God of heaven and earth, today we remember the violence inflicted on innocent children under the decree of Herod. In faith we pray: 

God, in your mercy, hear our prayer.  

Advance efforts to protect the unborn and to ensure healthy living conditions for infants. 

God, in your mercy, hear our prayer. 

Attend to the weeping and sorrow of those who experience the horrors of genocide. 

God, in your mercy, hear our prayer.  

Rescue children who are abused, trafficked, or exploited for labor.  

God, in your mercy, hear our prayer.  

Our Father . . .  

May God be with us in our sorrows and restore in us the joy of salvation, through Jesus, our Savior and brother. Amen.