Jane Coates shares the circle prayer we heared last Sunday.
A Circle Prayer for our Church
As we have brought 2021 to a close, and we enter a new year, it may be helpful to use a circle prayer, as together we bring 2022 into the centre of our worship.
It says in Psalm 103 He surrounds me with loving-kindness and tender mercies.
Circle us, Lord with your presence
Father you surround us with your loving-kindness and tender mercies.
We can never leave your presence. If we go up to heaven you are there. If we go to the farthest ocean, you are there. You are always there.
Circle us, Lord with your grace and forgiveness
Forgive us all that is past- for harsh words, for unkind thoughts, for past mistakes and wrong decisions. For hurts, losses, and griefs that we have known in the past year. Forgive us.
Circle us, Lord. Circle our families and friends with your presence and your peace
Be with those who have lost loved ones.
Be with those who are fearful and anxious.
Bring strength to those with health concerns.
Bring hope to those who are frustrated or in despair.
Bring comfort to those living alone.
Circle us, Lord. Circle us with your guidance and grace
Be with our families, those that we care about and those that we are responsible for.
Be in the workplace and the home.
Protect us in the decisions that we face in 2022.
Where there is change and uncertainty may we be strong.
Safeguard our homes and our relationships.
When things are tough and the way is unclear, then be our guide.
Circle us, Lord. Circle us with your wisdom and protection
We pray for those people and places in our world where there is little peace or stability.
For Afghanistan with its new Islamic Emirate and the Taliban.
For Nigeria, Afghanistan, India and China and wherever there is persecution.
For Uganda and the Advent Appeal for vulnerable children.
For countries where there is fighting and civil war that has caused the displacement of people.
We do not know what to do and the news is disturbing. We pray for those in a position to make changes. Guide them well.
Circle us Lord. Circle this church and each person with the joy of your Salvation
Keep our eyes fixed on Jesus.
Help us to be sharers of your good news.
Show us those people who need our help and your Gospel.
May we point others to the love, peace, hope and joy that can be found in you.
Circle us Lord. Circle us with your blessing as we enter this new year.
Amen