Prayers of the People: Intercessions for the Beatitudes

 These intercessions were written by the Rev. John Kirkley for use at St. James Episcopal Church, San Francisco.  The people's responses are in bold type.

Let us pray in the name of Jesus for the blessings he has promised.

We remember, Lord Jesus, all who doubt and all who have been betrayed by those in power, that through the experience of your love they may learn to trust again.

Blessed are the poor in spirit

For theirs is the kingdom of heaven.

We remember, Lord Jesus, those who have died and all who are grieving, that through their loss they may come to know a larger wholeness.

Blessed are those who mourn

For they will be comforted.

We remember, Lord Jesus, those who are disregarded and forgotten: pour out your Spirit upon them that all may recognize their dignity and power. 

Blessed are the meek

For they will inherit the earth.

We remember, Lord Jesus, all who struggle for freedom and justice; may the bread we break and the cup we share be tokens of our solidarity with them and a sign of hope.

Blessed are those who hunger and thirst for righteousness

For they will be filled.

We remember, Lord Jesus, all who offer compassionate service to those who suffer, that through them your mercy may extended to all in need or trouble.

Blessed are the merciful

For they will receive mercy.

We remember, Lord Jesus, with gratitude all who seek the truth of your way of life: may their vision inspire us to live with awareness and renounce deception and distraction.

Blessed are the pure in heart

For they will see God.

We remember, Lord Jesus, your witness to the power of sacrificial love; may we share in your mission of reconciliation through the practice of nonviolent resistance to evil.

Blessed are the peacemakers

For they will be called children of God.

We remember, Lord Jesus, the prophets and apostles, martyrs and mystics, who have shone with the light of your love in dark times; may we be the light of the world in our day.

Blessed are those who are persecuted for righteousness sake

For theirs is the kingdom of heaven.

We claim these promised blessings

in the strong name of Jesus.  Amen.