Written and read by Linda Vincent and read on Sunday, April 19, 2015.

Good morning Heavenly Father,

We thank you for this beautiful day and the opportunity to worship and serve you.  You have blessed us abundantly and we appreciate the splendor of this earth.  Help us to open our hearts and minds as we study and hear your word.

Be with our congregation.  Bless the pastor and staff as they minister to us and the people of our community.  Help us all to be disciples in reaching out to others.

Lord in your mercy, hear our Prayer.

We pray for the new program against child trafficking - that these children will be released into loving homes.  Protect them from the predators that have robbed them of their childhood.  

Lord in your mercy, hear our Prayer.

We pray for those who are suffering from illness, especially Melanie Branstad and those we name in our hearts to you now.

Lord in your mercy, hear our Prayer.

We pray for those who have lost ones.  Comfort and heal them.  We pray for those who suffer from addiction and mental health that they can meet the challenges that they face.

Lord in your mercy, hear our Prayer.

Be with those who are abused and in pain.  Help them to feel your loving arms around them.  Give them the courage and strength to seek counseling and safety.

Lord in your mercy, hear our Prayer.

We thank you for the opportunity to pray and talk with you without the fear of persecution.

Lord in your mercy, hear our Prayer.

Be with the leaders of our country in the decisions they make.  Bless the men and women who serve in our military.  Protect them and keep them safe.

Lord in your mercy, hear our Prayer.

Lord we ask that you will be with our doctors and nurses as they treat the sick and the dying.  Give them the wisdom and the knowledge to heal them and comfort them.

Lord in your mercy, hear our Prayer.

We pray especially for the family of Chad and Brady Moreno from our congregation who joined you in heaven 15 years ago.  I remember my sister Karen on her birthday today as she celebrates in heaven with you.

Lord in your mercy, hear our Prayer.

Into your hands gracious Lord we commend all for whom we pray trusting in your mercy through Jesus Christ, our Savior. 

Amen.