Fifth Sunday Easter – Prayers of the Faithful etc
Opening Comment
Like branches of one tree, we are held together by our faith in Christ. Because we are all part of this one living plant, we come together in thanksgiving and praise. Penitential Rite: Brothers and sisters, filled with Easter faith, let us acknowledge our sins and so prepare ourselves to celebrate the sacred mysteries (pause): Lord Jesus, you raise us to new life …. you forgive us our sins …. you feed us with your body and blood: Lord, have mercy…
Introduction to the Scripture Readings
Acts 9:26-31 — Saul, a former persecutor of Christians, preaches at Jerusalem for the first time after his conversion.
1 John 3:18-24 — Living God’s way involves not just words, but genuine love for each other.
John 15:1-8 — Without a life-giving connection to Christ, our faith will wither and fade. Christ invigorates us.
BIDDING PRAYERS
Introduction (by the Priest) Praising God for the wonders of creation, we bring our prayers to the Lord.
- For all the baptised, that they may never be separated from Christ, the true vine (pause for silent prayer). Lord, hear us.
- For Christians everywhere, that their faith may bear fruit in good deeds (pause for silent prayer). Lord, hear us.
- For the success of the Assembly of the Irish Church, being planned at an ACP meeting this Monday in Dublin (pause for silent prayer). Lord, hear us.
- For all who grow crops for their livelihood, that God may grant them the gift of fine weather, and safety in their work (pause for silent prayer). Lord, hear us.
- For those who face exams this summer, that God’s gifts of serenity and calm may be theirs (pause for silent prayer). Lord, hear us.
- For all whose pilgrimage on earth is over, (especially N & N), that they may reach their final destination, at the Father’s house (pause for silent prayer). Lord, hear us.
Conclusion (by the Priest) God our creator, we praise you for your mighty deeds: hear the prayers your faithful people make, through Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen.
Other Liturgical Suggestions Penitential Act V (page 1387). Preface of Easter IV (page 432). Eucharistic Prayer I (The Roman Canon, page 502). Solemn Blessing 6 (Easter Time), page 551. Songs ‘Christ is Alive’, ‘Now the Green Blade Rises’, ‘Ag Críost an Síol’, Let us Build the City of God’; Bring Flowers of the Fairest’.