We have heard in the gospel reading today, Jesus telling us at the calming of the storm: “Peace! Be still! Why are you afraid? Have you still no faith?”

 After a pause …

Loving and almighty God, We especially pray that we as followers of Jesus that form the Church we can be a source of refuge and peace for those who feel threatened by life’s stormy waters;.

After a pause for silent prayer: Lord, in your mercy.
All       hear our prayer.

That the Church in this country may rediscover her origins in the Holy Spirit, that the Queen as governor of the Church and head of the government may be blessed by God’s Holy Spirit;

And that God may help the leaders of the Churches, especially those of our Diocese and Parish to listen to God’s heart and to obey His will for His people;

After a pause for silent prayer: Lord, in your mercy.
All       hear our prayer.

We pray for those who are anxious, isolated, lonely, or grieving because of the COVID-19 pandemic. We pray for all for whom social distance, self-isolation or shielding has caused separation from the ones they love. We pray for those whose mental health has suffered because of the impact of the pandemic on our lives, our jobs and our economy.

After a pause for silent prayer: Lord, in your mercy.
All       hear our prayer.

We pray for places around the world where COVID-19 seems to be out of control and for their politicians who are trying to control the epidemic. We pray that this and other countries which have good supplies of vaccines, and the medical equipment needed for those who are suffering most, may be generous in offering help to those most in need.

After a pause for silent prayer: Lord, in your mercy.
All       hear our prayer.

Heavenly Father, we pray that, as Christ’s body here on earth, and empowered by the Holy Spirit, we might bring healing and new life to those who suffer in mind, body and soul, both within our churches and in wider society. May we be bringers of forgiveness, kindness, faith, hope and love. May we know your presence with us, may we find you in one another, and may we be Christ for others.

After a pause for silent prayer: Lord, in your mercy.
All       hear our prayer.

We remember those in our own community and outside who are suffering illness at the moment, and pray especially forDiana, Mel, Don, Chris, Matt, Sophie, Lisa, Anne, Chloe, Margaret, Christina, Jennifer, David Keene and others we know of. We thank you for all who care for them and provide comfort for them.  May they be aware of your love surrounding and enfolding them

After a pause for silent prayer: Lord, in your mercy.
All       hear our prayer.

Father God, we pray for those who face the pain of grief at the loss of a loved one. We remember those who have died and ask that those bereaved by their passing are aware of the light of the Risen Christ which eternally shines and brings so much hope.

After a pause for silent prayer: Lord, in your mercy.
All       hear our prayer.

Let us pause a moment, become aware of our breathing, relax in the presence of the Lord and humbly tell him what is deepest in our hearts for he knows us, loves us and forgives us

After a longer pause …

Father God,
we feel loved,
we feel forgiven,
we feel saved.
Thank you for Jesus Christ your Son
who died for us on the cross
and rose again from the dead
and who offers us true peace
and true hope.
Help us to hold on to him
and to follow him
the way, the truth and the life
as we entrust you our prayers
in the name of your Son Jesus Christ.

Amen.

[Revd Dr ST Mattapally, Rector, Springline Parish, Diocese of Lincoln]