Father thank you for the hope you have given us through Jesus, for the gift of the holy spirit which came upon Mary and which through Jesus can come upon us bringing joy and peace, hope and meaning to life. Jesus we bring you this morning praise and worship from our hearts. As we look forward to celebrating your birth so we also look forward to the day when we can all come together again to share and sing your praise and enjoy fellowship together. Thank you for our church family with whom even in these difficult times we have been able to share and give and receive support and encouragement.
Lord in your mercy, hear our prayer.
Lord for so many, there is no recognition or understanding of the significance of your coming from the glory of heaven to be born as baby and to live amongst us. We pray that as a result of the message of Christmas being broadcast from this church in services and on line that many will have their hearts and minds opened to acknowledge you as Immanuel. Break through the commercialism and our traditions into our world we pray.
Lord in your mercy hear our prayer.
We remember those Christians who cannot freely celebrate your coming due to persecution and imprisonment. We pray that at this time you will be close to them, give them by your holy spirit hope, peace and encouragement. We remember in particular children who are persecuted and displaced and who cannot enjoy the wonder of Christmas. May those seeking to support them be empowered and encouraged, even in the darkest places may your light shine through them, please bring peace and protection to them and those whom they serve. Thank you that we here can celebrate with freedom and without fear.
Lord in your mercy hear our prayer.
We pray for those in this community whom at this time are suffering, through anxiety, illness and loss, reveal to us your church here we pray how we individually and together may continue to bring light, hope, comfort and practical support as we reach out to those in need. Lord Jesus thank you that you came and gave your all, help us to be willing to give of our time and resources for the extension of your kingdom, to help those in need. We pray for our government that as they continue to work to lead us out of the current crisis that they will have wisdom and be mindful to build a more equitable society so that those in need are properly supported.
Lord in your mercy hear our prayer.
We pray especially for our children and young people that through all the excitement of Christmas they will experience the wonder of the knowledge of your coming. We pray for all children, young people and teachers continuing to adapt to the ever changing circumstances, please give teachers wisdom and compassion as they struggle to guide our children and young people through the current problems and may the children and young people feel supported and encouraged for their future.
Lord in your mercy hear our prayer.
Father when the angel came to Mary she did not query but simply said may it be as you said, help us to respond in the same way to you and be willing to simply trust you in all things. We ask that your holy spirit would give us courage to be open to your guidance, and to trust and follow as you lead whatever the circumstances.
Merciful father accept these prayers for the sake of your son, our saviour Jesus Christ, Amen.
St. Paul's Letchworth