Presider’s Page for Dedication of Lateran (9 November)

Opening Comment
Every year on 9 November, we celebrate the dedication of the pope’s cathedral in Rome, the Lateran Basilica, which is dedicated to our Most Holy Saviour. We praise our loving God who provides a home for us on earth as in heaven.

Alternative Opening Prayer (from 1998 ICEL Missal)
God all-holy, in every place on earth
you gather your people into your presence to proclaim the wonders of your love.
As we celebrate the dedication of the cathedral church of Rome,
deepen our unity with your faithful throughout the world
and build us up into a house of prayer for all nations.
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
Ezekiel 47:1-2, 8-9, 12 The baptistery of the Lateran Basilica is dedicated to St John the Baptist: this reading conveys the cleansing and healing power of the waters of baptism.
1 Corinthians 3:9-11, 16-17 The Christian community is the church of God: this makes its gathering place sacred.
John 2:13-22 The most important temple for us is the body of the Lord, who was raised to life as our glory and our hope.

BIDDING PRAYERS

Introduction (by the Presider) As we gather on this special anniversary, let us pray for our needs and the needs of the Church:

  1. For the Christians of Rome and their bishop, Pope Francis, that the Church of Rome may continue to follow in the footsteps of Peter, its first bishop (pause for silent prayer). Lord, hear us.
  2. For our diocese (of ___________ ) and our bishop ( ___________), that the Christians of this place may be united with the Christians of Rome (pause for silent prayer) Lord, hear us.
  3. For all the people of our parish, that our faith may show itself in deeds of kindness (pause for quiet prayer). Lord, hear us.
  4. For people on the margins of life, that the welcome they receive in their church may remind them of God’s care (pause for quiet prayer). Lord, hear us.
  5. For those who design churches, that their work may give glory to God (pause for silent prayer). Lord, hear us.
  6. For all who take care of our church here (in ___________ ), that their care for the Body of Christ may bring them a heavenly reward (pause for quiet prayer). Lord, hear us.

The presider prays for all the dead (especially N and N), that having passed through the waters of baptism, they may share Christ’s victory over death (pause for silent prayer). Lord, hear us.

Conclusion (by the Presider) God of heaven and earth, you reward those with clean hands and pure hearts: in our unworthiness we bring our prayers to you, through Christ our Lord.

SONGS AT MASS (Suggestions) Abide With Me; Christ Be Our Light; Let us Build the City of God; How Great Thou Art.

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