Prayers of the People: Ascension

Here’s a prayer litany for Ascension Day from John van de Laar.

Set the World to Rights

Today, Jesus, we are faced with a wonderful truth to proclaim,
but also, an awesome and uncomfortable responsibility.
We praise you and celebrate you as Ascended Lord;
we recognise that you have authority over all things,
but we live in a world where greed and power and violence
seem to be in control.
And so, as you call us, we pray:
Come as Lord, Jesus, and set the world to rights.

We praise you and celebrate you as the Way, Truth & Life;
we recognise that in you our life is made whole and full;
but we live in a world where death, brokenness and need
appear to be everywhere.
And so, as you call us, we pray:
Come as Lord, Jesus, and set the world to rights.

We praise you and celebrate you as God among us;
we receive your invitation to live God’s dream;
but we live in a world where dreams and hearts
are broken daily, and hope seems all but lost.
And so, as you call us, we pray:
Come as Lord, Jesus, and set the world to rights.
And we pray as you taught us: Our Father…

— written by John van de Laar, and posted on his excellent Sacredise website.  Visit that site for many other good lectionary-based resources. 

For more worship resources for Ascension, click on Ascension in the list of “Labels” at the lower right side of the page.