Praying Acts 15:7-11

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I join with all who are praying *
to the Father, through the Son, in the power of the Holy Spirit. Amen.

Opening Prayer

Holy Spirit, Comforter, in this season of Pentecost we celebrate your presence. As Jesus promised, you give us the joy which endures deep within, a joy which carries us even in times of trial. 

You do not impose, you come to strengthen us, defending the dignity of each person. *
And in our great diversity it is in you that we find unity and peace.

- Br. Aloise, Taizé

Observe a time of silence before the Lord
(1 – 5 minutes)

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Scriptural Theme

He did not discriminate between us and them, for he purified their hearts by faith.

Sing to the Lord a song of praise
(acapella, or accompanied by instruments / recorded music)

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Praying Acts 15:7-11 (New International Version)

After much discussion, Peter got up and addressed them: "Brothers, you know that some time ago God made a choice among you that the Gentiles might hear from my lips the message of the gospel and believe. *
God, who knows the heart, showed that he accepted them by giving the Holy Spirit to them, just as he did to us. He did not discriminate between us and them, for he purified their hearts by faith.

Now then, why do you try to test God by putting on the necks of Gentiles a yoke that neither we nor our ancestors have been able to bear? No! We believe it is through the grace of our Lord Jesus that we are saved, just as they are." 

Response to the Scripture

Pour out your Spirit on all flesh; refine us that we may be able to stand in the day of your coming.

Draw near to God’s throne of grace
with the thanksgivings, prayers, & intercessions that are on your heart

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The Spirit and the Bride say *
“Come!”

Even so, Lord Jesus, come quickly. *
He did not discriminate between us and them, for he purified their hearts by faith.

Praise / prayer / silence / sing a new song

(follow the leading of the Holy Spirit)

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Ending Prayer

The arms of God be around my shoulders,
the touch of the Holy Spirit upon my head,
the sign of Christ’s cross upon my forehead,
the sound of the Holy Spirit in my ears,
the fragrance of the Holy Spirit in my nostrils,
the vision of heaven’s company in my eyes,
the conversation of heaven’s company on my lips,
the work of God’s church with my hands,
the service of God and my neighbor in my feet,
a home for God in my heart, and to God, the Father of all, my entire being.
Amen.

- St. Fursey

In the name of the Father, and the Son, and the Holy Spirit. Amen.

( Adapted by Christ the Reconciler from Season 6: Pentecost Bridge Prayer – “Global Evangelism and Revival” )