Wednesday of Holy Week
In our cycle of prayer, we continue to pray for all who work in our National Health Service. We pray for them and their families.
We also pray for those who care for others in our community. We give thanks for their example of caring for others.
A prayer for all those affected by Coronavirus:
Keep us, good Lord,
under the shadow of your mercy.
Sustain and support the anxious,
be with those who care for the sick,
and lift up all who are brought low;
that we may find comfort
knowing that nothing can separate us from your love
in Christ Jesus our Lord.
Amen.
Fr Mark continues to pray for those on our sick list and those who have died. (Please refer to the Weekly Prayer list for the names.)
We continue to pray for Glyn Costigan and Prime Minister Boris Johnson.
We remember NHS workers who have died from Covid-19 since 25th March (apologies if names have been omitted):
Jitendra Rathod, (Surgeon) University Hospital of Wales in Cardiff
John Alagos, (Nurse) Watford
Glen Corbin, (Health Care Worker) Brent, north west London
Liz Glanister, (Nurse) Royal Liverpool University Hospital
Areema Nasreen, (Nurse) Walsall Manor Hospital
Prof Mohamed Sami Shousha, London
Lynsay Coventry, (Midwife) Mid Essex Hospital Services NHS Trust
Aimee O’Rourke, (Nurse) Queen Elizabeth The Queen Mother Hospital, Margate
Dr Alfa Sa'adu, Whittington Hospital
Thomas Harvey, (Mental Health Nurse) Upper Clapton
Amged El-Hawrani, (Doctor) Glenfield Hospital, Leicester
Pooja Sharma, (Pharmacist) Eastbourne District General Hospital, Sussex Pooja Sharma died a day after her father, Sudhir, both from Coronavirus
Dr Habib Zaidi, Southend Hospital
Dr Adil El Tayar, West Middlesex University Hospital
In our cycle of prayer, we continue to pray for all who work in our National Health Service. We pray for them and their families.
We also pray for those who care for others in our community. We give thanks for their example of caring for others.
A prayer for all those affected by Coronavirus:
Keep us, good Lord,
under the shadow of your mercy.
Sustain and support the anxious,
be with those who care for the sick,
and lift up all who are brought low;
that we may find comfort
knowing that nothing can separate us from your love
in Christ Jesus our Lord.
Amen.
Fr Mark continues to pray for those on our sick list and those who have died. (Please refer to the Weekly Prayer list for the names.)
We continue to pray for Glyn Costigan and Prime Minister Boris Johnson.
We remember NHS workers who have died from Covid-19 since 25th March (apologies if names have been omitted):
Jitendra Rathod, (Surgeon) University Hospital of Wales in Cardiff
John Alagos, (Nurse) Watford
Glen Corbin, (Health Care Worker) Brent, north west London
Liz Glanister, (Nurse) Royal Liverpool University Hospital
Areema Nasreen, (Nurse) Walsall Manor Hospital
Prof Mohamed Sami Shousha, London
Lynsay Coventry, (Midwife) Mid Essex Hospital Services NHS Trust
Aimee O’Rourke, (Nurse) Queen Elizabeth The Queen Mother Hospital, Margate
Dr Alfa Sa'adu, Whittington Hospital
Thomas Harvey, (Mental Health Nurse) Upper Clapton
Amged El-Hawrani, (Doctor) Glenfield Hospital, Leicester
Pooja Sharma, (Pharmacist) Eastbourne District General Hospital, Sussex Pooja Sharma died a day after her father, Sudhir, both from Coronavirus
Dr Habib Zaidi, Southend Hospital
Dr Adil El Tayar, West Middlesex University Hospital
Additional prayer - 7th April 2020
We continue to pray for Prime Minister Boris Johnson and Councillor Elaine Costigan’s husband, Glyn.
Today we have heard that one of our Churchwardens (Trevor Stokes) has a cousin who is suffering from the virus. His name is Steven De Meulemeester and he lives in Belfast. Steven’s father (Gerry) has also been on our sick list for a long time (not virus related).
Also, one of our congregation (Jacqui Webster) has asked us to pray for Janet Cureton from St Lawrence Church who was also on the Deanery Synod. She was already suffering ill health and today she has been told she has Coronavirus.
Please keep all of these people, and others you know personally, in your thoughts and prayers.
Keep us, good Lord,
under the shadow of your mercy.
Sustain and support the anxious,
be with those who care for the sick,
and lift up all who are brought low;
that we may find comfort
knowing that nothing can separate us from your love
in Christ Jesus our Lord.
Amen
We remember NHS workers who have died from Covid-19 since 25th March (apologies if names have been omitted):
Jitendra Rathod, (Surgeon) University Hospital of Wales in Cardiff
John Alagos, (Nurse) Watford
Glen Corbin, (Health Care Worker) Brent, north west London
Liz Glanister, (Nurse) Royal Liverpool University Hospital
Areema Nasreen, (Nurse) Walsall Manor Hospital
Prof Mohamed Sami Shousha, London
Lynsay Coventry, (Midwife) Mid Essex Hospital Services NHS Trust
Aimee O’Rourke, (Nurse) Queen Elizabeth The Queen Mother Hospital, Margate
Dr Alfa Sa'adu, Whittington Hospital
Thomas Harvey, (Mental Health Nurse) Upper Clapton
Amged El-Hawrani, (Doctor) Glenfield Hospital, Leicester
Pooja Sharma, (Pharmacist) Eastbourne District General Hospital, Sussex Pooja Sharma died a day after her father, Sudhir, both from Coronavirus
Dr Habib Zaidi, Southend Hospital
Dr Adil El Tayar, West Middlesex University Hospital
Additional prayer - 7th April 2020
We continue to pray for Prime Minister Boris Johnson and Councillor Elaine Costigan’s husband, Glyn.
Today we have heard that one of our Churchwardens (Trevor Stokes) has a cousin who is suffering from the virus. His name is Steven De Meulemeester and he lives in Belfast. Steven’s father (Gerry) has also been on our sick list for a long time (not virus related).
Also, one of our congregation (Jacqui Webster) has asked us to pray for Janet Cureton from St Lawrence Church who was also on the Deanery Synod. She was already suffering ill health and today she has been told she has Coronavirus.
Please keep all of these people, and others you know personally, in your thoughts and prayers.
Keep us, good Lord,
under the shadow of your mercy.
Sustain and support the anxious,
be with those who care for the sick,
and lift up all who are brought low;
that we may find comfort
knowing that nothing can separate us from your love
in Christ Jesus our Lord.
Amen
We remember NHS workers who have died from Covid-19 since 25th March (apologies if names have been omitted):
Jitendra Rathod, (Surgeon) University Hospital of Wales in Cardiff
John Alagos, (Nurse) Watford
Glen Corbin, (Health Care Worker) Brent, north west London
Liz Glanister, (Nurse) Royal Liverpool University Hospital
Areema Nasreen, (Nurse) Walsall Manor Hospital
Prof Mohamed Sami Shousha, London
Lynsay Coventry, (Midwife) Mid Essex Hospital Services NHS Trust
Aimee O’Rourke, (Nurse) Queen Elizabeth The Queen Mother Hospital, Margate
Dr Alfa Sa'adu, Whittington Hospital
Thomas Harvey, (Mental Health Nurse) Upper Clapton
Amged El-Hawrani, (Doctor) Glenfield Hospital, Leicester
Pooja Sharma, (Pharmacist) Eastbourne District General Hospital, Sussex Pooja Sharma died a day after her father, Sudhir, both from Coronavirus
Dr Habib Zaidi, Southend Hospital
Dr Adil El Tayar, West Middlesex University Hospital
Tuesday of Holy Week
In our cycle of prayers, we continue to pray for our National Health Service and in particular, for all of those working in our local hospitals.
We pray for the families of nurses and doctors who have tragically died as a result of caring for others at this time.
Keep us, good Lord,
under the shadow of your mercy.
Sustain and support the anxious,
be with those who care for the sick,
and lift up all who are brought low;
that we may find comfort
knowing that nothing can separate us from your love
in Christ Jesus our Lord.
Amen.
Fr Mark continues to pray for those on our sick list and those who have died. (Please refer to the Weekly Prayer list for the names.)
We continue to pray for Glyn Costigan and Prime Minister Boris Johnson.
Tuesday of Holy Week
In our cycle of prayers, we continue to pray for our National Health Service and in particular, for all of those working in our local hospitals.
We pray for the families of nurses and doctors who have tragically died as a result of caring for others at this time.
Keep us, good Lord,
under the shadow of your mercy.
Sustain and support the anxious,
be with those who care for the sick,
and lift up all who are brought low;
that we may find comfort
knowing that nothing can separate us from your love
in Christ Jesus our Lord.
Amen.
Fr Mark continues to pray for those on our sick list and those who have died. (Please refer to the Weekly Prayer list for the names.)
We continue to pray for Glyn Costigan and Prime Minister Boris Johnson.
Additional prayer - 6th April 2020
Please remember Glynn Costigan in your prayers. He is in hospital and is quite poorly with the Coronavirus which caused complications and pneumonia. Our prayers are with him and his wife, local Councillor Elaine Costigan, as well as his family.
"Jesus Christ, you travelled through towns and villages curing every disease and illness. At your command, the sick were made well. Come to our aid now, in the midst of the global spread of the Coronavirus, that we may experience your healing love. Heal all those who are sick with the virus. May they regain their strength and health through quality medical care. We especially ask that you watch over Glyn Costigan who is in hospital. Please be with the families of those who are sick, especially at this time Glyn’s wife and family. As they worry, defend them from illness and despair. May they know your peace. Amen"
Monday of Holy Week
In our prayers today we continue to pray for all those who work in our National Health Service. We pray for all staff and for their families.
We especially remember all those who work in our local hospitals.
“Healer of nations, you provide insight to all who seek you, and defend those in need. We thank you for the gift of the Health Services in our nation, freely available to everyone no matter their background, income level or need. Give your wisdom to our health professionals. Bless our health service to thrive, to prosper, and to heal. Bless our doctors and nurses to care, to excel, and to bring healing. Bless our nation to understand, thank, and honour those who seek to bring us health. For everything that is good comes from you. Amen”
Fr Mark continues to pray for all those on our sick list and those who have died. (Please refer to the Prayers from Sunday 5th April.)
Our weekly prayers
(5th April 2020)
“God of healing and hope, in Jesus you meet us in our places of pain and fear. Look with mercy on those who have contracted the new virus, on any who are vulnerable, and on all who feel in danger. Through this time of global concern, by your Holy Spirit bring out the best not the worst in us. Make us more aware of our interdependence on each other and of the strength that comes from being one body in you. Through Christ our wounded healer. Amen”
“Keep us, good Lord, under the shadow of your mercy. Sustain and support the anxious, be and lift up all who are brought low; that we may find comfort knowing that nothing can separate us from your love in Christ Jesus our Lord. Amen”
We will continue to include the following people in our prayers unless advised otherwise; those who are sick in body, mind or spirit at this time. (Please let us know if you wish us to add somebody to the prayer list OR if they no longer need to be on this list.)
OUR PRAYERS FOR THE SICK AND THOSE WHO HAVE DIED:
Please be assured that Father Mark will continue to pray for these people during his daily prayers.
Those who have asked for our prayers:
George and Jean Hodgetts, Rose Ward, Nina Davies, Vicki Ellis, George Carter, James Carr, Lindsey Dawes, Fred Clarke, Martin Holland, Ted Dodd, Chris Handley, Mike Harrison, Danny Peters, Stephen Wright, Sam Martin, Carmine Burrows, Lynn Yule, Keith Turner, Bill Rae, Adam Jones, Rob, Leonie, Ged Lance, Gerry De Meulemeester, John Manns, Amanda Horton, Yolanda Cox, Lillian Freeman, Charlotte Talbot, John Lewis, Aiden Holmes, baby Frankie Rowley, Debbie Sampson, Francis Burrows and Bernie Burrows, baby Beatrix Hunt, Ray Stansbie, Glyn Costigan, Steven De Meulemeester and Janet Cureton.
“All-powerful God of mercy, look kindly on these people in their suffering. When Jesus was on earth, they brought the sick to him and he healed them all. Today we ask you to bless all those in sickness, in weakness and in pain. Ease their burden and make their faith strong that they may always have confidence and trust in your care. Grant this through our Lord Jesus Christ, your Son, who lives and reigns with you and the Holy Spirit, one God. Amen”
For those who have recently died, we pray for:
Evelyn Fullard, Roy Parker, Brian Hodson, John Pemberton, Dave Ward. local nurse Areema Nasreen, nurse Aimee O'Rourke and Norman Price.
“Almighty and eternal God, from whose love in Christ we cannot be parted, either by death or life: hear our prayers and thanksgivings for all whom we remember this day; fulfil in them the purpose of your love; and bring us all, with them, to your eternal joy; through Jesus Christ our Lord. In your hands, O Lord, we humbly entrust Evelyn, Roy, Brian, John, Dave, Areema, Aimee and Norman. In this life you embraced them with Your tender love; bid them now eternal rest. Amen”
For those known only to you who have died, we pray:
“God our Father, Your power brings us to birth, Your providence guides our lives, and by Your command we return to dust. Lord, those who die still live in Your presence, their lives change but do not end. We pray in hope for our families, relatives and friends and for all the dead known to You alone. In company with Christ, Who died and now lives, may they rejoice in Your kingdom, where all our tears are wiped away. Unite us together again in one family, to sing Your praise forever and ever. Amen”
“Father of all, we pray for all those whom we love but see no longer. Grant to them eternal rest. Let light perpetual shine upon them. May the souls of all the departed, through the mercy of God, rest in peace. Amen”
For the bereaved, we pray:
“God of love and mercy, embrace all those whose hearts today overflow with grief. Grant them space to express their tears. Hold them close through the coming days. Amen”
For the hungry and the Food Bank:
“Lord, you made us to know what hunger is, but also to know the goodness of your provision. We pray for those who share this earth with us, but for whom hunger is a crippling, life-threatening danger. We pray for those who have nothing and those who have too little to eat. We pray for our local Food Bank volunteers who help feed the poor and hungry in their difficult times, made more acute during the current Coronavirus situation. Amen”
We continue to pray for medical professionals - doctors, nurses, paramedics, caregivers, researchers and leaders responsible for decisions about fighting the new coronavirus:
“Father, we seek Your wisdom daily. Be with people making decisions that affect the lives and futures of our families, communities, countries and the wider world. Inspire and invigorate people developing better tests to diagnose the virus, vaccines to prevent it and protocols and communication to eliminate the disease’s spread. May truth and empathy be the touchstones of people setting policies for our protection. Amen”
Please pray daily for those whose lives are affected by Coronavirus
In addition to those whom we love and care for, all NHS staff, police and fire-fighters, key workers; the world at this time and our communities, please pray for:
All of our local hospitals, nurses and doctors
Local care homes and nursing homes
Carers in our community
Children of the parish
Those self-isolating
All those unable to work and for local businesses
All who suffer, are anxious and the lonely
And finally:
“Almighty and everlasting God, who in your tender love towards the human race sent your Son our Saviour Jesus Christ to take upon him our flesh and to suffer death upon the cross: grant that we may follow the example of his patience and humility, and also be made partakers of his resurrection; through Jesus Christ your Son our Lord, who is alive and reigns with you, in the unity of the Holy Spirit, one God, now and for ever. Amen”
In today’s cycle of prayer:
(3rd April 2020)
In our daily cycle of prayer we continue to pray for all National Health Service staff and especially those in our local hospitals. We also pray for all those who are struggling with self-isolating.
We especially pray today for the life of Areema Nasreen who sadly died in the early hours of this morning. We remember all of her family, friends and work colleagues at this time. May she rest in peace.
“Dear Lord, we come to you today to thank you for giving us a chance to thank you for the life of Areema Nasreen who recently left this world. We ask that you grant her eternal rest. Amen”
Father Mark continues to pray for the people on our sick list and those who have died.
CORONAVIRUS: NURSE AREEMA NASREEN DIES WITH COVID-19
If you haven’t seen the news today I am sad to advise you of her death today. Areema, 36, had been placed on a ventilator at Walsall Manor Hospital where she worked in the acute medical unit, a hospital she had worked at for 16 years.
Walsall Healthcare NHS Trust's Chief Executive Richard Beeken said, “She was a very respected member of the team. They had hoped to take Ms Nasreen off the ventilator as she had started to show signs of improvement but she sadly died in the early hours.”
Areema, a mum of three children, is in our thoughts and prayers at this time. God bless her. We remember all of her family, friends and work colleagues at this time. May she rest in peace.
And, we continue to hold in our prayers all of the frontline workers in our National Health Service who continue to put themselves at risk each day to protect others.
You can read more here:
https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-england-birmingham-51952607
In today’s cycle of prayer:
(2nd April 2020)
In our cycle of prayer we continue to pray for all NHS staff and their families and especially those in our local hospitals. And, we also pray for all children in our parish and for those who are caring for them at this time.
“Loving God, your Son told his disciples to become like little children. Lead us to work for the welfare and protection of all young people. May we respect their dignity that they may flourish in life, following the example of the same Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen”
Also, we remember in our prayers those who are sick or have died (please refer to the prayers for 29th March for the names).
In today’s cycle of prayer:
(1st April 2020)
In our daily cycle of prayer we continue to hold in our prayers all those who work in the National Health Service. We pray for all NHS staff and their families. We pray that throughout all of this time they too will have the strength that they need to care for others.
We also pray for all those who care for others within our communities.
“Keep us, good Lord, under the shadow of your mercy. Sustain and support the anxious, be with those who care for the sick and lift up all who are brought low; that we may find comfort knowing that nothing can separate us from your love in Christ Jesus our Lord. Amen”
Father Mark continues to pray for those people on our sick list and for those who have died.
In today’s cycle of prayer:
(31st March 2020)
We continue to pray for all of those who work in our National Health Service and especially those in our local hospitals and health centres.
We also remember all those who live and work in our local care homes and nursing homes.
Fr Mark continues to pray for those who are sick and who have died.
(3rd April 2020)
In our daily cycle of prayer we continue to pray for all National Health Service staff and especially those in our local hospitals. We also pray for all those who are struggling with self-isolating.
We especially pray today for the life of Areema Nasreen who sadly died in the early hours of this morning. We remember all of her family, friends and work colleagues at this time. May she rest in peace.
“Dear Lord, we come to you today to thank you for giving us a chance to thank you for the life of Areema Nasreen who recently left this world. We ask that you grant her eternal rest. Amen”
Father Mark continues to pray for the people on our sick list and those who have died.
CORONAVIRUS: NURSE AREEMA NASREEN DIES WITH COVID-19
If you haven’t seen the news today I am sad to advise you of her death today. Areema, 36, had been placed on a ventilator at Walsall Manor Hospital where she worked in the acute medical unit, a hospital she had worked at for 16 years.
Walsall Healthcare NHS Trust's Chief Executive Richard Beeken said, “She was a very respected member of the team. They had hoped to take Ms Nasreen off the ventilator as she had started to show signs of improvement but she sadly died in the early hours.”
Areema, a mum of three children, is in our thoughts and prayers at this time. God bless her. We remember all of her family, friends and work colleagues at this time. May she rest in peace.
And, we continue to hold in our prayers all of the frontline workers in our National Health Service who continue to put themselves at risk each day to protect others.
You can read more here:
https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-england-birmingham-51952607
In today’s cycle of prayer:
(2nd April 2020)
In our cycle of prayer we continue to pray for all NHS staff and their families and especially those in our local hospitals. And, we also pray for all children in our parish and for those who are caring for them at this time.
“Loving God, your Son told his disciples to become like little children. Lead us to work for the welfare and protection of all young people. May we respect their dignity that they may flourish in life, following the example of the same Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen”
Also, we remember in our prayers those who are sick or have died (please refer to the prayers for 29th March for the names).
In today’s cycle of prayer:
(1st April 2020)
In our daily cycle of prayer we continue to hold in our prayers all those who work in the National Health Service. We pray for all NHS staff and their families. We pray that throughout all of this time they too will have the strength that they need to care for others.
We also pray for all those who care for others within our communities.
“Keep us, good Lord, under the shadow of your mercy. Sustain and support the anxious, be with those who care for the sick and lift up all who are brought low; that we may find comfort knowing that nothing can separate us from your love in Christ Jesus our Lord. Amen”
Father Mark continues to pray for those people on our sick list and for those who have died.
In today’s cycle of prayer:
(31st March 2020)
We continue to pray for all of those who work in our National Health Service and especially those in our local hospitals and health centres.
We also remember all those who live and work in our local care homes and nursing homes.
Fr Mark continues to pray for those who are sick and who have died.
A space for God
(30th March 2020)
As the sheer scale of the Coronavirus crisis has become apparent, normal life has been severely impacted. The death toll and figures for those infected increases daily and none of us are unaffected. ‘Self-isolation’ has impacted our mobility and family connections and, as Christians, we are also now faced not only with the absence of our regular worship but also find our churches locked, even for private prayer.
An invitation to meet God
In these difficult new times, we find these words from the Gospel of Saint Matthew, taking on even more significance – “When you pray, go to your private room and, when you have shut your door, pray to your Father who is in that secret place…” (Mt 6:6).
There is both invitation and promise in those words – an invitation to meet God as and where we are, in our homes, with the assurance that God is indeed with us. We may already have a time and space when we do pray at home – in the morning or evening perhaps – but now we might want to make this more intentional and really try to recognise the sacredness of the space in which we find our ourselves, seeing it indeed as ‘holy ground’.
A space for prayer
We recently lit a candle and placed it in our windows as a sign of support for our National Health Service. The light of a candle can symbolise so much. A candle on a window-sill, or on a small table in a quiet corner, can mark out a sacred space – with perhaps a Bible or prayer book, a small icon or image, or something from the natural world to recall God’s beauty such as a flower, a pebble from the seaside, a pinecone (perhaps brought back from your ‘socially distanced’ daily walk). It need not be elaborate - just something that serves to remind you that God is indeed with you and looks on you with great love.
God looking at you with love
And this awareness of God looking at you with love is how St Ignatius of Loyola, the great Spanish mystic, advocates we come to our prayer space – just spend a few moments pondering that love, receiving that love and then entering into it as we pray. May your domestic prayer space be, during these challenging times, a place of rich encounter between you and the God who loves you.
“If you find it hard to pray, don’t give up. Be still; make space for God to come in; let Him look at you, and He will fill you with His peace.” (Pope Francis)
Adapted from: https://www.pathwaystogod.org/resources/ignatian-insight/making-space-prayer-home?mc_cid=edcb0df26f&mc_eid=913cefd2ba
(30th March 2020)
As the sheer scale of the Coronavirus crisis has become apparent, normal life has been severely impacted. The death toll and figures for those infected increases daily and none of us are unaffected. ‘Self-isolation’ has impacted our mobility and family connections and, as Christians, we are also now faced not only with the absence of our regular worship but also find our churches locked, even for private prayer.
An invitation to meet God
In these difficult new times, we find these words from the Gospel of Saint Matthew, taking on even more significance – “When you pray, go to your private room and, when you have shut your door, pray to your Father who is in that secret place…” (Mt 6:6).
There is both invitation and promise in those words – an invitation to meet God as and where we are, in our homes, with the assurance that God is indeed with us. We may already have a time and space when we do pray at home – in the morning or evening perhaps – but now we might want to make this more intentional and really try to recognise the sacredness of the space in which we find our ourselves, seeing it indeed as ‘holy ground’.
A space for prayer
We recently lit a candle and placed it in our windows as a sign of support for our National Health Service. The light of a candle can symbolise so much. A candle on a window-sill, or on a small table in a quiet corner, can mark out a sacred space – with perhaps a Bible or prayer book, a small icon or image, or something from the natural world to recall God’s beauty such as a flower, a pebble from the seaside, a pinecone (perhaps brought back from your ‘socially distanced’ daily walk). It need not be elaborate - just something that serves to remind you that God is indeed with you and looks on you with great love.
God looking at you with love
And this awareness of God looking at you with love is how St Ignatius of Loyola, the great Spanish mystic, advocates we come to our prayer space – just spend a few moments pondering that love, receiving that love and then entering into it as we pray. May your domestic prayer space be, during these challenging times, a place of rich encounter between you and the God who loves you.
“If you find it hard to pray, don’t give up. Be still; make space for God to come in; let Him look at you, and He will fill you with His peace.” (Pope Francis)
Adapted from: https://www.pathwaystogod.org/resources/ignatian-insight/making-space-prayer-home?mc_cid=edcb0df26f&mc_eid=913cefd2ba
30th March 2020
In our weekly cycle of prayer we continue to pray for all those who work in our hospitals and for all NHS staff, no matter what their role.
We give thanks to God for the gifts that they share with others to bring healing and comfort.
“Heavenly Father, we pray that our National Health Service may remain strong, that it may rise to all challenges and continue to heal and bless this nation. We pray for all of our doctors and nurses and we give thanks for the care that they selflessly give. We pray for our nation to understand, to thank and to honour those who seek to bring us health. For everything that is good comes from you. Amen”
Fr Mark continues to pray for those who are sick or have died. (Please see the list of prayers posted on Sunday.)
28th March 2020
Lord Jesus Christ,
you taught us to love our neighbour,
and to care for those in need
as if we were caring for you.
In this time of anxiety, give us strength
to comfort the fearful, to tend the sick,
and to assure the isolated
of our love, and your love,
for your name’s sake.
Amen
We continue to pray for all of the staff in the NHS and especially for those in our local hospitals. We pray for all those who work in local doctors and in chemists and in the cycle of prayers for the parish; prayers have been said for all those unable to work in the parish and for local businesses.
Prayers have also been said to remember those on our sick list and those who have died.
God bless you all and keep you safe
Fr Mark
Lord Jesus Christ,
you taught us to love our neighbour,
and to care for those in need
as if we were caring for you.
In this time of anxiety, give us strength
to comfort the fearful, to tend the sick,
and to assure the isolated
of our love, and your love,
for your name’s sake.
Amen
We continue to pray for all of the staff in the NHS and especially for those in our local hospitals. We pray for all those who work in local doctors and in chemists and in the cycle of prayers for the parish; prayers have been said for all those unable to work in the parish and for local businesses.
Prayers have also been said to remember those on our sick list and those who have died.
God bless you all and keep you safe
Fr Mark
27th March 2020
In our cycle of prayer we continue to pray for all those in our NHS who are working and providing care under such difficult circumstances.
"And we pray today, as well, for all those who are self-isolating. Especially for those who are struggling.
Keep us, good Lord, under the shadow of your mercy. Sustain and support the anxious, be with those who care for the sick, and lift up all who are brought low; that we may find comfort knowing that nothing can separate us.
Amen"
Fr Mark continues to pray for the sick on our prayer list and for those who have died.
26th March 2020
Today, in the prayers for the parish, we pray for the children of this parish. We also remember in our prayers those who care for them and those who teach. We also continue to pray for our local hospitals and for nurses, doctors and all those who work in our local hospitals. We also remember those on our prayer list who are sick or have died. Amen
Gracious God, who led your servant Harriet Monsell through grief to a new vocation; grant that we, inspired by her example, may grow in the life of prayer and the work of service so that in sorrow or joy, your presence may increase among us and our lives reveal the mind of Jesus Christ to whom, with you and the Holy Spirit, be honour and glory, now and forever. Amen
In our cycle of prayer we continue to pray for all those in our NHS who are working and providing care under such difficult circumstances.
"And we pray today, as well, for all those who are self-isolating. Especially for those who are struggling.
Keep us, good Lord, under the shadow of your mercy. Sustain and support the anxious, be with those who care for the sick, and lift up all who are brought low; that we may find comfort knowing that nothing can separate us.
Amen"
Fr Mark continues to pray for the sick on our prayer list and for those who have died.
26th March 2020
Today, in the prayers for the parish, we pray for the children of this parish. We also remember in our prayers those who care for them and those who teach. We also continue to pray for our local hospitals and for nurses, doctors and all those who work in our local hospitals. We also remember those on our prayer list who are sick or have died. Amen
Gracious God, who led your servant Harriet Monsell through grief to a new vocation; grant that we, inspired by her example, may grow in the life of prayer and the work of service so that in sorrow or joy, your presence may increase among us and our lives reveal the mind of Jesus Christ to whom, with you and the Holy Spirit, be honour and glory, now and forever. Amen
25th March 2020
In the parish this day, prayers have once again been said for all NHS staff, especially those working in our local hospitals; for community nurses visiting the housebound; for all carers and for all of those who have asked for prayer.
God bless you all.
Fr Mark
We beseech you, O Lord, pour your grace into our hearts, that as we have known the incarnation of your Son Jesus Christ by the message of an angel, so by his cross and passion we may be brought to the glory of his resurrection; through Jesus Christ your Son our Lord, who is alive and reigns with you, in the unity of the Holy Spirit, one God, now and for ever. Amen
24th March 2020
Fr Mark has sent the following prayers for today:
God of healing and hope, in Jesus you meet us in our places of pain and fear. Look with mercy on those who have contracted the new virus, on any who are vulnerable, and on all who feel in danger. Through this time of global concern, by your Holy Spirit bring out the best not the worst in us. Make us more aware of our interdependence on each other, and of the strength that comes from being one body in you. Through Christ our wounded healer.
Amen
Keep us, good Lord, under the shadow of your mercy.
Sustain and support the anxious, be with those who care for the sick and lift up all who are brought low; that we may find comfort knowing that nothing can separate us from your love in Christ Jesus our Lord.
Amen
In the parish this day, prayers have once again been said for all NHS staff, especially those working in our local hospitals; for community nurses visiting the housebound; for all carers and for all of those who have asked for prayer.
God bless you all.
Fr Mark
We beseech you, O Lord, pour your grace into our hearts, that as we have known the incarnation of your Son Jesus Christ by the message of an angel, so by his cross and passion we may be brought to the glory of his resurrection; through Jesus Christ your Son our Lord, who is alive and reigns with you, in the unity of the Holy Spirit, one God, now and for ever. Amen
24th March 2020
Fr Mark has sent the following prayers for today:
God of healing and hope, in Jesus you meet us in our places of pain and fear. Look with mercy on those who have contracted the new virus, on any who are vulnerable, and on all who feel in danger. Through this time of global concern, by your Holy Spirit bring out the best not the worst in us. Make us more aware of our interdependence on each other, and of the strength that comes from being one body in you. Through Christ our wounded healer.
Amen
Keep us, good Lord, under the shadow of your mercy.
Sustain and support the anxious, be with those who care for the sick and lift up all who are brought low; that we may find comfort knowing that nothing can separate us from your love in Christ Jesus our Lord.
Amen
Special prayer for mothers around the world and especially in our parish
Dear Jesus we thank you for Mothers everywhere
For all who care for us day by day
Let us not forget that you were a child
And your mother was Mary.
We say thank you for Mums across the world
And in our country too
Although we may not say it
We think you are the best.
So let us give grateful thanks
And let our voices be heard
For all the Mums and Grandmothers
On this very special day. Amen
(Hannah Middleton 2005; URC Northern Synod)
Dear Jesus we thank you for Mothers everywhere
For all who care for us day by day
Let us not forget that you were a child
And your mother was Mary.
We say thank you for Mums across the world
And in our country too
Although we may not say it
We think you are the best.
So let us give grateful thanks
And let our voices be heard
For all the Mums and Grandmothers
On this very special day. Amen
(Hannah Middleton 2005; URC Northern Synod)
Please pray daily for those whose lives are affected by Coronavirus
God of healing and hope, in Jesus you meet us in our places of pain and fear.
Look with mercy on those who have contracted the new virus, on any who are vulnerable and on all who feel in danger.
Through this time of global concern, by your Holy Spirit bring out the best not the worst in us.
Make us more aware of our interdependence on each other and of the strength that comes from being one body in you.
Through Christ our wounded healer.
Amen
God of healing and hope, in Jesus you meet us in our places of pain and fear.
Look with mercy on those who have contracted the new virus, on any who are vulnerable and on all who feel in danger.
Through this time of global concern, by your Holy Spirit bring out the best not the worst in us.
Make us more aware of our interdependence on each other and of the strength that comes from being one body in you.
Through Christ our wounded healer.
Amen
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SPECIAL PRAYER FOR JOHN PEMBERTON
(12th March 2020)
It is with great personal sadness that I write this. My husband’s friend from schooldays, John Pemberton, died peacefully in his sleep last night. He had been on our sick prayer list for a while. John suffered for a number of years but more especially over the last few months. I thank God he is now at peace but I am, also, deeply sad for his wife, my lovely friend Jackie, who cared for him so lovingly. My deepest sympathy goes to her and their children, Vicky and Steven, as well as their grandchildren and Steven’s wife Becky. My husband had known John since schooldays when they played football. Later they used to go iceskating together. I met John and his then girlfriend, Jackie, at an iceskating meeting about 55 or more years ago. From the first moment I met him his infectious personality had an effect on me. For those of you who knew John, you will know he had a wonderful sense of humour and often ‘played the fool’ having us all in fits of laughter. He also had a serious side to him especially when it came to business; he and his father had a number of newsagents (called Sneads) in the Midlands as well as a Travel Agency. After his father’s death, John ran the businesses for many years. John will be sadly missed by us all but I am pleased he is no longer suffering. My thoughts now are with Jackie, Vicky, Steven, the grandchildren, Becky and the rest of their family and friends.
When someone loses a loved one we want to find a way to comfort them and pay our respects. Prayer helps us to express our love and understanding for others, to empathise with what they are going through and to wish them the strength during such a sad and difficult time. It is an act of love towards others, as well as being something that can bring together people.
For all those who woke this morning to the loneliness and sadness of bereavement – the empty bed or chair, an unaccustomed quietness, a life now incomplete – may they know your presence in the stillness of the day, and through the love of friends who offer their condolences. And, in the darker moments, may they reach out to hold your hand and feel the warmth of the One who has already passed from death to life to welcome others into God’s Kingdom. Amen
God of love and mercy, embrace all those whose hearts today overflow with grief, unanswered questions and such a sense of loss. We pray You will watch over Jackie, Vicky, Steven, the grandchildren and Becky. Grant them space to express their tears. Hold them close through the coming days. You hold time within your hands, and see it all, from beginning to end. Please keep and carry these precious people in their sadness and loss. Cover them with your great wings of love, give their weary hearts rest and their minds sound sleep. Amen
(12th March 2020)
It is with great personal sadness that I write this. My husband’s friend from schooldays, John Pemberton, died peacefully in his sleep last night. He had been on our sick prayer list for a while. John suffered for a number of years but more especially over the last few months. I thank God he is now at peace but I am, also, deeply sad for his wife, my lovely friend Jackie, who cared for him so lovingly. My deepest sympathy goes to her and their children, Vicky and Steven, as well as their grandchildren and Steven’s wife Becky. My husband had known John since schooldays when they played football. Later they used to go iceskating together. I met John and his then girlfriend, Jackie, at an iceskating meeting about 55 or more years ago. From the first moment I met him his infectious personality had an effect on me. For those of you who knew John, you will know he had a wonderful sense of humour and often ‘played the fool’ having us all in fits of laughter. He also had a serious side to him especially when it came to business; he and his father had a number of newsagents (called Sneads) in the Midlands as well as a Travel Agency. After his father’s death, John ran the businesses for many years. John will be sadly missed by us all but I am pleased he is no longer suffering. My thoughts now are with Jackie, Vicky, Steven, the grandchildren, Becky and the rest of their family and friends.
When someone loses a loved one we want to find a way to comfort them and pay our respects. Prayer helps us to express our love and understanding for others, to empathise with what they are going through and to wish them the strength during such a sad and difficult time. It is an act of love towards others, as well as being something that can bring together people.
For all those who woke this morning to the loneliness and sadness of bereavement – the empty bed or chair, an unaccustomed quietness, a life now incomplete – may they know your presence in the stillness of the day, and through the love of friends who offer their condolences. And, in the darker moments, may they reach out to hold your hand and feel the warmth of the One who has already passed from death to life to welcome others into God’s Kingdom. Amen
God of love and mercy, embrace all those whose hearts today overflow with grief, unanswered questions and such a sense of loss. We pray You will watch over Jackie, Vicky, Steven, the grandchildren and Becky. Grant them space to express their tears. Hold them close through the coming days. You hold time within your hands, and see it all, from beginning to end. Please keep and carry these precious people in their sadness and loss. Cover them with your great wings of love, give their weary hearts rest and their minds sound sleep. Amen
SPECIAL PRAYER FOR JOYCE MONK
It is with sadness we have to advise you that Steve Monk’s mum, Joyce, died on Sunday. Steve and his wife Debbie are regular members of our congregation and we offer them our sincere sympathy.
“Father of all, we pray to you for Joyce. Grant her eternal rest and let light perpetual shine upon her. May her soul rest in peace. Amen”
“May the peace of the Lord be with you, Steve and Debbie, especially at this time of bereavement. May God watch over you and your family during your time of need. We send our sincere sympathy and hope you can take comfort in the fact that Joyce is with God now. She lives on, not only in your memories, but with our heavenly Father as well. We are here for you - emotionally and spiritually. Amen”
It is with sadness we have to advise you that Steve Monk’s mum, Joyce, died on Sunday. Steve and his wife Debbie are regular members of our congregation and we offer them our sincere sympathy.
“Father of all, we pray to you for Joyce. Grant her eternal rest and let light perpetual shine upon her. May her soul rest in peace. Amen”
“May the peace of the Lord be with you, Steve and Debbie, especially at this time of bereavement. May God watch over you and your family during your time of need. We send our sincere sympathy and hope you can take comfort in the fact that Joyce is with God now. She lives on, not only in your memories, but with our heavenly Father as well. We are here for you - emotionally and spiritually. Amen”
SPECIAL PRAYER FOR AUSTRALIA
“We pray for Australia as the situation with the fires is desperate. We know from the news reports that there are such high temperatures, strong winds and no rain in sight; and it is very worrying. Wildfires are raging outside every major city. Please include in your prayers thoughts for everybody who is suffering. We pray, also, for livestock and the wildlife - the furry, the feathered and the sea creatures. We remember all of the firefighters from Australia and firefighters from other countries who have flown over to help them fight the fires. We are saddened that Australia has lost around 500 million animals with possibly 6 species now being extinct. We hope and pray that the country will soon get a period of rain to put out the fires and provide water to soak into the parched earth. We pray, God, that you will watch over humans and wildlife alike, keeping them safe. God, we ask for your almighty hand of protection over this beautiful country - the land and its people, as well as all the beautiful animals you have created. Amen”
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SPECIAL PRAYER FOR ROB LLOYD
It is with sadness I have to tell you that Rob died today (Sunday 15th December). Rob had been ill for 2 years with cancer; sadly his fight has ended. We know he is at peace, now, and we pray that this will help his family and friends to cope with their grief.
‘Eternal rest grant unto Rob, O Lord, and let perpetual light shine upon him. May his soul, through the mercy of God, rest in peace. Amen’
For all those who now suffer the loneliness of bereavement – the empty bed or chair, an unaccustomed quietness, a life now incomplete – may they know God’s presence in the stillness of the day and through the love of friends and family who offer their condolence. And, in the darker moments, may they reach out to feel the warmth of the One who has already passed from death to life to welcome others into God’s Kingdom. We pray especially for Rob’s wife Cynthia; children - Wayne, Serena, Laura and Jake; and grandchildren - Alisha, Morgan, Jared, Maddison and Harper. Also, Rob’s children from his first marriage - Mandy and Louise and their children Joel, Naomi, Isaac, Jude and Ruby.
‘Bring comfort to those coming to terms with the loss of Rob. We pray that you will bring healing to Cynthia, Wayne, Serena, Laura, Jake, Alisha, Morgan, Jared, Maddison, Harper, Mandy, Louise, Joel, Naomi, Isaac, Jude and Ruby as well as other family members and friends. Comfort them with Your love O God; wrap them up in Your strong embrace. Envelop them in Your tender care. Amen’
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Prayers for Remembrance Day 2019
In church, this morning, the following prayers were read by Trevor Stokes.
“Let us pray for all who suffer as a result of war and conflict and ask that God may give us peace. We pray for all of those who have died in the violence of war. Each one is remembered by and known to God; may God give them peace.”
“We pray for all civilian men, women and children, whose lives are disfigured by war or terror and we call to mind, in regret, the anger and hatred of humanity; may God give all peace.”
“We pray for all peacemakers and peacekeepers. We pray for all who seek to keep this world secure and free; may God give all peace.”
“We pray for all who bear the burden and responsibility of leadership: political, military and religious. We pray that they may have the gift of wisdom and work in the search for reconciliation and peace; may God grant us all peace.”
“We pray for all members of the armed forces who are in danger this day; remembering their families, their friends and all who pray for their safe return. May God give them peace.”
And now, we pray for each of our Armed Forces:
Prayer for the Royal Navy
“O Eternal Lord God, who alone rulest the raging of the sea; who has compassed the waters with bounds until day and night come to an end; be pleased to receive into Thy almighty and most gracious protection the persons of us, Thy servants, and the Fleet in which we serve. Preserve us from the dangers of the sea and from the violence of the enemy; that we may be a safeguard unto our most gracious Sovereign Lady, Queen Elizabeth, and her Dominions and a security for such as pass upon the seas upon their lawful occasions, that the inhabitants of our Commonwealth may in peace and quietness serve Thee our God and that we may return in safety to enjoy the blessings of the land, with the fruits of our labours and with a thankful remembrance of Thy mercies to praise and glorify Thy Holy Name. Amen”
Prayer for the Royal Air Force
“Almighty God, You have promised that they who wait on you shall renew their strength, they shall rise up on wings as eagles; they shall run and not be weary, they shall walk and not faint. We commend to your Fatherly protection all who serve in the Royal Air Force. Encourage and inspire us in all our efforts so that we may be a safeguard to our Sovereign Lady, Queen Elizabeth, and a sure defence to our nation. Help us to fulfil our duties with honour, goodwill and integrity and grant that we may prove worthy successors to those who by their valour and sacrifice did nobly save their day and generation. Amen”
Prayer for all those who serve in the regiments of the British Army (From the Field Service Book of the British Army)
“Almighty God, in you alone we find safety and peace. We commend to your gracious keeping all the men and women who serve in the Army. All who face danger and put their lives at risk so that others might live in safety. Defend them day by day by your heavenly power; and help them to know that they can never pass beyond the reach of your care. Keep alive in them and in us your vision of that peace which alone we must seek and serve. Amen”
Finally:
“O God of truth and justice, we hold before you those whose memory we cherish here today and those whose names we will never know. As we honour the past, may we put our faith in your future; for you are the source of life and hope, now and for ever. Amen”
They shall grow not old as we that are left grow old. Age shall not weary them nor the years condemn. At the going down of the sun and in the morning we will remember them.
A fitting end to our Remembrance Day prayers is Nelson’s Prayer:
On the morning of the battle of Trafalgar, Nelson made an entry into his journal and with it the following prayer:
“May the great God, whom I worship, grant to my country and for the benefit of Europe in general, a great and glorious victory and may no misconduct in anyone tarnish it; and may humanity after victory be the predominant feature in the British fleet. For myself individually, I commit my life to him that made me; and may His blessing alight on my endeavours for serving my country faithfully. To him I resign myself and the just cause which is entrusted to me to defend. Amen.”
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