Presider’s Page for 6 September (Ordinary Time 23)

Opening Comment
God’s healing power was seen in the ministry of Jesus, and continues in the sacraments, in advances in medicine and in the work of the caring professions. Today we pray for strength, trusting that God will continue to show compassion to the whole world

Alternative Opening Prayer (from 1998 ICEL Missal)
God of power and compassion,
in Christ you reveal your will
to heal and to save.
Open our ears to your redeeming word
and move our hearts by the strength of your love,
so that our every word and work
may proclaim as Messiah
Jesus the Lord,
who lives and reigns with you in the unity of the Holy Spirit,
God for ever and ever.

Introduction to the Scripture Readings
Isaiah 35:4-7 — Isaiah promises that when the Messiah comes, the deaf will hear and the dumb will speak.
James 2:1-5 — James complains of class distinction at religious services.
Mark 7:31-37 — Through Jesus’ healing ministry, the deaf hear and the dumb speak.

BIDDING PRAYERS

Introduction (by the Presider) The Lord raises up those who are bowed down, so we bring forward our prayers with confidence.

  1. For our church — that all may feel welcome here, without distinction (pause for silent prayer). Lord, hear us.
  2. For Christians — that they may work to end discrimination (pause for silent prayer). Lord, hear us.
  3. For people with difficulties in speech — that patient friends may encourage them (pause for silent prayer). Lord, hear us.
  4. For those who cannot hear well — that we may be sensitive to their needs (pause for silent prayer). Lord, hear us.
  5. For the refugees looking to Europe for a place of safety — that they may find the safe home they need (pause for silent prayer). Lord, hear us.
  6. For those we love and are concerned about and for all our own needs, we pray… (pause for silent prayer). Lord, hear us.

The presider prays for the dead: For our friends who have died (especially N and N), that the Lord may raise up all the faithful departed and especially the men, women and children who have died in the Mediterranean this summer (pause for silent prayer). Lord, hear us

Conclusion (by the Presider) Healing God, you pour out your love on those who cry to you for help; raise us up by your grace and support us in our needs, through Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen.

SONGS AT MASS (Suggestions): ‘Be Thou My Vision’; Lay Your Hands Gently Upon Us ; ‘Take and Eat’; ‘Now Thank We All Our God’.

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