First Sunday of Advent

December 3, 2023

For a new awakening among leaders of faith. May we wipe the sleep from our eyes to see the hungry, the lost, the homeless, and the weary. May Advent bring us joy in praying and serving.

We pray to the Lord.

For people who wait in darkness. May the grief-stricken find consolation and the lonely discover a new heart of peace.

We pray to the Lord.

For people torn apart in war. May every country find peace in this new season of grace. May orphans and widows entrust their lives to our support and care. May we be embraced in God’s love to end all violence.

We pray to the Lord.

For families in this Advent season. May we be awake in our care for one another. May we listen attentively to the quiet voices of loved ones who feel they do not belong in family life.

We pray to the Lord.

For a new hope among migrants. May people discover lands of peace where they can raise children and sustain employment. May hope fill the hearts of people who search for home.

We pray to the Lord.

For a new awareness of our neighbors. May Advent bring us new eyes to see the dignity and worth of people who suffer on the streets, for people nestled in nursing homes, for our children who have been abused.

We pray to the Lord.

For the release of all hostages and the freedom of every person. May Advent open new doors to our well-being and hope for people who ache for new life.

We pray to the Lord.

For people who are ill and in need of healing. May the lives and hearts of our loved ones be freed from sickness, disease and heartache. May Advent hope be made real in people who are in anguish.

We pray to the Lord.

For our beloved dead this Advent. May our faithful loved ones now find home in the face of Christ Jesus.

We pray to the Lord.