5th Sunday Ordinary Time – Prayer of the Faithful etc
Opening Comment
As we come together for worship, each of us brings worries, anxieties and fears. We gather them all together and entrust them to the one who heals his suffering people.
Penitential rite: Remembering that God’s compassion has no end, we call to mind our sins: (pause) Lord Jesus, you healed the sick: Lord, have mercy. Lord Jesus, you forgave sinners: Christ, have mercy. Lord Jesus, you give us yourself to heal us and bring us strength: Lord, have mercy.
Introduction to the Scripture Readings
Job 7:1-4, 6-7 — Job’s prayer is the prayer of one seriously ill. Many who have been in that state will recognise the sentiments of despair and desperation.
1 Corinthians 9:16-19, 22-23 — Paul talks about his own ministry as an apostle, and what motivated him.
Mark 1:29-39 — Jesus begins his busy ministry of healing, praying and preaching.
The General Intercessions
Introduction (by the Presider) Our Lord is great and almighty, so we bring our prayers with confidence.
- For those who work hard to spread the Gospel, that God’s Spirit may support them when they feel weary (Pause for silent prayer). Lord, hear us.
- For the families of the fishermen lost off West Cork, as the search winds down, that God may help them in their loss (Pause for silent prayer). Lord, hear us.
- For all brokenhearted people, that the mender of souls may bring them healing (Pause for silent prayer). Lord, hear us.
- For all the sick — at home, in hospitals or nursing homes — that in moments of despair they may know God’s love and support (Pause for silent prayer). Lord, hear us.
- For mothers-in-law and fathers-in-law, that family relationships may always be marked by sensitivity and tolerance (Pause for silent prayer). Lord, hear us.
- For those who passed beyond this life (especially N and N), that our caring God may love them into eternity (Pause for silent prayer). Lord, hear us.
Conclusion (by the Presider) Almighty God, we praise you, for you heal the brokenhearted: graciously hear our prayers and grant us the grace we need, through Christ our Lord. Amen.
Liturgical Suggestions Penitential Rite: Invications for the Penitential Act VII (page 1388). Preface III of Sundays in Ordinary Time (page 444). Eucharistic Prayer 3. Solemn Blessing 13 (Ordinary Time V, page 555). Songs: ‘Lord of all Hopefulness’; ‘Ag Críost An Síol’; Lay your hands gently upon us’.