[I’ve always been indebted to St. John. You see, it was reading that gospel when I was sixteen that led me to following Jesus. And, given our present precarious moment in history, and in support of the emphasis on a season of spiritual renewal in the Anglican Diocese of Toronto, I have shaped some prayers inspired by the language and imagery we find in this remarkable gospel.]
Let us pray.
In a world of chaos and confusion,
you are the Word.
While it feels that we are at an ending,
you are the beginning.
As things get darker each day,
you are the light of the world.
And so we pray for our world
at this moment in history.
[spoken and silent prayers for the world]
In a world captivated by vengeance and deceit
you are full of grace and truth.
While doors are closing to
the most vulnerable,
you are the gate.
As so many are lost and adrift,
you are the good shepherd.
And so we pray for the excluded, the most vulnerable.
[spoken and silent prayers for migrants, refugees, and victims of violence]
In a world of hunger,
you are the bread of life.
While watersheds are threatened,
you are the living water.
As so many are homeless,
in your Father’s house there are many rooms.
And so we pray in the midst of hunger, thirst and homelessness.
[spoken and silent prayers for those who have neither food, nor water, nor homes]
In a world of death,
you are the resurrection and the life.
While lies are all around us,
you are the truth.
As the path ahead is so treacherous,
you are the way.
[prayers for hope, knowledge and wisdom]
In a world of hate,
you call us to love.
While fear and hopelessness
grip our hearts,
you invite us into your peace.
As betrayal is in each of our hearts,
you continue to love us and call us to ministry.
[prayers for our own spiritual renewal]
During this time of spiritual renewal,
may we dwell in your love.
As we grow in discipleship,
may we bear much fruit.
Abiding in your word,
may we find our home in you.
Abiding in your love,
may our joy be complete.
Amen, siblings in Christ?
Amen
