to Your will... [especially for... ]... that all the sick and suffering, grieving and dying may know Your consolation and aid in their time of need. Lord, in Your mercy,

21 Page 21 of 34 P O Lord, we delight in calling our own what really belongs to You. Give honesty to our hearts that we may recognize that all good things come from You and are to be used for Your glory. Receive now the tithes and offerings, praise and thanksgiving we bring before You to honor You as Lord and Giver of all the things under our care, and grant us the wisdom to use them for the glory of Your name and the extension of Your kingdom. Lord, in Your mercy, P O Lord, we hunger and thirst for many things. Help us to hunger and thirst for the bread of heaven and the cup of salvation. Guide us to discern Christ s body hidden in bread and His blood in wine. May this communion strengthen us in faith and manifest the unity of all Your people in doctrine and life together. Lord, in Your mercy, P O Lord, we think we know what we need but You are wiser than we and discern what is both good and beneficial and what is evil and harmful to us and our salvation. Hear Your people as they pray, and grant us all things profitable to us both now and eternally, as You have continually done for Your people and will do forevermore. Into Your hands we place ourselves and all the petitions we have prayed, for we trust in the sufficiency of Your grace and the richness of Your mercy through Jesus Christ, our Lord. Return to Table of Contents

22 Page 22 of 34 02/28/10 Lent 2 Prayer of the Church P We come before You, gracious Father, as people with clean hands and clean hearts in Christ. As we live in Him by baptism and faith, we pray You to live in us and to hear the concerns of our hearts as a Father who loves His children. Silence for personal prayer. P Gracious Father, You sent forth the prophets to keep Your Word alive in every generation until it was made flesh in Jesus Christ. We give You thanks for those who speak Your Word to us today. Bless our Synod as we prepare for the convention in July. Bless those who lead us in Synod and District, those now elected and those who will be elected this summer. Bless the delegates assembled and the decisions made there, that they may be according to Your will and for the good of Your kingdom. Lord, in Your mercy, P Gracious Father, You teach us to keep Your Word in faithful hearts and to obey You in all that we do and say. Bless the colleges and seminaries of our Synod, the preschools, elementary and high schools throughout our Synod, and all the places where we learn and grow in knowledge of Your world and in the grace of Your Word. Raise up faithful teachers, and bless the students who learn from them. Lord, in Your mercy, P Gracious Father, You hold the nations and all their leaders accountable. Grant Your blessing to Barack, our President,, our Governor,, our Mayor, and all elected and appointed public servants. Guide them to work for the common good, for peace among the nations, for the protection of the weak and those unborn, for the honor of those who do good, and for the punishment of those who do evil. Lord, in Your mercy, P Gracious Father, You are God of all the nations, and yet many do not know You. Help us to stand firm like Jeremiah, to speak boldly like Paul, and to proclaim the way of the Lord faithfully that all may be gathered unto the Lord in faith and trust, as You graciously will. Lord, in Your mercy, P Gracious Father, You are not far from Your people nor are You aloof from all their needs. We pray for the sick, for those who suffer, for those who mourn their loved ones, and those in their last hours here on earth... [especially... ]... that in all their troubles they may know the peace of Your presence, healing according to Your will, and the grace sufficient for all their needs. Lord, in Your mercy, P Gracious Father, You hold all things in Your hands, even each of us. Help us to recognize that all we have has come from Your giving love, and teach us to return to You what is rightfully Yours, in the tithes and offerings we bring and the praise and thanksgiving we offer You. Lord, in Your mercy,

23 Page 23 of 34 P Gracious Father, You continue to beckon to us that we may be Yours and live in the safety of Your divine and gracious care. Help us to heed Your call to come to Your Table that we may recognize Christ's body and blood in the bread and wine of this supper, receive it with repentant hearts, and be blessed with the forgiveness of our sins and the strengthening of our faith. Help us show forth in our life together the unity of heart and mind that is manifest in our communion together. Lord, in Your mercy, P Gracious Father, we so often do not know what to pray for. Grant us Your Holy Spirit, that we may ask of You all that is good and blessed, that we may trust in You for those things we do not know or see that we need, and that we may ever be grateful for the way You supply to us all things necessary for this body and life. Keep us in the one true faith that we may be prepared for Your coming again and be received into the blessed reunion of those who have gone before us with the sign of faith and are at peace. Through Jesus Christ, our Lord, we pray. Return to Table of Contents

24 Page 24 of 34 03/07/10 Lent 3 Prayer of the Church L In peace let us pray to the Lord: L For the gift of divine peace and of pardon, with all our heart and with all our mind, let us pray to the Lord: L For the holy Christian Church, here and scattered throughout the world, and for the proclamation of the Gospel and the calling of all to faith, let us pray to the Lord: L For this nation, for our cities and communities, and for the common welfare of us all, let us pray to the Lord: L For seasonable weather and for the fruitfulness of the earth, let us pray to the Lord: L For those who labor, for those whose work is difficult or dangerous, and for all who travel, let us pray to the Lord: L For all those in need, for the hungry and homeless, for the widowed and orphaned, and for all those in prison, let us pray to the Lord: L For all who are unemployed or underemployed let us pray to the Lord: L For an awareness of how blessed we are and for a willingness to share with those lacking basic necessities of life let us pray to the Lord: L For the sick and dying and for all those who care for them, let us pray to the Lord: L For... [additional bids for prayer may be inserted here]... let us pray to the Lord: L Finally, for these and for all our needs of body and soul, let us pray to the Lord: Christ, have mercy. Lord, have mercy. Return to Table of Contents

25 Page 25 of 34 03/14/10 Lent 4 Prayer of the Church L In peace let us pray to the Lord: L For the peace from above and for our salvation, let us pray to the Lord: L For the peace of the whole world, for the well-being of the Church of God, and for the unity of all, let us pray to the Lord: L For this holy house and for all who offer here their worship and praise, let us pray to the Lord: L For Gerald, our Synod President, for our District President, for all pastors in Christ, for all servants of the Church, and for all the people, let us pray to the Lord: L For Barack, our President, for our governor, for all public servants, for the government and those who protect us, that they may be upheld and strengthened in every good deed, let us pray to the Lord: L For those who work to bring peace, justice, health, and protection in this and every place, let us pray to the Lord: L For the poor and hungry, homeless and unemployed, especially that we may have generous hearts led to compassionate actions, let us pray to the Lord: L For those who bring offerings, those who do good works in this congregation, those who toil, those who sing, and all the people here present who await from the Lord great and abundant mercy, let us pray to the Lord: L For favorable weather, for an abundance of the fruits of the earth, and for peaceful times, let us pray to the Lord: L For our deliverance from all affliction, wrath, danger, and need, let us pray to the Lord: L For... [additional bids for prayer may be inserted here]... let us pray to the Lord:

26 Page 26 of 34 L O Lord, our heavenly Father, almighty and everlasting God, You have safely brought us to the beginning of this day. Defend us in the same with Your mighty power, and grant that this day we fall into no sin, neither run into any kind of danger, but that all our doings, being ordered by Your governance, may be righteous in Your sight; through Jesus Christ, Your Son, our Lord, who lives and reigns with You and the Holy Spirit, one God, now and forever. Return to Table of Contents

27 Page 27 of 34 03/21/10 Lent 5 Prayer of the Church P In thankfulness to our God who makes all things new, let us pray for the whole people of God in Christ Jesus and for all people according to their needs. P O God, as You brought Your people through the sea and set them on dry land, so through the life, death and resurrection of Jesus, You have made all things new. We praise and bless You for Your boundless mercy, most especially for calling Your Church into being. Sustain Your holy flock, both in this place and scattered throughout the world that we may give a bold confession of the hope that is in us. Lord, in Your mercy, P We pray, O Lord, for those serving in government, both in this country and around the world, that their work would continually be an expression of Your love of justice. Give to the elected officials of this land the desire to serve the common good, and give to our citizens honest and generous hearts that we may live together in peace. Lord, in Your mercy, P God of all hope, we pray for the justice system of this and every nation. We pray for those held prisoner, for those we consider enemies of the peace, and for their families, that repentance might be worked among the guilty, that freedom be accomplished for the innocent, and that families who have lost the presence of loved ones be encouraged by the love and service they receive from those who confess Your name. We pray for prison guards and administrators that they would act in a spirit of service and find purpose and peace in their work. Lord, in Your mercy, P We pray for those who are ill, injured, and in mourning (especially ), that in the midst of their suffering they would find strength and hope in the suffering of Christ. Grant them Your unfailing peace and, as You so will, turn their sorrow to joy and their weakness to strength. Lord, in Your mercy, P Father of our redemption, as we prepare to receive the body and blood of Your Son for our salvation, renew our hearts and minds with the assurance of the new life that You have created within us and among us through the death and resurrection of Your Son, Jesus Christ. Lord, in Your mercy, P Lord of the vineyard, we praise You for the blessed memory of the faithful workers who have gone before us. Make their witness an encouragement for us as we render faithful service to one another. Lord, in Your mercy, P O Lord, heavenly Father, we here remember the sufferings and death of Your dear Son, Jesus Christ, for our salvation. Rejoicing in His victorious resurrection from the dead, we draw strength from his ascension before You, where He ever stands for us as our own high priest. Gather us together from the ends of the earth to celebrate with all the faithful the marriage feast of the Lamb in His kingdom, which

28 Page 28 of 34 has no end. Graciously receive our prayers, deliver and preserve us, for to You alone we give all glory, honor and worship, Father, Son and Holy Spirit, one God, now and forever. Return to Table of Contents

29 Page 29 of 34 03/28/10 - Palm Sunday/Sunday of the Passion Prayer of the Church P As we meditate upon the passion of Christ this week, let us call upon the Lord, in His mercy, to hear our prayer. P Preserve Your Word, O Savior, that all pastors and missionaries may present your Law and Gospel without addition, change, deletion, or substitution that many may call upon You as their suffering Servant, Prophet, Priest, and King. Lord, in your mercy, P O Jesus, our Prophet, grant unity of teaching to your whole Church on earth, our partner churches, and The Lutheran Church--Missouri Synod, especially in preparation for the Convention of the LCMS in July. Where there is division, provide unity. Where there is error, give reform. Where there is legalism or license, bring repentance. Where there is hurt, give healing. Lord, in Your mercy, P Bless the day-to-day ministry of the pastors, congregations, teachers, schools, institutions and church workers of the LCMS. Raise up passionate and dedicated workers for the mission fields ripe for harvest. Grant to all preparing for church work hearts, minds, and lives open to Your Word of truth. Lord, in Your mercy, P O Jesus, King of Power, You provide governments for protection and peace. You have blessed us to be a blessing, O Lord. Help us to provide out of our abundance for those in need that many may glorify You and praise Your holy name. Lord, in Your mercy, P Grant renewed faith to all who doubt the promises You reveal in Your Word or the sacred history You have preserved for our edification. Help them to trust the testimony of Your prophets, evangelists, apostles, and martyrs and all who have suffered for Your name. Lord, in Your mercy, P Lord Jesus, as the Suffering Servant You endured mocking, shame, flogging, crucifixion, and falsehood. Sustain all who suffer persecution for Your name. Grant endurance to all who bear any crosses of body, mind, or soul. Lord, in Your mercy, P Lord Jesus, our great High Priest. You understand well what it means to be tempted, for you were tempted in every way that we are, yet without sin. Preserve us in baptismal grace. Grant us strength to resist the old evil foe with Your Word that he would flee from us. Lord, in Your mercy, P As we partake of Your Body and Your Blood in, with, and under bread and wine, grant us faith to watch and pray until Your return. Lord, in Your mercy,

30 Page 30 of 34 P Grant us humility, O Lord, as we follow Christ, mindful that He is the author and finisher of our faith, our Savior, and that we merely are recipients of His forgiveness, life, salvation, and life eternal. Lord, in Your mercy, P These prayers we offer through the One who humbly entered into Jerusalem, who cleansed the temple, who taught His disciples, who suffered, was crucified, died and was buried, who rose again, and who will come again to judge--the Holy One, Your Son, Jesus Christ our Lord, Return to Table of Contents

31 Page 31 of 34 04/01/10 Holy (Maundy) Thursday Prayer of the Church P Merciful Lord, You have prepared the feast before us as a remembrance and delivery of Your Son's sacrifice for us on the cross. Hear our prayers in His name and for His sake. P Merciful Lord, though we do not deserve Your bounty, You provide for all our needs in this body and life. Continue to give us our daily bread. O Lord, we praise Thee, bless Thee, and adore Thee, C in thanksgiving bow before Thee. P Merciful Lord, we ask You to look kindly upon those who are ill, facing tests, surgery, or other medical procedures, as well as all recovering, in nursing homes, or struggling with chronic pain. Grant them healing or give them grace to endure these bodily afflictions. O Lord, we praise Thee, bless Thee, and adore Thee, C in thanksgiving bow before Thee. P Merciful Lord, You have provided the Sacrament of the Altar to us for our benefit. Grant us a right faith to believe that You are present in Your Body and Your Blood according to Your own Testament, and to receive the blessings of this Sacrament according to Your promise. O Lord, we praise Thee, bless Thee, and adore Thee, C in thanksgiving bow before Thee. P Merciful Lord, give Your Church on earth the unity in Christ that only Your Word can create. Help us to lead holy lives. Increase our love for one another. Bless our selfless service to one another. Grant us Your Holy Spirit that we may be heavenly-minded. O Lord, we praise Thee, bless Thee, and adore Thee, C in thanksgiving bow before Thee. P Merciful Lord, entrust all for whom we pray through the Holy One, Your Son, Jesus Christ our Lord, Return to Table of Contents

32 Page 32 of 34 04/02/10 Good Friday Prayer of the Church Bidding Prayer The Bidding Prayer is the traditional prayer that is used on Good Friday. This is taken from the LSB Altar Book (pp. 406ff.). A Let us pray for the whole Christian Church, that our Lord God would defend her against all the assaults and temptations of the adversary and keep her perpetually on the true foundation, Jesus Christ: P Almighty and everlasting God, since You have revealed Your glory to all nations in Jesus Christ and in the Word of His truth, keep, we ask You, in safety the works of Your mercy so that Your Church, spread throughout all the nations, may be defended against the adversary and may serve You in true faith and persevere in the confession of Your name; through Jesus Christ, our Lord. A Let us pray for all the ministers of the Word, for all vocations in the church, and for all the people of God: P Almighty and everlasting God, by whose Spirit the whole body of the Church is governed and sanctified, receive the supplications and prayers which we offer before You for all Your servants in Your holy Church that every member of the same may truly serve You according to Your calling; through Jesus Christ, our Lord. A Let us pray for our catechumens, that our Lord God would open their hearts and the door of His mercy that, having received the remission of all their sins by the washing of regeneration, they may be mindful of their Baptism and evermore be found in Christ Jesus, our Lord: P Almighty God and Father, because You always grant growth to Your Church, increase the faith and understanding of our catechumens that, rejoicing in their new birth by the water of Holy Baptism, they may forever continue in the family of those whom You adopt as Your sons and daughters; through Jesus Christ, our Lord. A Let us pray for all in authority that we may lead a quiet and peaceable life in all godliness and honesty: P O merciful Father in heaven, because You hold in Your hand all the might of man and because You have ordained, for the punishment of evildoers and for the praise of those who do well, all the powers that exist in all the nations of the world, we humbly pray You graciously to regard Your servants, (USA) especially name, our President; the Congress of the United States; name, our Governor; and all those who make, administer, and judge our laws; (Commonwealth) especially name, our Queen/King; [ name, the Governor General;] name,the Prime Minister; the Parliament; [the governments of this province;] and all who have authority over us; that all who receive the sword as Your ministers may bear it according to Your Word; through Jesus Christ, our Lord. A Let us pray our Lord God Almighty that He would deliver the world from all error, take away disease, ward off famine, set free those in bondage, grant health to the sick, and a safe journey to all who travel: