And Still Another Prayer in Advent for The Church

This Advent, join me in praying for The Church and for the people who are the churches. These prayers come from the Book of Common Prayer: Daily Prayer, published by our Presbyterian Church (U.S.A.) sisters and brothers. It’s been on my shelf, recently re-discovered, and offers a wealth of riches. For example —

Almighty and every-living God,

ruler of all things in heaven and earth,

hear our prayers for this congregation.

Strengthen the faithful,

arouse the careless,

and restore the penitent.

Grant us all things necessary for our common life,

and bring us all to be of one heart and mind

within your holy church;

through Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen.