Eternal God, we give thanks for the birth of Jesus when the Word became flesh. We pray that your Spirit support our leaders Michael, Greg, Melissa, Berto and Hugh as they inspire us to show your love to our neighbors.

Eternal God, comfort your people.

Eternal God, we give thanks for these United States. We pray that our leaders be guided by your Spirit to make wise decisions.

Eternal God, comfort your people.

Eternal God, we give thanks for the diversity of your creation. We pray that your Spirit guide world leaders to find the way of peace rather than war, to protect the vulnerable and to respond to those harmed by disasters.

Eternal God, comfort your people.

Eternal God, we give thanks for Emmanuel’s Santa elves who have collected, read and replied to letters to Santa from our community. We pray that this ministry has brought joy and the spirit of Christmas to young islanders.

Eternal God, comfort your people.

Eternal God, we pray for all who suffer in body, mind or spirit, from addiction, unemployment, mental illness or homelessness, particularly those we now name either silently or aloud, (pause) and especially for those on our parish prayer list… and those for whom no one prays; may they be comforted by your Holy Spirit.

Eternal God, comfort your people.

Eternal God, we give thanks for the lives of those who have died. We ask that your Spirit comfort the dying and those that mourn, give strength to those that stand watch and welcome those who have died into your heavenly realm.

Eternal God, comfort your people.