Saturday, February 8, 2014

Prayers for Sochi

For the 2014 Olympics & Paralympic Winter Games:

Eternal God,
Giver of joy and source of all strength,
we pray for those
who are at the Sochi Olympic and the upcoming Paralympic games.
For the competitors and their loved ones,
For the many thousands who will support them,
and who will welcome many people from many nations.
In a world where many are rejected and abused,
we pray for a spirit of tolerance and acceptance,
of humility and respect
and for the health and safety of all.
May we at the last be led towards the love of Christ
who is more than gold, today and for ever. Amen.

God our Creator,
we pray for the Olympic and Paralympic Games.
We give thanks for the thrill of watching them;
and we pray for all who are taking part.
Give them courage and strength,
wisdom and generosity.
We ask this in the name of Jesus Christ,
our teacher and our friend.  Amen.

Gracious God,
we pray for Sochi,
welcoming the people of the world to the Games.
We give thanks for its history and
offering a warm embrace to many.
Grant enrichment and friendship and safety
to all who visit and receive hospitality here,
that the world may be sustained
in its journey towards tolerance, understanding and peace.  Amen.

Almighty God,
you created humanity in your image
and delight in our talent, skill and flair:
give us grace to celebrate
the achievements of our fellow men and women.
Give determination and equity to competitors,
gratitude and charm to winners,
grace and mercy to those who do not come in first,
and thankfulness and admiration to observers;
that in all our best efforts
your creation may be glorified. Amen.


Prayers adapted from the 2012 London Games (Church of England).

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