Great God, Ancient of Days
At this Ascension tide
may we catch a glimpse of your glory,
be singed by the heat of your burning rays
We pray for our world
in the pomp of its self-confidence and pride
for the warmongers and the moneymakers
for the wheelers and dealers
for the games played with the lives of the poor
Come Ancient of Days
in love and wisdom, in truth and justice
reveal to us the way of peace
Lord in your mercy...
Great God, Father of the Son
Mother of all creation
may we be lifted above our squabbles
by you the all loving, all holy one
We pray for our churches
country chapels nestling in the shadow of wild hills
great cathedrals lifted up above the human swarm
tiny congregations gathered together in midst of wind and rain
huge, swelling crowds singing your praise in throbbing song
suburban edifices witnessing to the settled presence of God
inner-city chapels ministering with warmth and compassion
May we each know the presence of Jesus, deep within our hearts, spiraling out in love and faith
Lord in your mercy...
Great God of love
who is closer to us than our own breath,
who is the beat of our heart, our deepest thought
Prepare us to receive the coming of the Holy Dove
We pray for all who are sick and sorrowing, for all who are finding the burden of this life almost too much to bear
We pray for our children and grandchildren as they seek to make their way in the world
and we pray for ourselves as we turn to receive once more your forgiveness, your wisdom, your love
Remake us in the glory of your Ascension
reshape us by the power of your resurrection
refill us as we await the coming of your Spirit
Lord in your mercy...