Petitions of Hope for a Troubled Land

The petitions from Sunday's Vespers were particularly striking at this time, as they spoke about hope, fear, oppression, reconciliation, justice, peace, victory through suffering and rebirth:

The World was created by the Word of God, re-created by his redemption, and it is continually renewed by his love, Rejoicing in him we call out:

Renew the wonders of your love, Lord.

We give thanks to God whose power is revealed in nature, and whose providence is revealed in history.

Renew the wonders of your love, Lord.

Through your Son, the herald of reconciliation, the victor of the cross, free us from empty fear and hopelessness.

Renew the wonders of your love, Lord.

May all those who love and pursue justice work together without deceit to build a world of true peace.

Renew the wonders of your love, Lord.

Be with the oppressed, free the captives, console the sorrowing, feed the hungry, strengthen the weak, in all people reveal the victory of your cross.

Renew the wonders of your love, Lord.

After your Son's death and burial you raised him up again in glory, grant that the faithful departed may live with him.

Renew the wonders of your love, Lord.