For Women Who Have Been Abused or Disempowered
Intercessor:
Our Lord, Jesus Christ, said, “Come to me, all who labor and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest.” Trusting in His mercy, let us pray for the Church and for the world.
Compassionate Lord, You see the tears that fall behind closed doors, and You hear the cries that never reach a courtroom or a pulpit. We pray for women who have been abused, silenced, or diminished in homes, workplaces, churches, and communities.
People:
Lord, in Your mercy, hear our prayer.
Intercessor:
Gather them under Your wings, O Christ. Shield their bodies from further harm, their minds from lies spoken over them, and their spirits from despair. Grant courage, wisdom, and safe pathways for those who seek refuge and healing.
People:
Lord, in Your mercy, hear our prayer.
Intercessor:
Raise up advocates, counselors, faithful friends, pastors, and wise elders who will listen with compassion, accompany with humility, and defend with courage. Make Your Church a place of safety, truth, and hope.
People:
Lord, in Your mercy, hear our prayer.
Intercessor:
Forgive us where we have doubted, remained silent, or explained away injustice rather than protecting Your daughters. Give us the mind of Mary, who sat at Your feet, and of the women who first proclaimed Your resurrection, that we may honor the gifts, voices, and callings of women in the life of Your Church.
People:
Lord, in Your mercy, hear our prayer.
Intercessor:
As You send us into our neighborhoods and communities, grant us humility to recognize Your presence already at work. May we receive as well as give, honoring the dignity of every person and bearing witness to Your redeeming love through lives of faithful presence.
People:
Lord, in Your mercy, hear our prayer.
Intercessor:
Bring healing, hope, and a future, that many may one day say, “You have turned my mourning into dancing.”
Through Jesus Christ, our Lord, who honored women, entrusted them to launch the good news of His resurrection, and lives and reigns with You and the Holy Spirit, one God, now and for ever.
People:
Amen.
