18th Sunday Ordinary Time
Opening Comment
From the days when the Jewish people wandered in the desert to this very day, God has been food to the hungry and meaning to those who lose their way. We celebrate our Lord’s loving-kindness. Penitential rite: As we prepare, let us call to mind our sins: (pause) I confess…
Introduction to the Scripture Readings
Exodus 16: 2-4, 12-15 On their way to the Promised Land, the Jews wondered whether the Lord had abandoned them. But God heard, and fed them with quails in the evening and manna every morning.
Ephesians 4: 17, 20-24 Paul tells the people of Ephesus to put aside their old ways and live a new life.
John 6:24-35 In last Sunday’s Gospel, Jesus fed the five thousand. In this Sunday’s Gospel, he urges those he fed to reflect on their hunger and to work for food that will last for ever: the Bread of Life.
BIDDING PRAYERS
Introduction (by the Presider) My friends, let us bring our intercessions to God, who always provides for us in our needs.
- For all who walk the Christian way, that God may sustain their faith and hope (pause for silent prayer). Lord, hear us.
- For women and men who search for meaning in their lives, that they may find the answers to their questions in Jesus (pause for silent prayer) Lord, hear us.
- For nomads and Travellers, and all who wander as did the Jews in the desert, that God may provide for their needs and support them in dangerous moments (pause for silent prayer). Lord, hear us.
- For those who live in hunger, abroad and at home, that the Lord may send them food, through our generous hands (pause for silent prayer) Lord, hear us.
- For those whose Christian journey is over and for all our dead (especially N & N) that eternal life may be theirs (pause for silent prayer). Lord, hear us.
- A moment’s quiet prayer for our own needs, and for each other… (long pause for silent prayer). Lord, hear us.
Conclusion (by the Presider) O God, you have never failed to nourish your people in their needs: hear our cries and grant our prayers, through Christ our Lord. Amen.
Liturgical Suggestions Penitential Act page 379-380 (Confiteor). Preface IV of Sundays in Ordinary Time (page 446). Eucharistic Prayer 3 (or Eucharistic Prayer 4, with its own preface). Include the Sign of Peace. Solemn Blessing 12 (Ordinary Time IV, page 554). Songs: “Though we are Many’ (Eucharistic Congress song); I am The Bread Of Life; One Bread One Body; Let Us be Bread.