From the MODERATOR of the CHURCH of SCOTLAND
PRAYERS OF INTERCESSION FOR THE NATION AND THE WORLD
As we turn to the God of life who has called us together in the name of our Saviour Christ we do so in the faith that we are sisters and brothers in the one family of God’s people
We praise God for the wonders of the universe and this earth which is our home, and we do so in the faith that in all the changing circumstances of life, the Spirit of God is with us, around us and within
Trusting in God’s continuing concern for us and for all creation, and at a time of great political and economic uncertainty for the United Kingdom and for our neighbours in Europe, let us bring to God our prayers for our nation and for the world.
God of peace
we pray for the healing of the nations
and for a just and equal sharing
of all the good things this earth affords
Renew our commitment to overcome ancient hatreds
help us pull down the walls that separate us
and overcome the attitudes that divide us.
Bring near the day
when Your people of whatever nationality
may come and go in peace
God of wisdom
at a time of political uncertainty
with the United Kingdom having voted to leave the European Union
we pray for politicians, diplomats and civil servants
here and in the European Union
who will now attend to the negotiations
and make important decisions affecting the lives of us all.
Bless them with calm hearts and clear minds
a commitment to doing what is right and just
and a willingness to seek what is good for all Europe’s people
God of power
at a time of economic uncertainty
with the financial markets in turmoil
we pray for the Governor of the Bank of England
and for the leaders in the business and economic life of the nation
With concerns over investment
and many people left feeling anxious
about what will happen to their jobs and their savings
remind us of Your calling us to seek above all things the kingdom of God
God of hospitality
as Jesus welcomed the least and the lost
we pray for people left feeling vulnerable by what has been decided
and wondering what the future will hold for them and their families
for those who are anxious about others coming to live in this country
and for all who have suffered taunts and been subject to abuse
Free us from all bitterness and recrimination
teach us to treat one another with respect
to listen carefully especially to those whose views are different from ours
and help us show by our actions and attitudes
how each person is loved and valued by You.
God of the least and the lost
we pray in Christ’s name
for people burdened by life’s cares and concerns
people who are homeless or living on the edge of hardship and poverty
people whose lives are overshadowed by illness, loneliness or loss
Surround all for whom we pray
with Your gifts of healing, hope and peace
and help us bring the light of Christ’s care
into the darkness of human despair
God of time and eternity
bless to us our communion with the saints
as we remember with thanksgiving
those we have loved and held dear
and who live now beyond our earthly sight.
As we thank You for the hope of heaven
strengthen our faith in the promise of the gospel
that nothing in life or death can ever separate us
from Your love in Christ
to whom with the Father and the Holy Spirit
one God
be all glory and praise
Amen
Bankfoot Church Centre 