Almighty God, you have promised to hear the prayers of your people gathered together in your name.  Hear us as we pray our prayers of longing and hope.  Grant us the wisdom to more deeply know your truth, and see your glory.

Creating God, we thank you for your ongoing creation and light in this world.   We pray for peace across the world, and for the holy Church and the unity of all its’ people.   

We thank you for our own church Oh Lord - for its historic mission and ministry, and for bringing us here together today. We pray for our ministers as they work to empower and inspire our witness.   Give us all new passion to support and advance our church’s work and to reflect your grace in all we do.  

God our Comforter, we pray for you to surround and console all who suffer in body or spirit.  Especially during this holiday season, provide hope to those overwhelmed by circumstance, those without homes – both physical and spiritual – here in our own town, and to our brothers and sisters across the nation – especially in California after the recent devasting wildfires. 

Strengthen and bless all of us who possess gifts and tools which can be used to fulfill your promise of love and salvation for everyone.  Forgive the quickness with which we turn away from the pain of our neighbors in need, and help us to be open to do your will.  

May we turn to you in faith when we don’t know what to do, and may we remember that wherever we turn, you are there.  Give us the patience and persistence to trust in you.  Help us to embrace and to reflect the self-giving love that you so amazingly shower upon us every day.

Our hearts are full as we come to the final days before the Manger.  We are filled with joy and gratitude for all our gifts of life and many blessings.

Mr. Phillip R. Bridges, Elder