Sola Publishing – Prayers of the Church
Twentieth Sunday after Pentecost (Proper 23) – October 11, 2026
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(permission granted to active subscribers to reproduce this sheet for local congregational use)

Prayer of the Day
Historical Collect
O Lord, sustain your Church with your perpetual mercy. Without you, in our weakness we will surely fail. Therefore, keep us ever by your help from all things hurtful, and lead us to all things profitable to our salvation; through your Son, Jesus Christ, our Lord, who lives and reigns with you and the Holy Spirit, one God, now and forever. Amen. (Gelasian Sacramentary, 7th Century) 
Thematic Collect
Bountiful God, you set a table before us and nourish us with the bread of life, your Son, Jesus. Send us out with joyful thanksgiving to share this bread of life with others. Keep us in your grace until we feast at last at the banquet that is to come; through Jesus Christ, our Lord. Amen. 
Prayers of the Church
To Follow Our Shepherd
O Shepherding God, grant that we would hear your voice and follow you, trusting in your protection and leading in our lives. Give us the ability to discern your voice amidst all the other voices in the world that seek to lure us away from you and your flock. Lord in your mercy, hear our prayer.
For First Responders
God of life, we ask for your care and watchful eye on all those who are first responders. Give them the ability to think quickly and act adeptly as they rescue those in danger. Protect them from harm as they serve those in need. Lord in your mercy, hear our prayer.
For Bold Witness in the World
God our ever-present help, our rock and our salvation, deepen our faith in your promise of salvation. May your grace have free reign among us that we might be emboldened to witness to your saving grace in our homes, our communities, and to all nations.  Lord in your mercy,  hear our prayer.
For Healing and Comfort
God you are our shield and our strength. Be our protector in all the uncertainty and tragedy of life. Pour out your healing upon all who are sick or suffering [particularly …]. Keep us mindful that no evil can win the day for through the cross of your dear Son, Jesus, the kingdom is ours forever. Lord in your mercy, hear our prayer.