Prayers of the faithful - Fourth of July - 4 July 2023

Lord Jesus - you followed the will of the Father.

Christ Jesus - you call us to holiness.

Lord Jesus - You call us to live out the values of freedom and liberty as good citizens of our country. 

Prayers of the faithful: Priest: As we celebrate our nation’s Independence Day this morning, we present our prayers to our heavenly Father with faith and hope. 

1. For the Church: that we Christians may become better disciples by doing all that God asks of us.

2. For a greater recognition of the gifts of the Holy Spirit: that we may utilize the gifts that we have been given and encourage one another to build up the Body of Christ and to serve those who are in need.

3. For our nation, as we celebrate our nation's Independence Day, that we may all work together to live out the values upon which our nation was founded.  

4. For a spirit of gratitude: that we may appreciate the abundance of God’s generosity toward us and rely upon God who never tires of providing for us. That we may be grateful for the freedom, liberty, and opportunities we have in our country.  

5. For those who keep us safe and healthy: for our first responders, for the men and women serving in the military, and for our medical professionals.  In gratitude for them and their sacrifices. 

6. For the sick and shut-in, for the repose of the souls of the faithful departed, for their entry into eternal life.  

7. For the prayers we hold in our hearts today.

With humble and grateful hearts, we present these prayers through your son Jesus Christ, our Lord forever and ever. AMEN.