Special Easter Prayers as You Gather

God so loved the world that he gave his only begotten son... for us. Jesus went through many emotions and experiences during the time of his death on the cross. He prayed to his heavenly father. He saw that his mother was cared for. He forgave those who killed him and hurt him so badly. He wept. He cried out in pain and misery. He asked God for help. Finally, he said it was finished.

On Good Friday we follow the depth of despair that Christ endured.

Then, on Easter Sunday, we get up to the glory of our risen Christ.

He is risen, indeed!

PRAYERS......

Dear Father in heaven,

He is risen.

We gather here on this day of Easter to celebrate the joy of knowing our sins are redeemed. You alone, gave your son, to die for us, that we may live forever with you.

We ask a special prayer that you be with those who could not join our gathering today. Take care of them and protect them. Be with them as they also praise you for your loving sacrifice for all of our sins.

Guide and protect us through this day and always. Be with those throughout the world who are unable to join their families and friends - for whatever reason. Forgive us our sins and encourage us to do our best.

Again, we give thanks for the joy of the day. In Jesus' name we pray. On this glorious spring day, we ask that you bless this food and those who helped prepare this meal.

Amen.

He is risen, indeed!

We pray:

Thank you for giving your only son to die for us. For those of us who have sons, we can only begin to understand how difficult it would be to have your son die in such a traumatic way. However, the prophecies were fulfilled and because of your deep love, we will be able to join you in heaven.

We also thank you that spring has finally come. The sounds and joys of sunshine and warmth spread over the earth. Everything comes alive because of you and what you have given us.

We ask that you would forgive our wrongs and help us to live better lives. Encourage us to help others, to pray often and to read and study your word.

This food before us smells wonderful. Thank you for giving us so much more than we need as we live our daily lives. Bless those who help us in so many ways and who care about us.

We pray all of this in Jesus' name.

Amen

Let's bow our heads and fold our hands.

Today, once again, we have heard the Easter story. On Good Friday things seemed dark and bleak. This morning, when we arose, we knew things were different. The rock was rolled away and Jesus had risen from the dead.

We are grateful that he descended into hell that we may not have to endure such pain. We are joyous that Christ is now risen and a place in heaven is waiting for each of us. All that is required of us is to believe in Christ and we will, indeed, be saved. This is difficult for us to comprehend, but we pray that you would help us. Guide us during this very special day.

Be also with those who do not know and understand the true meaning of Easter.

We thank you for the many blessings and for the undeserved love you have bestowed upon each one of us.

In Jesus' name we pray.

Amen.

He is risen, indeed!