Have faith in God, my heart.    Trust and be unafraid.
God will fulfil in every part each promise he has made.
Filled with the Spirit’s power,

With one accord the infant Church confessed its risen Lord.
O Holy Spirit, in the Church today no less your power of fellowship display.

We pray for the church throughout the world.  For clarity of vision; for steadfast faith; for a love for all peoples.  For a willingness to adjust and change.   For the strength to stand firm against the values of the world.

Lord in your mercy,

We pray for the world; for an end to conflict.   We pray for all in authority, stamina, wisdom and creativity in solving problems, integrity and the courage to challenge injustice.

We pray for all countries where there is war and unrest, remembering especially Syria, Yemen, Sudan, the Crimea…

We pray for all oppressed peoples particularly the Palastinians.

We remember countries where wars have ceased, but where the peace is uneasy.  Cast out fear and help their peoples to live and grow together.

We pray for our own country… and for the European Union… that whatever the outcome of Brexit we will continue to work together and support one another.

Lord in your mercy,

We pray for students newly arrived in Bristol;  that they would feel welcome and settle quickly, making new friends, learning and contributing on their courses.

We pray for our welcome service next Sunday; that many would hear about it and be drawn to worship with us.

We remember those who have to take jobs in order to afford their education.  Those who live in fear of debt or who struggle to keep control of their finances.

We pray for young people everywhere, that they will have the discipline and capacity to prioritise and limit their exposure to the media and to advertising.   And we remember parents struggling to help them.   May they take time to listen and talk to each other.

Lord in your mercy,

We pray for all charities working to alleviate suffering.

Today we remember particularly our charity of the month –  ADD international.

… and we pray for ‘Samara’s Aid’.   We thank you for who have been enriched by contributing.  We pray for those sorting through and sending the convoy on its way and for those who will receive the aid.   May it be a blessing to them.

We pray for all who suffer…

this week we remember victims of the Tsunami in Sulawesi…

We think of refugees…      we pray for the homeless.

We ask your blessing on all who are sick, lonely, anxious or frightened.

Among those for whom prayer has been asked we remember…

Comfort and heal all who suffer in body, mind or spirit.   Give them courage and hope in their troubles and bring them the joy of your salvation.

Lord in your mercy,

Hear us as we remember those who have died recently…

And among those whose anniversary falls at this time we remember…

Rest eternal grant unto them… may they rest in peace and rise again in glory.

For ourselves, we ask that you would help us to embrace your plan for us with faith and humility.

You promise to provide what we need, help us to accept what we are given and be thankful.

May we to be quick to listen and slow to speak, always speaking out of love.   Help us to bear one another’s burdens, share each other’s gladness and pray for one another.

Merciful Father, accept these prayers for the sake of your Son, our Saviour Jesus Christ.

Amen