Our Prayers 2024
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Monday, April 29 - Sunday, May 5
Pray for – The Church, that it may truly be a sign of salvation, pointing towards Jesus by the love it shows for all people.
Our world, especially for all those who live in poverty, that we may share more justly the many resources God has given us.
All who grieve or who are sick or suffering in any way, that they will be strengthened by the knowledge of Christ’s love for them.
People in places of conflict and suffering—Afghanistan, Yemen, Mali, Syria, Congo, Mexico, Ethiopia, Somalia, Sudan, Russia, Ukraine, Gaza, Israel, Iran. People in Afghanistan, Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Mongolia, Tajikistan, Turkmenistan, Uzbekistan as part of the WCC Ecumenical Prayer Cycle.
We pray for a world that is deeply distressed and troubled.
May love overcome hatred, may love touch hearts intent on war or revenge, may we be moved by your love for all the earth.
Pray for – The Church, that it may truly be a sign of salvation, pointing towards Jesus by the love it shows for all people.
Our world, especially for all those who live in poverty, that we may share more justly the many resources God has given us.
All who grieve or who are sick or suffering in any way, that they will be strengthened by the knowledge of Christ’s love for them.
People in places of conflict and suffering—Afghanistan, Yemen, Mali, Syria, Congo, Mexico, Ethiopia, Somalia, Sudan, Russia, Ukraine, Gaza, Israel, Iran. People in Afghanistan, Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Mongolia, Tajikistan, Turkmenistan, Uzbekistan as part of the WCC Ecumenical Prayer Cycle.
We pray for a world that is deeply distressed and troubled.
May love overcome hatred, may love touch hearts intent on war or revenge, may we be moved by your love for all the earth.
Monday, April 22 - Sunday, April 28
Prayers: God is love and commands us to live that same love.
This week we pray for
The Church, that it may truly be a sign of salvation, pointing towards Jesus by the love it shows for all people.
Our world, especially for all those who live in poverty, that we may share more justly the many resources God has given us.
All who grieve or who are sick or suffering in any way, that they will be strengthened by the knowledge of Christ’s love for them.
People in places of conflict and suffering—Afghanistan, Yemen, Mali, Syria, Congo, Mexico, Ethiopia, Somalia, Sudan, Russia, Ukraine, Gaza, Israel, Iran.
People in Armenia, Azerbaijan, Georgia as part of the WCC Ecumenical Prayer Cycle.
God of love,
we pray for the world you love so much.
We pray for the people who live in fear;
victims of violence and their loved ones,
in homelands that are warzones,
and in ordinary houses in our street.
Prayers: God is love and commands us to live that same love.
This week we pray for
The Church, that it may truly be a sign of salvation, pointing towards Jesus by the love it shows for all people.
Our world, especially for all those who live in poverty, that we may share more justly the many resources God has given us.
All who grieve or who are sick or suffering in any way, that they will be strengthened by the knowledge of Christ’s love for them.
People in places of conflict and suffering—Afghanistan, Yemen, Mali, Syria, Congo, Mexico, Ethiopia, Somalia, Sudan, Russia, Ukraine, Gaza, Israel, Iran.
People in Armenia, Azerbaijan, Georgia as part of the WCC Ecumenical Prayer Cycle.
God of love,
we pray for the world you love so much.
We pray for the people who live in fear;
victims of violence and their loved ones,
in homelands that are warzones,
and in ordinary houses in our street.
Monday, April 15 - Sunday, April 21
This week we pray for
People suffering following the tragic stabbing events in Sydney.
People in places of conflict and suffering—Afghanistan, Yemen, Mali, Syria, Congo, Mexico, Ethiopia, Somalia, Sudan, Russia, Ukraine, Gaza, Israel, Iran.
We remember places across the world where conflict is rife and natural disasters are prevalent .
We remember those whose lives are affected by the weight of war and displacement and the ongoing effects of climate change.
Good Shepherd who guides us, may your peace be known in these regions.
The family of Joan Collins People in Belarus, Moldova, Russia, Ukraine as part of the WCC Ecumenical Prayer Cycle.
This week we pray for
People suffering following the tragic stabbing events in Sydney.
People in places of conflict and suffering—Afghanistan, Yemen, Mali, Syria, Congo, Mexico, Ethiopia, Somalia, Sudan, Russia, Ukraine, Gaza, Israel, Iran.
We remember places across the world where conflict is rife and natural disasters are prevalent .
We remember those whose lives are affected by the weight of war and displacement and the ongoing effects of climate change.
Good Shepherd who guides us, may your peace be known in these regions.
The family of Joan Collins People in Belarus, Moldova, Russia, Ukraine as part of the WCC Ecumenical Prayer Cycle.
Monday, April 8 - Sunday, April 14
This week we pray for
People in places of conflict and suffering
Flood victims in NSW
People in Bulgaria, Hungary, Romania as part of the WCC Ecumenical Prayer Cycle
Pilgrim People Brisbane preparing for our Annual General Meeting and future journey.
This week we pray for
People in places of conflict and suffering
Flood victims in NSW
People in Bulgaria, Hungary, Romania as part of the WCC Ecumenical Prayer Cycle
Pilgrim People Brisbane preparing for our Annual General Meeting and future journey.
Monday, April 1 - Sunday, April 7
This week we pray for
Christians around the world, having celebrated during the Easter period, the central story and season of our faith
People in places of conflict and suffering
People preparing for the National Assembly of the Uniting Church in Australia in Sydney on 11 to 16 July 2024
People in the Balkans as part of the WCC Ecumenical Prayer Cycle
Victims of a devastating earthquake in Taiwan
Pilgrim People Brisbane preparing for our Annual General Meeting and future journey.
Call us again to believe. Forgive our unbelief.
Offer us again whatever it is that we need;
to hear your voice,
to see your face,
to touch your wounds.
This week we pray for
Christians around the world, having celebrated during the Easter period, the central story and season of our faith
People in places of conflict and suffering
People preparing for the National Assembly of the Uniting Church in Australia in Sydney on 11 to 16 July 2024
People in the Balkans as part of the WCC Ecumenical Prayer Cycle
Victims of a devastating earthquake in Taiwan
Pilgrim People Brisbane preparing for our Annual General Meeting and future journey.
Call us again to believe. Forgive our unbelief.
Offer us again whatever it is that we need;
to hear your voice,
to see your face,
to touch your wounds.
Prayers:
Our Easter journey began with Palm Sunday and the triumphal entry of Christ into Jerusalem, where he was welcomed with shouts of ‘Hosanna! Blessed is the one who comes in the name of the Lord!’ (Mark 11:9). But we know that these same people will soon turn against him in less than a week shouting ‘Crucify him!’. The triumphal entry of Christ marks the beginning of a week-long journey of suffering that culminates in his death on the cross. Let’s journey together through the rest of Holy Week.
Wednesday: Luke 22:1-6
Lord Jesus, it was on this day that Judas Iscariot conspired to betray you. When we are scared, lonely or angry with our situation we can sometimes doubt that our Lord and Saviour wants to be near to us and love us. Remembering that, we pray ‘Lord Jesus, Protect me today, for I could betray you.’
Maundy Thursday: John 13.
Jesus washes the feet of the disciples. Lord Jesus, we pray today with Peter, who recoiled when you stooped to wash his feet: ‘Lord, wash, not just my feet, but also my hands and my heart’.
Good Friday: John 18. 1-18
Judas betrays Jesus. Jesus comes before Pilate. Peter denies Jesus. Jesus is crucified. We are desperate for an end to humanity’s suffering in the world today. ‘Fill us with your peace and courage to face the challenges that are still to come.’
Easter Eve. John 19
‘Jesus, we wait for you. We pray for our brothers and sisters around the world who wait with us.’
Easter Day. John 20. 1-23
‘Lord Jesus, may we follow Mary’s example. Give us the wisdom to discover you, the intelligence to understand you, the diligence to seek after you, the patience to wait for you, eyes to behold you, hearts to meditate upon you, and lives to proclaim you. Amen.’
The Ecumenical Prayer Cycle
Prayer is at the very heart of the ecumenical movement. Jesus prayed that we – his followers – may all be one.18 When we pray with and for one another, we can feel God’s gift of unity.
This week we pray for: Czech Republic, Poland, Slovakia
The Ecumenical Prayer Cycle takes us through every region of the world over the course of a year. Praying for each place on earth and its people at least once a year, we affirm our solidarity with Christians all over the world, brothers and sisters living in diverse situations, experiencing diverse problems and sharing diverse gifts. Pray with us!
We are thankful for:
Our Easter journey began with Palm Sunday and the triumphal entry of Christ into Jerusalem, where he was welcomed with shouts of ‘Hosanna! Blessed is the one who comes in the name of the Lord!’ (Mark 11:9). But we know that these same people will soon turn against him in less than a week shouting ‘Crucify him!’. The triumphal entry of Christ marks the beginning of a week-long journey of suffering that culminates in his death on the cross. Let’s journey together through the rest of Holy Week.
Wednesday: Luke 22:1-6
Lord Jesus, it was on this day that Judas Iscariot conspired to betray you. When we are scared, lonely or angry with our situation we can sometimes doubt that our Lord and Saviour wants to be near to us and love us. Remembering that, we pray ‘Lord Jesus, Protect me today, for I could betray you.’
Maundy Thursday: John 13.
Jesus washes the feet of the disciples. Lord Jesus, we pray today with Peter, who recoiled when you stooped to wash his feet: ‘Lord, wash, not just my feet, but also my hands and my heart’.
Good Friday: John 18. 1-18
Judas betrays Jesus. Jesus comes before Pilate. Peter denies Jesus. Jesus is crucified. We are desperate for an end to humanity’s suffering in the world today. ‘Fill us with your peace and courage to face the challenges that are still to come.’
Easter Eve. John 19
‘Jesus, we wait for you. We pray for our brothers and sisters around the world who wait with us.’
Easter Day. John 20. 1-23
‘Lord Jesus, may we follow Mary’s example. Give us the wisdom to discover you, the intelligence to understand you, the diligence to seek after you, the patience to wait for you, eyes to behold you, hearts to meditate upon you, and lives to proclaim you. Amen.’
The Ecumenical Prayer Cycle
Prayer is at the very heart of the ecumenical movement. Jesus prayed that we – his followers – may all be one.18 When we pray with and for one another, we can feel God’s gift of unity.
This week we pray for: Czech Republic, Poland, Slovakia
The Ecumenical Prayer Cycle takes us through every region of the world over the course of a year. Praying for each place on earth and its people at least once a year, we affirm our solidarity with Christians all over the world, brothers and sisters living in diverse situations, experiencing diverse problems and sharing diverse gifts. Pray with us!
We are thankful for:
- the faithful witness of Christians here through the centuries, especially in times of occupation and persecution
- the peaceful resolution of disputes
- the distinctive cultural contributions and resources in these lands the religious freedom and ecumenical cooperation that is growing.
- greater respect for the Roma (Gypsy) people and others who are marginalised and who lack adequate livelihoods in these lands
- welcoming and engaging those of other faiths and ethnicities
- growth in spiritual as well as physical health, democratic governance that advances God's justice and peace for all.
Sunday, March 24
Prayers:
Our father in heaven, we praise you and thank you for paying off our debts with your blood, so that we are free.
We ask for your guidance, wisdom, patience and understanding for this season of Lent.
May we be reminded of your sacrifice and find comfort in knowing how privileged we are.
We pray and think of families who are suffering from natural disasters, of families without food, clothes or shelter.
May you bless and provide for them through the hands of your people.
We pray and ask for you to open up our hearts and minds as we prepare ourselves for whatever calling you might have for each one of us. All these we pray and ask in your almighty name.
Amen.
Esther Venina Tali, Cobram Uniting Church
The Ecumenical Prayer Cycle
This week we pray for: Estonia, Latvia, Lithuania
God, we pray:
crumble the walls that still separate Christians, and create a unity, according to your heart and will.
Accept us as we are, but mould us as you want us to be, and help us become the leaven of unity and love in our country and around the world.
Prayers:
Our father in heaven, we praise you and thank you for paying off our debts with your blood, so that we are free.
We ask for your guidance, wisdom, patience and understanding for this season of Lent.
May we be reminded of your sacrifice and find comfort in knowing how privileged we are.
We pray and think of families who are suffering from natural disasters, of families without food, clothes or shelter.
May you bless and provide for them through the hands of your people.
We pray and ask for you to open up our hearts and minds as we prepare ourselves for whatever calling you might have for each one of us. All these we pray and ask in your almighty name.
Amen.
Esther Venina Tali, Cobram Uniting Church
The Ecumenical Prayer Cycle
This week we pray for: Estonia, Latvia, Lithuania
God, we pray:
crumble the walls that still separate Christians, and create a unity, according to your heart and will.
Accept us as we are, but mould us as you want us to be, and help us become the leaven of unity and love in our country and around the world.
Sunday, March 17
Prayers:
Let us pray for those in need: Father God, we pray for those in need. For the sick, the lonely, the bereaved, the poor, the unloved and all who are suffering and are in darkness. May they know the presence of your love through the love of those around them, bringing them strength and comfort. Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.
Pray also for – The Pilgrim People Management Committee, its members and its work The members of PPB—their families, their children, their grandchildren The Uniting Church in Australia—the Assembly, the Synods, Presbyteries and Congregations. Our Government Leaders Humanitarian aid for the people of Gaza The people of Ukraine. The people of the United States, that common sense and justice will prevail. Forgive us in this time of Lent, this time of preparation, when we have failed to remember you as Creator of all around us, of all you have given and promised us. Forgive us when we have failed to see Christ in those around us to be present with those who love us. Forgive us for not using the power you have given us to make a difference in the world.
Prayers:
Let us pray for those in need: Father God, we pray for those in need. For the sick, the lonely, the bereaved, the poor, the unloved and all who are suffering and are in darkness. May they know the presence of your love through the love of those around them, bringing them strength and comfort. Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.
Pray also for – The Pilgrim People Management Committee, its members and its work The members of PPB—their families, their children, their grandchildren The Uniting Church in Australia—the Assembly, the Synods, Presbyteries and Congregations. Our Government Leaders Humanitarian aid for the people of Gaza The people of Ukraine. The people of the United States, that common sense and justice will prevail. Forgive us in this time of Lent, this time of preparation, when we have failed to remember you as Creator of all around us, of all you have given and promised us. Forgive us when we have failed to see Christ in those around us to be present with those who love us. Forgive us for not using the power you have given us to make a difference in the world.
Sunday, March 10
Prayers:
Let us pray for those in need:
Father God, we pray for those in need. For the sick, the lonely, the bereaved, the poor, the unloved and all who are suffering and are in darkness. May they know the presence of your love through the love of those around them, bringing them strength and comfort. Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.
Pray also for –
The Pilgrim People Management Committee, its members and its work.
The congregations at Merthyr Road Uniting Church, their worship, mission and sense of community.
Our Government Leaders.
The conflict in Gaza and Israel.
God of justice and compassion,
We cry out to you for the people of Gaza, particularly for the children. We pray for an unequivocal ceasefire and the resumption of aid and food
deliveries.
We pray for the unconditional release of all hostages held by Hamas. We pray that those released may find healing and the restoration of hope in
the months ahead.
We continue to pray for a safe and prosperous tomorrow for Palestinians and Israelis, a future of equal rights for all and an end to the occupation.
We lift before you those who work in the ruins amongst the dead and injured.
We ask that they remain safe and know your peace and protection.
We pray for ourselves, that we may resist hatred, stand for justice, and open ourselves to be channels of your peace.
We ask all of this in Jesus’ name.
Amen.
The people of the United States that common sense and justice will prevail.
The United Kingdom and the Republic of Ireland
Ourselves during Lent
Heavenly Father,
as I continue on this Lenten journey,
guide my steps and illuminate my path with your wisdom.
May your Word be a lamp to my feet and a light to my soul.
In Jesus' name, I pray. Amen
Prayers:
Let us pray for those in need:
Father God, we pray for those in need. For the sick, the lonely, the bereaved, the poor, the unloved and all who are suffering and are in darkness. May they know the presence of your love through the love of those around them, bringing them strength and comfort. Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.
Pray also for –
The Pilgrim People Management Committee, its members and its work.
The congregations at Merthyr Road Uniting Church, their worship, mission and sense of community.
Our Government Leaders.
The conflict in Gaza and Israel.
God of justice and compassion,
We cry out to you for the people of Gaza, particularly for the children. We pray for an unequivocal ceasefire and the resumption of aid and food
deliveries.
We pray for the unconditional release of all hostages held by Hamas. We pray that those released may find healing and the restoration of hope in
the months ahead.
We continue to pray for a safe and prosperous tomorrow for Palestinians and Israelis, a future of equal rights for all and an end to the occupation.
We lift before you those who work in the ruins amongst the dead and injured.
We ask that they remain safe and know your peace and protection.
We pray for ourselves, that we may resist hatred, stand for justice, and open ourselves to be channels of your peace.
We ask all of this in Jesus’ name.
Amen.
The people of the United States that common sense and justice will prevail.
The United Kingdom and the Republic of Ireland
Ourselves during Lent
Heavenly Father,
as I continue on this Lenten journey,
guide my steps and illuminate my path with your wisdom.
May your Word be a lamp to my feet and a light to my soul.
In Jesus' name, I pray. Amen
Sunday, March 3
Prayers:
Pray that God’s spirit of forgiveness, peace and goodwill will be known and put into action among leaders in countries at war: Gaza, Ukraine, Palestine, Israel, Russia, Middle East. Pray for those who work to restore services and facilities in flood and fire damaged areas. Pray for all who care for people with special needs: those who are ill, those with mental health issues, those who mourn, the lonely, the sad, the disabled. Pray for the people of the United States that common sense and justice will prevail. Please pray for Nola and Bob’s granddaughter Kate. Kate, Sophie and Jesse shared a house in Sydney where Jesse was murdered, one of the victims of the recent double murder.
The Ecumenical Prayer Cycle
This week we pray for: Belgium, Luxembourg, Netherlands
The Netherlands emerged as an independent nation in the 16th century. It was one of the leading maritime, economic and colonial powers in the 17th century. The country became a constitutional monarchy in 1848. It was occupied by Nazi Germany in World War II. In the post-war decolonisation period, the Dutch tried in vain to keep the Netherlands East Indies, their largest, and most profitable, colony, and conceded its independence only in 1949. It is one of the six founding members of the European Union. The "low lands" were Christianised in the 8th century by missionaries from Ireland. The 16th century republic embraced the Calvinist Reformation. The first WCC Assembly was held in Amsterdam in 1948. Church affiliation and church attendance have declined sharply since the 1960s.
Belgium, like other countries in western Europe, has many stunning, Gothic-styled churches whose flying buttresses and soaring stained-glass windows inspire awe. But the country is also home to a church that, while tiny, monochromatic, and lacking adornment, is breathtaking in its own way.
Belgian architects Pieterjan Gijs and Arnout Van Vaerenbergh constructed the Doorkijkkerk, or to give it its official but rather clunky English title, the Reading between the Lines Church, designed to not interfere with the view.
Located in a field in the Flemish province of Limburg, and accessible only by foot or bicycle, Reading between the Lines is a church that appears either solid or half-dissolved, depending on the angle from which you view it. Built in 2011, Reading between the Lines consists of 100 layers of stacked steel plate, interspersed with short columns to create the see-through effect.
Prayers:
Pray that God’s spirit of forgiveness, peace and goodwill will be known and put into action among leaders in countries at war: Gaza, Ukraine, Palestine, Israel, Russia, Middle East. Pray for those who work to restore services and facilities in flood and fire damaged areas. Pray for all who care for people with special needs: those who are ill, those with mental health issues, those who mourn, the lonely, the sad, the disabled. Pray for the people of the United States that common sense and justice will prevail. Please pray for Nola and Bob’s granddaughter Kate. Kate, Sophie and Jesse shared a house in Sydney where Jesse was murdered, one of the victims of the recent double murder.
The Ecumenical Prayer Cycle
This week we pray for: Belgium, Luxembourg, Netherlands
The Netherlands emerged as an independent nation in the 16th century. It was one of the leading maritime, economic and colonial powers in the 17th century. The country became a constitutional monarchy in 1848. It was occupied by Nazi Germany in World War II. In the post-war decolonisation period, the Dutch tried in vain to keep the Netherlands East Indies, their largest, and most profitable, colony, and conceded its independence only in 1949. It is one of the six founding members of the European Union. The "low lands" were Christianised in the 8th century by missionaries from Ireland. The 16th century republic embraced the Calvinist Reformation. The first WCC Assembly was held in Amsterdam in 1948. Church affiliation and church attendance have declined sharply since the 1960s.
Belgium, like other countries in western Europe, has many stunning, Gothic-styled churches whose flying buttresses and soaring stained-glass windows inspire awe. But the country is also home to a church that, while tiny, monochromatic, and lacking adornment, is breathtaking in its own way.
Belgian architects Pieterjan Gijs and Arnout Van Vaerenbergh constructed the Doorkijkkerk, or to give it its official but rather clunky English title, the Reading between the Lines Church, designed to not interfere with the view.
Located in a field in the Flemish province of Limburg, and accessible only by foot or bicycle, Reading between the Lines is a church that appears either solid or half-dissolved, depending on the angle from which you view it. Built in 2011, Reading between the Lines consists of 100 layers of stacked steel plate, interspersed with short columns to create the see-through effect.
Sunday, February 25
Prayers:
Pray that God’s spirit of forgiveness, peace and goodwill will be known and put into action among leaders in countries at war: Gaza, Ukraine, Palestine, Israel, Russia, Middle East. Pray for those who work to restore services and facilities in flood and fire damaged areas. Pray for all who care for people with special needs: those who are ill, those with mental health issues, those who mourn, the lonely, the sad, the disabled. Pray for the people of the United States that common sense and justice will prevail.
The Ecumenical Prayer Cycle
This week we pray for: France, Germany, Monaco
We are thankful for:
Prayers:
Pray that God’s spirit of forgiveness, peace and goodwill will be known and put into action among leaders in countries at war: Gaza, Ukraine, Palestine, Israel, Russia, Middle East. Pray for those who work to restore services and facilities in flood and fire damaged areas. Pray for all who care for people with special needs: those who are ill, those with mental health issues, those who mourn, the lonely, the sad, the disabled. Pray for the people of the United States that common sense and justice will prevail.
The Ecumenical Prayer Cycle
This week we pray for: France, Germany, Monaco
We are thankful for:
- the rich historic and cultural legacies that have come to the world from these lands.
- Franco-German friendship, reconciliation and cooperation that has emerged since the hostilities of the second world war.
- how churches and governments in France and Germany have welcomed new immigrants.
- the generosity in supporting ecumenical, interfaith and development work in the world.
- overcoming fears and suspicions that still remain from 20th century atrocities, and more recent terrorist attacks.
- churches and governments to effectively counter anti-immigrant populist sentiments in these countries so that they truly will become more multi-ethnic.
- economic decisions that are accountable to those who are most vulnerable and not only to those making a profit.
- election of political leaders who will further the common good not only for their country but for the sake of Europe and the rest of world.
Sunday, February 18
Prayers:
Pray that God’s spirit of forgiveness, peace and goodwill will be known and put into action among leaders in countries at war: Gaza, Ukraine, Palestine, Israel, Russia, Middle East. Pray for those who work to restore services and facilities in flood damaged areas. Pray for all who care for people with special needs: those who are ill, those with mental health issues, those who mourn, the lonely, the sad, the disabled.
God, our source and our purpose,
energy and wisdom behind all creation,
God of storms and rainbows,
God of rain and sunshine,
God of all creation we worship and adore you.
Like Noah and his family,
we praise you for the sign of your love stretched in the sky for all,
for your care for the whole creation
and for your promise to preserve and not to destroy life.
This week we pray for: Austria, Liechtenstein, Switzerland
We pray for:
Prayers:
Pray that God’s spirit of forgiveness, peace and goodwill will be known and put into action among leaders in countries at war: Gaza, Ukraine, Palestine, Israel, Russia, Middle East. Pray for those who work to restore services and facilities in flood damaged areas. Pray for all who care for people with special needs: those who are ill, those with mental health issues, those who mourn, the lonely, the sad, the disabled.
God, our source and our purpose,
energy and wisdom behind all creation,
God of storms and rainbows,
God of rain and sunshine,
God of all creation we worship and adore you.
Like Noah and his family,
we praise you for the sign of your love stretched in the sky for all,
for your care for the whole creation
and for your promise to preserve and not to destroy life.
This week we pray for: Austria, Liechtenstein, Switzerland
We pray for:
- environmental practices that preserve the natural environment, especially the melting glaciers of the Alps
- the work for justice, reconciliation and peace pursued by the people and organisations here, seeking to shape globalisation so that it benefits all
- religious freedom, for those from non-Christian traditions
- overcoming the fear of, and welcoming the embrace, of those who are outsiders to the countries’ historic, ethnic traditions.
Sunday, February 11
Prayers:
Pray that God’s spirit of forgiveness, peace and goodwill will be known and put into action among leaders in countries at war: Gaza, Ukraine, Palestine, Israel, Russia, Middle East. Pray for those who work to restore services and facilities in flood damaged areas. Pray for all who care for people with special needs: those who are ill, those with mental health issues, those who mourn, the lonely, the sad, the disabled.
The Ecumenical Prayer Cycle
Prayer is at the very heart of the ecumenical movement. Jesus prayed that we – his followers – may all be one. February 4—10 When we pray with and for one another, we can feel God’s gift of unity.
This week we pray for: Andorra, Italy, Malta, Portugal, San Marino, Spain, Vatican City The Ecumenical Prayer Cycle takes us through every region of the world over the course of a year. Praying for each place on earth and its people at least once a year, we affirm our solidarity with Christians all over the world, brothers and sisters living in diverse situations, experiencing diverse problems and sharing diverse gifts. Pray with us!
Prayers:
Pray that God’s spirit of forgiveness, peace and goodwill will be known and put into action among leaders in countries at war: Gaza, Ukraine, Palestine, Israel, Russia, Middle East. Pray for those who work to restore services and facilities in flood damaged areas. Pray for all who care for people with special needs: those who are ill, those with mental health issues, those who mourn, the lonely, the sad, the disabled.
The Ecumenical Prayer Cycle
Prayer is at the very heart of the ecumenical movement. Jesus prayed that we – his followers – may all be one. February 4—10 When we pray with and for one another, we can feel God’s gift of unity.
This week we pray for: Andorra, Italy, Malta, Portugal, San Marino, Spain, Vatican City The Ecumenical Prayer Cycle takes us through every region of the world over the course of a year. Praying for each place on earth and its people at least once a year, we affirm our solidarity with Christians all over the world, brothers and sisters living in diverse situations, experiencing diverse problems and sharing diverse gifts. Pray with us!
Sunday, February 4
Prayers:
Pray that God’s spirit of forgiveness, peace and goodwill will be known and put into action among leaders in countries at war: Gaza, Ukraine, Palestine, Israel, Russia. Pray for those who work to restore services and facilities in damaged areas close to us: Bray Park, Lockyer Valley, Laidley. Pray for specialists and all who assist them, people who work with those in need of special care and understanding: those who are ill, those with mental health issues, those who mourn, the lonely, the sad, the disabled.
Father God, we pray for our world today. We pray for peace and hope to abound. Many are affected by natural disasters: floods, droughts and forest fires. Many are struggling with conflict, poverty and the global food crisis. O Lord, we pray for your provision, peace and protection. In Jesus’ name, Amen.
The Ecumenical Prayer Cycle Prayer is at the very heart of the ecumenical movement. Jesus prayed that we – his followers – may all be one. January 28—February 4 When we pray with and for one another, we can feel God’s gift of unity. ·
This week we pray for: Algeria, Libya, Morocco, Western Sahara, Tunisia.
The Ecumenical Prayer Cycle takes us through every region of the world over the course of a year. Praying for each place on earth and its people at least once a year, we affirm our solidarity with Christians all over the world, brothers and sisters living in diverse situations, experiencing diverse problems and sharing diverse gifts. Pray with us!
We are thankful for:
· How the early Christian church developed here.
· The biodiversity of plants, animals and the natural terrain.
· How Berber, Arab and European cultures have blended.
· How these countries have remained and stood against the invasion of cultural and military forces from elsewhere.
We pray for:
· All the people of these countries: Muslims, the tiny remnant of Christians, those of other faiths who continue bearing witness to their faiths and for all people of good will.
· An end to political violence.
· An end to how dominating powers have fought over these lands and their resources through the years.
· For those suffering exploitation and mistreatment as they travel through these countries.
Prayers:
Pray that God’s spirit of forgiveness, peace and goodwill will be known and put into action among leaders in countries at war: Gaza, Ukraine, Palestine, Israel, Russia. Pray for those who work to restore services and facilities in damaged areas close to us: Bray Park, Lockyer Valley, Laidley. Pray for specialists and all who assist them, people who work with those in need of special care and understanding: those who are ill, those with mental health issues, those who mourn, the lonely, the sad, the disabled.
Father God, we pray for our world today. We pray for peace and hope to abound. Many are affected by natural disasters: floods, droughts and forest fires. Many are struggling with conflict, poverty and the global food crisis. O Lord, we pray for your provision, peace and protection. In Jesus’ name, Amen.
The Ecumenical Prayer Cycle Prayer is at the very heart of the ecumenical movement. Jesus prayed that we – his followers – may all be one. January 28—February 4 When we pray with and for one another, we can feel God’s gift of unity. ·
This week we pray for: Algeria, Libya, Morocco, Western Sahara, Tunisia.
The Ecumenical Prayer Cycle takes us through every region of the world over the course of a year. Praying for each place on earth and its people at least once a year, we affirm our solidarity with Christians all over the world, brothers and sisters living in diverse situations, experiencing diverse problems and sharing diverse gifts. Pray with us!
We are thankful for:
· How the early Christian church developed here.
· The biodiversity of plants, animals and the natural terrain.
· How Berber, Arab and European cultures have blended.
· How these countries have remained and stood against the invasion of cultural and military forces from elsewhere.
We pray for:
· All the people of these countries: Muslims, the tiny remnant of Christians, those of other faiths who continue bearing witness to their faiths and for all people of good will.
· An end to political violence.
· An end to how dominating powers have fought over these lands and their resources through the years.
· For those suffering exploitation and mistreatment as they travel through these countries.
Sunday, January 28
Prayers:
Pray that God’s spirit of forgiveness, peace and goodwill will be known and put into action among leaders in countries at war: Gaza, Ukraine, Palestine, Israel, Russia. Pray for those who work to restore services and facilities in damaged areas close to us: Tamborine and the Scenic Rim, Gold Coast, Springfield Lakes, Cairns district. Pray for specialists and all who assist them, people who work with those in need of special care and understanding: those who are ill, those with mental health issues, those who mourn, the lonely, the sad, the disabled.
Loving God, Lord of heaven and earth,
this earth, our home, belongs to you.
Give us grace to love it as you do.
Give us courage to give ourselves, as you do,
for the good of all people and all of your creation.
Strengthen us to stand, as you do, with the vulnerable poor.
Give us wisdom to know when we have enough,
and the voice to say “enough”
to all that harms creation and hurts the poorest.
This earth, our home, belongs to you.
Amen.
Micah Australia 5
… to think about
But the Lord said to Samuel, ‘Do not look on his appearance or on the height of his stature, because I have rejected him. For the Lord sees not as man sees; man looks on the outward appearance, but the Lord looks on the heart.’ (1 Samuel 16:7)
According to research at Cambridge University, it doesn’t matter in what order the letters in a word are, the only important thing is that the first and last letter be in the right place. The rest can be a total mess and you can still read it without a problem. This is because the human mind does not read every letter by itself, but the word as a whole.
Give the theory a shot, and see if it’s true:
Aoccdrnig to rscheearch at Cmabrigde Uinervtisy, it deosn’t mttaer in waht oredr the ltteers in a wrod are, the olny iprmoatnt tihng is taht the frist and lsat ltteer be in the rghit pclae. The rset can be a taotl mses and you can sitll raed it wouthit a porbelm. Tihs is bcuseae the huamn mnid deos not raed ervey lteter by istlef, but the wrod as a wlohe.
Isn’t it amazing? This illustration of how the mind works to put words together is amazing. It goes against everything we learnt at school and totally ends the need for spell check! It’s the perfect example that confirms what you see may not be what you get. Here’s a reminder: God is searching our hearts. He doesn’t care about our outward appearances.
Leslie Snyder, HomeWord Devotionals www.homword.com
Prayers:
Pray that God’s spirit of forgiveness, peace and goodwill will be known and put into action among leaders in countries at war: Gaza, Ukraine, Palestine, Israel, Russia. Pray for those who work to restore services and facilities in damaged areas close to us: Tamborine and the Scenic Rim, Gold Coast, Springfield Lakes, Cairns district. Pray for specialists and all who assist them, people who work with those in need of special care and understanding: those who are ill, those with mental health issues, those who mourn, the lonely, the sad, the disabled.
Loving God, Lord of heaven and earth,
this earth, our home, belongs to you.
Give us grace to love it as you do.
Give us courage to give ourselves, as you do,
for the good of all people and all of your creation.
Strengthen us to stand, as you do, with the vulnerable poor.
Give us wisdom to know when we have enough,
and the voice to say “enough”
to all that harms creation and hurts the poorest.
This earth, our home, belongs to you.
Amen.
Micah Australia 5
… to think about
But the Lord said to Samuel, ‘Do not look on his appearance or on the height of his stature, because I have rejected him. For the Lord sees not as man sees; man looks on the outward appearance, but the Lord looks on the heart.’ (1 Samuel 16:7)
According to research at Cambridge University, it doesn’t matter in what order the letters in a word are, the only important thing is that the first and last letter be in the right place. The rest can be a total mess and you can still read it without a problem. This is because the human mind does not read every letter by itself, but the word as a whole.
Give the theory a shot, and see if it’s true:
Aoccdrnig to rscheearch at Cmabrigde Uinervtisy, it deosn’t mttaer in waht oredr the ltteers in a wrod are, the olny iprmoatnt tihng is taht the frist and lsat ltteer be in the rghit pclae. The rset can be a taotl mses and you can sitll raed it wouthit a porbelm. Tihs is bcuseae the huamn mnid deos not raed ervey lteter by istlef, but the wrod as a wlohe.
Isn’t it amazing? This illustration of how the mind works to put words together is amazing. It goes against everything we learnt at school and totally ends the need for spell check! It’s the perfect example that confirms what you see may not be what you get. Here’s a reminder: God is searching our hearts. He doesn’t care about our outward appearances.
Leslie Snyder, HomeWord Devotionals www.homword.com
Sunday, January 21
Prayers:
Give us the courage to accept the realities of our history so that we may build a better future for our nation. Teach us to respect all cultures. Teach us to care for our land and waters. Help us to share justly the resources of this land. Help us to bring about spiritual and social change to improve the quality of life for all peoples in our communities, Pray that God’s spirit of forgiveness, peace and goodwill will be known and put into action among leaders in countries at war: Gaza, Ukraine, Palestine, Israel, Russia. Pray for those who work to restore services and facilities in damaged areas close to us: Tamborine and the Scenic Rim, Gold Coast, Springfield Lakes, Cairns district. Pray for specialists and all who assist them, people who work with those in need of special care and understanding: those who are ill, those with mental health issues, those who mourn, the lonely, the sad, the disabled.
The Ecumenical Prayer Cycle
Prayer is at the very heart of the ecumenical movement. Jesus prayed that we – his followers – may all be one. When we pray with and for one another, we can feel God’s gift of unity.
January 14—21
This week we pray for: Bahrain, Kuwait, Oman, Qatar, Saudi Arabia, United Arab Emirates, Yemen.
The Ecumenical Prayer Cycle takes us through every region of the world over the course of a year. Praying for each place on earth and its people at least once a year, we affirm our solidarity with Christians all over the world, brothers and sisters living in diverse situations, experiencing diverse problems and sharing diverse gifts. Pray with us!
We are thankful for:
Prayers:
Give us the courage to accept the realities of our history so that we may build a better future for our nation. Teach us to respect all cultures. Teach us to care for our land and waters. Help us to share justly the resources of this land. Help us to bring about spiritual and social change to improve the quality of life for all peoples in our communities, Pray that God’s spirit of forgiveness, peace and goodwill will be known and put into action among leaders in countries at war: Gaza, Ukraine, Palestine, Israel, Russia. Pray for those who work to restore services and facilities in damaged areas close to us: Tamborine and the Scenic Rim, Gold Coast, Springfield Lakes, Cairns district. Pray for specialists and all who assist them, people who work with those in need of special care and understanding: those who are ill, those with mental health issues, those who mourn, the lonely, the sad, the disabled.
The Ecumenical Prayer Cycle
Prayer is at the very heart of the ecumenical movement. Jesus prayed that we – his followers – may all be one. When we pray with and for one another, we can feel God’s gift of unity.
January 14—21
This week we pray for: Bahrain, Kuwait, Oman, Qatar, Saudi Arabia, United Arab Emirates, Yemen.
The Ecumenical Prayer Cycle takes us through every region of the world over the course of a year. Praying for each place on earth and its people at least once a year, we affirm our solidarity with Christians all over the world, brothers and sisters living in diverse situations, experiencing diverse problems and sharing diverse gifts. Pray with us!
We are thankful for:
- the ancient cultures and religions that have been sustained in this area for millennia
- those who continue to pursue peace in the midst of ethnic strife and terrorism
- the faithfulness of Muslims in expressing their faith and working with others
- Christians who practise their faith even when they are a small, often discriminated minority.
- women and others in these countries who are deprived of basic freedoms and human dignity
- those who misuse or exploit religious identity for extremist political ends
- the wise use of the benefits of oil and other natural resources for the sake of all
- the emergence of stable democratic societies based on the rule of law, social justice, and respect for religious and other freedoms.
Sunday, January 14
Pray that God’s spirit of forgiveness, peace and goodwill will be known and put into action among leaders in countries at war: Gaza, Ukraine, Palestine, Israel, Russia.
Pray for those who work to restore services and facilities in damaged areas close to us:
Tamborine and the Scenic Rim, Gold Coast, Springfield Lakes, Cairns district.
Pray for specialists and all who assist them, people who work with those in need of special care and understanding: those who are ill, those with mental health issues, those who mourn, the lonely, the sad, the disabled.
One expression of the Christian love that we share is that we pray for one another.
The Ecumenical Prayer Cycle
Prayer is at the very heart of the ecumenical movement.
Jesus prayed that we – his followers – may all be one.
When we pray with and for one another, we can feel God’s gift of unity.
This week we pray for: Iran, Iraq, Syria
We pray for:
· an end to the violence racking these battlefields of global powers
· political leaders emerging in these countries who will pursue peace, the common good, and human rights of all groups
· the international community to pursue policies that will result in acceptable, just peace for all involved
· greater openness to welcoming those displaced or fleeing from these lands, desperately
seeking safety and wellbeing.
Pray that God’s spirit of forgiveness, peace and goodwill will be known and put into action among leaders in countries at war: Gaza, Ukraine, Palestine, Israel, Russia.
Pray for those who work to restore services and facilities in damaged areas close to us:
Tamborine and the Scenic Rim, Gold Coast, Springfield Lakes, Cairns district.
Pray for specialists and all who assist them, people who work with those in need of special care and understanding: those who are ill, those with mental health issues, those who mourn, the lonely, the sad, the disabled.
One expression of the Christian love that we share is that we pray for one another.
The Ecumenical Prayer Cycle
Prayer is at the very heart of the ecumenical movement.
Jesus prayed that we – his followers – may all be one.
When we pray with and for one another, we can feel God’s gift of unity.
This week we pray for: Iran, Iraq, Syria
We pray for:
· an end to the violence racking these battlefields of global powers
· political leaders emerging in these countries who will pursue peace, the common good, and human rights of all groups
· the international community to pursue policies that will result in acceptable, just peace for all involved
· greater openness to welcoming those displaced or fleeing from these lands, desperately
seeking safety and wellbeing.
Sunday, January 7
The Covenant Prayer
The Wesleyan Covenant Prayer was adapted by John Wesley for the renewal of the believer’s covenant with God. Wesley said that the prayer was first used in a covenant renewal service held on Monday 11 August, 1755, in London, with 1800 people present. Since then, the Wesleyan Covenant Prayer has often been used in services around the World on the first Sunday of the year. The prayer points to deep surrender of ourselves in complete trust to God.
The Covenant Prayer
The Wesleyan Covenant Prayer was adapted by John Wesley for the renewal of the believer’s covenant with God. Wesley said that the prayer was first used in a covenant renewal service held on Monday 11 August, 1755, in London, with 1800 people present. Since then, the Wesleyan Covenant Prayer has often been used in services around the World on the first Sunday of the year. The prayer points to deep surrender of ourselves in complete trust to God.
I am no longer my own, but yours.
Put me to what you will, place me with whom you will.
Put me to doing, put me to suffering.
Let me be put to work for you or set aside for you,
Praised for you or criticised for you.
Let me be full, let me be empty.
Let me have all things, let me have nothing.
I freely and fully surrender all things to your glory and service.
And now, O wonderful and holy God,
Creator, Redeemer, and Sustainer,
you are mine, and I am yours.
So be it.
And the covenant which I have made on earth,
Let it also be made in heaven.
Amen
Put me to what you will, place me with whom you will.
Put me to doing, put me to suffering.
Let me be put to work for you or set aside for you,
Praised for you or criticised for you.
Let me be full, let me be empty.
Let me have all things, let me have nothing.
I freely and fully surrender all things to your glory and service.
And now, O wonderful and holy God,
Creator, Redeemer, and Sustainer,
you are mine, and I am yours.
So be it.
And the covenant which I have made on earth,
Let it also be made in heaven.
Amen
The National Council of Churches in Australia recommends its member churches offer prayers for people in the Middle East—Egypt, Israel, Palestine, Jordan, Lebanon, Iran, Iraq, and Syria.
A Prayer for Israel and Gaza:
Sovereign God, we pray for political, military and religious leaders involved in this conflict, to show genuine willingness to work towards a better future for all Palestinians, Jews and others living in the region. We long for dignity, mercy, justice, peace and love to triumph, so please grant wisdom and courage to those with authority across the world, working to end this war. For Christ’s sake. Amen.
A Prayer for Ukraine:
Almighty God, we continue to bring before you the war in Ukraine. As fresh military offensives are launched in the south-eastern Donetsk region, please grant success to those trying to bring about peace talks. Help those engaged in humanitarian efforts to assist the tens of thousands who are refugees, dispossessed, wounded and vulnerable in other ways. In Jesus’ name. Amen.
We also pray for:
· Church congregations in Australia as they prepare for another year of worship and mission
· Emergency relief workers in flooded areas of Queensland and New South Wales
· A new year filled with hope and opportunities to share the joy of the Gospel with those around us.
A Prayer for Israel and Gaza:
Sovereign God, we pray for political, military and religious leaders involved in this conflict, to show genuine willingness to work towards a better future for all Palestinians, Jews and others living in the region. We long for dignity, mercy, justice, peace and love to triumph, so please grant wisdom and courage to those with authority across the world, working to end this war. For Christ’s sake. Amen.
A Prayer for Ukraine:
Almighty God, we continue to bring before you the war in Ukraine. As fresh military offensives are launched in the south-eastern Donetsk region, please grant success to those trying to bring about peace talks. Help those engaged in humanitarian efforts to assist the tens of thousands who are refugees, dispossessed, wounded and vulnerable in other ways. In Jesus’ name. Amen.
We also pray for:
· Church congregations in Australia as they prepare for another year of worship and mission
· Emergency relief workers in flooded areas of Queensland and New South Wales
· A new year filled with hope and opportunities to share the joy of the Gospel with those around us.
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