Prayers of the People for Epiphany Season

Celebrant:
Let us pray to God, who is made manifest in Jesus Christ, saying, Lord in your mercy, hear our prayer.

Leader:
As the prophet Isaiah rang out, “Arise, shine; for your light has come”; empower your Church, O God, to ring out the Good News of the Light of your son Jesus, which pierces even the deepest darkness. Lord, in your mercy,
Hear our prayer.

As a star rose high into the nighttime sky
to draw the nations to the Christ-child;
send your blessing, O God, on this nation, and every nation, and draw the whole world to your peace and truth. Lord, in your mercy,
Hear our prayer.

As John the Baptist guided throngs of people to the edge of the wilderness and baptized Jesus in the River Jordan, we pray that you would guide our country and our leaders to the ways of justice and righteousness. Lord, in your mercy,
Hear our prayer.

Like the Magi who traveled from afar
to bring gifts and celebrate the Savior’s birth; we pray for this community, that we may bear your light into the darkness, and testify to Christ’s love to all we encounter Lord, in your mercy,
Hear our prayer.

As Jesus climbed the mountaintop,
and proclaimed blessings on the people of the world; we pray for the sick and the distressed, the poor and the homeless. We especially pray for _____. Lord, in your mercy, 
Hear our prayer.

As Jesus called his disciples to leave their nets and boats, and follow him; we pray for those we love and who have answered your call to follow Jesus to your Heavenly Kingdom in the sure faith of the resurrection, especially _________. Give them your peace. Lord, in your mercy,
Hear our prayer.

Celebrant:
Lord Jesus, Light of the World,
hear our prayers, and make us reflections of your Light, that the places of darkness in our world would be pierced by your Light, and that all nations would be drawn to you and be overwhelmed with joy. Amen.

--adapted from a prayer by Rick Morley at A Garden Path.