Lord, you call us to know you more closely and to be shaped by your friendship. We offer you our prayers, asking you to transform our lives and the world in which we live.
We pray for all Church leaders. Give them the courage and the words that they need to challenge injustice and to open people’s hearts to recognise God’s presence in everyone.
We pray for those in local, national and international governance. May they search for truth and practise integrity in the relationships and situations that most deeply challenge their conscience.
We pray for world leaders. May they search for peaceful and just solutions to the many conflicts and problems facing countless people at this moment. May they listen to each other.
We pray for those who are suffering from the effects of earthquakes, droughts, crop failures, floods and wildfires. May they find the encouragement and support they need to rebuild their lives and homes.
We pray for children and young people, parents and teachers as the new academic year begins. May life be an adventure of discovery, learning and companionship in the days that lie ahead.
We pray for farmers and growers who have been affected by the recent drought. May they receive the help, rain and resilience needed to restore harvests and livelihoods.
Lord of hope, fill us with your love. Show us the joy to be found in living with you and for you. We make our prayer through Jesus, your Son and our brother, in the unity of your Holy Spirit of wisdom. Amen.