May the God of hope fill the members of your church with all joy and peace in believing, so that we may abound in hope by the power of the Holy Spirit and prepare the way of the Lord.

Hear our prayer, so the kingdom of heaven may come near.

May the God of hope fill the leaders of this nation with all joy and peace in believing, so that they may rule your people righteously and the poor with justice.

Hear our prayer, so the kingdom of heaven may come near.

May the God of hope fill world leaders with all joy and peace in believing, so that they may decide with equity for the meek of the earth enabling us to live in harmony with one another.

Hear our prayer, so the kingdom of heaven may come near.

May the God of hope fill all islanders and especially those dealing with options for future health care with all joy and peace in believing, so that the spirit of wisdom and understanding may lead them to wise choices for the health of our community.

Hear our prayer, so the kingdom of heaven may come near.

May the God of hope fill all caregivers and those who suffer in body, mind or spirit, especially those on our parish prayer list: ….. with all joy and peace in believing, so that they may abound in hope by the power of the Holy Spirit.

Hear our prayer, so the kingdom of heaven may come near.

We give thanks for all fellow parishioners who through their time, talent and treasure enable Emmanuel to welcome so many through our doors and grounds, may the God of hope fill each of us with all joy and peace in believing, so that we may abound in hope by the power of the Holy Spirit.

Hear our prayer, so the kingdom of heaven may come near.

May the God of hope welcome those who have died, bring peace to those near death, and comfort those that mourn, so that they may abound in hope by the power of the Holy Spirit. May the memory of John of Damascus who defended icons and died on this date in 749 inspire us to prepare the way of the Lord.

Hear our prayer, so the kingdom of heaven may come near.

Presider: O God, hear the prayers of your people, help us to receive your spirit of wisdom and understanding, so we may prepare the way of the Lord, making your paths straight. Amen.