Lector:  Dear God, we pray with gratitude for the constant light of your love. 

We pray for the whole world, in these times of turmoil and violence: for an end to tyranny and terrorism, for the fleeing refugees from many unsafe nations, for the homeless families, the hungry and suffering children. These struggles are difficult for us to comprehend. We pray for peace in the world. You are the way and the light. Let your light shine on all of your children.

Lord, we are all equal in your sight. We pray for your light to break forth like the dawn, and your healing to spring up quickly.

Dear God, like the salt of the earth, and the light of the world, bless your churches to speak and serve with God’s love, as that is the pure-hearted truth for healing our world.

Open our hearts to shine with the love of Jesus, to heal us, to stand up for what is right, and to serve others. Make still our minds to feel your grace.

Dear God, we pray with gratitude for Presiding Bishop Michael, Bishop Gregory, Fr. Berto, Fr. Hugh, Marianne, Karen and Lisa, our Vestry, and the hearts and hands of Emmanuel Parish. We are blessed with this community coming together to support and serve, as Jesus taught us. We find our joy in giving, as best we each are able.

Bless and guide our Emmanuel mission. In your light, we see light. Compassion, service and love are the strength and wisdom for the world. Keep us in your care. 

Dear God, we pray for the good health of your abundant natural world which sustains us. Help us to act and speak boldly for preserving our earth, air, water and forests. It is urgent for our actions to consciously reflect our gratitude and reverence for your creation. 

Guide us, Lord, in protecting and understanding your natural order. May your Holy Spirit bring us the wisdom and the way.

Dear God, we pray for our United States, in this time of distrust and  division. We pray for our government to act in accord with the values of our Constitution: equal human and legal rights for all, and wise stewardship of natural resources. We pray for our elected officials, that they may hear your way in making right decisions for the welfare of all people and your creation.

 Let each heart know that the power of your grace is the answer, the wisdom and the way. 

Dear God, we pray, either silently or aloud, for the needs of each of us, as you know us Lord, and for those who struggle with mental health issues, addiction, hunger, homelessness, illness, and pain (pause). We pray especially for those we name here:

Lord, let each heart know your peace, healing, and love. With gratitude we pray.

For the mystery of our after life, we pray that you hold each of us in your eternal love, and be with those who have passed before us.

How priceless is the light of your love God. With gratitude we pray.

Presider:Dear Lord, how priceless is your love. In your light we see light. We are blessed with abundant daily miracles in our lives. We ask each heart to behold your blessings and share them in love. May we each use our gifts of the Spirit, given to us for the common good. We pray in the name of Our Savior Jesus Christ, the light of the world. Amen.