Why do we offer Prayers of Intercession during the service? The word intercede means "to come between so as to prevent or alter a result or course of events." During this time of prayer, then, the congregation stands as an advocate for the world and the church before God. From the PCUSA Book of Worship, "we pray for the world God so loves—joining Christ’s own ministry of intercession and the sighs of the Spirit, too deep for words." Prayers of Intercession are offered for the mission and ministry of the local and universal church; care of creation; peace and justice in the world; those in position of power; the poor, hungry, and oppressed; healing and wholeness for those who suffer; and personal concerns from within the congregation. Sometimes called the Pastoral Prayer, the Prayers of Intercession are more accurately understood as an action of the whole congregation. Everyone affirms their participation through response like "Lord, hear our prayer," and "amen" at the end. Now you know Why We Do That.
#17: Why Do We Offer a Prayer of Intercession?
Why do we offer Prayers of Intercession during the service? The word intercede means "to come between so as to prevent or alter a result or course of events." During this time of prayer, then, the congregation stands as an advocate for the world and the church before God. From the PCUSA Book of Worship, "we pray for the world God so loves—joining Christ’s own ministry of intercession and the sighs of the Spirit, too deep for words." Prayers of Intercession are offered for the mission and ministry of the local and universal church; care of creation; peace and justice in the world; those in position of power; the poor, hungry, and oppressed; healing and wholeness for those who suffer; and personal concerns from within the congregation. Sometimes called the Pastoral Prayer, the Prayers of Intercession are more accurately understood as an action of the whole congregation. Everyone affirms their participation through response like "Lord, hear our prayer," and "amen" at the end. Now you know Why We Do That.