Prayer Material About Work for Church Services

Opening Prayers About Work

These Opening Prayers are part of "Work in Worship," a collection of material for work-themed services compiled by David Welbourn. These prayers can be inserted at the beginning of a church service.

We Have Gathered Here to Praise God for Our Work (Prayer)

We have gathered here this day to give thanks and praise to Almighty God for his love and gifts given to us day by day. We praise him for the gifts of creation and the work we are called to do, and we offer in thanksgiving all the work of our County.

We remember those without work; and it is our hope for them that, in God's love and in our dedication and service, they may find support and opportunity to use their skills.

So as we give our thanks and praise, we join in the prayer our Lord and Saviour Jesus Christ taught us saying: Our Father...

We Are Here to Thank God for Commerce and Industry (Prayer)

Human enterprise is not simply an end in itself; it is the means and the medium through which people fulfil their ultimate destiny.

We are here today to give thanks to God for all that Commerce and Industry mean to our country, our economy and our lives.

We thank God for the value that our businesses create, which can secure the public services we and our families need.

We thank God for the network of international contacts that mean that never again will Europe be devastated by war. The new Europe is being built by people in different countries working together towards common goals.

We thank God for the opportunity to contribute to the transformation of Central and Eastern Europe, to the ultimate benefit of all the citizens of Europe as a whole.

We thank God for the difference that industry can make to the quality of the air we breathe, the water we drink, our nation's transport and communications infrastructure.

We thank God for the ability to develop and apply the most advanced technology in the cause of peace, and to improve the quality of life for all.

We thank God for our colleagues: their competence, capacity, commitment and comradeship. Business is about ordinary people working together, often in very difficult circumstances, to achieve extraordinary things.

And we pray to God that we will be able to meet adequately the responsibilities and obligations of management.

This we do in the name of him who taught us that to lead is to serve, and whose service is perfect freedom, Jesus Christ our Lord.

Let Us Give Thanks Today for the Work of Our Town (Prayer)

Let us give thanks today for the work of our (town, city, region, county etc.) and for the privilege of sharing in that work.

Let us give thanks today for the providence of God and for the gift of work.

We have gathered here this day to given thanks to Almighty God for his love and gifts given us day by day. We praise him for the gifts of creation and the work that we are called to do, and we offer in thanksgiving all the work of our (town, city, region, country etc.).

We Are Here to Thank God for the Value our Businesses and Work Create (Prayer)

Human enterprise is not simply an end in itself; it is the means and medium through which people fulfil their ultimate destiny. We are here today to give thanks to God for all that commerce and industry mean to us, our town, our economy and our lives.

We thank God for the value that our businesses and our work create, which can secure the public services we and our families need.

We thank God for our colleagues; their competence, capacity, commitment and comradeship. We pray to God that we will be able to meet adequately the responsibilities and obligations of management.

This we do in the name of him who taught us that to lead is to serve, and whose service is perfect freedom.

Human Work Is Something for the Church to Celebrate (Prayer)

Human work is part of God's providence for the world. Most of the goods and services which people need are provided through our work in homes, schools, hospitals, factories, offices and shops. These daily activities which sustain life and keep the world going, which create wealth, give service and make provision for human needs, are part of God's good providence, and something for the church to celebrate.

So let us thank God for his goodness and pray for all who, by their work in manufacturing, the service industries and commerce, sustain the quality of life for our society.

We Meet to Thank God for His Gifts of Raw Material and Human Skill (Prayer)

We meet together to thank God for his gifts of raw material and human skill, and for the high standard of living to which he has brought us: to offer to him our work in industry and commerce, and to pray that he may guide us in the right use of all that is entrusted to us. Let us in silence remember his presence and pray that this service may be to his glory.

(After a short silence:)

O Lord God, we worship and adore you. Fill our minds with such devotion that all unworthy thoughts may be driven from us, and that through this service we may hear your voice and be obedient to your will. Amen.

Quotes About Work for the Opening Sentences of a Church Service

Work is the creative activity of God within us, working through us in the world for the glory of him and to the benefit of all. (Ken Hawkings)

Without purposeful, rewarding, creative work, one loses one's orientation, self-confidence and self- respect; becoming a prisoner and an outcast in one's own subjective world. (Christian Schumacher - adapted)

To accept the Incarnation (the coming of Jesus) is to accept that God is at work in his world as it is, and that Christians are called to co-operate with him there. (Jack Keiser)

What we have somehow to do in the present age is to combine goodness and cleverness; to learn somehow to permeate the vast impersonal world organisations with the love of God and of our neighbour. We have to learn to harness the scientific mind in the service of the merciful heart. (A.D.Lindsay)

Work is the expenditure of energy (manual and mental or both) in the service of others, which brings fulfilment to the worker, benefit to the community and glory to God. (John Stott)

At the centre of Christian redemption stands the resurrection. This is first of all the work of God and it is God who takes our work and accepts it for his own. So the work of Christ was not wasted. (Paul Ballard)

Technology and industry create the context within which we must search for meaning in life. (Margaret Kane)

Quotes About Unemployment for the Opening Sentences of a Church Service

'Everyone has the right to work, to free choice of employment, to just and favourable conditions of work and to protection against unemployment'. (UN Universal Declaration of Human Rights)

'Work is an obligation, that is to say a duty, on the part of each human being. This is true in all the many meanings of the word. People must work, both because the creator has demanded it and because of their own humanity, which requires work in order to be maintained and developed. Each person must work out of regard for others'. (Papal Encyclical 'Laborem Exercens' 1972 [c.] )

Thanksgiving Prayers About Work

These Prayers of Thanksgiving are part of "Work in Worship," a collection of material for work-themed services compiled by David Welbourn. What follows are a variety of Thanksgiving Prayers about work.

Thank You for the Chance to Share in Creation Through The Work of Hand and Brain (Prayer)

Lord of the Universe, we praise you for your creation, for the wonders of space, the beauty of the world, the value of the earth's resources, and the skills of hand and brain which enrich our lives.

We thank you for humanity in all its diversity, for the unique individuality of every child, woman and man, for the gathered communities of home, work and leisure; of village, city and nation.

We thank you for offering us the chance to share in creation through the work of hand and brain; for the opportunity to plan and design, to manufacture and grow, to service and conserve, and to care for one another in the places where we work.

We thank you for giving us special gifts and responsibilities, for enabling us to stand upright and make choices, for presenting us with opportunities to promote justice and truth.

And because he shared with us our humanity and our world, we thank you for the gift of your Son Jesus Christ, our beginning and our end, who carried out your work to your praise and glory and for the renewal of your creation. So we make our prayer to you in his name, who died and rose again for us. Amen

Thank You for the Hidden Forces of Nature Illuminated by Scientific Discovery (Prayer)

Let us give celebrate today the providence of God and the gift of work.
We give thanks to you, God our Father, Maker of the universe,
for the unity and order of created things;
for the resources of the earth;
for the gift of human life;
for our share in the continuing work of creation.

O Creator and Lord of all, we thank you for the hidden forces of nature now brought within our control by scientific discovery. We thank you for creative vision and inventiveness, and for the different abilities and skills which you have given us and which we use in daily work. Help us to use all your gifts wisely and faithfully, for the benefit of humankind, that all may rejoice in your goodness; through Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen.

We thank you for humanity in all its diversity, for the unique individuality of every child, woman and man, for the gathered communities of home, work and leisure, of village, city and nation.

We thank you for the work of hand and mind; for the opportunity to plan and design, to manufacture and grow, to service and conserve, and to care for one another in the places where we work.

Above all we thank you for your Son Jesus Christ, who carried out your work to your praise and glory and for the renewal of your creation. We make our prayer to you in his name, who died and rose again for us. Amen.

We Praise You for Our Skills and for the Opportunity to Meet the Needs of Others (Prayer)

Almighty God, we praise you for all your gifts to us in creation. We acknowledge the skills with which we have been endowed, the materials available for our use and the opportunities to meet the needs of others. We thank you for what agriculture, industry, commerce and local government have achieved and for their contribution to our lives. May our gratitude to you be plain in all we do. Help us to use all your gifts wisely and for the good of all, in the knowledge that through our daily work we contribute to your loving purpose; through Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen.

Let us Thank God for Hard Work and for the People Who Do It (Prayer)

Let us thank God
for the gift of life and the resources of the world;
for our share in the continuing work of creation;
for human skill and inventiveness, enterprise and hard work;
for industry, commerce and administration and its many products of food, transport, roads, houses, clothing, medicines, machines, fresh water, sewage disposal.

Let us thank God
that we are made in the image of his Son, called to share in his reconciling work; to resist evil, transform nature and to proclaim his concern for people;
for those who work to maintain the fabric of our community, in shops, offices, factories and farms;
for engineers and technologists, for technicians and sales people, for those who work in finance and research and development, and for those who plan and manage;
for those who provide food and water, heat and light, milk and mail;
for those who are not employed but still contribute - housewives, the retired, the disabled and children;
for the principal organizations of industry, for companies, for professional associations, for employers' organizations and trade unions.

Lord We Offer You Thanks for the Benefits of Working Life (Prayer)

O Lord God Almighty, we offer you thanks for the chance to work, for the benefits of working life, for the opportunity to create and add value, to improve the quality of life by meeting the needs of others.

O Lord accept our thanks:
Accept our heartfelt thanks.

We are thankful for those occasions of solid achievement, for the ability to produce, for the opportunity to serve others' needs, and to change our methods of work.

O Lord accept our thanks:
Accept our heartfelt thanks.

We are grateful for previous generations who laid the foundations of our society, for the facilities that educate and train us for the future, and for all those who care for our present welfare.

O Lord accept our thanks:
Accept our heartfelt thanks.

We have relished the chances to deepen our relationships with colleagues at work, to welcome newcomers, to be open to all, and to be present at meetings.

O Lord accept our thanks:
Accept our heartfelt thanks.

Thanks for the Work We Are Enabled to Do and for the Truth We Are Permitted to Learn (Prayer)

For the beauty of the earth,
The raw materials that come from it,
And the mystery of life and growth.
We thank you O God.
For science and craftsmanship,
For skill and patience,
And for the opportunity of serving our fellows.
We thank you O God.

For the work we are enabled to do,
For the truth we are permitted to learn,
For whatever good there has been in our lives,
And for hopes and resolves which lead us to better things.
We thank you O God.

For home and family,
For friends and fellowship,
And for all the happiness in life.
We thank you O God.

For These and All Good Things We Give Thanks (Prayer)

Let us give thanks to God for all the good things of life; for the world in which we live; and the universe beyond it.

For these and all good things, we give thanks.

Let us give thanks for those who through the ages have pioneered along new paths of thought and knowledge, opening human minds to new adventures of truth.

For these and all good things, we give thanks.

Let us give thanks for the heritage of our common life, for wise government and good laws, for education, art, science and technology, and all their benefits to us.

For these and all good things, we give thanks.

Let us give thanks for the comforts and pleasures of life, for our homes and our friends, for goodwill and companionship; for the help, sympathy and advice of those who are wiser than ourselves.

For these and all good things, we give thanks.

Let us give thanks for this community, for what we owe to industry and to the commercial life of this [village] and to all who have helped build it up.

For these and all good things, we give thanks.

Let us give thanks for those on whose work we depend for the necessities of life, all those engaged in industry, whether manufacturing goods or providing services, and in commerce.

For these and all good things, we give thanks.

Let us give thanks for all those scientists and doctors whose researches and devoted work have bettered the health of the human race, and those who today in hospitals and laboratories fight to free us from disease.

For these and all good things, we give thanks.

Let us give thanks for all who have helped lighten the load of drudgery at work and at home, and who have enriched the possibilities of our leisure time.

For these and all good things, we give thanks.

Let us give thanks for men and women of all ages who have worked to improve the quality of human life.

For these and all good things, we give thanks.

Thank You for Those Who Value Unpaid Work (Prayer)

Thank you, Lord, that you turn the values of the world on their head. What people call great, so often in your eyes is little, or mean. In what many call little, you see greatness, and eternal value. Thank you for people involved in looking again at what work is, what it means to be creative and how we can make a difference in the world, in our neighbourhood, in our families - without necessarily getting paid for it.

Especially we pray for retired people and those bringing up families at home.

We give you thanks for all the creative projects that have been set up to help the unemployed....

We give you thanks for all who have seized the chance to do some worthwhile and creative work while they have waited for a paid job. Amen.

Confessions About Work

These Confession Prayers are part of "Work in Worship," a collection of material for work-themed services compiled by David Welbourn. These prayers are intended to be read aloud by a church congregation in unison.

We Who Have Been Called to the Light Choose Darkness (Prayer)

INVITATION TO CONFESSION

We who have received much have not always been grateful. We who have been called to work with God for the good of others as well as ourselves have often been selfish. We who have been called to live in the light often choose darkness. We who have been called to be salt to the world often prove to have no taste. In the knowledge of our weakness, ignorance and deliberate choice, let us confess our sins to Almighty God.

CONFESSION

Almighty God, with sorrow we confess that the gifts you have given us are spoiled by our selfishness and lack of regard for your sovereign will. We have failed to love you or your creation. We have failed to see you in our daily work, or in those who share it with us. We have taken for granted those who serve us through the gift of their labour. We are sorry for our failures, which have been hurtful to us as well as to others. Release us from the burden of our guilt so that we can step into the future unafraid, and, strengthened by the knowledge of your abiding love, follow in the footsteps of your Son, Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen.

Priest/minister shall pronounce:

ABSOLUTION

Almighty God, who forgives all who truly repent, have mercy upon you [us], pardon and deliver you from all your sins, confirm and strengthen you in all goodness, and keep you in life eternal; through Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen.

We Have Spoiled the Many Gifts of Hand and Brain with Our Selfishness (Prayer)

Lord of the universe, we praise you for your creation, for the wonder of space, the beauty of the world and the value of the earth's resources. We praise you for the many different skills of hand and brain.

We recognise that we often spoil these gifts by our selfishness, and because we are sometimes distrustful and destructive.

Forgive us we pray. Help us to use all that you give to us for the good of all people; through Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen.

Gracious Lord, we bring before you our personal failures in our daily work. We have been poor stewards of your gifts; we have not given you the glory, nor laboured in your love. We confess too the faults of our industrial society: continuing injustice, lack of harmony, the inability - and worse - the unwillingness to seek the paths of reconciliation. Have mercy upon us, and grant that, as the workshop at Nazareth was blessed through the labour of the Christ, so the workplaces of this land may be enriched by the work of those who call him 'Lord'. We ask this in his name. Amen.

Forgive Us Our Closed Minds Which Barricade Themselves Against New Ideas (Prayer)

Spirit of God,
you are the breath of creation,
the wind of change that blows through our lives,
opening up new dreams and new hopes,
new life in Jesus Christ.

Forgive our closed minds
which barricade themselves against new ideas,
preferring the past
to what you might want to do
through us tomorrow.

Forgive our closed eyes
which fail to see the needs of your world,
blind to the opportunities of service and love.

Forgive our closed hands
which clutch our gifts and our wealth
for our use alone.

Forgive our closed hearts
which limit our affection
to ourselves and our own.

Spirit of new life,
forgive and break down the prison walls
of our selfishness,
that we might be open to your love
and open for the service of your world;
through Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen.

(Janet Morley)

Let Us Confess to God Those Things That Are Wrong in Our Work (Prayer)

Let us confess to God those things that are wrong in our work:
That the presence of God at work is often overlooked;
That creative people are often subjected to long, boring and unrelenting routines;
That skills are undeveloped through lack of training;
That resources are wasted in shoddy work and the production of unwanted goods;
That the maximisation of profit often excludes concern for people;
That men and women are discriminated against because of age, race, gender, disability, lack of skill and length of employment;
That the poor stand so little chance against the power of the rich, and the world's destitute are forgotten.

Lord, have mercy upon us. Forgive us our sins and help us to amend our lives. Amen.

We Bring Before You, Lord, All the Failures of Our Daily Work (Prayer)

Let us be assured of God's power to relieve sin, to take away our burden and debt.
We bring before you, Lord, all the failure of our daily work;
We have fallen short of your demands upon us;
We have not given you the glory, nor worked in your love.

Good Lord, forgive us:
Forgive us, Lord.

We confess the faults of the industrial society in which we work,
the inequalities, the injustices of all systems
and the difficulties we have in changing them.

Good Lord, forgive us:
Forgive us, Lord.

We have not worked together as brothers and sisters of your family.
There have been differences,
lack of co-operation and chances of reconciliation missed.
We have not brought out the best in others.

Good Lord, forgive us:
Forgive us, Lord.

We have wasted and misused the raw materials of the earth,
and scarred the beauty of nature.
We have not made best use of the time and skills you have given us.

Good Lord, forgive us:
Forgive us, Lord.

We have not met the needs of the hungry and impoverished of the world.
We have not been able to meet the demands of those without work.

Good Lord, forgive us:
Forgive us, Lord.

We Enjoy the Fruits of Our Work But Forget You Gave Them to Us (Prayer)

We are to be regarded as Christ's servants and as stewards of God's creation.
We know that we have fallen short of what is required of us.
So let us confess our sins, in penitence and faith, firmly resolved to keep God's commandments, and to live in love and peace with all people.

We confess our sin, and the sins of our society in the misuse of God's creation.
God our Father, we are sorry for the times when we have used your gifts carelessly, and acted as though we were not grateful.

Father, in your mercy
forgive us and help us.

We enjoy the fruits of our work but sometimes forget that you have given them to us.

Father, in your mercy
forgive us and help us.

We belong to a people who are full and satisfied but ignore the cry of the hungry.

Father, in your mercy
forgive us and help us.

We are thoughtless, and do not care enough for the world you have made.

Father, in your mercy
forgive us and help us.

Some of us store up goods for ourselves alone, as if there were no God and no heaven.

Father, in your mercy
forgive us and help us.

The Lord enrich you with his grace, and nourish you with his blessing;
the Lord defend you in trouble and keep you from all evil;
the Lord accept your prayers
and absolve you from your offences,
for the sake of Jesus Christ our Saviour. Amen.

Forgive Us When We Are Too Rushed to Care (Prayer)

For our incapacity to feel the sufferings of others,
and our tendency to live comfortably with injustice,
God forgive us.

For the self-righteousness which denies guilt,
and the self-interest which strangles compassion,
God forgive us.

For those who live their lives in careless unconcern,
who cry 'Peace, peace' where there is no peace,
We ask your mercy.

For our failings in community,
our lack of understanding,
We ask your mercy.

For our lack of forgiveness, openness, sensitivity,
God forgive us.

For the times we are too eager to be better than others,
when we are too rushed to care,
when we are too tired to bother,
when we don't really listen,
when we are too quick to act from motives other than love,
God forgive us.

Forgive Us When Like Spoiled Children We Treat Your Generosity as Our Right (Prayer)

God, you heap your love upon us
like a mother providing for her family's needs,
embracing her child with tenderness.

Forgive us
when, like spoiled children,
we treat your generosity as our right,
or hug it possessively to ourselves.

Give us enough trust to live secure in your love
and to share it freely with others
in open-handed confidence
that your grace will never run out. Amen.

Creeds About Work

These Creeds are part of "Work in Worship," a collection of material for work-themed services compiled by David Welbourn. These prayers help church goers connect the Christian faith to the work they do outside of the church.

We Believe in One God, Source of Human Skills (Prayer)

We believe in One God, Father Almighty, Maker of heaven and earth,
Source of human skills, Provider of the earth's riches.

We believe in God who is love, and judge of all, who claims our service and our worship,
who longs for our help in creation, to fulfil his purpose on earth.

We believe in Jesus Christ, the only-begotten Son of God, the Light of the world,
the Lord of all life, the man for others;
our fellow-worker for good, our Redeemer, neighbour and friend,
with the power to make all things new.

We believe in the Holy Spirit, God's inspiration to men and women,
revealer of the truth, the giver and director of life,
the promoter of peace and patience, our Comforter in times of trouble,
and supplier of vision and hope. Amen.

We Believe That People Are Born to Lead Fulfilling, Creative and Productive Lives (Prayer)

STATEMENT OF BELIEF

(To be said together or alternately by different groups)

We believe
in a God of justice,
tender to the poor and oppressed
who hears their cries;
creating, loving, redeeming
throughout history.

We believe
in the Son of God,
made human.
He suffered and died,
because he challenged and upset
the powers of his day.

We believe
in the Spirit of God,
the Spirit who gives life and joy,
who moves us, touches us
and keeps us going.

We believe
that people are born
to lead fulfilling, creative
and productive lives.

We believe that unemployment
and frustrating work
are a denial of God's image in us.

We believe
that we have to search for the truth,
be brave enough to proclaim it,
and realise that we need each other
to build community.

I Believe in God Who Helps Us Through the Tension and Uncertainty of Daily Work (Prayer)

A WORKER’S STATEMENT OF BELIEF

I believe in God the Father, Maker of the Universe.
He gives unity and order to all created things.
He gives us the resources of the earth to sustain human life.
He enables us to share in the continuing work of creation, as we exercise our vision and our skill.

I believe in Jesus Christ, the Son of God.
He worked as a carpenter and gave value to all human labour.
He cared for people at their point of need.
He died because of human hatred and jealousy.
He rose to new life and is alive today.

I believe in the Holy Spirit.
He makes Jesus Christ real to us.
He inspires us to follow the pattern of Jesus' life.
He helps us through the tension and uncertainty of our daily work.
He gives us hope for the future along with other Christians

(No 83 of Work in Worship 1985)

We Believe in a Loving God Whose Work Sustains Our Lives (Prayer)

CREED OF CAMILLO TORRES

We believe in a loving God
whose Work sustains our lives
and the work of our hands in the universe.
For he is Life.

We believe in his Son among us
who brought the seed of life’s renewal.
He lived with the poor to show the meaning of love;
He is the Lord.

We believe in the Spirit of Life,
who makes us one with God;
Whose strength and energy renews our fight
for she is Love.

We believe in the Church of God
at the service of all people,
so that we may see the truth on earth;
She bears his Word.

We believe in this new life
which bread and wine give to us,
to work for God in unity.
this is our glory.

We believe in everlasting life
and the future of a new world,
where the word of God will be the truth to all
in Christ our Lord.

Offertory Prayers About Work

These Offertory Prayers are part of "Work in Worship," a collection of material for work-themed services compiled by David Welbourn. These prayers can be used in the communion section of a church service, or as a stand-alone ritual related to offerings.

Please Accept Our Work as a Token in the Hope That It Will Build Your Kingdom (Prayer)

OFFERTORY MATERIAL FOR USE AT A SERVICE OF HOLY COMMUNION/MASS/LORD'S SUPPER

During the offertory hymn the money collection will be offered, together with offerings of the tokens of different types of work. (Members of the congregation can be invited to bring to the service tokens (portable ones!) of their own work. A selection of these could be brought up as part of the Offertory Procession and offered immediately after the offerings of money and the bread and wine. And/or a work exhibition could be displayed in the church. This could include examples of the work of local industry etc. These would be 'offered' at this point.)

After this the following prayer will be used:

We offer you, Lord, ourselves and our work. Please accept it as a token of our gratitude to you, and in the hope that it will contribute to the building of your kingdom on earth; through Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen.

At the offering of the bread, the president may say:
Blessed are you, Lord God of all creation: through your goodness we have this bread to offer, which earth has given and human hands have made. It will become for us the Bread of life.
Blessed be God for ever.

Similarly at the offering of the cup:
Blessed are you, Lord God of all creation: through your goodness we have this wine to offer, fruit of the vine and work of human hands. It will become our spiritual drink.
Blessed be God for ever.

The minister, accepting the alms, says:
Yours, Lord, is the greatness, the power, the glory, the splendour and the majesty, for everything in heaven and earth is yours. All things come from you and of your own do we give you.

With These Gifts of Bread and Wine We Offer You Our Daily Work (Prayer)

O Lord God, in and with these gifts of bread and wine - the products of human labour - we offer you our daily work. And as it is your will to transform the bread and wine into the Body and Blood of your Son Jesus Christ, so we ask you also to transform our work, that it may better contribute to your saving purpose; to your praise and glory. Amen.

(David Welbourn)

We Bring Before You the Impoverishment of Unemployment (Prayer)

OFFERTORY PRAYER FOR AN UNEMPLOYMENT SERVICE

Lord Jesus, we bring before you the impoverishment of unemployment:
the waste of human potential
the undermining of relationships
the devastation of communities.

We bring before you the great injustices of our industrial society.
We bring before you our nation,
with all its divisions between rich and poor,
powerful and powerless,
north and south,
employed and unemployed.

Lord Jesus, we bring before you all these weighty concerns.
We offer them with these our gifts of bread and wine,
praying that as the bread and wine are transformed into your Body and Blood,
so our nation may be transformed,
so that your grace may flow into our world,
bringing hope and healing, reconciliation and peace,
joy and understanding. Amen.

We Come with Offerings: Skills, Symbols, Time (Prayer)

We come with offerings - our skills, our symbols, our time,
our hopes, our pleasure in one another's company.
All these things we bring to God in dedication, and for use
in the glory of the realm of God.

We Dedicate to You, O God, the Industries of Our Towns (Prayer)

Offering the Work of a Town to God in a Church Service

The President of the Medway or Chamber of Commerce will say:

We have brought these tokens of our products to our Cathedral Church, as a sign that all things come from God, and that it is he who gives the skills of mind and hand.

The Dean will say:

These tokens of your work and tools of your trade have been placed around God's altar in your Cathedral Church. Will you now ask his blessing on all your labours, and on all who work with you.

All will say:

We dedicate to you, O God, the industries of our towns, that all who work in them, by hand or brain, may serve to your glory and the good of others, for Jesus Christ's sake. Amen.

We Come with No Great Gifts, But What We Have We Bring You (Prayer)

Living God
We come with no great gifts to offer,
We are ordinary people
Yet what we have we bring to you
To make your love felt in other people's lives.

We offer you our time and our talents
At home, at work and in the market place.
Use us fully so that your love may shine through us
And the light of your kingdom
May illuminate the world. Amen.

For the Places We Work and for All Who Work with Us, We Ask You to Hear Us Lord (Prayer)

AT THE OFFERTORY

For the places where we work, and for all who work with us.

We ask you to hear us, good Lord.

For those who use or enjoy the things that we make.

We ask you to hear us, good Lord.

And now, O Lord, accept and bless our labours, represented by these tokens which we offer at your altar, and grant that all our work may be offered for your glory and the service of our fellows; through Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen.

To Christ’s Table We Bring Bread Made by Work in an Unjust World Where Many Go Hungry (Prayer)

What do you bring to Christ's table?

We bring bread,
made by many people's work,
from an unjust world
where some have plenty
and most go hungry.
At this table all are fed,
and no-one is turned away.

Thanks be to God.

What do you bring to Christ's table?

We bring wine,
made by many people's work,
from an unjust world
where some have leisure
and most struggle to survive.
At this table all share the cup
of pain and celebration,
and no-one is denied.

Thanks be to God.

These gifts shall be for us
the body and blood of Christ.
Our witness against hunger,
our cry against injustice,
and our hope for a world
where God is fully known
and every child is fed.

Thanks be to God.

The Harvest Offering from the Royal Norfolk Agricultural Association (Prayer)

THE HARVEST OFFERING

The Offering of Soil
We bring the top soil of our fields, symbol of that which you have created and sun and rain have nurtured.
You have laid the foundations of earth: and the heavens are the work of your fingers.

The earth is the Lord’s and all that is in it;
The compass of the world and those who dwell therein.

The Offering of Seed
We bring the harvest of seeds for next year’s crops;
For clover, for hay and corn.
You bring forth grass for the cattle, and all things green for use.

That they may sow their land to yield them fruits of increase
He blesses them so that they multiply greatly.

The Offering of Grain
We bring the harvest of our cornfields, oat and wheat, rye and barley.
You prepare their corn, for so you provide for the earth.

We cannot live by bread alone:
But by every word that proceeds from the mouth of God.

The Offering of Animal Produce
We bring the produce of our dairies, together with wool and leather.
You cause grass to grow for the cattle.

You open wide your hand
And fill all things living with your bounteous gifts.

The Offering of Fruit
We bring the harvest of apples and pears and the fruits of bush and hedgerow;
The tree bears its fruit, the fig tree and vine yield their strength.

He gives food to all flesh:
For his mercy endures for ever.

The Offering of Vegetables and Root Crops
We bring the harvest of vegetables: peas, potatoes, mangolds, turnips and sugar beet;
O Lord, you preserve both man and beast; how excellent is your mercy O God.

When you open your hands:
They are filled with good.

The Offering of Flowers and Vineyards
We bring the harvest of flowers and of our vineyards.
The trees bear their fruit, the fig tree and vine yield their fruit.

You bring food out of the earth:
And wine that makes glad the human heart.

The Gift of Resourcefulness
We bring symbols of the machinery we use,
thanking you for your gifts of knowledge and invention, enabling us to use more adequately the resources of nature.
God gives food to those who fear him, he remembers his covenant for ever.

The fear of the Lord is the beginning of wisdom:
Those who keep his commandments are of good understanding.

The Offering of Bread
In this loaf of bread we bring the harvest of our lands.
For bread is the source of human strength and the fruit of human hands.

To God, Creator, Redeemer, Judge, we offer back with thanksgiving that which he has given.
Yours, Lord, is the greatness, the power, the glory, the splendour and the majesty: for everything in heaven and earth is yours. All things come from you, and of your own do we give you.

Brothers and sisters; do not forget that the judgement of God is upon us, for any misuse of our stewardship; for any neglect of our land, for all waste and adulteration of our food, and for all injustice in its distribution that we can prevent.

With our thanksgiving therefore let us ask pardon for all failures in our stewardship, and pray God to accept this loaf of daily bread, as a sign of our thankfulness, and of our desire to dedicate both our work and our lives to his obedience.

All sing:
Praise God from whom all blessings flow,
Praise him all creatures here below,
Praise him above, angelic host,
Praise Father, Son and Holy Ghost.

O God our Father, we thank you that once again you have fulfilled your gracious promise that, while earth remains, seedtime and harvest shall not fail. We bless you for the kindly fruits of the earth which you have given for our use. Teach us, when we pray, that it is not by bread alone that we live; and grant us evermore to feed on him who is the true bread from heaven, even Jesus Christ our Lord; to whom with you and the Holy Spirit, be all honour and glory, world without end. Amen.

As our Saviour has taught us, so we pray:
Our Father, who art in heaven…

May God who clothes the lilies of the field and feeds the birds of the sky, who leads the lambs to pasture and the deer to water, who multiplied the loaves and fishes and changes water into wine, lead us, feed us, multiply us, and change us to reflect the glory of our Creator through all eternity. Amen.

(From the Royal Norfolk Agricultural Association’s Harvest Thanksgiving, Norwich Cathedral, September 1995 c. All Year Round (1996), The Council of Churches for Britain and Ireland.)

Receive These Gifts Which You Moved Us to Make (Prayer)

Receive these gifts which you have moved us to make, as now we dedicate them all to your service; that they, with us your people, may be used to glorify you and to make your name be praised.

We dedicate ourselves again to your service, that our worship may be not only in word, but our whole lives, renewed in worship, may be living testimony to your love for the world, and your gift to the world of your Son, our Saviour Jesus Christ, in whose name we make our prayer.

And to you our God, Creator, Saviour and Holy Spirit, be all praise, glory and dominion and power, now and for ever.

(Hugh Cross, c All Year Round (1996), The Council of Churches for Britain and Ireland)

We Offer You Our Daily Work, That We May Do It to Your Honor and Glory (Prayer)

We offer you our daily work,
that we may do it to your honour and glory.

We offer you our leisure time,
that we may use it wisely and well.

We offer you our life together in your Church,
that we may believe and worship, serve and witness as we ought.

May be always be trustworthy, dependable, unselfish and kind,
following the example of Jesus Christ your Son our Lord. Amen.

(From ‘Companion to the Lectionary, Vol.3’, c. Neil Dixon, Epworth 1983)

Intercessions About Work

These Intercessions are part of "Work in Worship," a collection of material for work-themed services compiled by David Welbourn. Congregations can voice these prayers together during the section of a church service reserved for The Prayers of The People. Many of these intercessions are also appropriate for personal use in a private prayer practice.

From Ruthlessness in Making Money and Irresponsibility Spending It, Lord, Deliver Us (Prayer)

O God the Father, Creator of all things:
Have mercy upon us.

O God the Son, Redeemer of the world:
Have mercy upon us.

O God the Holy Spirit, Giver of life:
Have mercy upon us.

O Holy, blessed and glorious Trinity, three Persons and one God:
Have mercy upon us.

From envy, avarice and status-seeking, from covetousness which is idolatry;
from wanting more than is our fair share:
Good Lord, deliver us.

From ruthlessness in making money, and from irresponsibility in spending it:
Good Lord, deliver us.

From unwillingness to know the cost to others of our own standard of living:
Good Lord, deliver us.

For financiers and politicians, industrialists and trade unionists, and all who wield economic power; that they may have grace, wisdom and compassion:
Lord, hear our prayer.

For the bewildered and those who cannot cope with a budget or with filling in forms or with the pressures of modern life:
Lord, hear our prayer.

For the victims of inflation, pensioners, people on small fixed incomes, and all who have been robbed of their savings:
Lord, hear our prayer.

For those who cannot find jobs, or homes they can afford, for people made redundant for whatever reason:
Lord, hear our prayer.

For the increase of the fruits of the earth, that all may enjoy them:
Lord, hear our prayer.

Lord, when we are deciding how to make money, how to steward it, and what to do with it; help us to look hard at our motives, our aims and our prejudices - honestly, as in your sight.

O Lord Jesus Christ, who for our sake became poor; grant us grace to forsake all covetous desires and inordinate love of riches, and to seek first the kingdom of God and his righteousness. For your name's sake. Amen.

For All Who Work: Hear Our Prayer (Prayer)

A LITANY

For the riches of your creation, giving us the materials of the earth:
We thank you, Lord.

For the labour of our hands and minds, developing invention and skill:
We thank you, Lord.

For agriculture, industry and commerce, providing work and wealth and goods for the world:
We thank you, Lord.

For all who work in transport and distribution, service industries and local government, that in giving service they may find reward:
Hear our prayer.

For those in management and the trade unions, that mutual respect and good relations may always be maintained:
Hear our prayer.

For the unemployed and the handicapped, that they might not lose hope, and may find a positive role in life:
Hear our prayer.

For young people at work and those who educate and train them, that they may find promise and aspiration fulfilled:
Hear our prayer.

Lord the Creator, whose great goodness has provided for our needs; help us so to use, develop and preserve the resources of the earth that, through our industry, the needs of all may be fulfilled, human dignity enhanced, and our people live in true prosperity and peace; through Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen.

We Pray for Those Who Work in Various Sectors: Lord Graciously Hear Us (Prayer)

Eternal Lord God, to whom belong all power and dominion, we seek the guidance of your Spirit for all on whom is laid the responsibility of government. We pray for Members of Parliament and all others in authority in our land, that they may have wisdom to order the affairs of our nation in accordance with your will. Especially we pray for those wrestling with the economic difficulties we currently face, that through their endeavours there may be created a just and loving society to which all may feel they belong.

Lord hear us:
Lord graciously hear us.

Almighty God, from whom all good gifts come, grant to those who hold office in our county the spirit of justice and truth, of wisdom and charity; that, mindful of their responsibility and the needs of those they serve, they may promote the true welfare of all our people. May they have skill in dealing with the oftenconflicting demands made on them, and wisdom in allocating the limited resources at their disposal. May they at all times give protection and help to those in special need.

Lord hear us:
Lord graciously hear us.

O God our Father, as we acknowledge our dependence on your bounty for our daily food, so we also seek your blessing on those engaged in agriculture. We pray that you will so prosper their work that the earth may yield to us its full harvest. At this time of great change and uncertainty for those who work on the land, we ask you to guide all who are planning the future shape of the agricultural industry.

Lord hear us:
Lord graciously hear us.

We pray, too, Lord, for all who work in industry and commerce. We thank you for creating women and men in your own image, giving them the ability to turn raw material into objects of use and beauty. May they not forget their indebtedness to you, nor that their creative efforts are performed to your honour, the enrichment of humankind and the benefit of the earth.

Lord hear us:
Lord graciously hear us.

In you, Lord, are hidden all the treasures of wisdom and knowledge. We pray for all engaged in the work of education and training. Bless the work of our universities, colleges, schools and training institutions, that in them your name may be honoured and from them may come men, women and young people you seek and love the truth as it is revealed in your Son Jesus Christ.

Lord hear us:
Lord graciously hear us.

We thank you, O God, for all who work in the social services, caring professions and in voluntary work. Help them combine sympathy with firmness and love with understanding. Uphold them when they grow weary, guard them from despair when human problems seem intractable, and renew them daily in your love.

Lord hear us:
Lord graciously hear us.

Father we pray for the casualties of our economic life:
for those whose work is monotonous or stressful,
for the low-paid and those struggling to make ends meet,
for the unemployed and those threatened with redundancy,
for failed businesses and all victims of the recent recession,
for those in debt, those who are ill, those who are homeless
for those who are anxious or in despair.
May we all work together to strengthen the weak and empower the powerless.

Lord hear us:
Lord graciously hear us.

Let us say together the words of the Grace....

O Lord Jesus Christ, Through Your Work as a Carpenter You Shared the Stress of Daily Life (Prayer)

God has made the earth fruitful and fertile
Rich in minerals and natural energy.

God makes plants grow for us to harvest,
Producing enough food for all to be fed.

God gives us wisdom and insight
To discover the secrets of the atom and the gene.
We are able to design ingenious inventions
Which can transform people’s lives.

We receive all God’s gifts with thanksgiving
And offer our work to God’s glory.

O Lord Jesus Christ
who through your work as a carpenter
shared the stress of daily life
and knew its satisfactions and frustrations,
strengthen us in our work
that whatever we do, we may do it wholeheartedly
to the glory of your name. Amen.

Almighty God, who has made us
so that each of us is dependent on the work of many others,
we pray for those with whom we work,
for those who find it hard to do their work,
that they may have strength.
for those who are worried about their work,
that they may have peace,
for those who are difficult to work with,
that we and they may have patience,
that we may work together
in the spirit of Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen.

(c.Christine Allen, David Durston, Chris Powell and Wendy S Robins, SUNDAY, MONEY Resources Book, Cassell and Scripture Union, 1995)

Whether Our Work Is Paid or Unpaid, We Give Our Work to You Lord God (Prayer)

A RESPONSIVE PRAYER

Whether we work at home, or at school,
in a factory or an office,
indoors or out of doors,
we give our work to you, Lord God.

Whether we work alone, or with others,
with hand or brain,
in a shop or a hospital,
we give out work to you, Lord God.

Whether our work is paid or unpaid,
interesting or boring,
with computers or with people,
we give our work to you, Lord God.

Whether our work involves manufacturing or planning,
travelling or homemaking,
teaching, learning or caring,
we give our our work to you, Lord God.

Whatever we do,
give us a sense of wonder.
Whatever we make,
give us a sense of achievement.
Whatever we build,
grant us a sense of glory.
Whatever our work,
grant us a share in your purpose.
In the name of Jesus Christ we pray, Amen.

(Greater Manchester Industrial Mission)

In a Fast-Moving World, Teach Us That You Are The God of All Wisdom (Prayer)

Living God,
when we feel the shaking of the foundations
and try to retreat into the security of the past,
teach us that you are the God of the future.

Living God,
when we are tempted to despair,
when events move so quickly
and it seems there is no way forward,
teach us that you are the God of hope.

Living God,
when things happen beyond our understanding
and we find our trust in you is threatened,
teach us that you are the God of faith.

Living God,
in a fast-moving world, when we find our values questioned
and it is not easy to perceive what is right,
teach us that you are the God of all wisdom.
So that we may learn to live each day
in company with you
and to follow you wherever you will lead us. Amen.

(Nigel Collinson, President of Conference 1996-97, in For the Healing of the Nations: (Methodist) Prayer Handbook, 1996-1997)

May All Who Hold Political and Monetary Power Use It to Serve (Prayer)

Lord, you have set us an example: you have shown us how we should treat one another. Yet in so many situations and places people relate to one another with greed, with grasping, with violence, with hatred, with violence and injustice. We pray for people throughout the world who are in positions of leadership and responsibility. May they know the way of servanthood. May all who hold political and monetary power use that power to serve with integrity those for whom they are responsible.

(c. Barbara A Scott ‘Shaping Prayer’, Methodist Publishing House 1996)

We Pray for All Doctors, Nurses and Emergency Workers (Prayer)

We pray for all doctors, nurses and emergency workers. May they rejoice in the skills you have given them which enable them to bring hope, healing and wholeness to those in their care. May they also know guidance and support in times of pain and frustration when their skills are not enough to prevent permanent injury, disability or death. Bless each one of them, that they may be a blessing to others.

(c. Barbara A Scott ‘Shaping Prayer’, Methodist Publishing House 1996)

We Pray for Teachers and All People Involved in Education (Prayer)

Father God, in the power of the Holy Spirit we bring our concerns and worries about education and all people involved in this work.

Father God, we give you thanks for:
our education system
all teachers
all who work in education
the joys of teaching.

We pray that all who are involved will use their skill wisely, feel themselves to be valued and help the students in their care to learn and grow.

Father God, we remember the work of teachers, the men and women who have trained hard, and now use their skills in educating others. We acknowledge their work, and we want to understand the joys, the stresses and the strains they feel in their daily work.

Father God, we pray for:
dedicated teachers
teachers who feel inadequate or stressed.

Lord God, we remember all these people in their various tasks; give them strength, courage and a sense of purpose in teaching.

Father God, we pray for:
struggling or unsupported teachers
teachers who feel overwhelmed by their workload.

Lord God, we remember all these people in their various tasks; give them peace, joy and a sense of purpose in their teaching.

Father God, we pray for teachers in:
special needs schools
infant and junior schools
secondary schools
colleges and universities
adult education.

Lord God, we remember of these people in their various tasks; give them energy, commitment and a sense of purpose in their work.

Father God, we pray for:
Schools learning how to be responsible for their own budgets
Governors learning how best to support and motivate school workers
Head teachers trying to motivate themselves and others
Teachers whom we know personally.

Lord God, we remember of these people in their various tasks; give them awareness, sensitivity and a sense of purpose in their work.

Father God, we pray for:
People training to be teachers
People considering a career in education.

Lord God, we remember all these people in their various situations, give them a clear sense of direction.

Lord, we know that teaching can be a thankless task. Help us to be aware of the needs of those who have the responsibility for educating others. May we as a community be supportive and caring, offering a listening ear and practical concern whenever we can; through Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen.

(c. Barbara A Scott ‘Shaping Prayer’, Methodist Publishing House 1996)

We Pray for This Earth and For Those Who Work in All Manner of Places and Situations (Prayer)

Lord God, we acknowledge your creative power and energy,
bringing our prayers for a world in need of your creativity.
Creator God, hear us, renew us, help us.

Lord God, we pray for your Church throughout the world.
May there be a harvest of freedom, places where your Spirit moves in and through us, your people, that we might be all that you call us to be.
Creator God, hear us, renew us, help us.

Lord God, we pray for this earth. May there continue to be a harvest of land and sea. May the people who work to bring our daily food continue to use their skill and patience, and know the value of the work they do.
Creator God, hear us, renew us, help us.

Lord God, we pray for the areas of the world where the harvest has failed. For places where lack of rain has ruined the crops. For places where war and conflict have prevented the planting of crops. For places where there is hunger and famine. May those who work to bring relief and aid continue their work and know that it is essential. May governments be moved to offer support that will enable people to take responsibility for their own future.
Creator God, hear us, renew us, help us.

Lord God, we pray for those who work in all manner of place and situations. For those in industry. For those who develop our technology. For those who work in the emergency services. For those responsible for upholding law and keeping peace. May they know the importance of the tasks in which they are involved and may they find strength and support as they seek to contribute to society.
Creator God, hear us, renew us, help us.

Lord God, we pray for those whose work is not paid. For those who take time out from a career to raise children. For those who cannot accept paid employment because they are caring for a sick or disabled relative. For those who work in a voluntary capacity, in the health service, in prisons, in community care, churches and charitable organizations. May they fulfill the task they are called to do and give of their best in each situation. May we as a society value the work they do as they contribute to our lives.
Creator God, hear us, renew us, help us.

Lord God, we acknowledge your creative power and energy, and we bring these prayers in the name of Jesus Christ our Lord.
Creator God, hear us, renew us, help us. Amen.

(c. Barbara A Scott ‘Reshaping Prayer, Methodist Publishing House 1996)

We Ask Your Blessing on All Those Who Work (Prayer)

INTERCESSIONS AT HOLY COMMUNION
(based on the framework provided by the Anglican Alternative Service Book 1980)

We praise and thank you for your work in Creation, for the wonder, the order and the unity of our world.

Lord, we thank you for calling us to work for you to bring other people to know you and to love you.

We ask your blessing on all those who follow you, for all of us who are your Church throughout the whole world.

We pray that we may all give ourselves to your service in our schools, our work, our homes and in all that we do.

Lord in your mercy:
hear our prayer.

Let us pray for all those who have difficult and unpleasant jobs:
For those who collect rubbish, those who maintain the sewers, for those who clean very dirty places, for those working in slaughter houses.

Let us pray for those whose jobs can be unpopular:
For those who assess and collect our taxes, debt collectors, club doormen, traffic wardens, prison officers.

Let us pray for all those whose jobs are very dangerous:
For firefighters, for fishermen, for those in the security forces, and for all who risk their lives that we may live safely.

Lord in your mercy:
hear our prayer.

Let us pray for families where young people are preparing for their working life, that they may be given good career guidance.

Let us pray for wisdom and commitment on the part of careers officers and training agencies.

Let us pray that in choosing their jobs young people may be moved by the ideal of service for others.

Let us pray that all people in their work may find that right balance between family and work.

Let us pray for all families where work necessitates unsocial hours, long commuting journeys daily, and frequently moving house.

Help us to value and appreciate all the work which is done to create and to run our homes and to care for our families.

Lord in your mercy:
hear our prayer.

Now let us pray for those who are finding life difficult because of the worries and uncertainties they have about their work.

For those who over-drive or pressurise others, or themselves.

Lord, we remember before you all those who have to face redundancy, those who are unemployed and all who are helping them to return to employment.

We pray for those who find it difficult to keep pace with the tempo which is expected of them in their work, those beginning to fail physically or mentally.

We ask your mercy on those who break others.

We pray for all who have become ill through the stresses and strains, the risks and the dangers of their work, and we pray also for all those engaged in occupational medicine.

For Health and Safety officers, for factory inspectors, for all responsible for removing or improving dangerous work situations.

Lord in your mercy:
hear our prayer.

We thank you for the wealth of knowledge brought to us through medical research, and for the healing ministry of doctors and nurses.

Stengthen them for their tasks and give them the joy of knowing that they are part of your own purpose of healing in Jesus Christ, our Lord.

Lord in your mercy:
hear our prayer.

Let us remember all who have died in the faith of Christ, especially giving thanks for their contribution to the life and work of our world.

Lord, now that their work on earth is done, grant them your peace and eternal rest.

We remember before you the members of our own families who have died former work mates and colleagues.

We commend to you all who have died as a consequence of their work, whether on land, at sea or in the air.

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

(From 'Work in Worship', Peterborough Diocese People and Work Programme)

Intercessions for the Unemployed (Prayer)

Lord, help us to remember
that work in industry is the principal way in which we provide for our material needs and the needs of others, and helps to maintain our social services and leisure;
that work is for people, not people for work;
that money, machines and materials are things, while workers, suppliers and customers are people;
that in our type of society, those who cannot find work feel their dignity is diminished;
that life is more than work.

So let us pray
for those who seek work but cannot find it;
for those who over-work and neglect others;
for those who should work but avoid it;
for those who do work but resent it;
for those who exploit work and demean it;
for efficient production, honest marketing and responsible use of resources;
for more justice in the sharing of this world's goods in our own community and between nations;
for the unemployed, their families, and other victims of economic forces;
for all Christians at work, that they may look on their employment as ministry, and feel supported in it by
their local church;
for the whole world, as it faces the challenge of change and the impact of new technologies.

Father, Be with Those Facing Redundancy. Lead Us out from Darkness (Prayer)

Lord, we pray for your Church:
for those who lead us...
for those who teach us...
for all who break bread with us...

Help those of us who are unemployed
to share with those in work
in the struggle for justice
for all men and women.

Lead us out from darkness
to walk as children of light.

We pray for our national leaders...
for those who advise them...
for the leaders of industry and commerce...
for writers and broadcasters...
May they work together
to strengthen the weak
and empower the powerless.

Lead us from darkness
to walk as children of light.

Father, be with all of us who are in work...
those facing redundancy...
those in training...
those whose work is unpaid, or undervalued...
and those without a job...
May we support and love one another
as Christ loves and values us.

Lead us out of darkness
to walk as children of light.

Father, we pray for the casualties of our economy...
for those whose work is monotonous...
for those poorly paid...
for those suffering discrimination...
for unemployed people and their families...
for those living in poverty...
for those who are homeless...
for those who are ill...
for those in despair...
Help us reject the notion that some have the right to wealth
at the expense of others.

Lead us out from darkness
to walk as children of light.

What Sort of Foot or Hand Can I Be If I Don’t Work? (Prayer)

Unemployed… redundant… laid off… unqualified… surplus labour.

These words cut into me, severing all feeling of usefulness.
What kind of body-part am I now?
What sort of foot or hand, eye or ear, can I be if I don’t work?
Does the body still need me?

Creator God,
I’ve got this ideas I must be active and busy,
doing big things in your name;
prophesying to the world,
eradicating poverty.
Yet it is the everyday struggles
that can be so demanding:
just about making ends meet,
maintaining some dignity.
I might not have been the greatest worker
but now I’ve been put on the scrap heap.

Teacher Christ,
We need to learn a new way of being.
Show us how to be prophets in every situation,
Employed or unemployed,
Underpaid or overworked,
so that the justice of labour shared
may truly build up your body
in honour and rejoicing.

(Janet Lees & Bob Warwicker, from URC Prayer Handbook 1994)

We Pray for All Who Work at Sea (Prayer)

We pray
For all who work at sea;
For all those who give service to the Royal National Lifeboat Institute, and its work;
For Naval Chaplains, and Missions to Seamen chaplains;
For those sailing under flags of convenience;
For those working on the cross-channel ferries, and the ferries in Scotland;
For those working to bring us food: fishermen and fish farmers;
For those drilling for oil and natural gas;
For all divers.

We remember that all these face difficulty and danger.
We give thanks for their knowledge of the sea, their courage on putting out into the deep, their patience and their skill.

We pray:
For all those who cause pollution or environmental or ecological damage through negligence, carelessness, greed or accident, remembering that as we benefit from their harvest, so we share the responsibility for its side-effects.
For those anxious about over-fishing and those trying to protect whales and dolphins;
For those who have lost their boats or their jobs because of problems in the fishing and shipbuilding industries;
For those whose hobby is angling, sailing or boating.

We give thanks:
For the work of the National Rivers Authority;
For the beauty of our waterways and coasts;
For time for recreation.

We pray for those without clean water or with no water supply at all.
We remember the women whose back-breaking task it is to fetch water.
We pray for those facing drought, especially in Sub-Saharan Africa.
We pray for those whose homes or work places or fields have been destroyed by floods.
We remember the poverty that forces people to live on marginal land.
We pray for those who are sick or dying because of dirty water.

We give thanks for those who work in the water industry, who deal with sewage, who supply us with clean water - the technicians, engineers, pipelayers... all those who work for [Anglian Water - or name other area water authority.]

We give thanks for those who monitor the cleanliness of our beaches.
We remember all those who have died at sea.
We remember our own death and resurrection in the waters of baptism.

(From 'Work in Worship', Peterborough Diocese People and Work Programme)

Intercessions for Information Technology (Prayer)

Lord, we pray for those making international and national decisions about the 'Information Super-Highway';
that the whole range of considerations - political, economic, personal, sectional, communal - may be properly taken into account.

Lord, we pray for those setting up and administering national data-banks; we give thanks for the good they can do in co-ordinating information. We remember those who misuse the information they hold.

Lord, we pray for those involved in Research and Development in computers; we remember the power and responsibility they have for making changes in our world and our lives. We remember those who have lost their jobs as a result of new technology.

Lord, we pray for those who have boring keyboard jobs, those who suffer from Repetitive Strain Injury, or eyestrain. We pray for willingness to deal with the causes of such problems.

Lord, we pray for those in small computing businesses; the difficulties they face in chasing creditors; the stress on them, the risks they have to take - perhaps even with their own homes.

Lord, we pray for those who write computer games: some which are used to do much good at school, others to encourage people to gamble, some which are used just to make money. We pray for those who are addicted to computer and arcade games, and for their families; and for those who are anxious about the violence of some computer games.

Lord, we pray for those frightened of computers and other sorts of new technology; those who feel they cannot master using them; those who feel old or who lose their confidence in the face of change and new things.

Lord, we pray that technology may be the servant, not the controller of our lives.

(From 'Work in Worship', Peterborough Diocese People and Work Programme)

Intercessions on the Theme of Vocation (Prayer)

Remember how Jesus called fishermen to be his disciples and to become fishers of men. Give thanks for their skills as fishermen, their readiness to put out into the deep to face danger and failure.

Pray for ourselves and our daily work.

Give thanks for the God-given skills we already have; pray for wise and good use of these skills in building his kingdom.

Pray for those thinking about changing their jobs - especially those unhappy or insecure at work; those feeling undervalued or unfulfilled; those who can't wait for 5pm on Friday; those who are in the wrong job.

Pray for those with no sense of direction or purpose or vocation;
for those drifting;
for those wanting to do a particular job, but enable through disability, illness, lack of confidence or lack of opportunity;
for those who are unemployed.

Pray for those at school or college now making decisions which will affect their working lives.

Pray for all Careers Advisers.

Pray for those who taught us our jobs;
for our colleagues,
for our managers.

(From 'Work in Worship', Peterborough Diocese People and Work Programme.)

Let Us Pray for Those Who Hold Together the Life of This Community (Prayer)

Let us pray for this community; for its officers and elected representatives, magistrates, police and social workers, all who have influence and authority and make decisions that affect the lives of others. Particularly let us pray for those who hold together community life in shops and offices, schools, churches and clinics, in homes and clubs and on the streets.

Lord in your mercy,
Hear our prayer.

Let us pray for industrialists and employers coping with financial difficulties and forced to make decisions that affect the lives of so many.

Lord in your mercy,
Hear our prayer.

Let us pray for those whose work is dull and monotonous, and for those whose work is dangerous, or threatens their family life by difficult hours or enforced absence for long periods.

Lord in your mercy,
Hear our prayer.

Above all let us pray for those who cannot find work and for whom redundancy and unemployment undermines their confidence in themselves, and reduces life to dull monotony.

Lord in your mercy,
Accept our prayers and praises for the sake of your Son, our Saviour Jesus Christ. Amen.

Lord Through Our Work Help Us Use, Develop and Preserve the Resources of the Earth (Prayer)

For the riches of your creation, giving us the material of the earth:
We thank you, Lord.

For human ability to unlock the secrets of nature and to develop science and technology:
We thank you, Lord.

For those engaged in scientific research, applying their skills to life-enhancing projects:
We thank you, Lord.

For agriculture, industry and commerce, providing work and wealth and goods for the world:
We thank you, Lord.

For all who work in transport and distribution, service industries and local government, that in giving service they may find reward:
Hear our prayer.

For those in management and the trade unions, that mutual respect and good relations may obtain:
Hear our prayer.

For the unemployed and the handicapped, that they may not lose hope, and may find a positive role in life:
Hear our prayer.

For young people at work, and those who educate and train them, that they may find promise and aspiration fulfilled:
Hear our prayer.

Lord the Creator, whose great goodness has provided for our needs; help us so to use, develop and preserve the resources of the earth that, through our science, technology and industry, the needs of all may be fulfilled, the dignity of all enhanced, and the well-being and safety of the planet ensured; through Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen.

God Gave Us Freedom to Squander or Invest His Gifts – May He Prosper the Work of Our Hands (Prayer)

May the goodness of God be upon us:
May he prosper the work of our hands.

God has given us freedom and strength to squander his gifts or invest them.
May the goodness of God be upon us:
May he prosper the work of our hands.

God has given us talents and skills to multiply good in the world.
May the goodness of God be upon us:
May he prosper the work of our hands.

God has given us various virtues to help build the life of the whole.
May the goodness of God be upon us:
May he prosper the work of our hands.

God has shown us the way to true riches by the self-giving love of his Son.
May the goodness of God be upon us:
May he prosper the work of our hands.

Heavenly Father, by your Son Jesus Christ you taught us that all that we have comes from your generosity. Help us to be faithful stewards of our time, our talents and our wealth; that by diligent pursuit of profit we may create prosperity, not for our ease alone, but for the building up of your kingdom of justice and peace, where you reign one God, now and for ever. Amen.

Let Us Pray for All Christians at Work, That They May Look on Their Employment As Ministry (Prayer)

Lord, we remember
that work in industry is the principal way in which we provide for our material needs and the needs of others, and help to maintain our social services and leisure;
that work is for people, not people for work;
that money, machines and materials are things, while workers, suppliers and customers are people;
that in our type of society, those who cannot work feel their dignity is diminished;
that life is more than work.

Let us thank God
for the gift of life and the resources of the world;
for our share in the continuing work of creation;
for human skill and inventiveness, enterprise and hard work.

Let us bless the Lord:
Thanks be to God.

Let us thank God
for industry, commerce and administration and its many products of food, transport, roads, houses, clothing, medicines, machines, fresh water, sewage disposal, heat and light, milk and mail;
for those who work to maintain the fabric of our community, in shops, offices, factories and farms.

Let us thank God
for engineers and technologists, for technicians and sales people, for those who work in finances, and industrial research and development;
for those who plan and manage;
for the principal organisations of industry, for companies, for professional associations, for employers' organisations and the trade unions.

Let us bless the Lord:
Thanks be to God.

Let us thank God
that we are made in the image of his Son;
called to share in his reconciling work, called to resist evil, to transform nature and to proclaim his concern for people.

Let us bless the Lord:
Thanks be to God.

Let us thank God
for those who are not employed but still contribute to the life and well-being of society - for housewives, the retired, the disabled, the unemployed, and children.

Let us bless the Lord:
Thanks be to God.

Let us pray
for those who seek work but cannot find it;
for those who over-work and neglect others;
for those who should work but avoid it;
for those who do work but resent it;
for those who exploit work and demean it.

Lord in your mercy:
Hear our prayer.

Let us pray
for efficient production, honest marketing and responsible use of resources;
for the unemployed, their families and other victims of economic forces;
for more justice in the sharing of the world's goods in our own community and between nations;

Lord in your mercy:
Hear our prayer.

Let us pray
for all Christians at work, that they may look on their employment as ministry and feel supported in it by their local church;
for the whole world, as it faces the challenge of change and the impact of new technologies.

Lord in your mercy:
Hear our prayer.

For the Potential You Have Given Us and the Possibilities That Lies Before Us, We Thank You (Prayer)

For the potential you have given us
For the possibilities that lies before us
We thank you, heavenly Father.

For our plans and their fulfilment
For your promises and their enjoyment
We thank you, heavenly Father.

In the problems that await us
In the perils that will meet us
Protect us, heavenly Father.

In the pains of our achievements
In the powers that would control us
Protect us, heavenly Father.

In our purposes and leisure
In our passions and our pleasure
Protect us, heavenly Father.

(David Adam 'Power Lines')

Instill in Each of Us at Our Work New Attitudes to Your Economy (Prayer)

Lord of all creation, alive in the health and wealth of your world,
You invest in humanity a profound trusteeship.
Instill in each of us at our work new attitudes to your economy,
That we may generate wealth, distribute it with justice and enhance the well-being and common good of communities and nations;
while renewing the capacity of this awesome earth;
through Jesus Christ, our example and our living Lord.

(Peter Challen)

Enable Us to Develop the Economy of This Nation (Prayer)

Almighty God, you have made us in your own image
and given us power over the rest of your creation.
Enable us to develop the economy of this nation
In a way suited to the needs of its people.
Provide, we pray, the financial resources required.
Help us to make good use of all our human resources,
to develop the land with crops and livestock,
and to plan wisely in industry and commerce.
Show us the dangers we face in our current practices
and help us to learn from our mistakes.
May we not impoverish our country,
destroy its natural wealth and beauty,
pollute its environment,
or lose sight of you;
for the sake of Jesus Christ our Lord.

(Adapted from 'Prayers for Today' by W N Richards and J Richardson, Uzima Press, Nairobi 1977)

God, Inspire All Decision Makers to Be Responsible to Stakeholders (Prayer)

Almighty God, creator and sustainer of all things, Inspire all who are in positions of authority and responsibility in every aspect of industry and commerce, that they may be aware of their responsibilities in all their decision-making, not only for justice towards their customers, their suppliers, their fellow employees and their shareholders, but for the well-being of the wider community. May they also remember their responsibility for stewardship of all the resources you have given us in your creation; this we ask through Jesus Christ, your Son our Lord.

(James Siddons)

Endow Us With Wisdom to Use Your Resources to Create Wealth for All People (Prayer)

O God, the creator of the universe and for all the resources therein;
endow us with the wisdom and will to use them to our best ability to create wealth for the benefit of all communities and peoples.
Keep us from the temptation to divert them for personal gain only;
rather may we ensure a more equitable distribution to all humankind.
Keep us from abdicating our responsibilities to others and make us truly accountable for all our activities, not least to you;
through Jesus Christ our Lord and Saviour.

(Fred Bonner)

O God, You Sent Moses to Help Those Required to Make Bricks Without Straw (Prayer)

O God, our freedom,
who sent Moses to those required to make bricks without straw,
Help us to empower those who are overloaded by oppressive contracts or conditions of work,
that they may share in the freedom of your good purposes,
and may know once again the dignity of those made in your image;
through Jesus Christ whose work was to restore our full humanity.

(Ian Yearsley)

We Give Thanks for the Fellowship of Every Place Where Work Is Shared (Prayer)

O Christ, whose risen presence gave abundance to the everyday task of the disciples at Tiberias,
We give thanks for the fellowship of every place where work is shared.
We pray that all may know that they share in your creative task,
in fellowship with you and one another.

(Ian Yearsley - adapted)

We Pray for the Early-Retired, Those Made Redundant or Whose Businesses Have Collapsed (Prayer)

O God, our companion in the wilderness,
we pray for the early-retired, those made redundant or whose businesses have collapsed,
that they may find new opportunities to labour, and a new sense of their own value.

(Ian Yearsley adapted)

May Our Work Fulfill Our Needs and the Needs of Others (Prayer)

Thank you for the abundance of your creation,
For our part in making and shaping it.
May our work fulfill our needs and the needs of others,
Through it, may we be able to enjoy our lives and give joy to others.

(Pam Ware)

Thank You for Work Which Fills Our Days and Tests Our Mettle (Prayer)

Thank you for rest and play,
but above all for our work,
which gives us purpose,
fills our days,
tests our mettle,
develops our skills.
Thank you for shared endeavour,
which binds us together,
breaks down boundaries,
enhances our achievements.

(Tony Lucas - adapted)

Thank You for Those Whose Ambitions Are Matched by Integrity (Prayer)

Father, we offer you our human enterprises,
with all their aspirations,
with all their failures.
Thank you for those whose ambitions are matched by integrity, who strive for justice as well as their own advancement.
Thank you for those whose long-range vision eschews short term solutions.
For those who reject conventional wisdom and speak unpopular truths.

(John Cribb - adapted)

Lord of This World, We Work, We Watch, We Wait for You (Prayer)

Lord of this world
We work
We watch
We wait for you.
Come down
Come in
Come among us.

Lord of this life
We labour
We look
We long for you.
Come down
Come in
Come among us.

Lord of this second
We strive
We serve
We search for you.
Come down
Come in
Come among us.

That we may dwell in you
And you in us
For ever.

(David Adam)

In The Light of The City at Night (Prayer)

The Spirit is suffering, striving, creating,
Blessings, guidance and fierce and tender love
for those who wake while others sleep:
on night shifts in factories…
watching over buildings…
traveling through the city…
cleaning offices…
stocking supermarket shelves;;;
in ambulances, police cars, fire engines…
observing and researching…
alert of power stations and waterworks…
at telephone exchanges…
at parties and night clubs…
driving taxis, buses, coaches, trains…
flying over the city in planes…
speeding by the city on motorways…
thieving and attacking in the dark…
searching out the secrets of others…
hustling and walking the streets…
huddling in doorways…
listening to those in despair…
crying out in loneliness…
suddenly taken ill…
trying to sleep but cannot…
restless and awake in hospital…
coping with crises…
watching and caring…
awake with young children…
calming the confused…
dying at home, in hospice or hospital…
keeping vigil with them...
… and those on the other side of the world for whom it is day.

(c. Jim Cotter)

Lord We Pray That People May Increasingly Work Together in Agreement (Prayer)

Lord we pray,
That people may increasingly work together in agreement,
doing things which are sane to do,
with mutual helpfulness and tolerance;

That the great masses of humanity
may rise out of dwarfing pressures and cramped surroundings
To understanding and participation;

That the resources of the earth
may be husbanded and harvested,
economised and used
with scientific skill for the maximum of human benefit;

That towns and cities may be finely built
and men and women finely taught and trained;

That there may be open ways
and peace and freedom
from end to end of the earth;

That through the great body of humankind
may go evermore
an increasing common understanding,
an intensifying fellowship. Amen.

(Prayers for the City of God - slightly adapted)

Open to Us a Clearer Prospect of Our Work (Prayer)

Behold, O Lord God, our strivings after a truer and more abiding order.
Give us visions that bring glory to the earth, and dreams that foreshadow the better order which Thou hast prepared for us.
Scatter every excuse of frailty and unworthiness:
consecrate us all with a heavenly mission;
open to us a clearer prospect of our work.
Give us strength according to our day gladly to welcome our tasks and gratefully to fulfill them;
through Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen.

(Bishop Westcott - adapted)

O Christ, the Master Carpenter, Wield Well Your Tools (Prayer)

O Christ, the Master Carpenter,
who at the last through wood and nails purchased our whole salvation;
wield well your tools in the workshop of your world,
so that we who come rough-hewn to your work bench may be fashioned to a truer beauty by your hand.
Amen.

God You Have Created Us to Depend on One Another (Prayer)

O God of all power and all love,
you have created us to depend on one another.
Make us aware of our reliance on the work and integrity of our fellows.
Make us sensitive to their needs and their requirement of us,
and by your grace enable us to serve them faithfully and wisely.
Father, we commit our lives to your service;
through Jesus Christ our Lord.
Amen.

God Has Given Us Talents and Skills to Multiply Good in the World (Prayer)

May the goodness of God be upon us:
May he prosper the work of our hands.

God has given us freedom and strength
To invest his gifts or squander them.

May the goodness of God be upon us:
May he prosper the work of our hands.

God has given us talents and skills
To multiply good in the world:

May the goodness of God be upon us:
May he prosper the work of our hands.

God has shown us the way to true riches
By the self-giving love of his Son.

May the goodness of God be upon us:
May he prosper the work of our hands.

God, Who Ordained That Your Son Jesus Christ Should Labor With His Hands (Prayer)

Almighty God,
who ordained that your Son Jesus Christ should labour with his hands
to supply his own needs and the needs of others;
teach us that no labour is without worth
and that all labour to which you call us in divine;
to the glory of your holy name.
Amen.

Let Us Pray for the World of Technology and Scientific Research (Prayer)

Let us pray for the world of technology and scientific research.

Lord, you have endowed human beings with the ability to search out your laws
and have given them the freedom to apply their knowledge as they choose.
We ask your blessing on all engaged in scientific research and technology
and on those who provide the resources for such work;
that choice may be made of projects
which both enhance human life and have regard to the safety and well-being of the natural order.
May we thus be true stewards of your bounty,
to our own inner satisfaction and your greater glory.
Amen.

(David Welbourn)

We Pray for Those Forced by Necessity to Work on Projects They Oppose (Prayer)

We remember that there are some who find themselves working on projects whose value they doubt or whose likely outcome they disapprove.
Help them, Lord, to decide whether to stay on in the hope of effecting change or whether to leave.
Especially we pray for those forced by economic necessity to remain in uncongenial work.
May they know your forgiveness,
and may the world of science and technology be ever open to your redeeming Spirit,
that your will may be fulfilled in all that we do.
Amen.

(David Welbourn)

For All Who Are Working, Help Us As We Work (Prayer)

We pray for all who are working today; be with them at home, in the city, in the factory and in the fields.
Lord, help us as we work.

We pray for all who plan and build our cities; give them respect for every human value.
Lord, help us as we work.

Pour out your Spirit on artists, craftsmen and musicians; may their work bring variety, joy and inspiration to our lives.
Lord, help us as we work.

We pray for those who have no work; we pray for the disabled and the sick, for those who cannot find work, and for those who are retired.
Father, give them your strength.

(Phil Aspinall - adapted)

Closing Prayers About Work

These Closing Prayers are part of "Work in Worship," a collection of material for work-themed services compiled by David Welbourn. For more prayers, songs, readings and sermons, click on the table of contents to the right.

God our Father, Lord of all the world, we thank you that you have called us into the fellowship of your universal Church. Hear our prayer for all your faithful people, that in our vocation and ministry each may be an instrument of your love; through our Lord and Saviour Jesus Christ. Amen.

******

Be with us, O Lord,
as we now pray in your holy house;
and go with us as we return
to take up the common duties of life.
In worship and work alike
let us know your presence near us;
till work itself becomes worship,
and every thought be to your praise;
through Jesus Christ, our Saviour. Amen.

******

Christ our partner,
you invite us to bear your yoke,
so that sharing in your work,
we may find our true selves
in relationship with you
and with those
we would bring to your friendship.

******

ENVIRONMENT

Leader: Let us go now to enjoy and care for God's good creation.

All: Lord, in our grateful enjoyment of your creation may we come to know and love you more each day. Amen.

(From 'Celebrating Work' by Corrymeela [c.] )

******

As we prepare to leave
and embrace the challenges
of our lives and our world,
let us ask for God's blessing:
May God bless us with strength to seek justice.
Amen.

May God bless us with the wisdom to care for our earth.
Amen.

May God bless us with love to bring forth new life.
Amen.

******

FURTHER ALONG THE PILGRIM ROAD

Lord God,
we thank you for calling us
into the company of those
who trust in Christ
and seek to obey his will;
we are strangers no longer
but pilgrims together
on the way to your kingdom.
May your Spirit
guide, strengthen and send us out
in mission and service to your world,
to live and work
to your praise and glory. Amen.

(The Pilgrim Prayer – adapted. c. All Year Round, 1996, The Council of Churches for Britain and Ireland)

******

We commit ourselves
to hold the truth as it is in Jesus,
to support each other in good and ill,
to challenge evil with the power of love,
to offer the kingdom in political and economic witness,
to work for the new community of all humanity,
and to risk ourselves in the lifestyle of sharing.

(Sheffield Eucharist Congregation, in ed. John Vincent, ‘Community Worship’, Ashram Community Trust)

******

The one who believes in Christ
will do the work he does.

Christ the bridge-builder,
help us to work with you and for you.
Help us to choose hope
and through the power of the Spirit
help us to rebuild
God’s community of divine purpose
in partnership with all your people.

(Kate McIllhagga, in URC Prayer Handbook 1993)

******

Eternal God,
make our spirits open to the moving of your Holy Spirit,
that being in tune with you at all times,
we may carry out your will
each day of our lives. Amen.

(Bob Garner, in ‘For the Healing of the Nations’, (Methodist) Prayer Handbook 1996-1997)

******

Gracious God,
let us be partners in shaping the future
with a faith which quarrels with the present
for the sake of what might be.

(From Taiwan, in ‘For the Healing of the Nations’, (Methodist) Prayer Handback 1996-1997)

******

Loving and holy God, walk with us we pray,
that in the midst of change we may feel guided and held in love
and that in familiar routine
we may see now things to light up our way;
through Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen.

(Robin Hutt, in ‘For the Healing of the Nations’, (Methodist) Prayer Handback 1996-1997)

******

Lord God, your goodness never changes
While you make all things new.
Give us such faith in your goodness
That we may remain secure
As we share in your continual activity
And rejoice in the new creation you are bringing into being;
Through Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen.

(John Sampson, in ‘For the Healing of the Nations’, (Methodist) Prayer Handback 1996-1997)

******

******

O Lord our God, King of the universe
who has given us the opportunity to work
and in our work, to provide for our families
and to serve other men and women,
give us the vision to see our daily work as the work of your kingdom
and do it in a spirit of willing service;
through Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen.

(c. Christine Allen, David Durston, Chris Powell and Wendy S Robins, SUNDAY, MONDAY Resources Books, Cassell and Scripture Union 1995)

******

Give us the vision, O God our King,
to see beyond the in-tray and the computer screen
and to recognize our daily work
as the work of your kingdom
and to do it gladly to your glory;
through Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen.

(c. Christine Allen, David Durston, Chris Powell and Wendy S Robins, SUNDAY, MONDAY Resources Books, Cassell and Scripture Union 1995)

Let Us Go to Our Work Stimulated by Hope (Prayer)

Let us go to our work and into our relationships
stimulated by hope,
strengthened by faith,
directed by love,
to play our part in the liberation of all people,
in the name of Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen.

3 Methodist Closing Prayers About Work (Prayer)

1) With the power of the Holy Spirit to aid us and with the presence of Christ to guide us, we dedicate ourselves to your work. Amen.

2) Lord, you have called us to journey with you.
You have promised to provide for our needs.
We go forward into an unknown future, certain of your guiding hand, aware of your presence, and trusting in you for all that may come.
In the name of him who trusted completely to your will, our Lord Jesus Christ. Amen.

3) God, who calls men and women to follow,
enlarge our vision of you.
Let your Spirit move through us, filling us with light and life.
Make us clear channels of your love and grace
that we might serve you in serving others.
Jesus, the light of the world, goes with us. Amen.

(c. Barbara A Scott ‘Shaping Prayer’, Methodist Publishing House 1996)

May The Creator of All Enable You to Create (Prayer)

May God the Father, the Creator and Lord of all, who calls you to share in his creative purpose, enable you to create after the pattern of his Son and in the power of his Spirit. And may the blessing of God Almighty, Father, Son and Holy Spirit be with you in your work and in your homes, this day and for evermore. Amen.

Biddings and Blessings from the Methodist Church in the Caribbean and the Americas (Prayer)

1) Go forth into the world in peace, be of good courage, hold fast to that which is good, render to no-one evil for evil, strengthen the faint-hearted, help the afflicted, honour all persons, rejoicing in the power of the Holy Spirit.

And the blessing of Almighty God, Father, Son and Holy Spirit, be with you always. Amen.

2) O God our Father, whose blessed Son came not to be served but to serve: give us grace to follow his example and unite us in the service of your Kingdom; through Jesus Christ our Lord, who is alive and reigns with you and the Holy Spirit, one God, now and for ever. Amen.

3) Almighty God, who has given you the will, also grant you the strength to complete the work which he has begun in you, to the honour and glory of his name.
And the blessing….

4) Make all our words fit for your hearing
Make all our deeds acceptable in your sight
Sanctify all our thoughts and desires
And grant that, being pure in heart, we may see you; through Jesus Christ, your Son, who lived and died that we might have life. Amen.

5) O God, our Father, in Jesus Christ your Son you have called us to true discipleship and service.
Help us to be always watchful of our attitudes, so that when Christ comes in glory to receive us we may be prepared to enter with him into his Kingdom.
Help us to be faithful in all our relationships and diligent in all our work, so that we can be trusted to be and to do what you expect of us.
Help us to be peacemakers wherever we are, so that as we strive for truth and justice we may do so with humility as children of your Kingdom.
Help us to be so Christ-like on earth, that finally we may reign with Christ in heaven. Amen.

6) O God, since without you we are unable to please you; mercifully grant that your Holy Spirit may in all things direct and rule our hearts; through Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen.

From the Prayer Book of the Methodist Church in the Caribbean and the Americas, c. The Methodist Publishing House

Lord, Whatever We Do, Give Us a Sense of Achievement (Prayer)

Lord,
Whatever we build,
Give us a glimpse of your glory.
Whatever we make,
Give us a sense of wonder,
Wherever we travel,
Give us a sense of reverence.
Whoever we meet,
Give us a sense of awe.
Whatever we do,
Give us a sense of achievement.
Whatever our situation,
Give us knowledge of you.

(David Adam 'Power Lines')

Mighty God, Give Us Strength To Do What You Would Have Us Do (Prayer)

Mighty God,
Holy and strong one,
Give us strength
To do what you would have us do;
Deliver us from lack of purpose.
Free us from confusion of mind;
Save us from loss of integrity.
Maintain in us visions and ideals.
Sustain our openness and generosity.
Help us to continue to work for you,
That we may serve you all our days,
Mighty God
Holy and strong one.

(David Adam 'Power Lines')

Wrestle With the Chaos and the Pain (Prayer)

Be in love with life,
wrestle with the chaos and the pain,
with yourself and with others,
spirit echoing Spirit,
trusting in the victory of the vulnerable,
glimpsing the peace, the wholeness,
the spaciousness, the justice and the joy
that comes from following the Pioneer
made perfect in suffering,
striving and yearning and crying out
from the depths and the heights
of the world’s anguish and the world’s bliss,
and so becoming friends and partners of God
in the divine creating.

(Jim Cotter)

Bless All Our Intention by Your Intervention (Prayer)

Lord of all,
You made us for yourself
And for your great glory.
Bless us body and soul,
Shield us, keep us whole.
Bless all our intention
By your intervention.
Bless our words and all our deeds,
Guide us where our action leads.
Bless the workings of our mind,
Make us sensitive and kind.
Make us gentle in our dealings,
Bless our hearts with finer feelings,
Fill our lives with joyous laughter
And with glory ever after.

(David Adam 'Power Lines')

Lord, Extend Our Vision, to Perceive That This Is Your World (Prayer)

O Lord,
Extend our vision,
Our clearness of sight;
Open our eyes to see
Beyond the obvious,
To perceive that this is your world;
You are in it,
You invade it,
You pervade it,
You enfold it,
It is immersed in you.
Here we encounter you,
Here we meet you,
Here you come to us,
Here your present waits to be revealed.

(David Adam 'Power Lines')

Grant Us a Vision, Lord, to Give Heed to Your Constant Call (Prayer)

Grant us a vision, Lord,
To see what we can achieve
To reach out beyond ourselves
To share our lives with others
To stretch our capabilities
To increase our sense of purpose
To be aware of where we can help
To be sensitive to your Presence
To give heed to your constant call.

(David Adam 'Power Lines')

God, You Have Called Us to Serve You in the Midst of the World’s Affairs (Prayer)

O Lord our God,
Who has called us to serve you,
In the midst of the world's affairs,
When we stumble, hold us;
When we fail, lift us up;
When we are hard pressed with evil, deliver us;
When we turn from what is good, turn us back;
And bring us at last to your glory.

(Alcuin, ca.735-804)

Lord Jesus Christ, Help Me to Follow and Find You in the World Today (Prayer)

Lord Jesus Christ,
alive and at large in the world,
help me to follow and find you there today,
in the places where I work,
meet people,
spend money,
and make plans.
Take me as a disciple of your kingdom,
to see through your eyes,
and here the questions you are asking,
to welcome all others with your trust and truth,
and to change the things that contradict God's love,
by the power of the cross
and the freedom of your spirit.
Amen.

(John V Taylor)

Prayer About Work From The Office of Compline (Prayer)

Support us, O Lord,
All the day long of this troublous life,
Until the shades lengthen,
And evening comes,
The busy world is hushed,
The fever of life is over,
And our work done.
Then, Lord, in your mercy,
Grant us safe lodging,
A holy rest,
And peace at the last;
through Jesus Christ our Lord.

(The Office of Compline)

Lord, May We Return to Our Work Knowing Your Risen Presence Is With Us (Prayer)

Lord of all life and power,
who through the resurrection of your Son
overcame sin and evil
to make all things new;
may we return to our work
knowing your risen presence is with us
and your love is within us. Amen.

(YMCA 'Windows into Worship', grey section p.6)

Lord, You Have Put Your Creation in Our Hands (Prayer)

Lord Jesus Christ,
We have put our lives in your hands,
But you have put your creation in our hands
Take us,
Shake us,
Transform us.
No longer is what we have been,
what we have done, important;
It is what, with you, we might be,
what we might do.
Starting not tomorrow, but now. Amen.

(YMCA 'Windows into Worship', blue section p.6)

For the Potential You Have Given Us, We Thank You, Heavenly Father (Prayer)

For the potential you have given us
For the possibilities that lie before us
We thank you, heavenly Father.

For our plans and their fulfillment
For your promises and their enjoyment
We thank you, heavenly Father.

In the problems that await us
In the perils that will meet us
Protect us, Heavenly Father.

In the pains of our achievements
In the powers that would control us
Protect us, Heavenly Father.

In our purpose and leisure
In our passions and our pleasure
Protect us, Heavenly Father.

(David Adam)

You Are Salt for the Earth, O People, Salt for the Kingdom of God (Prayer)

You are salt for the earth, O people,
salt for the kingdom of God;
share the flavour of life, O people,
life in the kingdom of God.

Bring forth the kingdom of mercy,
bring forth the kingdom of peace,
bring forth the kingdom of justice,
bring forth the city of God.

You are the light on the hill, O people,
light for the city of God;
shine so holy and bright, O people,
shine for the kingdom of God

Bring forth the kingdom of mercy,
bring forth the kingdom of peace,
bring forth the kingdom of justice,
bring forth the city of God.

Almighty God, Sustainer of Daily Life and Work (Prayer)

Almighty God,
sustainer of daily life and work,
and provider of all our needs.
Open our hearts to your creative power
so that we may know your will,
praise your name,
and share your vision for the creation of your
kingdom. Amen.

May God, the Giver of All Gifts, Fulfill Your Desire for the Prosperity of Your Industries (Prayer)

May God, the giver of all good gifts, fill you with his wisdom and the understanding of his will.
May he fulfil your just desire for the prosperity of your industries.
May his Spirit reign in these towns and in all places and in all places of your employment.
And may he give peace in our time.

And the blessing of God Almighty, the Father, the Son and the Holy Spirit be upon you and remain with you always. Amen.

With Listening Ears and Obedient Feet We Journey On With Christ (Prayer)

With listening ears and hearts,
With open minds, obedient feet,
We journey on with Christ,
And choose again the pilgrim way.
In new obedience to the vision we have caught,
We offer time and talents, energy and love
To serve the Prince of Peace
In worship, in active partnership, in hope.
Help us to take the risk of reaching out
For peace and justice in your name. Amen.

St Ignatius Loyola: Teach Us, Good Lord, to Toil (Prayer)

Teach us, good Lord,
To serve thee as thou deservest;
To give and not to count the cost;
To fight and not to heed the wounds;
To toil and not for seek for rest;
To labour and not to ask for any reward
Save that of knowing that we do thy will.

(St Ignatius Loyola)

Into Your Hands, Lord, We Commit Our Lives, Our Work and the Tasks That Await Us (Prayer)

Into your hands, Lord, we commit our lives, our work and the tasks that await us, our homes and our families, our loved ones, and especially those in need. Bless all who work in our county, in whatever capacity or occupation, and may we all, through your grace, play our part in building your kingdom on earth. We offer these prayers in the name of your Son, our Saviour Jesus Christ. Amen.

Lord God, We Have Doubted Your Power to Achieve Your Purposes (Prayer)

Lord God, we confess our lack of faith especially when we have doubted your power to achieve your purposes. Help us to put our trust in your strength, and to know that you still work through those committed to you.

(From ‘Companion to the Lectionary, Volume 3’, c. Neil Dixon, Epworth 1983)

We Thank You, Lord, That Our Life and Ministry Are Set in a Time of Challenge (Prayer)

We thank you, Lord, that our life and ministry
are set in a time of challenge;
that our faith is tested,
our ways rough and uncharted;
and we thank you for the promise
to save us in the time of trial.
Thus you teach us to depend on your grace,
and to live close to you
in humility and hope. Amen.

(From ‘Companion to the Lectionary, Volume 3’, c. Neil Dixon, Epworth 1983)

We Thank You, Father, That You Have Called Us Together to Build the City of God (Prayer)

We thank you, Father, that you have called us together
to build the city of God.
Grant us a vision of your world as it might be:
a world of justice, fellowship and peace,
founded not on force but on love.
Lord, hear the prayer of our hearts
as we pledge our time and our energy and our thought
to make this world what you intend it to be. Amen.

(From ‘Companion to the Lectionary, Volume 3’, c. Neil Dixon, Epworth 1983)