Sola Publishing – Prayers of the Church
Fourth Sunday of Advent – December 20, 2026
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Prayers of the Day
Historical Collect  
Stir up your power, O Lord, and come. With your great might, give us your help, that whatever is hindered by our sins may be speedily accomplished by your grace; for you live and reign with the Father and the Holy Spirit, one God, now and forever. Amen. (Gelasian Sacramentary, 7th Century)
Thematic Collect  
Gracious God, the Alpha and Omega, our beginning and our end, may your Spirit kindle in us patience and peace as we wait for the coming of your Son, and the humility and boldness to proclaim his reign. We ask this through Jesus Christ, who lives and reigns with you and the Holy Spirit, one God, now and forever. Amen.
Prayers of the Church
For Faithful Witness
Emmanuel, God with us, through your Word you beckon all people to the light of your love. May your Spirit kindle in your church and particularly this congregation a desire and ability to carry the torch of faithful witness to a world in need of your message of hope and salvation. Lord in your mercy … hear our prayer.
For Safe Travel
Protecting God, grant safe journeys to those who will be traveling in the days ahead. May they be blessed with joyful homecomings. Bring us all to peaceful rest as we find ourselves at home in your presence. Grant that as we celebrate the nativity of our Lord, that we would be filled with a renewed hope for the world you love. Let Christ’s love shine through us and illuminate a world in darkness and need. Lord in your mercy … hear our prayer.  
For Leaders  
Holy Lord, give your wisdom and compassion to all who rule and guide the nations of this world.  Through their wise leadership may your saving justice be made known. Put an end to violence and destruction in the world and let your peace reign in every corner of the creation. Lord in your mercy … hear our prayer.
For Those in Affliction 
God of healing and wholeness, grant the light of your healing presence to all who are suffering illness, loss, grief, or anxiety this season. Give to all in any kind of need the assurance of your life-giving presence during trials.  [We pray particularly for …]  Remind all who are facing troubles that you are God-with-us and that your promises of new life, here and now and in eternity, are trustworthy and true. Lord in your mercy … hear our prayer.