A Prayer for Sri Lanka’s National Day

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

A Reading from First letter of St Paul to Timothy:

I urge, then, first of all, that petitions, prayers, intercession and thanksgiving be made for all people, for kings and all those in authority, that we may live peaceful and quiet lives in all godliness and holiness. This is good, and pleases God our Savior, who wants all people to be saved and to come to the knowledge of the truth.

The word of the Lord.

All: Thanks be to God.

Heavenly Father, 

We gather today with hearts full of gratitude to celebrate the independence of our beloved Sri Lanka. We thank You for the beauty of our island—from the misty hills of the central province to the golden sands of our shores—and for the vibrant tapestry of people who call this land home.

We pray to the Lord
All: Lord, hear our prayers

Lord, we pray for our leaders: 

Grant them the wisdom of Solomon and a spirit of selfless service. May they work tirelessly for the common good, ensuring that justice, integrity, and transparency prevail in every corner of our government.

We pray to the Lord
All: Lord, hear our prayers

We pray for the people of Sri Lanka: 

Bless our diverse communities—Sinhala, Tamil, Muslim, and Burgher. Help us to build bridges of reconciliation and to see Your image in one another. Remove the shadows of past divisions and replace them with a shared commitment to a future of lasting peace.

We pray to the Lord
All: Lord, hear our prayers

We pray for the vulnerable: 

Comfort those who struggle with poverty, those seeking employment, and the youth who look toward the future with uncertainty. May we be Your hands and feet, reaching out to support our brothers and sisters in need.

We pray to the Lord
All: Lord, hear our prayers

Intercession of the Blessed Mother: 

We entrust our nation to the protection of Our Lady of Lanka. As she stood at the foot of the Cross, may she stand with our nation in times of trial and lead us toward the light of Your Son.

We pray to the Lord
All: Lord, hear our prayers

Our Father, Who art in heaven,
Hallowed be Thy Name.
Thy Kingdom come.
Thy Will be done,
on earth as it is in Heaven.

Give us this day our daily bread.
And forgive us our trespasses,
as we forgive those who trespass against us.
And lead us not into temptation,
but deliver us from evil. Amen.

Final Blessing: 

May the Lord bless Sri Lanka and keep her. May His face shine upon her and be gracious to her. May He look upon this nation with favor and give us His peace.

All: Amen.