God our Father, in our prayers today we ask you to grant us the courage to face those things that worry us, the wisdom to know what we can do about them, and the faith to know that we don’t face anything alone.
As he continues his ministry of leading the Church, we remember Pope Leo in our prayers. We ask that his words about peace, unity and human dignity will reverberate around the world, challenging and inspiring all people – both those with faith and those without.
We ask God to touch those places caught up in war and violence with lasting peace. We remember in prayer those who have been displaced and those in need of food, shelter and safety – asking the Holy Spirit to protect, provide for and comfort them.
As we face the effects of a changing climate, extreme weather and pressure on resources, we pray for our common home, the earth, and for the natural world. We ask that those in leadership might take seriously their responsibility to protect and sustain our God-given environment.
We pray for our own communities – for those who struggle with the cost of living, for families under pressure, and those who feel isolated. May our churches, schools, workplaces and neighbourhoods be places where people notice one another, offer help where it’s needed, and make room for those otherwise left on the margins.
We bring before God all those who are sick, anxious, grieving or exhausted, or who are stuck in destructive cycles. May they find community and comfort, and know the presence of the Holy Spirit.
We remember those who have gone before us. May God receive their souls and may they rest in peace.
We pause for a moment of silent, personal prayer…
God of compassion, receive our prayers. Guide us as to how we can be channels of peace, courage and compassion. We ask this through Christ our Lord. Amen.