1. Spend some minutes in quiet reflection on Isaiah 61.1-3. This is a prophecy on the salvation that Jesus would bring. What words do you find meaningful in your life now?

“The Spirit of the Sovereign LORD is on me, because the LORD has anointed me to preach good news to the poor. He has sent me to bind up the broken-hearted, to proclaim freedom for the captives and release from darkness for the prisoners, to proclaim the year of the LORD’s favour and the day of vengeance of our God, to comfort all who mourn, and provide for those who grieve in Zion— to bestow on them a crown of beautyinstead of ashes, the oil of gladness instead of mourning, and a garment of praise instead of a spirit of despair. They will be called oaks of righteousness, a planting of the LORD for the display of his splendour.”

 2. The Church Community of First

• Pray that through this Covid-19 crisis the church might become stronger in faith of the Lord and love for each other.

• Pray for the leadership of the various ministries of our congregation as they seek to connect and encourage - the young families, those who are fearful, the alone, the busy family households.

 3. VE Day Commemoration (Friday 8th May)

• As we mark the ending of the war in Europe at this time 75 years ago, give thanks to God for the selfless and courageous service and sacrifice of those who brought peace to Europe, acknowledging the great cost to all nations in the conflict. 

• Pray for nations still devastated by war, for their people and their leaders; for those who suffer the effects or memories of past wars; for veterans; for those who mourn; for all innocent victims whose lives have been shattered by the cruelty of others.

 4. Global Mission Workers – Peter & Jayne Fleming (Nepal)

Peter was the minister of First Coleraine until he and Jayne went to Nepal. Jayne is back home in Coleraine while Peter stayed in Nepal. See https://www.presbyterianireland.org/Mission/Mission-People/Fleming/Fleming-bulletin-May-2020.aspx

Pray…

• For continued good health for both of them.

• For the challenges of separation and focus to keep working 

• That they would be confident that God sees, is concerned, and will act.

5. A Prayer in a Time of Coronavirus (across the world)

Love never fails

Even in the darkest moments, love gives hope. 

Love compels us to fight against coronavirus alongside our sisters and brothers living in poverty.

Love compels us to stand together in prayer with our neighbours near and far.

Love compels us to give and act as one. 

Now, it is clear that our futures are bound together more tightly than ever before. 

As we pray in our individual homes – around the nation and around the world – we are united as one family.

So, let us pause and find a moment of peace, as we lift up our hearts together in prayer.

Prayer from Christian Aid Website (for Christian Aid Week next week