Sunday 15 October 2023

Together We Pray

SUNDAY 15 October 2023 28th Sunday in Ordinary Time 

Readings: Exod: 32:1-14; Phil 4:1-9; Matt 22:1-14 

Let us join in prayer for the needs of the world, and for the church. 

God our refuge and strength, you have brought us together in a common life in the hope that we will work together, avoiding conflict; help us to confront our differences honestly, and rejoice in the experiences and stories that make us diverse. We pray for people of faith and those who struggle; for those called to lead and for +Justin our bishop. Christ saw the hidden, the sick and vulnerable; teach us to value one another and raise our children with courage and hope. May we take the time to notice people and pray for stranger and friend.  

Loving God, hear our prayer.  

God of all nations, we pray for Aotearoa and our neighbours, that all may dwell in peace. We pray for the common good, that our land may be a secure hope for everyone, leaving no one behind. We pray for intervention to bring peace, justice, and right decisions. In this electoral season we pray for our Parliament, and those chosen to lead. And we pray for peace amidst trouble in the world: for the sudden violence erupting in Israel and Palestine, and the capturing and deaths of innocents there. And for Afghanistan, which has had another earthquake.  

Loving God, hear our prayer.  

God of all creation, you created this land, with its trees, pastures, braided rivers and seas. You created us to care, but we must do more. May your Spirit guide our actions, and save creatures frightened or in pain because of human carelessness and the havoc of climate change. Remind us to use our abilities and our kindness to build up and renew the world. God, come near; we are all in need of your comfort and love.  

Sources: NRSV Bible; NZ Prayer Book; A Prayer Book for Australia, Pat Robson, A Celtic Liturgy; NEB Starr, prayers.