Lord of new life, as we celebrate the joy of Easter, we come before you with our prayers, confident that you love us more than we can possibly imagine.
We pray for all Church leaders as they call for peace in the Middle East. May Christian communities be places of welcome, compassion and safety for all who seek healing and a new beginning.
We pray for the Church, and for all religious leaders, that they may lead the world to “see and believe” and to recognise the presence of the Risen Christ at work amongst us.
We pray for the world and its leaders, that the light of Easter morning may scatter the darkness of conflict, fear, and division, inspiring leaders to choose peace, justice, and the dignity of every person.
We pray for an end to war and bloodshed. May dialogue, understanding and compassion replace weapons, brutality and hatred. May warring factions listen to Jesus’ words, “Peace be with you.”
We pray for those who struggle to hope, who, like Mary Magdalene, are searching, grieving, or unsure where to turn. May the Risen Lord meet them gently and restore their joy.
We pray for our parish community, that we may be witnesses of resurrection in our daily lives: people of compassion, reconciliation, and quiet courage, carrying Easter hope to everyone we meet.
We pray for children and young people, that they may look forward to a future of hope. May families proclaim resurrection life and tenderness to our world which is aching for love.
God of life and love, you opened the tomb and filled the world with hope. Hear the prayers we bring in faith and make us signs of your risen presence. Through Christ our risen Lord. Amen.