You are asked to please remember the following in your prayers ;
Prayers for August
2nd August
As the rain and sun ripen crops in this country, we thank God that there will be an improved harvest this year. We remember those in other lands where rain is badly needed to ensure they have sufficient to feed their families and keep animals healthy.
9th August
We pray for T.W.A.M. (Tools with a Mission) as they send Agriculture kits to Africa and for the centres that train personnel in agriculture. With the conflict affecting shipping, we pray for the safe passage of shipments and for the distribution of the kits.
16th August
Many young people receive examination results shortly enabling them to plan for further studies for A levels, Apprenticeships, or study at university. We pray that they will receive good guidance so that they are able to fulfil their ambitions. We remember those young people who continue to seek employment in their first jobs.
23rd August
We pray for those who represent us on our local, county and district councils and in Parliament. May they have wisdom as they have to make difficult decisions which affect us all.
30th August
As our youth groups return to their weekly meetings, we thank God for the guidance and support given by their leaders. We pray that the young people enjoy the challenges their programmes present enabling them to grow in confidence as they learn new skills and teamwork.
Prayers for SEPTEMBER
6 th September
After a time of relaxation, holidays and summer days, we celebrate being together again as a church family and give thanks for all we have enjoyed. For many, September brings change and new experiences and challenges. We pray especially for young people who will be changing classes at school and those who will move to a new school or on to university or apprenticeships. We also think of anyone who will be experiencing change in any way. Be with them, Lord, as they experience these new beginnings.
13 th September
Continuing the theme of education, Sunday 13th September is Education Sunday. We give thanks for teachers and all those who support learning in any way and the opportunities we all have in this country to learn. We have access to books and informative magazines and so much more via the radio or television. May we never take for granted our opportunities to learn. We pray for those around the world who are restricted in how they can access learning due to poverty, repressive regimes or simply a lack of opportunity to travel to where they can learn.
20th September
Monday 21st September is International Day of Peace and the theme is ‘Invest in Peace – For Everyone, Everywhere, Every Day’. We long for wars to cease and a halt to the devastation and resulting homelessness in war torn countries. We join together in praying for world peace and an end to the often unjustifiable reasons which have led to unnecessary wars. We pray as a church family for greater harmony and understanding between different religions both near and far.
27th September
After a summer of drought which affected our gardens and, importantly, farmers who now face poorer harvests, we pray for all those involved in providing our fresh food. Wildfires have devastated parts of the world and also in our country, including Suffolk’s much loved Dunwich Heath. We pray for all those affected by these fires. Changes to our seasons is a concern to us all but especially those who will have responsibility to lead and manage the resulting problems due to the lack of rainwater this summer and the potential for flooding when rain does come.
PRAYERS FOR OCTOBER
4 th October
Tomorrow is World Teachers' Day and we pray for everyone involved in educating and nurturing learners of all ages. We think of newly qualified teachers just starting out, those in leadership positions with decisions to make, and those putting themselves at risk to teach in dangerous places and situations. We thank you Lord for the dedication of teachers who have inspired us and helped us along the way, and the lasting impact they've had on our lives.
11th October
Today we celebrate Harvest and all the good things God has given us. We give thanks for everyone who works to bring food to our tables and we pray for farmers whose livelihoods are at risk from extremes of weather and poor crops. We ask God's blessing on our Harvest gifts, that they will help to improve lives at home and abroad.
18th October
October is Black History Month and we thank you, God, for the rich diversity of your people. Teach us to appreciate the stories, faith and achievements that have shaped our communities. Help us to value and learn from one another and work for fairness and justice.
25th October
As the clocks go back and we prepare for darker mornings and evenings ahead, we thank you Lord that your light never fades. Bring us comfort when life gets us down and help us to share your love generously with those around us.