Weekly Theme W/C 28 th May 2012 “What do you need to make you happy?”

John 20:19-23 On the evening of that first day of the week, when the disciples were together, with the doors locked for fear of the Jewish leaders, Jesus came and stood among them and said, “Peace be with you!” After he said this, he showed them his hands and side. The disciples were overjoyed when they saw the Lord. Again Jesus said, “Peace be with you! As the Father has sent me, I am sending you.” And with that he breathed on them and said, “Receive the Holy Spirit. If you forgive anyone’s sins, their sins are forgiven; if you do not forgive them, they are not forgiven.”

All loving God, your Spirit is dwelling deep in the hearts of each of us, urging us to work for peace, justice, reconciliation and respect for the wonderful world you have given us. We ask that you give us the courage we need to see your Holy Spirit at work within us and among us, and lead us into more joyful and courageous ways of working together for the coming of your Kingdom. Amen

When the Holy Spirit controls our lives, she will produce this kind of fruit in us: love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control. from Galatians 5

Lead us in your ways God of love, fill us with your grace. Move us, strengthen and renew us. Lead us in your ways. Open our hearts to answer the demands of others, and to seek your face in all those who cry out for justice. Spirit of God, prompt us to respond to your love and seek a glimpse of your Kingdom here on earth.

How many there are that would do better not to call themselves Christians, because they have no faith. They have more faith in their money and possessions than in the God who fashioned their possessions and their money.’ Archbishop Oscar Romero, Pentecost, 1979

God the Holy Spirit Remove from us all desire for more money and possessions and cease our relentless quest for comforts that we do not need. Make us aware of how much we already have and help us to share our wealth and time in partnership with all of humanity. Ignite in us the fire of your love so that, filled with your Spirit, our faith is awakened by renewed commitment and deed. Amen.

Beautiful Lord, may we say “yes” to You so that the Spirit in our hearts will once again be set ablaze. Spirit of Wisdom, guide our actions so they tell of God’s love. Spirit of Truth, open our eyes to see the world as it really is. Spirit of Power, enthuse us to work for justice throughout the world. Spirit of Love, inspire us to respect the dignity of each person. Come, Holy Spirit, fill the hearts of your faithful. Come, Holy Spirit, fill our hearts. Come, Holy Spirit, fill us. Come, Holy Spirit. Come.

Spirit of justice and community Give us the confidence to challenge injustice and to nurture the flame of justice until it burns brightly and may the Spirit of justice and community accompany you and light your way. May this Spirit move you, heal you, guide you and challenge you call you to action and to prayer. May this passion for justice burn through you and in you and may it warm the hearts of those around you encouraging hope and overcoming fear. Amen

Spirit of God Enlighten our hearts and minds, that we may see the faces of our sisters and brothers whose labour provides us with the food we eat, the clothes we wear and the computers, phones and washing machines we use.

Spirit of God Embolden us to speak out on behalf of those who suffer injustice, so that they may enjoy the fruits of their labour and have enough to feed, clothe, nurse and educate their families.

Spirit of God Consume us with a passion to change our way of life. so that we learn to put the needs of others before our desire for more possessions at bargain prices.

Spirit of God Through the witness of our lives, standing in solidarity with all peoples, may we spread the warmth of your love, the light of your wisdom, and the fire of your justice, so that all may live in peace and security. Amen.

Generous God, be close to the members of our community who are taking exams in these days. Give them your spirit of wisdom to help them shine brightly. Grant them your spirit of calm so that they may be free from stress. And bless them with the confidence to do their best. Amen.

A prayer in preparation for the 2012 Games Eternal God, Giver of joy and source of all strength, we pray for those who prepare for the London Olympic and Paralympic games. For the competitors training for the Games and their loved ones, For the many thousands who will support them, For the Churches and others who are organising special events and who will welcome many people from many nations. In a world where many are rejected and abused, we pray for a spirit of tolerance and acceptance, of humility and respect and for the health and safety of all. May we at the last be led towards the love of Christ who is more than gold, today and forever. Amen