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O Lord our God, we come to you as children to a loving and compassionate father, to share with you our concerns for this world and for those in need.

In the last few months the extent of the world’s needs has grown enormously, particularly as the COVID-19 pandemic has continued to spread unchecked in many countries.

We pray for the peoples and the leaders of the nations,

that they may be reconciled one to another

in pursuit of your justice and peace.

May their leaders govern for the well being of their people, and not for the building up of their own egos.

We pray for the world . . .

Lord hear us

LORD HEAR OUR PRAYER

We pray for all who suffer from prejudice, greed, or violence,

that the heart of humanity may warm with your tenderness.

We pray especially for all prisoners of politics or religion

and for all refugees and asylum seekers.

We pray for all who are oppressed . . .

Lord hear us

LORD HEAR OUR PRAYER

The pandemic has brought hardship to many people because of ongoing lockdown, especially in Victoria.

We pray for those for whom it has brought loneliness and isolation, for those who have lost employment, and for those who are suffering financial stress.

May they may know the hope of your faithfulness

through the help of others.

We pray for all who are enduring hardship…

Lord hear us

LORD HEAR OUR PRAYER

Your creation has suffered as a result of our collective selfishness, and it longs for its redemption.

We pray that we may live with respect to the land, the sea and the atmosphere and use your gifts with reverence.

We pray for the creation . . .

Lord hear us

LORD HEAR OUR PRAYER

We are grateful for those who provide support and spiritual encouragement for us, and for those in our community.

May all who love you be united in your service.

We pray for the church . . .

Lord hear us

LORD HEAR OUR PRAYER

We pray for all who suffer the pain of sickness,

loneliness, fear, or loss,

that those whose names are in our hearts,

in the hearts of others, or known to you alone,

may receive strength and courage.

We pray for those in need . . .

Lord hear us

LORD HEAR OUR PRAYER

We pray for those we find it most hard to pray for,

those whom we are encouraged to distrust, to hate even,

extremists of whatever religion and ideological persuasion

different from our own convictions;

those of other nations led by ambitious leaders,

We pray for those we label as our enemies for whatever reason;

Lord hear us LORD HEAR OUR PRAYER

God of compassion,

into your hands we commend all for whom we have prayed. Guide us in ways we might offer in providing answers to those needs for which we have prayed,

trusting in your mercy now and forever. 

AMEN.[1]

[1] Reprinted by permission from The Worship Sourcebook, © 2004, Faith Alive Christian Resources, p.198

   with alterations and additions…