prayers of the people – based on the Canticle of the Sun

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Prayers of the People

The Canticle of the Sun is a prayer/ hymn attributed to St. Francis of Assisi. Theologically, it identifies the elements of creation as sisters and brothers to humanity, and calls upon the forces of nature to praise God with us, and us with them. This version of prayers might be most beneficial during a commemoration of St. Francis.

Officiant Most high, all powerful, all good Lord!
All praise is yours, all glory, all honor, and all blessing.
And, it is to you alone, Most High, that we pray.

Intercessor You are praised, O Lord by our Brother, Sun,
who brings the day; and you give light through him.
May light be shed on your Church,
That your faithful people may bear your likeness.
O God, hear us.

You are praised, O Lord, through our Sister, Moon, and the stars;
in the heavens you have made them bright, precious and beautiful.
May the nations of the earth, whom they look down upon each night
Be blessed with your peace.
O God, hear us.

You are praised, O Lord, through our Brothers, Wind and Air,
and clouds and storms, and all the weather;
May you rain down your grace upon our nation, and it’s leaders and people.
O God, hear us.

You are praised, O Lord, through our Sister, Water;
Quench the thirst of the poor, the downtrodden, and those who are ill, or in trouble of any kind (especially…)
O God, hear us.

You are praised, O Lord, through our Brother, Fire,
through whom you brighten the night;
We pray you to brighten your Kingdom, where the souls of the faithful departed rest.
For them, as you, may there be no night.
O God, hear us.

You are praised, O Lord, through our sister, and Mother, Earth,
who feeds us and rules us,
and produces various fruits with colored flowers and herbs;
Give us the will to care for her, as you created her.
O God, hear us.

Be praised, my Lord, through those who forgive for love of you;
through those who endure sickness and trial.
Happy those who endure in peace,
for by you, Most High, they will be crowned.
O God, hear us.

Officiant O Lord, we praise and bless you, and we give you thanks,
and with all of creation, we serve you and pray to you with great humility.

The Author

follower of Jesus, father of two, husband of one, Episcopal priest, with one book down, one blog up...surrounded by empty jars of nutella

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