These resources have been approved by Bishop Fisher for use on November 3, 2024.
The following prayer can be used as an additional Collect, or as an alternative Collect of the Day, for use on November 3:
A Prayer for the General Election
God of grace and truth,
in Jesus you embody your choice of us.
Bless all who make choices in this general election.
Clothe your people with gratitude
for the right to choose our government,
and turn that gratitude into clear choices.
Give those who vote your spirit of wisdom and understanding.
Uphold all who stand for election:
preserve their dignity, and guide them in the path of integrity.
Renew this nation in honor for the stranger,
respect for the different, and cherishing of diversity.
When all the votes are counted,
show us ways to foster the flourishing of all
and be a blessing to our neighbors.
In the name of Christ and the power of your Spirit. Amen.
(Source: St. Martin’s in the Field)
Prayers of the People
These prayers were written by The Rev. Deacon Lora Smith on behalf of the Diocese of Western Massachusetts for use on the Sunday prior to the general election.
"Creator God, we come before you as your beloved children, acknowledging the beauty of your creation, of which we are a part. Help us to love all your creation, as you have loved us.
Lord, hear our prayer.
All-knowing God, you know our needs even before we speak. We ask your guidance upon our country at this time of our general election. We pray for your guidance and discernment, as we choose those who will lead our country. May their leadership be in accordance with your will for all people.
Lord, hear our prayer.
Shepherding God, we pray for all those called to lead your flock. We pray for the Archbishop, our Presiding Bishop and Presiding Bishop-elect, our Bishop, Doug, and our clergy [names]. May they lead us in your love and mercy.
Lord, hear our prayer.
Empowering God, we pray for our president and all members of Congress. We pray that you will guide them as they make decisions that affect our country and the world. Send them your godly wisdom. Give our candidates for election the strength to choose integrity in their campaigns and in their terms in office.
Lord, hear our prayer.
Merciful God, we pray for the poor and for those who have no voice in our society: the homeless, the destitute, the imprisoned, and the infirm. We pray for those held captive, that your justice and mercy may prevail.
Lord, hear our prayer.
Forgiving God, forgive us for the times when we have had conversations without really listening. Help us listen to others with humble and open hearts. Help the leaders of our country to do the same. Help us, as a nation, to focus less on getting our own way and more on loving our neighbors—especially the most vulnerable among us.
Lord hear our prayer.
Healing God, we pray for the sick. We offer prayers this day for [names] and for those whose infirmity is known only to you. Bring the power of your healing love.
Lord, hear our prayer.
God of the resurrection, we pray for those who have died, and for all the departed, especially [names].
Lord, hear our prayer."
