Basic Format of the UCM Common Prayer in Worship

During worship, members of our ministry team are invited to lead a 30–60 second prayer before the sermon. Speak to what you, as a student, sense our community needs—what would encourage, challenge, or comfort us today? A simple outline is provided below, but feel free to use your own format.

1. Address to God – The prayer begins by acknowledging God’s presence, attributes (e.g., love, mercy, faithfulness), and our dependence on God.
• Example: "Gracious and loving God, You are our refuge and strength, our ever-present help in times of trouble."

2. Thanksgiving and Praise – Expressing gratitude for God's blessings, faithfulness, and work in our lives.
• Example: "We thank You for the gift of this day, for the breath in our lungs, and for the community gathered here in Your name."

3. Intercessions (Prayers for Others) – Bringing before God the needs of the church, the community, and the world. This often includes:
Options include (you do not need to include all):
• Prayers for those who are sick, grieving, or in distress.
• Prayers for the church and its mission.
• Prayers for leaders, both in the church and in the world.
• Prayers for peace, justice, and those who are suffering.
• Prayers for personal needs and concerns.
• Example: "We lift before You those who are sick and suffering, those grieving the loss of loved ones, and all who feel alone. Bring comfort, healing, and peace."

4. Petition for God’s Guidance – Asking for wisdom, strength, and the presence of the Holy Spirit in the lives of individuals and the congregation.
• Example: "Lead us, O Lord, to be Your hands and feet in this world. Help us to walk in faith and to love our neighbors as Christ has taught us."

5. Conclusion and Dedication – Ending with a statement of trust in God’s faithfulness, often in the name of Jesus Christ.
• Example: "We offer these prayers in the name of Jesus Christ, our Lord."

Tips for Praying:

• Write out a prayer if helpful. You don’t have to pray without notes!
• Think about what you hear college students discussing - pray for those joys and challenges.
• Pray slowly. Its okay to take a break and let silence sit in the prayer. It also helps you speak more clearly and more prayerfully.
• You can’t mess up praying! The Holy Spirit works with us in prayer and everyone is grateful for your prayers for us.
• Talk with Pastor Todd or Pastor Jaime if you have questions about your specific prayer. We’re here to help!

Sample Prayer 1 

Dear God,

In the middle of stress, struggles, and uncertainty,
remind us that You are here, and You are enough.

We lift up our campus—
those battling anxiety, loneliness, and burnout. Bring peace. 

For those struggling financially, be our provider. 
For the brokenness in our community—
racial divides, injustice, and violence—let Your kingdom come. 

Make us peacemakers, listeners, and people who love like You.

For the burdens we carry, spoken and unspoken, we lay them at Your feet. 

Thank You for seeing us, loving us, and walking with us.

In Jesus’ name, Amen.

Sample Prayer 2

Hey God,

Thank You for bringing us here tonight. In the middle of our busy week, with classes, work, and all the things on our minds, we just take a deep breath and remember that You are here with us.

We lift up our campus—our friends, classmates, and professors. There’s a lot of stress, pressure, and uncertainty about the future, but You are steady when everything else feels shaky. Give us peace when we feel overwhelmed, courage when we feel small, and wisdom when we don’t know what to do.

God, we also pray for our city and the people around us who are struggling—those who are hurting, lonely, or in need. Open our eyes to see how we can love like You do. And for the world—where there’s war, division, and fear—bring healing, hope, and justice.

As we worship tonight, help us let go of distractions and meet with You. Remind us that no matter what happens, You are good, You are for us, and You are with us.

We love You. In Jesus’ name, Amen.