A prayer for Bethlehem

You might wish to say this as you hang one of the Palestinian ornaments on your tree … or at any time during the Christmas season.

Lord Jesus Christ,
Born in the town of Bethlehem,
Where today there is no celebration of Christmas
Except in the hearts of your people:
Grant that those who celebrate in their hearts
May be filled with a sense of your peace and joy.
Hasten an end to all conflict
And through your healing presence and transforming love
Bring all people to live together in harmony
To the glory of your name.

Prayer – For Fairer Sharing

Available in text (below) and as PowerPoint (download here – 16:9 format).

 

A Prayer for Fairer Sharing
Based on Proverbs 13:23

Lord God,

In the fields of the poor

Even when abundant fruits ripen,

Injustice sweeps them away,

And families hunger.

Help us to share

The fruits of your bounty

So that all your family may benefit

From your gracious gifts. Amen

Fairtrade Prayer – Choices

A prayer that fits in well with the theme of ‘Choose the World You Want’

Available in text (below) and as a PowerPoint (download here in 16:9 format) 

Lord Jesus,

You revealed your Kingdom in parables

That spoke of ordinary things —

Yeast in a loaf of bread,

A woman sweeping her home.

Grant us your grace

That in the choices we make each day,

We may do what we can for justice and love,

Honour your Name,

And reveal your Kingdom present among us.

Amen

 

Fairtrade Prayers – Confession

Available in text (below) and as PowerPoint (download here – 16:9 format).

Where our choices have reflected our sin

and not your love,

Have mercy, Lord – forgive us our sins.

Where we seek help to make choices

that conform to your ways,

Grant us grace, Lord – your will be done.

Where positive choices transform unjust structures,

We praise you, Lord – your kingdom come!