3rd Sunday of Lent, March 04, 2018

3rd Sunday of Lent, March 04, 2018

That Jesus’ stern reaction to the abuses he encountered in the temple may inspire us to bring the deepest longings of our hearts to the Father in our prayers and petitions.

1. For the Church, that we may be ever watchful to ensure that our facilities are places of worship, prayer, and community. We pray to the Lord.
2. That leaders of nations may unite their citizens in repudiating war and seeking an end to injustice and hatred among all people. We pray to the Lord.
3. That the principles stated in the ten commandments may guide all people to lives that reflect God’s will and demonstrate his love. We pray to the Lord.
4. For the kidnapped girls in Nigeria, the children whose schools in Syria have been bombed, and for the children in Florida suffering from the attack on their school. That the lives of all children may be valued and nourished that they may grow to adulthood without fear and pain.  We pray to the Lord.
5. That Jesus’ response to the abuses he encountered in the temple area may encourage and strengthen us as we work to eliminate abuses and injustice that we encounter within our own church . We pray to the Lord.
6. That the Lenten admonition of Bishop Dewane, “Lent is a time to allow one’s heart to be touched and changed by the loving embrace of the Lord.” may not be an empty platitude but may resonate with the actions of all in the diocese. We pray to the Lord.
7. That Father Christopher may be resolute in fighting the abuse of power that has been inflicted on him, and that Jesus’ whip of cords may drive away all evil that attacks his priesthood. We pray to the Lord.
8. That those in our community who are ill may receive excellent medical care as well as God’s grace, and be encouraged by our concern and support. We pray to the Lord.
9. That the souls of our deceased family members, friends, and parishioners may be refreshed as they live forever in heaven with God and all the saints. We pray to the Lord.
10. For our own intentions that we recall in silence…….. We pray to the Lord.

O God, we come before you acknowledging our weaknesses as we struggle to live your commandments and drive all instances of abuse from our lives.  We offer our prayers to you trusting in your response knowing that your decrees are trustworthy and your commands are clear.  May your response to these petitions give us wisdom and enlighten our eyes as we hear your words of everlasting life. We make our prayers through Christ our Lord.  Amen.