For the Church: that renewed through word and sacrament, we may radiate the light of Christ, be strong in faith, confident in hope, and abounding with love for God and neighbor
For all the newly baptized: that they may faithfully follow Jesus, grow in their love for God, and keep the light of Christ burning brightly in their lives
For all children: that God will keep them safe from all harm, help them to grow and develop their gifts, and celebrate the gift of life each day
For all believers: that Christ will pour out the Spirit upon us and enable us to continue the mission of bringing hope, meaning, and love to all in our society
For all the human family: that Christ’s victory over death may bring hope and a new beginning to all who suffer from war and violence, are burdened by poverty, confronted by prejudice, or live in fear
For all who find themselves confused, doubting their faith, or walking in darkness: that they may experience the Risen Lord who brings light and hope to hearts
For all gathered in prayer this day: that we who have been washed in the waters of life, may continue to grow in God’s life and be signs of God’s presence to all in our lives
For healing of hearts and relationships: that the Risen Lord will
open the path to reconciliation and healing amongst families,
communities, and nations
For all who are away from home this Easter, particularly members of
the military and relief workers: that God will protect from harm,
guide their service, and bring them home safely
For greater respect and appreciation of human life: that we may recognize God’s gift of life in everyone and strive to honor and support that life in each person that we meet
For all who have fled homes because of violence, fear, or natural disasters: that God will guide them to safety, give them hope, and touch the hearts of many to welcome and support them
For all who are burdened by sickness, disease, or chronic illness: that the healing Spirit of the risen Christ may bring light and wholeness to them
For greater stewardship of God’s creation: that we may work to use earth’s resources prudently and preserve them for the good of future generations
For nations in turmoil: that God will break the cycles of violence and discord, end acts of revenge, protect the innocent, and raise leaders who will establish peace and justice in areas of conflict
For peace: that the Risen Lord will give each of us peace of mind and heart, relief from stress and pressure, and renew our spirits so that we may live life fully each day