Prayers - Adoration, Invocation, Lament, Confession

Christ, calmer of fear,
and pacifier of storm,
quieten our minds
soothe our emotions,
allay our concerns.
Ease us into a sense of awe at God’s grace,
a sense of peace in God’s presence,
a sense of security in God’s purpose.

God, keeper of the stronghold of the weak,
champion of the oppressed,
disturb our hearts,
challenge our attitudes,
prompt us to action.
Spur us into renewed vigour for your purpose,
renewed vitality in your grace,
renewed wonder in your presence.

Spirit, advocate for justice,
counsellor for reconciliation,
prompt our speech,
invoke our silence,
challenge our complacency.
Fill us with your purpose,
your enthusiasm,
your patient persistence…

… for we are afraid that we do not have faith.

We are confronted by overwhelming concerns O God:
—the future of our globe, its many species including our own—
We are afraid that we do not have faith.

We are confronted by enormous concerns O God:
—the future of the world economy, the fate of the rich and the poor—
We are afraid that we do not have faith.

We are confronted by pressing concerns O God:
—our individual futures, the fate of our children—
We are afraid that we do not have faith.

O God, grant us faith and peace,
forgiveness for our part in bringing such crises,
courage to meet the challenge of change,
and grace to face the future with hope.
In the name of Christ. Amen.

The stronghold of the weak does not forsake
those who seek God in humility and trust.
Trust in God’s name. Be assured of God’s presence.
Know that God hears our cries of pain and fear.
Hear Christ’s word of grace to us:
“Your sins are forgiven.”
Thanks be to God.