Prayers for Advent
Opening Prayers for Advent
Advent begins in the dark—but it begins with hope. Adventinvites us to lean into the tension between what is and what will be, to name our longings honestly, and to place our trust in the God who is already drawing near.
Whether your worship setting is formal or informal, these five original opening prayers are crafted to meet the spirit of the season with depth, variety, and reverence.
From quiet yearning to bold expectancy, these prayers echo the voices of those who waited long ago and those who still wait today. Each can stand alone or pair with the lectionary texts of any Advent Year (A, B, or C)—welcoming Christ at the threshold of the season.
1. Quiet Hope - Advent Prayer
Gracious God,
In the stillness of this season, we come to You with open hearts.
As the first candle flickers with hope, remind us that Your promises are sure—even when the world feels uncertain.
Awaken us to Your presence in the waiting. Strengthen our faith as we begin this Advent journey,
watching for Christ who comes among us—then, now, and always.
In Jesus’ name, we pray. Amen.
2. Hope for a Weary World
Eternal God,
We gather today as people longing for hope in a troubled world.
You know the burdens we carry, the waiting we endure, the fears we try to silence.
As Advent begins, turn our hearts again to Your faithfulness.
Let this time of worship renew in us a quiet strength, a steady joy, and a courageous hope.
Come, Lord Jesus, and meet us here. Amen.
3. Active Watchfulness
Living God,
You call us to stay awake, to be alert, to watch for signs of Your coming.
In this season of Advent, shake us from our complacency.
Let this worship open our eyes to Your movement and open our hands to serve You in the world.
Light within us the flame of hope, that we may carry it with joy wherever we go.
We pray in the name of Jesus Christ, the One who is coming and who is already here. Amen.
4. Rooted in Scripture (Luke 21 & Isaiah)
Mighty and Merciful God,
When the nations tremble and the earth groans,
You remind us to lift our heads, for our redemption is drawing near.
As we begin this holy season, teach us to walk in the light of the Lord.
May the candle we light this morning ignite a new hope in our spirits.
Fill this hour with Your presence and lead us in the way of peace.
Through Christ, our Coming King. Amen.
5. Communal Longing
God of hope,
We gather as a people who need You.
We need Your light in our shadows, Your courage in our fears,
Your promises in our waiting.
As we begin this Advent season, stir something new in us.
Bind us together as one body, watching, longing, and praying for Your kingdom to come.
Let this worship honor You, and send us out with hope to share. Amen.
