Morning Prayer for the Fourth Sunday After Easter (Easter 4), and the Ninth Sunday in COVIDtide

The Lord is risen indeed. Thanks be to God, which giveth us the victory through our Lord Jesus Christ.

Collect of the Day: O Almighty God, who alone canst order the unruly wills and affections of sinful men: Grant unto thy people, that they may love the thing which thou commandest, and desire that which thou dost promise; that so, among the sundry and manifold changes of the world, our hearts may surely there be fixed, where true joys are to be found; through Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen.

On this fourth Sunday after Easter, which is also Mother’s Day, we pray for all mothers and families. The Blessed Virgin Mary, Mother of our Lord Jesus Christ, who was given the gift of birth but pained by the witnessing of her Son die on the cross; may she encourage all mothers by her example of love and care, and that we all appreciate the great responsibility of motherhood. We commend to thy gracious keeping all who are near and dear to us. Have mercy upon any who are sick, and comfort those who are in pain, anxiety, or sorrow. Awaken all who are careless about eternal things. Bless those who are young and in health, that they may give the days of their strength unto thee. Comfort the aged and infirm, that thy peace may rest upon them. Hallow the ties of kindred, that we may help, and not hinder, one another in all such good works as thou hast prepared for us to walk in.

We continue to pray the departed, all those taken from us by disease, violence, or other causes; remembering the crew of Stalker, all those murdered during the mass shooting in Nova Scotia, and all departed mothers; rest eternal, O Lord, and may light perpetual shine upon them.

We continue to pray for the grieving families and friends of those who have recently lost loved ones, as well for the crew of HMCS Fredericton, may they be given strength and courage during these times.

We pray for Nova Scotia, for Canada, and the world, that we may overcome all these sorrows, tragedies, and this pandemic and we pray for your mercy and guidance; through Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen.