Sunday 9 AUGust 2020 

Reading: Matthew 14:22-33

Prayer
Dear God,
in some ways we are separated from each other
but not from you.
We bring our worship today
from different homes and settings,
but we know that whether we are on our own
or joining with others online
you will accept our worship and hear our prayers.
 
This has been such a difficult time
where many have faced illness and some death.
All of us have seen changes in our daily living,
and faced some disorientation and worry.
 
We are glad to see signs of hope around us,
and to witness more positive news,
and we continue to pray
that we will not see a second spike in this virus.
 
As we begin to plan for a return to our church building again
albeit with restrictions on numbers
help us in all our work and preparations for that day.
Help us as we look to find new ways to be church
and reach out to new groups of people
as well as being an effective support
to those who need our help most.
 
As we draw near to you in worship now
we ask that we will be aware of your presence with us,
that we will have a sense of your support
in all of the circumstances of our lives.
 
May we be aware of your Word in our lives,
as we bring to you praise and thanks
for all you have already done for us.
 
Hear us now as we continue to pray in Jesus’ words
saying together:
Our Father in heaven…
hallowed be your name,
your kingdom come,
your will be done on earth as in heaven.
Give us today our daily bread
and forgive us our sins
as we forgive those who sin against us.
Save us in the time of trial
and deliver us from evil
for the kingdom, the power and the glory
are yours,
now and forever.
Amen.
 
Video: When the Storms Come (based on Matthew 14:22-33)
 
Prayer
When the wind blows, God,
may your arms shelter me.
When the rain falls,
may your arms cover me.
When the storm rages,
may your arms protect me.
When the waters rise,
may your arms support me.
When the flood is fierce,
may your arms encircle me.
When all seems swept away,
may your arms hold me fast.
Whatever I may have to face, Lord,
whatever the days ahead may bring,
may I know your arms around me,
upon me,
beneath me,
cradling me now and for evermore in your everlasting love.
Amen.
 
Blessing
May Christ’s peace surround us
May Christ’s light shine on us
May Christ’s joy fill us
May Christ’s blessing always go with us.
Amen.