Pentecost 2

Bible Readings

First reading: 1 Kings 19:1-4, (5-7) 8-15a

Psalm: Psalms 42 and 43

Second reading: Galatians 3:23-29

Gospel: Luke 8:26-39 

Why are you cast down, O my soul,

and why are you disquieted within me?

Hope in God;

for I shall again praise him,

my help and my God.

Psalm 42:11 and Psalm 43:5

PRAYER FOR THE UNITING CHURCH IN AUSTRALIA 
on the 42^nd Anniversary of its formation, 22/6/2019.

Gracious and loving God,
We thank you for the Uniting Church in Australia,
for the ways your Spirit empowers us to participate in your liberating mission in the world.

You call us to be your Pilgrim People, responsive to your leading, as we witness to your reconciling love in our communities.

At this time in our life as the Uniting Church,
May your Holy Spirit weave us together as the Body of Christ, a community of grace and hope.

Renew and strengthen us as your Church –
Where there is hurt and pain, bring your comfort and healing.

Where we have caused hurt to one another, bring forgiveness and reconciliation.

Where our community and unity are strained, give us patience to listen to one another, to see your presence in one another, and to love our sisters and brothers in Christ, as you have first loved us.

Where there is uncertainty and confusion, bring your guidance and light.
Lead us forward in ways that are faithful to your mission
in the world.

We pray for our Congregations and Faith Communities, that they may be a source of your healing, hope, compassion and love, and welcoming and hospitable places to worship and serve. Send your Holy Spirit upon us, fill us with passion for Christ’s mission, so that we will be courageous bearers of God’s good news of love, justice and healing in your world.

Through Christ we pray. Amen.

by President of the UCA Dr Deidre Palmer