Sola Publishing – Prayers of the Church
Fourth Sunday of Advent  – December 22, 2024
SOWeR Site - © Sola Publishing: www.solapublishing.com, 2018
(permission granted to active subscribers to reproduce this sheet for local congregational use)
Prayer of the Day
Historical Collect 
Stir up your power, O Lord, and come. With your great might, give us your help, that whatever is hindered by our sins may be speedily accomplished by your grace; for you live and reign with the Father and the Holy Spirit, one God, now and forever. Amen. (Gelasian Sacramentary, 7th Century)
Thematic Collect 
God of righteousness, stir up your Spirit among us that we may delight in your will and follow in faithful obedience and humility until that day when your Son returns; through Jesus Christ, our Savior and Lord; who lives and reigns with you and the Holy Spirit, one God now and forever. Amen.
Prayers of the Church

For Emmanuel
Loving Father, with the whole church on earth we cry, “O come, O come, Emmanuel!” Rescue us from the powers of sin and death, and bring us at the last, home to you in your glorious kingdom.  Lord in your mercy. Hear our prayer.
For Holy Guidance
Gracious Lord, fill our hearts with your peace which passes all understanding. Bring hope to the hopeless and rest to the weary. Guide our lives in visible ways, just as you guided shepherds and wise men to the infant Jesus. Lord in your mercy. Hear our prayer. 
For Healing
Everlasting God, you are the source of all goodness and mercy. Grant your grace and healing power to all who are in need - whether it be mind, body, or spirit. Bring wholeness and health to all those who eagerly await the coming of the Lord. We pray especially for [                                    ] Lord in your mercy. Hear our prayer.
For Safe Travels
Just as Joseph and Mary made the long journey to Bethlehem, grant traveling mercies to all those who are making their way to their loved ones. Protect them and keep them safe that they may be joyfully reunited. Lord in your mercy. Hear our prayer.