Presider’s Page for 13 September (Ordinary Time 24)

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.

Alternative Opening Prayer (from 1998 ICEL Missal)
Make us one, O God,
in acknowledging Jesus the Christ.
As we proclaim him by our words,
let us follow him in our works;
give us strength to take up the cross
and courage to lose our lives for his sake.
We ask this through our Lord Jesus Christ, your Son,
who lives and reigns with you in the unity of the Holy Spirit,
God for ever and ever.

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.

  1. For the success of the Synod in Rome next month — that family life may be renewed in Christ (pause for quiet prayer). Lord, hear us.
  2. For Christians being persecuted for their faith, in Syria and Iraq and throughout the Middle East — that they may know Christ’s presence as they carry the cross (pause for quiet prayer). Lord, hear us.
  3. For our brothers and sisters who seek safety in Europe — that they receive the welcome and support they need (pause for quiet prayer). Lord, hear us.
  4. For the Christians of Europe — that in welcoming refugees, their actions may match their faith (pause for quiet prayer). Lord, hear us.
  5. For those in need in our own country — that the homeless may be housed, the poor cared for and the sick supported (pause for quiet prayer). Lord, hear us.
  6. For all of us, as we begin a new week, that we may learn to live each day according to the Gospel (pause for quiet prayer). Lord, hear us.

The presider prays for the dead: For those we have lost to death (especially N and N), that they may walk in the presence of the Lord (pause for quiet 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.

SONGS AT MASS (Suggestions): ‘Shepherd Me O God’; ‘Céad Míle Fáilte Romhat’; ‘Eagles Wings’; ‘Love is His Word’.

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