Prayers of the People, P+23C

Teacher, 
we come before you, 
some of curious ...
some of us anxious ...
some of us fearful ...
wondering how to read the future
by the signs of our times.
We raise our concerns
over authoritarianism
and idol-worship
and fascism 
in our world. 
Our hearts are breaking over
wars
and famines
and plagues,
over the revocation of
and disregard for
the rights of the marginalized,
and the injustice that reigns 
in communities of need. 
Hear our prayers, O God,
for all who are hurting,
who are being betrayed
repeatedly
by those who are responsible
for their protection.
Give us the words to speak your truth, Lord,
in their defense and in yours.
We cannot wait any longer, Lord!
Grant us courage to be the church
according to the example set in Jesus,
and help us to endure
by the power of the Spirit.