Eighth Sunday of Ordinary Time – Liturgy Preparation
Opening Comment
The care of God for all of creation draws us together to praise our Creator.
Penitential Rite
As we prepare ourselves for this celebration, let us renew our trust in God’s gracious forgiveness: (pause)
Introduction to the Scripture Readings (Year A)
Isaiah 49:14-15 God’s love is as strong as the love of a mother for her child.
1 Corinthians 4:1-5 Christ is the only judge: every judgment but his is premature.
Matthew 6:24-34. The heavenly Father cares for all of creation.
The General Intercessions
Introduction (by the Presider)
My sisters and brothers, our God invites us to trust at all times: in that spirit of trustfulness, let us bring forward our prayers
Intercessions (announced by the deacon, cantor or another person)
1. For all who preach the good news, that they may help their congregations to move from worry to trust.
(Pause for silent prayer) Lord, hear us.
2. For the new government soon to be formed, that it may treasure and protect the most vulnerable in our society
(Pause for silent prayer) Lord, hear us.
3. For people weighed down by fear of what is to come that the liberation from anxiety promised by the Gospel may be theirs.
(Pause for silent prayer) Lord, hear us.
4. For the people suffering after the devastating earthquake in New Zealand, that the friendship of people and the grace of God may sustain them.
(Pause for silent prayer) Lord, hear us.
5. For all who have died (especially N and N), that they may have peace and rest in the Kingdom.
(Pause for silent prayer) Lord, hear us.
6. For our own needs, which we remember now in silence… (Long pause for silent prayer) Lord, hear us.
Conclusion (by the Presider)
O God, you are the rock of our strength:
Hear the prayers of those who trust in your abiding love, we pray,
through Jesus Christ our Lord.
Amen.