Prayers of intercession

Lord, we pray for your peace
for those who are burdened with stress and anxiety.
Come into our turmoil,
and may your presence give strength and calmness.
May your peace, which passes all understanding,
keep our hearts and minds in Christ Jesus.

Lord, we pray for your peace
for those who suffer from the wounds of war, violence
and hatred.
May they/we know healing,
and be inspired by the hope of your kingdom.
May your peace, which passes all understanding,
keep our hearts and minds in Christ Jesus.

Lord, we pray for your peace
for all who bear ancient grudges or bitter hatreds,
held and nurtured over generations.
Wash away the memory of hurt and neglect,
that they/we may know unity and wholeness.
May your peace, which passes all understanding,
keep our hearts and minds in Christ Jesus.

Send your peace, Lord,
that we may think, act and speak harmoniously.
Take away our selfishness,
so that we can share the joys, and feel the sorrows,
of our neighbours.
May your peace, which passes all understanding,
keep our hearts and minds in Christ Jesus.
Amen.