Presider’s Page for Pentecost (8 June)

Opening Comment
Today we celebrate ‘the great beginning of the Church,’ the day the Holy Spirit first came to confused and frightened disciples. We praise God for this great Gift, and ask for a new outpouring in our day.

Alternative Opening Prayer (from 1998 ICEL Missal)

Send down, O God, upon your people
the flame of your Holy Spirit,
and fill with the abundance of your sevenfold gift
the Church you brought forth from your Son’s pierced side.
May your life-giving Spirit
lend fire to our words and strength to our witness.
Send us forth to the nations of the world
to proclaim with boldness your wondrous work
of raising Christ to your right hand.
We make our prayer 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 (Mass During the Day)
Acts 2:1-11 — The events of the first Pentecost are described vividly.
1 Corinthians 12:3-7, 12-13 — The Spirit binds all the members of the Body of Christ into one.
John 20:19-23 — The promise of the Holy Spirit is given in today’s Gospel.

BIDDING PRAYERS

Introduction (by the Presider) Conscious of the Spirit praying within us, let us present our petitions with confidence.

  1. That the Spirit may fill the leaders of the Church — and put new life into all the bishops (pause for silent prayer). Lord, hear us.
  2. That the Spirit may bring new life to  all the members of the Church (pause for silent prayer). Lord, hear us.
  3. That the Spirit may be with those who were confirmed this year — all their lives long (pause for quiet prayer). Lord, hear us.
  4. That the Spirit may give fresh enthusiasm to all who are part of this community (pause for silent prayer). Lord, hear us.
  5. That the Spirit may be close to those doing exams — and help them as they need (pause for quiet prayer). Lord, hear us.
  6. That the Spirit may renew the face of the earth — and bring peace to the world and healing to those who suffer (pause for silent prayer). Lord, hear us.

The presider prays for the dead: That the Spirit may bring life to those who have died (especially N & N), and lead all the faithful departed home to heaven (pause for silent prayer). Lord, hear us.

Conclusion (by the Presider) God our creator, your Spirit brings us to life and sustains us: hear the prayers we are inspired to make, through Christ our Lord. Amen.

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