15th Sunday in Ordinary Time – Presider’s Page
Opening Comment (for the Presider)
The beautiful story of the Good Samaritan is told again at today’s Mass, with its challenge to us to look after others, as the Good Samaritan did. We gather to worship God who showed us what love means. Penitential Rite: We take a moment to call mind ways we have failed to show love: (Pause) Lord Jesus, you came to gather the nations into the peace of God’s kingdom: Lord, have mercy. You come in word and sacrament to strengthen us in holiness: Christ, have mercy. You will come in glory with salvation for your people: Lord, have mercy.
Introduction to the Scripture Readings (for Ministers of the Word)
Deuteronomy 30: 10-14 God’s laws and commandments should be observed – they are not difficult to know.
Colossians 1: 15-20 The second reading is from Colossians for the next four Sundays. Paul wrote to the people there to correct heresies and assure them that Christ’s work of redemption was complete. Today’s reading makes that very point in a beautiful way.
Luke 10: 25-37 The story of the Good Samaritan teaches that laws should not be used to limit goodness.
BIDDING PRAYERS
Introduction (by the Presider) Let us ask our God of compassion to hear and help us.
- For all who say they follow Christ, that their charity may be clearly seen (pause). Lord, hear us.
- For victims of crime, that the love and support of friends may bring them healing and new hope (pause). Lord, hear us.
- For those who suffer as a result of intolerance or prejudice, that they may see Christian values triumph (pause). Lord, hear us.
- For all in need in our community, that they may know God’s comfort and help (pause). Lord, hear us.
The presider prays for the dead, those who died during the week and those whose anniversaries occur (and the person/people for whom Mass is offered) ‘that they may have a reward for their good deeds’ (pause). Lord, hear us.
Conclusion (by the Presider) O God of love and compassion, you turn towards your people in their need, listen to the prayer we make, through Christ our Lord. Amen.