Sola Publishing – Prayers of the Church
Seventeenth Sunday after Pentecost (Proper 20) – September 20, 2026
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(permission granted to active subscribers to reproduce this sheet for local congregational use)

Prayer of the Day
Historical Collect
Direct our hearts, O Lord, by your merciful reign, because without your help it is impossible to please you. Grant this, we pray, through Jesus Christ, your Son, our Lord, who lives and reigns with you and the Holy Spirit, one God, now and forever. Amen. (Gelasian Sacramentary, 7th Century) 
Thematic Collect
Steadfast God, you are slow to anger and your mercy endures forever. We all stand in your presence as beggars, completely undeserving of your mercy and grace. Awaken in us such a sense of gratitude that our own lives may reflect your overflowing generosity; through Jesus Christ, our Lord. Amen. 
Prayers of the Church
For the Confession of Christ
Heavenly Father, you have called us from among the peoples and nations of the world to be your own and to serve you with our lives. We pray that you would keep us steadfast in faith.  May we sing your praises and confess Christ as Lord to all we meet so they would know your mercy and grace. Lord in your mercy, hear our prayer.
For the Gift of Autumn 
We give you thanks, O Lord, for the gift of the seasons. As we move into the season of Autumn, may we find delight in the changing landscapes around us that reveal the beauty of your creation. May we be reminded of your never-failing presence in all the seasons of our lives.  Lord in your mercy, hear our prayer.
Make Us Generous
O Lord, source of all good things, make us respond to those around us with the same generosity that you have first shown to us. Let us put our complete trust in you alone. Lord in your mercy … hear our prayer.
For Healing Grace
Heavenly Father, pour out the healing grace of your presence on all those who are sick and suffering, [particularly ….] Restore wounded lives, hearts, and bodies by the holy anointing of your Spirit.  Lord in your mercy, hear our prayer.