Prayer for New Rector

The following prayer is offered by Marlene Herndon, parishioner of All Souls’, Point Loma, as a prayer for a new season of ministry with a new rector.

O God, as we are entering this time in the life of [Congregation Name], refresh us with a new vision and help us to meet well all duties and responsibilities that come to us.

May we show hospitality to our new rector, [Rector’s Name], and welcome him with our support and prayers. Fill him/her, O Lord, with the knowledge of your will in all wisdom and understanding.

We beseech you for the touch of your Spirit, that his/her heart may yield to you in obedience, reverence and confidence.

Endue our hearts with gratitude and love for the blessings of this new ministry that will not only give joy and comfort but also by example and influence will lead others to love and serve you.

Impel us constantly through this new ministry to gracious acts of kindness done to others in the Master’s name, and for his sake, that we become strength to the weak, hope to the despondent, joy to the sorrowing, power to the tempted, so that we may so live that through us your kingdom may in part come and your will more fully be done among all people.

Grant that your servant, [Rector’s Name], may find her/his strength and dedication from the leading of your Holy Spirit.

We thank you for the new opportunities that are ours. Help us to meet them with courage and trust in you. May we be filled with the gratitude of the savior, Jesus, who lifts us from the burden of sin and anxiety, and gather this family about yourself and protect us.

In the name of the one who calls us beyond ourselves, Jesus Christ, our Savior and Lord.

Amen.