Prayers of the Faithful for December 17 & 18, 2016

Presider:  

Let us present our needs to the God who dwells among us.

Lector:

For the Church: that we may enter into the mystery of God’s loving actions and discern anew God’s plan for us, we pray:

For a deepening of faith: that through the mystery of Jesus becoming human, our hearts may be open to the Good News of God inviting us to share in divine life, we pray:

For all who are awaiting the birth of a child or who are new parents: that they may recognize God’s presence in their child and nurture the gift of life entrusted to their care, we pray:

For all who are serving in the military, as relief workers, or missionaries, or who must serve a greater good away from home this Christmas season and for their families: that God will guide their efforts, protect them from all danger, and bring them home safely, we pray:

For reconciliation within families: that in our celebrations of God being with us, we may forgive past hurts and strive to renew relationships in our families, we pray:

For those who are ill and have asked for our prayers, including, Diane Sparrow, Fr. Jim Gorman, Jody Thamert, Bill Nord, Carol O’Meara. May they and all who suffer be comforted by your healing touch and by the prayers of friends and family, we pray:

For those who have died, especially, John Cady, and for all our beloved dead. May they rest in peace in your heavenly home, we pray:

Presider:

Ever present God, show us that you are always in our midst, especially when we are weary and cannot find you. Hear our prayers and grant them through our Lord, Jesus Christ. Amen.