At a time of global upheaval, Lord, we pause to bring before you the needs of the world along with our own hopes and fears.
Let us pray for our religious leaders, that they may be granted strength and wisdom to lead the Church in a time of turbulence. We ask that they may be guided in their ministry by the Holy Spirit and supported by the prayers of Christians around the world.
We pray urgently for peace in the Middle East, holding before God those who are caught up in the attacks. We pray, too, that those who make the decisions affecting so many lives may be directed towards peace.
As the reverberations of the attacks are felt around the trembling world, we pray for anyone who is fearful at this time. May we find comfort and be assured of God’s presence in the world and convey this assurance to others.
We remember those living with violence at home, and those made homeless because of abusive or controlling situations. We pray that they may find safety and solidarity. We pray that the perpetrators of abuse may find the support they need.
As we see the first shoots of spring, we recognise it as a sign of God’s steadfast love for us and the world, and we commit to live in faith rather than fear. We pray for our communities, that Lent may be a time of meaningful growth.
God of grace, bring peace to the world, comfort to our hearts, and guide us as we continue our journey towards Easter. Amen.