Prayer of the Church—Responsive Form
Eighteenth Sunday after Pentecost (Proper 21A)
1 October 2023
Let us pray for the whole Church of God in Christ Jesus and for all people according to their needs.
Merciful Lord, You founded Your Church upon the proclamation of repentance for the forgiveness of sins. Purify the tongues of Your servants, that the tongues of the wicked may be silenced. Turn them from their evil ways, that their sins may be washed away. Lord, in Your mercy, hear our prayer.
Merciful Lord, encourage us by Your Holy Spirit, that we may not lose heart. Make us to be of one mind and will, that we may serve You with gladness, doing the works of Your kingdom here and throughout the world. Lord, in Your mercy, hear our prayer.
Merciful Lord, sustain all fathers, mothers and children; husbands and wives; friends and neighbors; laborers and employers; and teachers and students. Enable us all to serve our neighbors in godly vocations, delighting in the Lord’s lovingkindness. Lord, in Your mercy, hear our prayer.
Merciful Lord, all the might of man is nothing before You, yet You have appointed earthly realms and rulers to punish evil and honor good. Give us faithful leaders who will serve honorably and well. Bless also those who serve in the armed forces to defend us and protect our liberty. Lord, in Your mercy, hear our prayer.
Merciful Lord, grant the encouragement of Christ and the comfort of His love to those who suffer [especially _____________]. In every affliction, prove Yourself a ready and worthy Savior, especially to those who believe. Lord, in Your mercy, hear our prayer.
Merciful Lord, the name of Jesus stands above all names. Before it we bow our knees and confess Him as Lord and God. Inspire in us true devotion and worship as we approach His altar to receive our humble Savior in these humble means of bread and wine for our salvation. Lord, in Your mercy, hear our prayer.
Merciful Lord, in You there is no shadow due to change. Enkindle Your divine light in us, that we may stand united as Christ’s own body, holding fast to the word of life and shining brightly in the midst of this world’s darkness; through the same Jesus Christ, Your Son, our Lord, who lives and reigns with You and the Holy Spirit, one God, now and forever. Amen.