Intercessions (Bidding Prayers)

After age 80 I thought I'd "done my bit" so I withdrew into the shadows, but I was badgered into leading the prayers so eventually I agreed.   I thought I just had to read out what the Vicar had written - but, no - "It's your job to  write them".   Oh, my - what have I let myself in for?   In spite of war and public service I was almost voiceless the first time but I'm getting bolder.   In fact, the Vicar has to remind us that we're talking to Abba (Michael Wenham once addressed him as 'Daddy' to show the true relationship).   So last Sunday I prayed first for the Church - "We pray for ourselves, Father - your Church - keep us ever mindful of the task your Son has set us - to proclaim your Gospel of love throughout the world.   And as you have called us to your service, make us worthy of that calling."   And so it went on, to "current affairs" - Norway was much in mind but I wanted to convey to Our Father that it wasn't His fault.  "Abroad, we pray for our brothers and sisters in Norway: we know,  Father, that you have taken into Your loving arms those who have died in that terrible man-made disaster; please comfort those who mourn, heal those who are sick or in any way distressed and bless those who care for them."   It amazes me how calm I feel AFTERWARDS!