PRAYER
Prayer is at the core of who we are. In a world where there's a growing call for intercession as creation cries out, we want to be part of this movement as a church and as individuals. We aim for our lives, our homes, and our church to be places where seeking God in prayer comes first.
Remember in your Prayers this week
God’s peace and justice in Ukraine, Gaza and Lebanon, Sudan, DR Congo and all war-torn places of the world.
Those suffering the devastating effects of the Myanmar earthquake.
The bereaved.
Those who are sick, in mind, body or spirit; thinking of Stewart Stacey.
The lonely, the anxious, the homeless and hungry.
The staff at the Surgery.
The preparations for our Parish Easter Services.
The process of appointing a new vicar
Monthly Prayer Focus: April
As we journey through Lent, we take time to pause, reflect, and draw closer to God. It is a season of prayer, repentance, and renewal - a time to seek His presence in the quiet moments and open our hearts to His guidance. In our prayers, we bring our hopes and struggles, trusting in His mercy and love as we prepare for the joy of Easter.
Tearfund Prayer for Lent
“Lord Jesus,
This Lent, I join with your church around the world as we seek your presence together.
As we draw near to you, draw near to us; draw near to me.
As I read your word, guide me and speak to me.
As I pray, fill me with faith.
When I have doubts and questions,
comfort me with your closeness.
And as I work, rest, and go about my days, fill me with your everlasting love.
In Jesus’ name,
Amen.”
“Lord, grant that I may always allow myself to be guided by You,
always follow Your plans,
and perfectly accomplish Your Holy Will
May Your Will be done in time and in eternity
by me, in me, and through me.”
Gethsemane
“The grass never sleeps.
Or the roses.
Nor does the lily have a secret eye that shuts until morning.
Jesus said, wait with me. But the disciples slept.
The cricket has such splendid fringe on its feet,
and it sings, have you noticed, with its whole body,
and heaven knows if it ever sleeps.
Jesus said, wait with me.
And maybe the stars did, maybe the wind wound itself
into a silver tree, and didn’t move, maybe
the lake far away, where once he walked as on a
blue pavement,
lay still and waited, wild awake.
Oh the dear bodies, slumped and eye-shut, that could not
keep that vigil, how they must have wept,
so utterly human, knowing this too
must be a part of the story.”
Quiet Space for Prayer
Once a month we gather for prayer and reflection, focusing on God’s guidance for our next vicar and the wider needs of the church and world, believing that He hears and answers prayer.
In November 2024, we introduced prayer stations around St Mary’s for various aspects of church ministry, which remain available for all.
2nd Wednesday of the Month
9.30am | Hannen Room