Miriam is one of St Thomas’ Church Wardens and she leads both Morning and Evening Prayer this week. Morning Prayer – Miriam reads a passage from one of Paul’s letters written from prison to Philemon – the leader, today’s letter was written by Paul to Philemon – a leader in the Colossian church (now in modern day Turkey). This scripture considers the Apostle Paul’s request to Philemon to take care of Onesimus the bearer of Paul’s letter to Philemon – Paul describes to Philemon the need for forgiveness and reconciliation; “When I remember you in my prayers, I always thank my God because I hear of your love for all the saints and your faith towards the Lord Jesus. I pray that the sharing of your faith may become effective when you perceive all the good that we may do for Christ. I have indeed received much joy and encouragement from your love, because the hearts of the saints have been refreshed through you, my brother.”

We pray for world peace, for wise decision-making and the moral integrity of all world leaders – most especially this morning.