Prayers of the People: Labor Day

Here is a prayer of intercession for September 4, 2011 written by Rick Morley.  He has based it on the scripture passages for Proper 18A (the twelfth Sunday after Pentecost), and in the knowledge that September 4 falls on the Labor Day long weekend.

Let us pray for the church, the world, and all in need.

O God, we pray for the church throughout the world,

that her members, ministers, and ministries

may be agents of your forgiveness and grace.
Lord, in your mercy,
hear our prayer.

We pray for our nation, our leaders,

and all who labor to make this country free,

and a haven of blessing, justice, and peace.
Lord, in your mercy,
hear our prayer.

We pray for the world,

that you would pass through our lands

and once again bring freedom and life for all your children.
Lord, in your mercy,
hear our prayer.

We pray for our brothers and sisters in this community,

and especially those who celebrate this week;

those celebrating birthdays ________.

and those celebrating anniversaries __________.
Lord, in your mercy,
hear our prayer.

We pray for the sick, the suffering, the fearful,

and all who live in the wake of terror, especially __________.
Lord, in your mercy,
hear our prayer.

We pray for the faithful departed,

that now wearing the armor of light

they may rest forever in your peace and presence.
Lord, in your mercy,
hear our prayer.

Lord Jesus, we give thanks for work,

and for the many works you have given us to do.

Hear our prayers on this day of rest,

and strengthen us for the week ahead.

We pray that you would be present

   with those who work by day,

   and those who work by night;

   those who work near,

   and those whose work carries them far away;

and we pray for those who in this uncertain time have no job.

We pray all of this knowing that your labors on our behalf never cease,

and that your yoke is easy, and your burden is light. Amen.

— written by Rick Morley, on his blog. 

For more prayers and litanies for Labour Day, click on Labour Day in the list of “Labels” at the lower right side of the page.