P

raying in mindfulness of our baptism, and the outpouring of the Spirit which it brings, let us bring our praises and petitions before our God, praying “Send forth your Spirit, O Lord,” and responding “Alleluia! Come Holy Spirit.”

Far i himmelen, høre din barn (Norwegian)

Father in heaven, hear your children

Herr Jesuiten Christus, in Ihrem Leben ist das Leben (German)

Lord Jesus Christ, in your life is life

Wakan Ojula ojuye okiwe kici nitawa peta (Lakota)

Holy Spirit, fill us with your fire

Let us pray for the church, and those who are called to lead it:

Lord of life, enliven your Church. Where we have become dry and crusty, and set in our ways, remind us of the waters of our baptism, and make of us a new thing.  Help us to break down old walls, and build upon the foundation we share with all who proclaim the Good news of Jesus. Pour out your grace in the Upstate New York Synod. Bless our Bishop Marie Jerge, and give us wisdom. Send forth your Spirit, O Lord:

Let us pray for the world:

 Lord of power, send your mighty wind of change over the ruling powers of this earth. Turn the quarrels of tribe and nation into constructive conversation. Turn the minds of corporations from greed and domination to compassion and cooperation. Reach into the streets of Rochester, and every city, and touch every heart prone to despair or anger. Send for your Spirit, O Lord:

Let us pray for the suffering: By your mighty presence, give them strength and courage to face every hurt and trial. Especially we name before you those whose needs are known to us {{}}. Uplift them and warm them. Send forth your Spirit, O Lord:

Let us pray for our ministry:

Gracious Lord, make us as bold as those first disciples to tell your story. Inspire us to joyfully work with the neighborhoods we are called to serve, and transform our best intentions into meaningful ministry. Send forth your Spirit, O Lord::

Let us pray for growth in faith:

 Blessed are you, O Lord our God, Sovereign of the universe. At creation you smiled upon the goodness of all green and growing things, and in praise of you they put forth beauty in blossom and fragrance. We thank you for allowing us to live in this place so blessed by the beauty of lilacs. We praise you for the opportunity to meet people as they come to see the flowers. Bless we the Lord!

Holy Spirit, enter into every heart in every place where people of faith are gathered. Convince us of your presence. In that indwelling, we come as children of one heavenly Father, through Jesus Christ our brother, one God, now and forever.

AMEN