New Year Intercessions

Here’s a pastoral prayer for the start of the New Year.  It was written by Rev. Ian Elston.

Pastoral Prayer for the New Year

Lord God, as we look ahead to the year ahead,
we do so with wonder and praise,
knowing that whatever the year brings You will be with us,
knowing that however lost we get you will find us,
knowing that you will be by our side.

We bring before you our prayers for the World.
Knowing that all are in your arms
and you love the greatest and the weakest;
the oldest and the youngest;
the wisest and the most foolish.

We pray for the World:
that this year may find the News not dominated by greed and fear
and war and violence
but be full of hope and expectation
and that it may mark the end
of the numerous conflicts around the world.

We pray for our own country
that she may lead the world in diplomacy and peace.

We pray for all politicians this year
that they may be filled with a duty to the poorest and weakest among us.

Lord, we pray for this church this coming year
(mention any upcoming events or challenges)

We pray for the individuals who work together
to ensure smooth running of church
(mention by name)

And we pray that all who come here may find a warm welcome.
We pray for (mention any local or national issues)

Lord you are with us at all times and in all places.
Bless each one of us,
in Jesus Name
Amen

~ excerpted from a prayer written by Rev. Ian Elston, and posted on the Church of Scotland’s Starters for Sunday website. http://www.churchofscotland.org.uk/__data/assets/pdf_file/0005/18473/12_January_2014.pdf