Prayer Diary
June
Satursday 1st - On Global Day of Parents we remember parents everywhere and pray for them; for those in difficult relationships with their children, those struggling to provide for their children, those unable to spend time with their grandchildren. We pray for parents in fused or adoptive families, for all facing stresses and difficulties. We give thanks too for the joys of parenthood.
We pray locally for the people of Hackness Rd, that they may have a sense of the wonder and diversity of God’s creation.
Sunday 2nd – 1st after Trinity. Deut 5:12-15; Ps 81:1-10; 2Corinthians 4:5-12; Mark 2:23-3:6
God of light and power and glory, we rejoice in your light, we live by your power, we look for your glory. Open our eyes that we may behold your presence, that we may give ourselves to you. Amen.
Monday 3rd – Remembering World Bicycle Day today we pray for all who are making efforts to improve safety for cyclists and pedestrians. We pray for all encouraging affordable, accessible and environmentally- friendly forms of transport, and exercise as part of promoting good health and well-being. We pray for all who maintain paths, cycle tracks and roadways.
Locally we pray for the people Halstead Ave, that they may sense God’s presence with them, whatever they are facing.
Tuesday 4th –On this International Day of Child Victims of Aggression we pray for the children living in wars across the globe, facing unspeakable horrors: unsafe sleeping in their homes, learning in school, seeking medical care at hospitals, or trying to escape danger. From killing and maiming, abduction and sexual violence, to attacks on education and health facilities, and the denial of the humanitarian assistance that they desperately need, children are being caught in the crosshairs of warring parties at a staggering scale. We pray for all in positions of leadership to bring to bear pressure to maintain humanitarian aid and save children.
Locally we remember the people of Hammett Rd and pray for their safety, health and well-being.
Wednesday 5th– On this World Environment Day we lament the lack of progress in reducing the more than 400 million tons of single- use plastic every year world wide. An estimated 19-23 million tonnes end up in lakes, rivers and seas annually (approx. the weight of 2,200 Eiffel Towers all together). Microplastics find their way into food, water and air; it is estimated, each person on the planet consumes more than 50,000 plastic particles per year. Discarded or burnt single-use plastic harms human health and biodiversity and pollutes every ecosystem from mountain tops to the ocean floor. We pray that with available science and solutions to tackle the problem, governments, companies and other stakeholders scale up and speed actions to solve this crisis. May we too never lose sight of the part we play in reducing single –use plastic.
Locally we pray for the people of Hallows Ave, that they find the welcome and support of a caring neighbourhood.
Thursday 6th– We pray for children and young people in the midst of the exam season. We pray that they are enabled to do the best they can, without being overwhelmed by anxiety; may they find whatever support they need. We pray too for teachers and schools and parents all needing to find the best ways to support and encourage.
Locally we pray particularly for the people of Hardcastle Ave, that they may feel the joy of belonging and being valued.
Friday 7th – On World Food Safety Day we recognise that unsafe food is a threat to human health and economies, disproportionally affecting vulnerable and marginalised people, women and children, populations affected by conflict, and migrants. We pray for all those strengthening efforts to ensure that the food we eat is safe, that food safety is in the public agenda and to reduce the burden of foodborne diseases globally.
Locally we pray for the people of Emery Ave, for a neighbourhood of understanding, hospitality and care.
Saturday 8th – On World Oceans Day we give thanks for all that the oceans provide: habitat, beauty, energy, recreation, food… We pray for all depending on oceans for their livelihoods and all working to maintain a clean, healthy, unpolluted environment.
Locally we pray for the people of Hampton Rd, that they may experience the love and kindness of others today.
Sunday 9th– 2nd after Trinity. Gen 3:8-15; Ps 130; 2Cor 4:13-5:1; Mark 3:20-end
God of light and vision and hope, lighten your church where its vision is dim; renew our vision for a world of belonging and dignity; stretch our love into the future, that we may speak of and live in hope.
Monday 10th - International Day of Play (11th)
We give thanks for the gift of play and for the gift of childhood; for all who encourage and enable children to enjoy play; for all who appreciate the importance of play: for learning, recreation and fun. We pray for those children denied their right to childhood and play, through harsh expectations and circumstances.
We give thanks for all who live in Hardy Lane, and pray that they may be conscious of the love and beauty around them.
Tuesday 11th - On St. Barnabas Day we pray for all individuals and groups who use St. Barnabas Church and all the work based there. We pray for Captain Phil Gay, leading and coordinating so much of our work in this part of the parish: for the food bank, Friday worship, Places of Welcome gatherings, Little Barnies and the supporting local groups. We pray locally for the people of Hastings Ave, that they may feel the comfort and presence of God.
Wednesday 12th – Looking to the World Day Against Child Labour (12th), we pray for protection against child labour, greater access for children to education, and proper wages for adults, so there is less pressure or need for children to earn.
We pray locally for the people of Hardy Ave, that they may feel the richness of a community of respect, care and inclusivity.
Thursday 13th – International Albinism Awareness Day. Albinism is a rare, non-contagious, genetically inherited difference present at birth, leading to a vulnerability to the sun and bright light. Almost all people with albinism are visually impaired and prone to developing skin cancer. They also face discrimination due to their skin colour; so they are often subject to discrimination on the grounds of both disability and colour. We pray for all living with genetic conditions and coping with health problems, social stigma and discrimination.
Locally we pray for the people of Hastings Ave, giving thanks for the ways in which they enrich the lives of the local community.
Friday 14th – We pray that our fundraising event this evening is successful, well attended and fun. We pray for those attending and organising it and give thanks for the work of the organisation Kidneys for Life and the work of St. Clement’s Church. We pray for all living with kidney disease, all who await transplants of any kind and all would-be donors.
Locally, we pray for the people of Fitton Ave, that they may have peace and joy in their hearts.
Saturday 15th – On World Elder Abuse Awareness Day we pray for all elderly people, remembering particularly those living in poverty, pain, with mobility issues, those feeling lost, confused or abandoned. We pray that elderly people around the world be treated with respect, dignity, patience, understanding and compassion. We remember the elderly people of our parish and neighbourhood and pray that we help them to live as independently as possible, in safety and dignity.
Locally we pray for the people of Hewlett Rd, that they may feel the safety and generosity of a kind neighbourhood.
Sunday 16th - 3rd after Trinity. Ezek 17:22-end; Ps 92:1-4, 12-end; 2Cor 5: 6-17; Mark 4:26-34
Lord God Almighty, rule in our hearts: direct our decisions, guide our actions, that we may live and work to your praise and glory; through Jesus Christ our Lord, Amen
Monday 17th – On the World Day to Combat Desertification and Drought, We pray that degraded land may be turned into healthy land, bringing with it economic resilience, creating jobs, raising incomes and increasing food security. We pray that it may help biodiversity to recover and lock away the atmospheric carbon warming the Earth, slowing climate change.
Locally we pray for the people of High Lane, that they may feel the comfort and presence of God.
Tuesday 18th – On International Day For Countering Hate Speech we pray for those who have been targeted by hate speech. We pray that those promoting such be called out, held accountable and turn away from such hateful treatment of others. May we not remain silent when others are treated unfairly, their dignity and safety undermined.
Locally we pray for the people of Higson Ave, that they may sense the beauty and bounty of God’s creation.
Wednesday 19th – On this International Day for the Elimination of Sexual Violence in Conflict, we recognise that Conflict-related sexual violence, whether against women, girls, men, or boys in all their diversity, continues to be used as a tactic of war, torture, and terrorism amid deepening political and security crises. Reprisals against human rights defenders, activists, and journalists have risen; sexual harassment and gender-based hate speech have surged in the digital space.
We pray for all who have been victims of such violence in speech or action and for those working to heal the wounds; we pray too for those working to hold perpetrators to account and create a more compassionate, respectful world.
Locally we pray for the people of Hawthorn Lane and for the ways in which they help to create a community that feels safe, confident and supportive.
Thursday 20th – We pray for the businesses in Chorlton , especially those that have been affected by road and building closures and development. We pray for a lively, thriving, sustainable and caring business community, able to cater for locals and visitors alike.
We pray locally for the people of Hurstville Rd and Hartley Rd and ask that they may sense the joy and richness of God’s creation and have a sense of God in whatever situation they find themselves in.
Friday 21st – Remembering World Blood Donor Day (14th) we give thanks for all who donate blood and blood products and for those who work in this field. We pray for all who benefit from these blood donations. We pray for those parts of the world where a blood donor scheme can’t be relied upon, where emergency and health care services are under severe strain.
We pray for the people of Floyd Ave, for their health and well-being.
Saturday 22nd – We pray for those whom we meet or are in contact with today, that we may see or hear them truly, that we may recognise their dignity. We pray for them in all they are coping with in their lives.
Locally we pray for the people of Ivygreen Rd, that they may experience the warmth and security of a welcoming and inclusive neighbourhood
Sunday 23rd - 4th after Trinity. Job 38:1-11; Ps 107: 23-32; 2Cor 6:1-13; Mark 4:35-end
Jesus Christ, Saviour and Prince of peace, still us, O Lord, as you stilled the storm; calm us, O Lord, and keep us from harm. Let all the troubles within us cease. Enfold us Lord in your deep peace. Amen
Monday 24th - Marking International Widows Day (23rd) we recognise that, for many women around the world, the devastating loss of a partner is magnified by a long-term fight for their basic rights and dignity. We pray for the safeguarding and advancement of rights for widows, to counteract such things as land grabs and denial of inheritance rights after a husband’s death.
We pray for all who feel vulnerable, sorrowful and anxious having lost a life partner, that they may find the love and support of family, friends and community.
We pray locally for the people of Kingshill Rd, that they may feel heard, hopeful and valued.
Tuesday 25th – On this Day of the Seafarer we pray for all who work or travel on or in the sea: for all who experience the dangers of extreme weather conditions, inadequate vessels and equipment or the threat of piracy: for all seeking to flee danger and find refuge across seas. We give thanks for such services as coast guards and the RNLI and their commitment to come to the aid of those in need at sea.
We pray for the people of Larmuth Ave, that they may know the generosity and compassion of their community.
Wednesday 26th –On this International Day against Drug Abuse and Illicit Trafficking we pray that stigma and discrimination cease and prevention is strengthened. We pray for all affected by drug abuse and trafficking, and pray that organisations established to support addicts in recovery and find ways to disrupt the exploitation of vulnerable people are made more robust, well maintained and are better supported.
Locally we pray for the people of Judson Ave, that they may find the support, joy and strength they need in their lives.
Thursday 27th – Remembering the International Day in Support for the Victims of Torture, we pray for all victims of torture, the organisations like Amnesty International bringing to light such abuses, and organisations like Freedom From Torture, providing support and healing to victims.
We pray locally for the people of Lawngreen Ave, that they may see something of God’s love in their lives and in their environment.
Friday 28th – We pray for all working in the entertainment industry: for actors, dancers, musicians, poets, cartoonists, comics, and circus performers. We give thanks for their skills and the ways in which they enhance our lives. We pray locally for the people of Godbert Ave, that they may feel the security and dignity of a warm, inclusive community.
Saturday 29th – We give thanks for our parks and gardens and for all who work to maintain them. We pray for all who use and love them and for all who fight to preserve them for local access and enrichment. We give thanks for the access we have to walk in wild areas of our countryside and for those who fight to maintain and increase the right to roam.
From our own parish we pray for the people of Leeswood Ave and Limley Grove, for their health and welcoming, for their wellbeing and joy.
Sunday 30th – 5th after Trinity. Wisd of Sol 1:13-15, 2;23-24; Ps 30; 2Cor 8:7-end; Mark 5:21-end
Lord of life, may your church proclaim your saving power. We pray for all our Manchester churches of all denominations. We pray for our church schools and colleges. Lord, as you have given to us in abundance, may we seek to share with any in need. Amen
Lectionary readings
Sun Jun 2nd – 1st after Trinity. Deut 5:12-15; Ps 81:1-10; 2Corinthians 4:5-12; Mark 2:23-3:6. All- Age, so just Gospel reading
Sun Jun 9th – 2nd after Trinity. Gen 3:8-15; Ps 130; 2Cor 4:13-5:1; Mark 3:20-end
Sun Jun 16th - 3rd after Trinity. Ezek 17:22-end; Ps 92:1-4, 12-end; 2Cor 5: 6-17; Mark 4:26-34
Sun Jun 23rd - 4th after Trinity. Job 38:1-11; Ps 107: 23-32; 2Cor 6:1-13; Mark 4:35-end
Sun Jun 30th – 5th after Trinity. Wisd of Sol 1:13-15, 2;23-24; Ps 30; 2Cor 8:7-end; Mark 5:21-end
July
Monday 1st - We pray that we may live in hope, despite the news of desperate situations. We pray that we may live in joy, despite sadnesses that threaten to overwhelm us. We pray that we may live in a just peace, despite injustice in the world that causes us anger, suspicion and fear.
We pray locally for the people of Longford Rd, that they may have a sense of the wonder and diversity of God’s creation.
Tuesday 2nd - We pray for children and young people at the end of the exam season. We pray that they are enabled to find some rest and relaxation, without being overwhelmed by anxiety awaiting results. We pray for those still in the midst of exams. May they find whatever support they need. We pray too for teachers, colleges, schools and parents all needing to find the best ways to support and encourage for the next step.
Locally we pray for the people of Littler Ave, for a neighbourhood of understanding, hospitality and care.
Wednesday 3rd – As the Summer season brings in festivals of all kinds we pray for all who are involved in installing tents, stages, security fencing etc; for all involved in ensuring the safety and sanitation of such events; for all involved in the medical needs and all providing food and drink at such events.
Locally we pray for the people of Lundy Ave, that they may sense God’s presence with them, whatever they are facing.
Thursday 4th– As our Beer and Cider Festival begins we pray for all who have been involved in the organisation and preparation which enables it to take place. We pray for our friends in CAMRA and all on the festival committee.
Locally we remember the people of Lynton Rd and pray for their safety, health and well-being.
Friday 5th – We pray for all who will attend our Beer and Cider Festival over these few days. We pray for a time of community, successful fundraising, fun and good weather. We give thanks for an event which celebrates community and joy.
Locally we pray for the people of Grindley Ave, that they find the welcome and support of a caring neighbourhood.
Saturday 6th – We pray for all who will work as volunteers in the many events and activities that will be held in our communities this summer. We pray for all our Beer Festival volunteers, without whom such an event could not take place. We pray for all who make use of the Open Chapel and all who make it happen. May it reflect the love and hospitality of a welcoming and inclusive God.
Locally we pray particularly for the people of Lytham Ave, that they may feel the joy of belonging and being valued.
Sunday 7th – 6th after Trinity. Ezekiel 2:1-5; Ps 123; 2Cor 12:2-10; Mark 6:1-13
O Lord of light and vision, open our eyes to behold your presence, to perceive your love and see your purpose for us. Amen
Monday 8th – Remembering the International Day of Cooperatives (6th) we pray for them and for all that we can learn from them. Because co-operatives are people-centred, not capital-centred, they do not perpetuate, nor accelerate capital concentration and they distribute wealth in a more fair way.
Co-operatives also foster external equality. As they are community-based, they are committed to the sustainable development of their communities - environmentally, socially and economically. We pray for organisations such as Christian Aid and Fairtrade supporting local cooperatives, enabling people to live more sustainably in difficult situations.
Locally we pray for the people of Maidstone Ave, that they may experience the love and kindness of others today.
Tueday 9th – We pray for those struggling to find their way, struggling to find purpose in their lives, struggling to live in peace with themselves. Locally, we pray for the people of Maidstone Mews, that they may have peace and joy in their hearts.
I am giving you worship with all my life, I am giving you obedience with all my power, I am giving you praise with all my strength, I am giving you honour with all my speech. Praise to the Father, praise to the Son, Praise to the Spirit, the Three in One.
Wednesday 10th - As we look towards the summer break, we pray for all families going on holiday; we pray for all families and individuals in need of a holiday, who won’t manage to get one for a variety of reasons. We pray that they nevertheless manage to get some rest and relaxation. We pray for all those summer clubs, teaching and caring for children during the school break, and for all those parents who will struggle to manage the break.
We give thanks for all who live in Maitland Ave, and pray that they may be conscious of the love and beauty around them.
Thursday 11th - On this World Population Day we recognise that, in the words of UN Secretary-General António Guterres, ‘Gender-based discrimination harms everyone – women, girls, men, and boys. Investing in women uplifts all people, communities, and countries.’ We pray for a greater recognition of this and of the stresses of the population in particular regions of poverty, conflict, and vulnerability to the extreme effects of climate crisis.
We pray locally for the people of Malton Ave, that they may feel the comfort and presence of God.
Friday 12th – We pray for all residential, care and nursing homes. We pray for all who work there: managers, carers, nurses, cooks, cleaners and those who maintain the buildings and grounds, and those who support the staff. We pray for skills, patience and compassion. We pray for all the residents and their families, that they feel affirmed, cared for, treated with dignity and respect.
We pray locally for the people of Hallows Ave, that they may feel the richness of a community of respect, care and inclusivity.
Saturday 13th –We look to Emmeline Pankhurst Day (14th) and remember all who campaigned for women in Britain to get the vote. We pray for women throughout the world, still not recognised as having the same rights as men. We pray for all groups who feel marginalised, all who live in fear because of discriminatory laws, culture or practice. We give thanks for those with the courage to stand up and speak out and for all those who had the courage to lead the way.
Locally we pray for the people of Manchester Rd, giving thanks for the ways in which they enrich the lives of the local community.
Sunday 14th - 7th after Trinity. Amos 7:7-15; Ps 85:8-end; Eph 2:3-14; Mark 6:14-29
Blessed are you, God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, you have blessed us with every spiritual blessing; enable us by your power to be true to our calling and live holy and blameless before you all our days. Amen
Monday 15th – On World Youth Skills Day we pray that we learn to listen to and learn from young people, that we learn as a society to encourage and support young people develop their skills and fulfil their potential. We pray for young people around the world, having to navigate difficult and sometimes hostile situations. We pray for a world that enables children and young people to thrive, not one that instils fear, insecurity and resentment.
Locally we pray for the people of Marmion Drive, that they may feel the safety and generosity of a kind neighbourhood.
Tuesday 16th - We pray for all who are sick in body, mind or spirit: for those on the parish prayer list; for those known to us; for those who feel forgotten or alone. We pray for those losing independence and mobility through old age; for all who are frightened or feel adrift. May they know the love and strength of God’s presence.
We pray for the people of Maple Ave, for their health and well-being.
Wednesday 17th - We pray for all involved in law and legal services. We pray for a just society, where everyone has access to legal services. We pray for all parts of the world where corruption undermines the fairness of trials and decision making. We pray for those caught up in destructive practices in our own country, and all organisations trying to create a more just society for everyone. We pray for charities like Amnesty International and Freedom From Torture, highlighting injustice and torture.
Locally we pray for the people of Mclaren Court, that they may feel the comfort and presence of God.
Thursday 18th - As we mark Nelson Mandela Day we pray for all working for peace and justice around the world. ‘It is easy to break down and destroy. The heroes are those who make peace and build.’ - Nelson Mandela
Locally we pray for the people of Meachin Ave, that they may sense the beauty and bounty of God’s creation.
Friday 19th – We pray for teachers and others working in schools, colleges and universities as they break up for a well-needed rest and holiday. We pray for all those who will be looking towards a new position, new responsibilities or change in circumstances.
Locally we pray for the people of Hardcastle Ave and for the ways in which they help to create a community that feels safe, confident and supportive.
Saturday 20th - On World Chess Day we give thanks for play and games; we give thanks for the skills, enjoyment and learning that is possible through participation in playing games of all sorts. We pray for those who find it hard to allow themselves to play or participate in recreational activities that can offer so much that is positive and life-enhancing.
We pray locally for the people of Meadow Bank and ask that they may sense the joy and richness of God’s creation and have a sense of God in whatever situation they find themselves in.
Sunday 21st – 8th after Trinity. Jer 23:1-6; Ps 23; Eph 2:11-end; Mark 6: 30-40, 53-end
God of peace, whose Son Jesus Christ returned from the dead to become the Great Shepherd of your sheep, guide us into the ways of peace and mercy, equip us to do everything that is good and build us up to be a holy dwelling place for you our God. Amen
Monday 22nd – We pray for those whom we meet or are in contact with today, that we may see or hear them truly, that we may recognise their dignity. We pray for them in all they are coping with in their lives.
Locally we pray for the people of Meadow Court, that they may experience the warmth and security of a welcoming and inclusive neighbourhood
Tuesday 23rd - We give thanks for those who entertain us with laughter and fun through comedy, art and stories. We pray for them and give thanks for the gifts of laughter and humour.
We pray locally for the people of Melland Ave, that they may feel the security and dignity of a warm, inclusive community.
Wednesday 24th - We pray for all who feel vulnerable, sorrowful and anxious having lost a life partner, that they may find the love and support of family, friends and community.
We pray locally for the people of Mottram Ave, that they may feel heard, hopeful and valued.
Thursday 25th – On World Drowning Prevention Day we pray for all those affected by the drowning of a loved one; we pray for all those refugees fleeing horrific circumstances, desperate enough to risk many dangers in the name of hope; we pray for all those involved in fishing, diving and water transport. We give thanks for all who work to prevent such drowning and for all who come to the aid of those in difficulty on the waters.
We pray for all involved in keeping our rivers and coastlines safe for people enjoying water sport and holiday activities and for those involved in education about safety round water. We give thanks for swimming instructors and pray for them in their work.
We pray for the people of Napier Rd, that they may know the generosity and compassion of their community.
Friday 26th – As we look toward our Autumn programme at St. Clement’s and St. Barnabas, we pray for all involved in the preparation of particular events and services. We pray that we are successful in reaching those in need and in maintaining a positive relationship with the local community. We pray that we may reflect the love, welcome, peace and mercy of God.
Locally we pray for the people of Chorlton Villas (Hardy farm flats), that they may find the support, joy and strength they need in their lives.
Saturday 27th - We pray for the children of our parish and ask for God’s blessing on all our children and family work: on baptism preparation, All-Age services, Messy Church, Oranges & Lemons and Little Barnies, 8Up and Admission to Communion, school visits, assemblies and Experience Easter. We pray for all involved in maintaining this work.
We pray locally for the people of Neale Rd, that they may see something of God’s love in their lives and in their environment.
Sunday 28th – 9th after Trinity. 2Kings 4:42-end; Ps 145: 10-19; Eph 3:14-end; John 6:1-21.
Lord, we are fearful that we will sink amidst the storms of life; we ask that you uphold us, that you come and enfold us in your peace. Amen
Monday 29th – We pray for all who are employed in Chorlton and the businesses of Chorlton. We pray for those looking for work and those unable to find employment because of health or caring issues.
We pray for the people of Needham Ave and Limley Grove, for their health and welcoming, for their wellbeing and joy.
Tuesday 30th – World Day Against Trafficking in Persons. Global crises, conflicts, and the climate emergency are escalating trafficking risks. Displacement and socio-economic inequalities are impacting millions of people worldwide, leaving them vulnerable to exploitation by traffickers. Those who lack legal status live in poverty, have limited access to education, healthcare, or decent work, face discrimination, violence, or abuse, or come from marginalized communities are often the primary targets of traffickers.
We pray for the means to end this vile practice and to bring to account those perpetrating and accommodating it. We pray for all who have been trafficked, that they are found and enabled to live freely. We give thanks and pray for those helping and supporting people trapped in this way.
Wednesday 31st – We remember the International Day of Friendship (30th) and give thanks for our personal friends, for friends we miss and those we see often, for friends who challenge us, whom we find difficult. We give thanks for friendships across divides, between individuals, neighbouring communities, areas within one country and between nations. We pray that as individuals, communities, leaders of countries we have the courage, the determination, wisdom and will to negotiate for friendship in justice and peace.
We pray for the people of Nicolas Rd, that they may enjoy the safety and joy of a welcoming community of friendship.
Lectionary readings
Sun Jul 7th – 6th after Trinity. Ezekiel 2:1-5; Ps 123; 2Cor 12:2-10; Mark 6:1-13
Sun Jul 14th – 7th after Trinity. Amos 7:7-15; Ps 85:8-end; Eph 2:3-14; Mark 6:14-29
Sun Jul 21st – 8th after Trinity. Jer 23:1-6; Ps 23; Eph 2:11-end; Mark 6: 30-40, 53-end
Sun Jul 28th – 9th after Trinity. 2Kings 4:42-end; Ps 145: 10-19; Eph 3:14-end; John 6:1-21.