Sola Publishing – Prayers of the Church
Third Sunday of Advent – December 13, 2026
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Prayers of the Day
Historical Collect  
Lord Jesus Christ, give ear to our prayers, and lighten the darkness of our hearts by your gracious visitation; for you live and reign with the Father and the Holy Spirit, one God, now and forever. Amen. (Gregorian Sacramentary, 6th Century)
Thematic Collect  
Gracious God, the Alpha and Omega, our beginning and our end, may your Spirit kindle in us patience and strength and endurance in the face of suffering, love and mercy toward our neighbors that reflects your own. We pray in Jesus’ name, who lives and reigns with you and the Holy Spirit, one God, now and forever. Amen.
Prayers of the Church
For Advent 
God of light and life, by the power of your Spirit and the light of your Word, enable us to continue our Advent waiting in faithfulness as we prepare to receive the one who is the Light of the World. Lord in your mercy … hear our prayer.  
For Regeneration
Holy Lord, in these early days of winter the creation groans with change. Some places in your world will begin to experience snow and bitter cold. Fields will lay fallow, trees and plants will no longer blossom or bear fruit. In other places, more moderate weather allows for growth and food production. Bring to each region the moisture, sunshine, and time of regeneration that is needed. Allow your people to experience that same rest and regeneration so that we would have strength for each new day. Lord in your mercy … hear our prayer.  
For Bearing Witness to God’s Love 
Holy Spirit, giver of faith, empower us to bear witness to your light and life in the wilderness places of your world – in war-torn countries, dilapidated neighborhoods, poverty-stricken lives, and in the empty and searching hearts that we encounter daily. Fill with your love and hope, those who are struggling with addiction and despair. Help us to be bearers of your Good News to all who need to hear a word of love. Lord in your mercy … hear our prayer.
For Health and Healing 
God of strength, stir in us and make us aware of the needs of the whole human family. Help us to bring words of understanding, comfort, and hope to those who are unemployed, ill in body, mind, or spirit, or grieving. [We pray particularly for …] Keep us mindful that while most of us experience this as a time of joyful expectation, for many it is a difficult time of the year. Bring light to those who are in darkness so that the coming Christ would lift their hearts in joy. Lord in your mercy … hear our prayer.