24th Sunday Ordinary Time – Bidding prayers etc
Opening Comment
In our journey through life we walk the path Jesus walked, so it is hard for us to escape suffering, no more than he could. We remember his suffering and death, knowing that it brought him glory and that it will do the same for us.
Penitential Rite: As we prepare ourselves to listen to God’s challenging Word, let us remember our sins: (pause) Lord Jesus, you have shown us the way to the Father ….
Introduction to the Scripture Readings
Isaiah 50:5-9 — Isaiah describes someone suffering nobly. Christians think of Jesus when they hear these words.
James 2:14-18 — James challenges all Christians to put their faith into action.
Mark 8:27-35 — Jesus tells his followers about the kind of end he will have, and tells them they too may have to suffer.
BIDDING PRAYERS
Introduction (by the Presider) The Lord protects his people, so we ask for help with confidence.
- For Catholics being persecuted for their faith, that they may know Christ’s presence on their ‘way of the cross’ (pause for silent prayer). Lord, hear us.
- For all who call themselves Christian,that their actions may match their faith (pause for silent prayer). Lord, hear us.
- For those who administer the law: judges, juries, lawyers, defendants, witnesses, that they may work for justice and truth (pause for silent prayer). Lord, hear us.
- For young people who received their Junior Cert results last week, that they may see God’s guiding hand at work in their lives (pause for silent prayer). Lord, hear us.
- For those we have lost to death (especially N and N), that they may walk in the presence of the Lord (pause for silent prayer) Lord, hear us.
- For our own needs, which we remember now in silence … (long pause for silent prayer). Lord, hear us.
Conclusion (by the Presider) God of all compassion, you protect your people in every difficulty: hear our prayers and grant us your grace, through Christ our Lord. Amen.
Other Liturgical Suggestions Penitential Act VI (page 1387). Preface II of Sundays in Ordinary Time (page 442) and Eucharistic Prayer 3. Solemn Blessing 11 (Ordinary Time III). Songs: ‘Shepherd Me O God’; ‘Céad Míle Fáilte Romhat’; ‘Eagles Wings’; ‘Love is His Word’.