Prayer at the end of a year (27 Dec 2015)

At the end of this year, let us pray for people everywhere and in every kind of need.  We look back on a year when all of us have had many mixed emotions.
O Lord, we pray for the leaders of the world and of our country.  We thank you for the positive message that our Queen has shared with the Commonwealth in her annual message, and pray for her health, strength and wisdom, and ask your blessing on her family.  We pray for members of the Government and the parties of opposition, that they may have your guidance over issues of economics, taxation and defence in the coming year.  We pray for the leaders of Europe as they seek ways to show compassion for the refugees fleeing the Middle East and North Africa.  We pray for especial wisdom as many countries work against terrorism and barbarism.  And we ask that you will stay the hands of those who use warfare to promote a corrupt view of the world.
Lord, in your mercy, Hear our prayer.
O Lord, we thank you for our city, and all that makes it such a great place to live in.  We thank you for the shops, the places of entertainment and education, the sports clubs, the public services and the places of worship, and all who work in them.  Thank you for the joyful celebrations this year for the Rugby World Cup.  In the coming year we pray for wise decisions about the future growth of Exeter and its region.  We pray for those whose work affects our quality of life, and especially the councillors and officers of the city and county councils. 
We pray for the well-being in body mind and spirit of the leaders of the churches in the city, remembering our bishops, Robert, Sarah and Nick, Christopher the archdeacon, Robin our area dean, and all the clergy, readers and retired clergy in the city. 
Lord, in your mercy, Hear our prayer.
O Lord, we acknowledge that life is not always easy.  Some of us have sad memories of this past year.  We pray that you will heal the memories which need to be healed.  Some of us have been anxious about loved ones around us.  We pray that you will continue to share that anxiety, and reassure us with your gentle loving touch.  Please remind us again, day by day, that you have come alongside us in our joys and sorrows, and that you will walk into 2016 with us, to encourage, care and strengthen us.
Lord, in your mercy, Hear our prayer.
Around us we see those in need, the homeless, the poor, those who are sick.  We pray for those whose Christian calling is to help them.  So we pray for chaplains and counsellors, those who work in the caring agencies at home and abroad.  At this time of year, we have been sending gifts to several charities in the city and overseas.  We pray for all who work in those charities, and especially Miriam our CMS link, those who work for Street Pastors, the Food Bank, Christians Against Poverty and the hospital and shop chaplaincies.  Give each one the strength and wisdom that they need for their ministry in the coming year.
Lord, in your mercy, Hear our prayer.