Assistant: With the whole people of God in Christ Jesus, let us pray for the church, those in need, and all of God’s creation
Today, Lord God, our thoughts have been on your abundant gathering. We have seen in the story of the healing of the Canaanite woman’s daughter how radically inclusive Jesus was. He would not play the boundary game, keeping people out of the kingdom because of race, gender, past sins, or whatever other barriers exist. Instead he welcomed people in by grace. We confess that we often erect barriers between ourselves and others. We do this in our church as well. Forgive us for our failings in this area and lead us to live more like you. Lord in your mercy… hear our prayer
Today we give thanks for the ministry Joe Rand shared in our congregation these past three years. We pray for him as he begins a new chapter in a new congregation. As Joe moves on we also pray for our church, that you will give our leaders wisdom as we seek new leadership in youth and music. Bring us the right people in your time and way. Lord in your mercy…
We thank you for the wonderful week of Vacation Bible School we just completed. We pray that the many seeds that were planted in the lives of the children will grow to maturity of faith in you. Lord in your mercy…
We pray for healing for those in need, especially Steve England as he recovers from shoulder surgery. We also remember Rose Kasma at Parmly and any others we know in need of your healing touch. Lord in your mercy…
We pray for Pastor Lufyagila and the people of Mtera church in Tanzania. Bless their congregation, and especially bless the plans underway to bring them to visit us next summer. Lord in your mercy…
The Olympic Games remind us of the great diversity of people and cultures in the world. We thank you for the unity that sports competition can bring. We’re saddened when any type of violence or unrest also enters in. We continue to pray for the Bachman family in their grief and in their healing, and for peace between Russia and Georgia. We also lift up our soldiers that serve us in Iraq, Afghanistan, and throughout the world. Lead them all safely home. Lord in your mercy…