Lector:  Dear Father, Mother God, we come to do your will. We pray in these short days of winter, that you restore us; show the light of your countenance, that we may be renewed by your love.  We pray in the hope which Advent brings, for the creation of new visions, expecta-tions of peace, and possibilities for our world, in the name of God, the Son, and the Holy Spirit.

As blessed Mary proclaimed, My spirit rejoices in God my Savior.

We pray for your strength over our fear, for the welfare and safety of all your people, nations, and religions, to live with tolerance, respect and equality of freedom for all.

Restore us God, show the light of your countenance, and we shall be saved.

We pray for Emmanuel Parish, for those whose e?orts sustain this church, our pastor Berto, our Bishop Gregory, and for all churches of God throughout the world. We pray for your guidance and blessings. As blessed Mary proclaimed, My spirit rejoices in God my Savior.

We thank you Lord, for nourishing our soul, energizing our mind and feeding our body, so we may do your work and serve others, as taught by your son Jesus Christ.

With gratitude for our abundant blessings Lord, we have come to do your will.

We pray for safety and healing for the many people in unbearable circumstances, for the homeless, the prisoners, the captives and fearful, in all nations and religions. May they know the strength of your peace.

Restore us God, show the light of your countenance, and we shall be saved.

We pray for those you know are in need of restoration and health of body, mind and spirit, and those named here on our parish prayer list:

May they be ?lled with the healing power of your presence and peace.

We pray for those who have gone before us to your heavenly kingdom, and those we hold in our hearts.

As blessed Mary proclaimed, my spirit rejoices in God my Savior.

We thank you Lord, for your constant presence in our lives and hearts. Help us make time for receiving your guidance and blessings as we prepare to celebrate the birth of Jesus.

Keep us, not on our agenda, but on yours Lord, as that is the joy we seek.

Presider:  Today we open our hearts in Advent, to this new opportunity to give in to your will Lord, and feel as a child, the purity, peace, and presence of your unconditional love. We thank you in the name of the Holy Jesus Christ. Amen