Prayers for use in church or home

These prayers and intercessions start at Advent 1 2026 and will be updated weekly as we go through 2026 (Liturgical Year A)

They are suitable for use in church worship on Sundays through the year, or your own private prayer.

Click here for previous years 2022/3 2023/4 2024/2025

Church Intercessions for Easter 2 on 26 Aprl 2026 by Mr Richard Ledger

Glory to you, O Lord! You have triumphed over the powers of darkness and brought us to share in the inheritance of your saints in light. Raise us up to newness of life, that we may live to serve you, risen Lord.

Good and loving Shepherd, lead us in our paths

Father, we give you thanks for the church family here at St Mark’s, for its teaching and its fellowship, for our worship together. We pray that we may always come before you with reverence and awe. We give you thanks for faithful stewardship, for all who care and share; all who lead and serve you here. Give us glad and generous hearts to welcome all who come and to show your love in our lives.

Good and loving Shepherd, lead us in our paths

Loving God, we pray for our fractured and dangerous world that in love you sent Jesus to redeem. We pray for all leaders that there may be an end to brinkmanship, posturing and violence, that all may with sincerity seek peace and justice. We long for a world of love and understanding where peoples live together peacefully, respect one another and care for one another. We long for your kingdom where love reigns.

Good and loving Shepherd, lead us in our paths

Loving God, we pray for those who govern and serve us, locally and nationally, those grappling with major problems that affect us all. May they seek justice and do what is right, serving with energy and integrity for the good of all.

Good and loving Shepherd, lead us in our paths

Loving God, we bring to you today our families and friends, all those who by their kindness and concern enrich our lives and strengthen the life of our community. We remember especially those who are anxious and stressed for themselves or others – those who are depressed, struggling with money matters, those who are ill, facing the uncertainty of long term conditions. We continue to pray for those on our Chapel prayer board, for Brian and Harvinder. May they, and we, know the peace and comfort of your love in our lives.

Finally, loving God, we thank you for all the Saints in glory, in the light and joy of your eternal kingdom. We thank you for memories of loved ones who we miss. Today we remember with sympathy Libby and her family, Lisa & Gary and Jake & Kyle.

Jesus Christ is the light of the world, a light which no darkness can quench. We remember before God those who have died and we light a candle to symbolise the light of Christ which eternally shines and brings hope. You turn our darkness into light, in your light we shall see light.

Merciful Father, accept these prayers for the sake of your Son, our Saviour Jesus Christ. Amen

Praying Together with Mike and Janet Warren for Easter 4 (26 April 2026)

With much of our news using the language of conflict and disagreement his thoughts help us to consider the God-like armour that we are given in daily life as we use this prayer that he has given us.

Lord, as I fasten the belt of truth round my waist,

may every word I speak today be truthful.

As I strap on the breastplate of righteousness, may integrity

and uprightness protect me, because my hope is in you.

As I put on the shoes of the gospel of peace,

lead my steps to where I need to be a peacemaker.

As I pick up the shield of faith, may I act today out of faith not fear.

As I put on the helmet of salvation guard my mind

that I may know myself saved through Christ forever.

And as I pick up the sword of the Spirit, may I use Scripture

wisely to point people back to Christ. Amen

Praying Together with Mike and Janet Warren for Easter 3 (19 April 2026)

During this week the church will celebrate St Georges Day. Admired for his bravery, St George, the patron saint of England has captivated British imaginations since the Crusades and the Hundred Years War. We pray:

For our country where we see economic hardship, divisions in society, anger and poverty, we also see huge wealth and influence. We pray that the love of Christ will flow in our country to renew communities and bring hope to the hopeless.
For our Government, M.P’s, the Civil Service and all those who hold public office. We pray for wisdom, courage, integrity and commitment to be the mark of those in authority that all may prosper, find shelter and be cared for.
For the Church of England, for King Charles as its head, for Archbishop Sarah, Bishops Richard, Jane and Bishop Elect Andrew; for all priests, deacons, readers and lay workers that they may be encouraged and inspired in their ministries at a time of division and difficulties in the Church.
For all church communities whose patron saint is St George. We join them in their celebrations and pray for continued blessing on their ministry and faith.

Church Intercessions on Low Sunday 12 April 2026 by Lynne Seymour

Father - we pray for our Church here at St Marks, for our leaders, Charlie, Sam & Alan may we always be a warm and welcoming place to seek comfort, to reflect and to restore. Lord in your mercy – Hear our prayer
Father - we pray for our world, we pray for peace, reconciliation and harmony. For the leaders with whom we entrust, to make meaningful decisions that affects the future of so many. Lord in your mercy – Hear our prayer
Father – We pray for our community, for our Church community, friends and family. For those facing difficult decisions, for those facing major hurdles, those who feel they are alone, unloved, unemployed and lost, or in any kind of need we pray they will know your love and presence.
Lord in your mercy – Hear our prayer
Father we pray for those in need. For the frightened, sick, lonely, homeless, marginalised and bereaved. We especially pray for those within our Church community, and those known personally to us. Lord in your mercy – Hear our prayer

Jesus Christ is the light of the world which no darkness can quench, we remember fore God those who have died and we light a candle to symbolise the light of Christ which eternally shines and brings hope. We remember …… (and those mentioned on our prayer board)

You turn our darkness into light, in your light we shall see light. Merciful Father, accept these prayers for the sake of your Son, our Saviour Jesus Christ. Amen

Praying together with Mike and Janet Warren for Low Sunday (12 April)

This week, as we watch with interest the Artemis 2 mission, we think about the role that scientists and explorers play in bringing knowledge and advancement to our society. We pray

With thanks for all those who have brought us technologies that have helped to improve the daily lives of so many people, from the industrial Revolution to the present day.
For scientists in all walks of life, in medical research, technology, environmental study and climate change; for encouragement in their work, an appreciation for their efforts to improve society and a willingness to accept mistakes that inevitably will occur.
For those working in Computer Sciences, as they push the boundaries of our understanding of how computing can improve society; for caution in the use of Artificial Intelligence as we take time to consider its impact on jobs, individuals and young people.
For those left behind in a technological world, those unable to afford devises, those unable to understand, those with disabilities and those for whom technology places a strain on their mental health.
For wisdom in all of us as we consider how new science will help us; help us to be discerning and never to forget that there are some people in our society for whom technology seems to offer no solution to the difficulties in their lives.

Praying together with Mike and Janet Warren for Easter Sunday (5 April 2026)

We rejoice at the news that He is Risen, Alleluia! We celebrate with our brothers and sisters around the world and proclaim the risen Christ. We pray for:

The leaders of the world-wide church – Archbishop Sarah, Pope Leo and Bartholomew the Ecumenical Patriarch
The Easter message to be heard in those places that try to silence it
Those who cannot profess their faith openly through fear of persecution or death
Those without faith that they may hear and believe the Good News of the Risen Christ
The true meaning of Easter to overcome the noise of commercialism and greed
The hope and joy of Easter to flow into the troubled, war-torn, hungry and oppressed people of God’s world
Our eyes to be open when Christ shows himself to us in unexpected places and at unexpected times
Our faith to radiate the love of Christ in our lives, homes and community and for courage to proclaim the Good News of Easter with confidence, assurance and joy

Church Intercessions from Richard Ledger for Palm Sunday (29 March 2026)

Loving God, as your son Jesus entered Jerusalem, let him enter our lives, let the King of glory come in, that he may rule in our hearts, and that we may offer our love and lives to him; as he offered his life for us. Lord of life R. Give us your peace.

Loving God, we bring our world to you today – leaders and countries laying waste to large areas, with often extreme violence – bombs, missiles and drones. We pray for all leaders that they may really begin to do justly, love kindness and walk humbly with you. That, the prophet said, is what you desire but we often think, to coin a phrase, you cannot be serious. Yet, amazingly, you are, for you sent Jesus as Prince of Peace to live out your way among us. Lord of life R. Give us your peace.

Loving God, today we remember that your son rode into Jerusalem on a donkey with no warhorse or weapons in the procession. When you show us a new kind of King and kingdom, of justice and peace. So let us do as you show us, as we pray for your kingdom to come and your will to be done on earth, even though at the present time it seems a million miles away. But, loving God, we know we can trust you for you raised Jesus from the dead so that the kingdom, the power and the glory are yours now and forever. Lord of life R. Give us your peace.

Loving God we ask that we and all Christians may embody your values as we allow your Holy Spirit to grow the fruits of patience, kindness, love, joy, peace and gentleness in our lives that as individuals, a community of your people here at St Mark’s and as Christians all over the world we may all learn to love and reveal your glory to the world. Lord of life R. Give us your peace.

Loving God, the crowds on that first Palm Sunday were responding to the healing love thy had seen in what Jesus did. In our love and imaginations now, we bring to you all those we would have brought to Jesus for healing and help. We pray for Cathy and Gordon on the Chapel prayer list and for family and friends facing diagnoses, uncertainty or recovery. We ask you to be to them all that they most deeply need, comfort and reassurance and wholeness and hope. May they and we know ourselves to be secure in your keeping as your goodness and love follows us all the days of our life. Lord of life R. Give us your peace.

Finally, loving God, we commend to your eternal love all who have died and who are now with you in the peace and joy of your presence, where there is no more pain or sorrow and every tear is wiped away. Today we remember .......

Merciful Father, accept these prayers for the sake of your Son, our Saviour Jesus Christ. Amen

Praying together with Mike and Janet Warren for Palm Sunday (29 March 2026)

As we enter Holy Week and reflect on how events will unfold, we use the words of Malcolm Guite’s Sonnet for Palm Sunday as our prayer.

Now to the gate of my Jerusalem,

The seething holy city of my heart,

The saviour comes. But will I welcome him?

Oh, crowds of easy feelings make a start;

They raise their hands, get caught up in the singing,

And think the battle won. Too soon they’ll find

The challenge, the reversal he is bringing

Changes their tune. I know what lies behind

The surface flourish that so quickly fades;

Self-interest, and fearful guardedness,

Praying together with Mike and Janet Warren for the Fifth Sunday of Lent (22 March 2026)

This week we find ourselves with one overwhelming prayer to our God which is for PEACE. We pray:

Lord we are angry; we are angry about the injustice of war, the thousands of lives needlessly lost and the pain, hurt and suffering of so many. Take our anger and turn it to action for peace that all your children may be safe from harm, loved and respected.
Lord we are sad; we are sad for the innocent, the wounded, the dying and for those who mourn. Take our sadness and give us hearts of compassion, hands that heal in Your name and voices that speak out with confidence for peace in your world.
Lord we are tired; tired of the absence of truth, the lack of respect for humanity, the hectoring of warring Leaders and the glorification of war. Give us strength, courage and resilience to speak up for truth, the suffering, and for the love of humankind.
Lord we are tempted to be angry, sad and tired when you need us to be strong and faithful, having trust in you to bring peace, joy and harmony to your world. We pray for peace to reign. Amen.

Praying together with Mike and Janet Warren for the fourth Sunday of Lent (15 March 2026)

On this Mothering Sunday, we reflect on Motherhood and mothers throughout the world. We pray:

With thanks for our own mothers in their love for us, the sacrifices they made and their hard work.
For mothers who are refugees fleeing war and oppression with their children; for those whose children have been left behind, may they know God’s strength
For women expecting a child and for those beginning their journey as mothers with new-born infants; for confidence and courage
For those women who long to be mothers but, for many reasons, are unable to have children; for consolation, peace of mind and support
For mothers - whose children have died or are missing from home; may they feel the comfort of God’s loving presence.
For organisations and charities who work to help mothers in crisis.
For the work of adoption agencies and local authorities making difficult decisions about the welfare of mothers and children.
For those whose mothers have died; may they be comforted and may their loved one’s rest in peace.

Praying together with Mike and Janet Warren for the Third Sunday of Lent (8 March 2026)

Today is the 115^th year of International Women’s Day (IWD). IWD is a global day celebrating the social, economic, cultural and political achievements of women. We pray:

With thanks for all those who have championed the place of women in society; for campaigners for Women’s Suffrage, the Nobel Prize winners, environmental campaigners, peacemakers and democratic political leaders. We give thanks for their steadfastness in the face of ridicule, prejudice and imprisonment.
For those women who, today, are still marginalised, oppressed and suffer inequality in their societies. We pray that Christ’s light will shine on them to highlight their worth and contribution.
For those women whose lives are marked by coercion, control and abuse in their own homes. We pray that their cries will be heard and that they may be given freedom from their domestic imprisonment.
For a change in heart of social media companies where women are allowed to be objectified or belittled. We pray for our young people exposed to harmful images and content of women, that they may be able to discern truth from an artificial reality.
For women across the world that Internation Women’s Day will help to mark a time of change where it is needed and support all women in their roles in society.

Church Intercessions from Gerrie Sunday 1 March 2026

In the sure knowledge that God cherishes us, let us pray to him now, whether we are together in church or online, you are always with us.

Heavenly Father, Jesus withdrew from his friends and followers to spend time with you, help us to take time away from life’s busyness to refocus our hearts and spirits as we wait for you. Help us to deepen our knowledge and faith in you.

Lord in your mercy, hear our prayer.

We pray for our church here in Brickhill, our church leaders - Charlie Sam and Alan, for Bishop Richard and also for the newly appointed Archbishop of Canterbury, Dame Sarah Mullally as they all lead us and support us at this time of Lent. We thank God that we are able to worship you but remember also that there are many who worship in secret, who are afraid of persecution because of their faith.

Lord in your mercy, hear our prayer.

We pray for the world that there may be integrity in leadership, mercy and justice for rich and poor, strong and weak; that there may be peace

among nations and respect for all. This is even more important at this time as we have just passed the 4th anniversary of the war in Ukraine, families are displaced and missing their loved one’s that are still in Ukraine or in other countries. We add our heartfelt prayers to those of the Ukrainian churches here and abroad that the negotiations will continue and bring an end to this war.Families will be reunited and communities rebuilt. We also pray for the situation in Gaza, there are some small steps forward but still much suffering so we pray for all those people involved

in negotiations to make a better future in this region. Now we add another conflict that will cause more pain and hardship for ordinary people in Iran. We pray that the international community will bring wisdom, trust, fairness and understanding of all sides. We earnestly pray that those who are trying hard to negotiate will be able to come up with a lasting, sustainable peace.

Lord in your mercy, hear our prayer.

In our prayers today, we pray for those waiting for an operation, those being cared for at home and those being treated for cancer. We pray for

Janet, Brian and Dave. Let them all feel the warmth of your Holy Spirit wrapped around them,enveloping them with your love and giving all their families that strength that they need at this time. We give thanks to the carers, nurses and all the agencies that care for people in their own homes.

In your mercy, hear our prayer.

We pray for those who have lost loved ones recently and also those remembering an anniversary of a bereavement. We will have a moments silence to remember those loved ones. …………….

We remember before God those who have died and light a candle to symbolism the light of Christ which eternally shines and brings hope. You turn our darkness into light and in your light shall we see light. Today we remember the family of Neil ….. May the souls of the faithful departed, through the mercy of God, rest in peace and rise in glory.

Lord, we come to thank you for who you are and what you have done; that in Christ, you lift us when we are down, you heal us when we are

hurting, you hold us when we are broken and you strengthen us when we are weak. We thank you for your love which will never be defeated

and your purpose which will never end. Merciful father accept these prayers for the sake of your Son, our Saviour, Jesus Christ. Amen

Praying together with Mike and Janet Warren for the Second Sunday of Lent (1 March 2026)

The appalling tragedy of the war in Ukraine has passed a solemn 4-year anniversary; tensions between America and Iran are heightened; the ceasefire in Gaza is fragile: the world is suffering economic crises with people thrust into poverty and desperation. We pray

for Hope in the face of what seems hopeless. We pray:

For the people of Ukraine and Russia, their leaders and governments, and for European leaders working to find a peaceful and fair solution to this conflict.
For the people of Gaza and Israel, that their leaders and governments may work towards a true and just peace for the good of all.
For those across the world in poverty and facing mounting debt; for a light to guide them through the anxiety.
For those who are marginalised or abused, that the abuse and discrimination may cease and that love may replace the hurt and pain.
For all those who are oppressed or under-valued in their work, for social justice and equity in the sharing of the world’s resources
For ourselves that we may be confident in our faith and that we may indeed have the hope in our God that all will be well

Praying together with Mike and Janet Warren for the First Sunday of Lent (22 February 2026)

Last week we heard of the death of Reverend Jesse Jackson, a renowned campaigner for civil rights and a fierce critic of racial prejudice. We reflect on those who are marginalised and oppressed in our world today. We pray:

With thanks for the example and courage of Jesse Jackson with his message of hope for the racially oppressed and a strong belief in the equality of all people.
For those in the world who are still the subject of division and hatred because of race or culture; for the Rohingya people of Myanmar, the Uyghurs people of China and all those communities living in fear.
For political prisoners whose voices are silenced and are isolated from the world. We pray for their release, for comfort in their incarceration, for courage and for all those who speak out against injustice, risking their lives and freedom.
For light to shine in the dark places of our societies and that Jesse Jackson’s words of hope may flourish in our divided world today.
For the part we play in bringing Christ’s message of love for all people to those who would promote separation and persecution; May we be courageous and steadfast in our faith.

Praying together with Mike and Janet Warren for the Sunday Next Before Lent (15 February)

On Wednesday we begin our Lenten journey when we are encouraged to prepare ourselves for the 40 days to come by prayer and reflection. So, we pray:

For the worldwide church, that it may renew and reinvigorate its mission in the world during this time of Lent; for unity in a divided and hurting world; for its leaders and church communities that they may hear and act upon God’s word to them.
For the world, that there may be peace and healing of its people and nations; for Global Leaders that their decisions may be thoughtful, well-intentioned and have integrity in a divided world: we pray for the work of the United Nations.
For our community, that differences may be reconciled and past hurts forgotten, that helping hands may be outstretched to those in need.
For the sick and those who call out for rest and relief, that they may be heard, comforted and healed; for those caring for a loved one that they may be strengthened and supported.
For each of us on our Lenten Pilgrimage that we may put aside the temptations of our busy world and find time to be still and listen for God’s call.

Church Intercessions led by Janet Warren Second Sunday before Lent (8 February 2026)

Intercessions for Second Sunday before Lent Year A – February 8th 2026

Holy God, sometimes our lives are so full of worries that we forget how you look after us through every aspect of our lives. When our worries begin to spiral out of control, help us turn them into a conversation with you, confident that you will calm our anxiety and give us hope for the future. Lord, in your Mercy: Hear our Prayer
Gracious God, we pray for your church here at St Marks and all the churches in our local community, for their priests and for their congregations. We pray for the Leaders of your church – for Pope Leo and for Archbishop Sarah Mullally. We remember the General Synod, which meet this coming week in London and for all those who work so hard to make important and sometimes difficult decisions regarding the everyday running of the Church of England. Lord, in your Mercy: Hear our Prayer
Creator God, thank you for our world and the places where we live. We pray for those countries where war, oppression, hunger, disease and natural disasters take their toll. Help us all to be mindful that we are all created equal in your sight and accept our deep regret that despite this there is still so much inequality to be found. Help us to remember that you want us to be good stewards of your creation, living responsibly in the lands and seas of the earth. May all future growth be sustainable and may we ensure that its abundance is fairly shared for the good of all. Lord, in your Mercy: Hear our Prayer
Father God, we thank you for the joy of human love, and for all those among whom we live and work. We pray for our family and particularly for loved ones who worry us with their health, or circumstances, or life direction. We pray for those among our friends and families who do not know you, or whose faith has been shaken. Lord, in your Mercy: Hear our Prayer
Loving God, we pray for all who bear the burdens of pain, bereavement, worry and depression. We pray for those whose illness stems from anxiety. We pray that they may have an awareness of your presence and an understanding that you are bearing those burdens with them and always working towards their healing and wholeness. We pray for those from our church, for those we know personally, ……….. And for those known only to you. Lord, in your Mercy: Hear our Prayer
Merciful God, through your love and mercy you turn the darkness of death into the dawn of new life. Comfort those who grieve in their sorrow and those who are worried about how they will cope on their own and reassure them that you will never leave them to carry the burdens of life unaided. We pray for the souls of ……….. We light a candle to symbolise the light of Christ which eternally shines and brings hope and may the souls of the faithful departed rest in peace and rise in glory. Lord, in your Mercy: Hear our Prayer
Everlasting God, we ask you to lead us into the coming week, help us to believe that you are close by us, keep us from making mistakes and help us never to disappoint you through our words and actions. Merciful father – accept these prayers for the sake of your Son, our Saviour Jesus Christ. Amen

Praying together with Mike and Janet Warren for the Second Sunday before Lent (8 February 2026)

The Church’s now moves us from a time of celebration to one of contemplation and reflection. To help us in our prayers this week we consider our hands as an image.

We pray:

The thumb used to mark us with the sign of the cross at the time of our baptism. We pray Lord God that we may continue to be faithful Christians whose mark stands out to those that we meet and that they will recognise you in all that we do.
The forefinger used to point the way on our Christian journey. We pray, Lord God that you will point our way along the straight and narrow road. Steer us back when we stray and encourage us when the road is hard, and may we be seen as pointers of your love and care through our actions.
The middle finger standing tall. We pray Lord God that we will stand tall and firm against injustice, violence, inequity, prejudice and hurt. May our presence in people’s lives be a sign of our faith, our hope and our care for all people.
The ring finger traditionally used as a sign of commitment and love. We pray Lord God that our commitment will be constant in following you and that we will demonstrate faith and love in our words, our actions and our thoughts.
The little finger the smallest part of our hand and yet essential to the whole working. We pray Lord God that when we feel small or inadequate, you will help us to know that we are part of the greater communion of Saints and the worldwide Church.

Praying together with Mike and Janet Warren for Epihpany 4 (1 February 2026)

This week the church celebrates the Presentation of Christ when Simeon and Anna saw and recognised the Christ-child. We pray:

That Christ may be seen in our violent world; that there may be peace in countries at war, gentleness where violence is an everyday reality and light in the dark and dangerous corners of our world
That Christ may be seen in those who are poor, starving, addicted and abused; that they may be lifted up, fed, loved and nurtured through the hands of Christ that are stretched out to help them
That Christ may be seen in the sick, suffering, mentally unwell and injured; that the healing hands of Christ may rest upon them to bring them rest, comfort, strength and peace of mind
That Christ may be seen in the homeless, the refugee, the traveller and the neglected; that the heads that look away may turn back and recognise Christ in them
That Christ may be seen in our churches and places of worship; that all may find a place of love, fellowship, hope and joy through the light of Christ that shines in there.

Praying together with Mike and Janet Warren for Epiphany 3 (25 January 2026)

As we continue our journey through the season of Epiphany, we have chosen the following poem by Malcolm Guite to help us in our prayers.

The Call of the Disciples

He calls us all to step aboard his ship,

Take the adventure on this morning’s wing,

Raise sail with him, launch out into the deep,

Whatever storms or floods are threatening.

If faith gives way to doubt, or love to fear,

Then, as on Galilee, we’ll rouse the Lord,

For he is always with us and will hear

And make our peace with his creative Word,

Who made us, loved us, formed us and has set

All his beloved lovers in an ark;

Borne upwards by his Spirit, we will float

Above the rising waves, the falling dark,

As fellow pilgrims, driven towards that haven,

Where all will be redeemed, fulfilled, forgiven.

Praying together with Mike and Janet Warren for Epiphany 2 (18 January 2026)

This week is the week of prayer for Christian unity. As we continue through the season of Epiphany, we give thought to the worldwide church. We pray:

With thanks for the birth of our Lord Jesus Christ, the joy of Mary & Joseph, the worship of the shepherds and the gifts of the Magi as they all see the glory of God brought into our world
That all Christians may recognise and accept the glorious diversity of worship and spirituality that exist in God’s church family; for joy to be the hallmark of all Christians as we worship our one God
For our brothers and sisters in the Roman Catholic, Baptist, Methodist and United Reformed churches; for us all to work and worship in harmony to serve those in need and those who are looking for God
For all Christian Leaders that they will continue to bring us all together in unity and that they will know the inspiration of the Holy Spirit in their ministries
For the worldwide Church continuing to reach out in so many different ways to its community, particularly at this time where many are surrounded by war and conflict; for the Orthodox Church in Ukraine and the Christian Church in the Holy Land; for the persecuted churches worshipping in secret
For the churches in Bedford, their ministers and church families and for ourselves that we may work and pray for the unity of God’s church

Praying together with Mike and Janet Warren for Epihany 1 (11 January 2026)

Today we remember the Baptism of Christ and reflect on our own baptism and those who have influenced us on our Christian journey. We pray:

With thanks for those priests, Sunday School teachers, Youth workers and Christian families who have taught us, supported us and who brought us to Baptism and encouraged us in our faith.
For those churches and their church families that have played a part in our lives through the years; for their church communities today and their continued ministry of faith.
For our own church of St Mark’s as it continues to preach the Gospel and encourage us all in a life of faith; for our Ministers and the church family as we work to be an example of inclusivity in welcoming all people to a life of faith.
For families that are preparing for the Baptism of a child; we pray for family and church support, and for guidance as they make this commitment; for all adults who are preparing for Baptism, for support from their sponsors and church family.
That we may renew our own Baptismal Vows and recommit ourselves to following Jesus in our daily lives.

Praying together with Mike and Janet Warren for Epiphany 2026

In this season of Epiphany, we think about the journey, gifts and worship of the Magi. We pray:

The Magi took the decision to make a long and difficult journey; we pray for those for whom life presents difficult decisions and personal challenges; for those in fear of oppressive regimes and faced with leaving homes and families; for those who are in abusive relationships leaving home to look for a safe haven; for all those who travel to new countries in search of a new home
The Magi brought gifts for the Christ child; we pray for those longing for the gifts of friendship, healing, laughter and love; for those who feel they have nothing to offer praying that their gifts will be revealed; for the gifts we all have that they may shine forth and show God in us
The Magi worshipped the Christ Child; we pray for those who worship in private, in silence and in fear; for those persecuted for their faith and for those who have lost faith; we pray for religious tolerance and for all to feel free to worship
The Magi give us an example of faith; we pray that we may have courage in the face of difficulty, that we may listen for the voice of God, appreciate and give our gifts freely and worship with love, joy and hope as we look on the Christ Child. Merciful Father.......

Praying together with Mike and Janet Warren for Christmas 1 (28 December 2025)

As the New Year approaches, we offer the following prayer by Vinita Hampton Wright for our reflection this week. We pray:

Entering the New Year

God of all time,
help us enter the New Year quietly,
thoughtful of who we are to ourselves and to others,
mindful that our steps make an impact
and our words carry power.

May we walk gently.
May we speak only after we have listened well.

Creator of all life,
help us enter the New Year reverently,
aware that you have endowed
every creature and plant, every person and habitat
with beauty and purpose.

May we regard the world with tenderness.
May we honour rather than destroy.

Lover of all souls,
help us enter the New Year joyfully,
willing to laugh and dance and dream,
remembering our many gifts with thanks
and looking forward to blessings yet to come.

May we welcome your lavish love.
May we cast off the small, vindictive god our fears have made.
May the grace and peace of Christ bless us now and in the days ahead.

Church Intercessions, prayers for Christmas Day 2025 by Ian Farthing

Loving God, On this joyful Christmas Day we praise You for the gift of Your Son, born in humility, wrapped in love, and given for the world. As we gather to worship, fill our hearts with wonder and gratitude. Help us to welcome Christ anew and to live as people of His light. We confess that we do not always live as people of hope and peace. We become distracted by being busy and forget the true gift of Christmas. Forgive us, renew us, and turn our hearts back to You. May the grace born in Bethlehem restore us and lead us in love.

God of light and love, we pray for Your Church throughout the world, that it may celebrate and proclaim the good news of Christ with joy and faithfulness. may the Holy Spirit guide us, and grant that we may pursue truth, unity, peace and righteousness. We pray for peace on earth, for all places in the world where there is conflict and fear, for all those who long for stillness, justice and hope in their lives. May those in authority rule in peace, with fairness, and with mercy, that people may work together, honour one another and seek to achieve the common good.

We pray for families and communities, Lord God bless our families, those gathered together in joy and for those who carry upset and sorrow. Fill our homes with peace, patience, and understanding. Teach us to love deeply, forgive quickly, and serve one another with glad heart and may your presence among us bring us comfort and joy. We pray for the poor, the sick, and the vulnerable, remembering that Christ came among us in humility. Teach us to serve as he served. Give courage and hope to all those in need and bring them the joy of your salvation. We remember now anyone known to us who is in special need of our prayers, today and we pray for all those loved ones named on the Chapel Prayer Board.

At this holy season, when lights shine brightly and songs of joy fill the air, we remember those who mourn, whose hearts feel heavy at the loss of a loved one. Lord, you came into the world not in comfort, but in humility and tenderness. Draw near now to all who grieve. Wrap them in your peace when the days feel long, and in your presence when the night feels lonely. Grant them comfort that goes deeper than words, hope that gently breaks through sorrow, and the assurance that they are not alone.

Jesus Christ is the light of the world, a light which no darkness can quench. We remember before God those who have died and light a candle to symbolise the light of Christ, which eternally shines and brings hope. You turn our darkness into light: in your light shall we see light.

Loving God, as we leave this church today, we thank You for the gift of Your Son and for the joy, hope, and peace of this day.

May the light of Christ go with us— into our homes, our conversations, and our lives. Help us carry Your love to everyone we meet, especially those who need comfort, kindness, or hope. Keep us grateful, humble, and joyful, today and always. Merciful Father......

Church Intercessions, Church Prayers for the Fourth Sunday in Advent, 21 December 2025 by Ian Farthing

Everlasting God we come together today on the last Sunday of our Advent journey towards Christmas and as we await the coming of Christ in love, we pray for the Church, that it may bear Christ to the world with humility and courage, like Mary and Joseph on their long journey to enrol in the Roman census. We pray for all those who, like them, are making long, dangerous and difficult journeys often by foot, especially those fleeing from war and terror. For those trying to escape hardship, drought, famine or persecution. For those embarking on perilous journeys in hope of a safe life, be close to them and to all those who feel afraid, tired, or alone. Grant them strength for the journey, comfort in uncertainty, and hope when the road feels long. Protect them from harm and surround them with kindness, justice, and compassion. May we remember that every person is created in Your image and deserving of safety, respect, and belonging. We place all who seek refuge into Your loving hands, trusting in your peace that surpasses all understanding Lord in your mercy
Lord God we come before You with humble hearts, seeking Your peace in a troubled world. You are the God of justice, mercy, and love, and we ask that Your presence be felt among all nations. we pray for peace where there is conflict, hope where there is despair and healing where there is pain. Soften hearts hardened by anger, and guide all people toward understanding and compassion. In these uncertain and troubled times we lift up the leaders of the world to You. Grant them wisdom beyond their own, courage to choose what is right, and humility to serve the people entrusted to them. May their decisions be guided not by power or fear, but by justice, truth, and the common good. Teach us, as Your people, to be instruments of Your peace— to love our neighbours, to stand for what is right, may our homes be places of welcome, forgiveness and joy as Christs coming draws near, and to reflect Your light in our words and actions. Lord in your mercy
Loving God, as we wait in hope for the coming of Christ, we lift before you all who are ill in body, mind, or spirit. Bring them your healing presence, your peace in times of pain, and your strength when they feel weak or afraid. May they know they are not alone, but held in your loving care. Bless doctors, nurses, carers, and all who support them. Give patience to those who wait, comfort to those who suffer, and hope to all who long for restoration. As we prepare our hearts for the light of Christ, may that light shine gently upon all who are sick, bringing comfort now and fullness of life to come. Lord in your mercy Merciful God we commend to your love, those who have died, loved ones that we miss at this special time of year and those memories we treasure, we pray especially today for all those named in the cards on our chapel Prayer Board. Lord, in your mercy
Draw near to those whose hearts are heavy with loss, and surround them with Your comfort and peace. Jesus Christ is the light of the .world a light which no darkness can quench we remember before God those who have died and light a candle to symbolise the light of Christ which eternally shines and brings hope, you turn our darkness into light in your light shall we see light. Lord, in your mercy
Gracious God, who chose Mary to be the mother of the promised saviour: fill us with your grace, that like Mary we might rejoice in your salvation; send us out to finish our Advent journey filled with love and joy and peace ready to receive that promise afresh into our lives. Merciful Father

Praying together with Mike and Janet Warren for Advent 4 (21 December 2025)

In this final week of Advent, we bring all the themes together by holding out to our loving Lord His struggling world and its people as we all await the birth of Christ. We pray:

Come, Lord Jesus, bringer of peace to a world fractured by war, violence, hatred and prejudice. Bring peace to the people of Ukraine, Russia, the Palestinian Territories, Somalia and Sudan; be with all those caught up in the horrors of war and terrorism; may your message of peace ring through the noise and clamour of conflict.
Come, Lord Jesus, bringer of comfort to those whose lives have been turned upside down by natural disasters, hunger, poverty and disease. Wrap Your arms of comfort around them and walk beside them in their need.
Come, Lord Jesus, bringer of wise counsel to the leaders and Governments of the world. Be with all who lead and bring in them a spirit of truth, cooperation, compromise, moderation and a willingness to listen.
Come, Lord Jesus, bringer of hope to all those for whom life is getting harder and the burdens of daily life heavier; bring hope to those struggling with bills, providing food for themselves and their loved ones, keeping warm and safe, and trying to see a light shining in their darkness.
Come, Lord Jesus, bringer of love and healing to all who are unwell, lonely, bereaved, sad and nearing the end of their lives. Bring love to families, guardians, foster carers and bring healing and protection to those who are vulnerable in society; may your love shine as a light to all those in need.
Come, Lord Jesus, bringer of joy to your world as we prepare for Christmas. Bring joy to broken hearts, those in dark despair, those seeking you and those who simply feel worn out by the pressures of the world. May your joy be reflected in us, in our homes and in our lives as we rejoice with the Saints and Angels that Christ is born!

Praying together with Mike and Janet Warren for Advent 3 (14 December 2025)

During Advent we will often sing the well-known hymn ‘O Come, O Come Emmanuel’. Using this as our prayer we pray:

O Come Emmanuel to bring justice and equity to the people of your world; to those in poverty, hungry, stateless and forgotten.
O Come Emmanuel to bring healing to the people of your world; to those who suffer, in pain, alone, anxious and in fear.
O Come Emmanuel to bring love and joy to the people of your world; to the lonely, unloved, bereaved, homeless, and neglected.
O Come Emmanuel to bring Peace to the people of your world; to the war-torn, racially divided, marginalised and oppressed.
O Come Emmanuel to restore the beauty of Your creation; make us instruments of peace, love, joy and hope.

Praying together with Mike and Janet Warren for Advent 2 (7 December 2025)

As we continue through Advent we reflect this week on the Prophets and those today who tell out the news of Christ and warn us of the impacts of our behaviour on humankind. We pray:

Come, Lord Jesus, to your Church; strengthen and encourage all those who preach and teach that Your Word may be heard and understood. We pray for our own Ministers and our Church Family at St Mark’s that we may respond to Your call.
Come, Lord Jesus, to those who teach young people; guide all teachers of Religious Education that they may inspire and encourage those they teach to hear the Gospel and have the courage to follow a life of faith. We pray for the young people in our church, pre-school and our local schools.
Come, Lord Jesus, to all those whose ministry is to write or provide Christian material; enlighten their writings that they may communicate the Gospel of Christ with faith, truth and clarity. We pray for the work of the Scripture Union, SPCK, the Gideon Society and organisations supplying religious books and bibles.
Come, Lord Jesus, to those whose work is to protect and restore your created world; Help us to hear their call for change and be willing to respond in ways that we can.

Praying together with Mike and Janet Warren for Advent 1 (30 November)

We pray this first week of Advent, to our God of time and space, in whose love we exist and by whose love we are saved.

As we prepare ourselves for the time when Christ will come again in glory, we pray for the grace and honesty to see what needs transforming in our lives as individuals and as members of the church of God: We pray for your Holy Spirit to inspire and guide Your church.
May the leaders of this nation and of all the nations be drawn increasingly to understand God’s ways of justice and righteousness, and that those who are suffering may know that you are in their midst.
May all the families on earth be blessed with mutual love and caring consideration one for another. May arguments and misunderstandings be properly resolved, difficult relationships healed and that those who face this time of preparation with deep apprehension find peace.
We pray for those for whom the days and nights creep by in pain or sadness, may they be given hope and comfort. May the frightened find reassurance and the anxious peace of mind. We remember those we know and for those known only to you.
We pray for those who have reached the point of death that they may be given the knowledge of God’s closeness on that last journey and for those who have died, that they may know the eternal peace and joy of heaven.

St Mark's Church Community Centre, Bedford

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