Prayers for Good Shepherd Sunday

Prayers of the People – Good Shepherd Sunday (Patronal Festival)

Loving God, you are our Shepherd— you call us by name, you restore our souls.

We pray for the leaders of the nations, for those entrusted with power and responsibility.
Grant them wisdom, restraint, and a deep regard for human dignity.
We give thanks for the peacemakers in every nation and community —
those who have laboured and prayed for an end to violence, division and apathy.
Raise up in every place women and men of courage and compassion
who will work for peace with persistence and hope.
Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

As our nation has observed ANZAC Day,
so too we remember those who found rest on the ridges of Gallipoli;
those who lie in the cemeteries of the great wars;
and all who have died in the defence of peace, on land, in the air, and on the sea.
We remember each man, woman and child who has died
hoping the light of freedom, justice and humanity may shine.
Make us worthy stewards of the peace they longed for.
Lord in your mercy, hear our prayer.

We give you thanks for this parish,
and for the vocation of being your Church in this place.
For all who have worshipped, served, and belonged here across the years;
for those who have tended this flock with faith and love.
Renew in us the joy of our calling— to be a community that listens for your voice,
welcomes the stranger, and shares in your shepherding care.
Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

Good Shepherd, we pray for this local community.
For those who feel lost or alone, for the sick, the anxious, and the weary.
For those facing uncertainty, grief, or quiet despair.
We remember before you those known to us in need…
Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

We give thanks for those who have gone before us in faith,
those who have heard your voice and followed where you lead.
May we, with them, dwell in your house for ever.

(Brief silence)

As our saviour Christ has taught us, we are confident to pray…
Our Father in heaven.