21st Sunday in Ordinary Time – Liturgy preparation

Opening Comment

This hour of worship brings us into the presence of the God whose mystery we can never comprehend. All we have comes from the Lord, and we can only bow down in awe, and bring forward the praise that is due to the Almighty.

Penitential Rite: To prepare ourselves for the worship of God, let us call to mind our sins: I confess …

 

Introduction to the Scripture Readings

Isaiah 22:19-23 — God exercises his authority, removing one leader and replacing him with another.

Romans 11:33-36 — Paul reminds us that God is beyond our understanding, that no one can claim to have figured out the mind of God.

Matthew 116:13-20 — Peter is given authority on the basis of his act of faith.

 

The General Intercessions

 Introduction (by the Presider) Let us bring our prayers into God’s presence, remembering that God’s love for us is eternal.

  1.  For our Pope N, and our bishop N, that they may preach God’s word humbly and sincerely. (Pause for silent prayer) Lord, hear us.
  2. For all in positions of authority, in church and state, that they may serve with gentleness. (Pause for silent prayer) Lord, hear us.
  3. For those who have suffered through the abuse of power in church and state, that healing and new strength may be theirs. (Pause for silent prayer) Lord, hear us.
  4. For people on pilgrimage, to Knock and the other great shrines, that they may travel safely and return home refreshed. (Pause for silent prayer) Lord, hear us.
  5. For the leaders of the Church who have died, and all the faithful departed (especially N and N), that they may be part of the family of God, in the Father’s house. (Pause for silent prayer) Lord, hear us.
  6. For our own needs, for those who have asked our prayers —whom we remember now: (Long pause for silent prayer) Lord, hear us.

Conclusion (by the Presider): God of love, you never discard the work of your hands: Hear the prayers we make to you, in trust, through Christ our Lord. Amen.

 

Other Liturgical Suggestions

Penitential Rite a (Confiteor). Alternative opening prayer. Preface of Sundays in Ordinary Time 4 and Eucharistic Prayer 2. Solemn Blessing 12 (Ordinary Time 3) or 17 (The Apostles: ‘May God … bless you through the prayers of Saint Peter.’) If continental visitors attend today, the presider might welcome them in their own language at the start of Mass.

Songs

‘Be Thou My Vision’; ‘Immortal, Invisible, God Only Wise’; ‘Be Not Afraid’.

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On the day after Christmas Day, Irish people traditionally honour St Stephen, the first Christian martyr. This year, we also reflect on the Holy Family of Jesus, Mary and Joseph, whom St Stephen loved so much that he gave his life for the message of forgiveness that Jesus brought. We pray that these qualities will be seen in our families.

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