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Ordinary Time, 14th Sunday (6 July)

Opening Comment
There is much good news in today’s Gospel. We’re told we can bring all our troubles to Jesus and find rest. God will make our burden light. We praise God for the care promised us.

Alternative Opening Prayer (from 1998 ICEL Missal)
Father, Lord of heaven and earth,
by whose gracious will
the mysteries of the kingdom are revealed to the childlike,
make us learn from your Son humility of heart,
that in shouldering his yoke
we may find refreshment and rest.
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
Zechariah 9:9-10 — Peace will come, not through the instruments of worldly rulers, but through the gentleness of God. Romans 8:9, 11-13 — Paul tells us that life is given to us through the gift of the Spirit, so we must not live unspiritual lives. Matthew 11:25-30 — A promise of rest for the overburdened: Jesus refreshes and renews all who seek him.

BIDDING PRAYERS

Introduction (by the Presider) The Lord is kind and full of compassion, so we bring our prayers with confidence:

  1. For Christian people everywhere, that they may learn to trust in God’s gentle support (pause for silent prayer). Lord, hear us.
  2. For the leaders of all the nations, that their words and actions may lead to peace (pause for silent prayer). Lord, hear us.
  3. For those who live in parts of the world where there is war and division (especially the Middle East), that reconciliation may follow conflict (pause for silent prayer). Lord, hear us.
  4. For reconciliation and healing in the north of Ireland, that this year’s marching season may pass off peacefully (pause for silent prayer). Lord, hear us.
  5. For all who labour and are overburdened,  that they may experience the rest promised by Jesus (pause for silent prayer). Lord, hear us.
  6. For those enjoying holidays at this time, that sports may always be occasions of human fraternity and growth (pause for quiet prayer). Lord, hear us

The presider prays for the dead: ‘For our brothers and sisters whose life on earth is over (especially N and N), that they may be raised to eternal life with Christ (pause for silent prayer). Lord, hear us.

Conclusion (by the Presider) God of compassion and faithfulness, you raise up all who are bowed down: hear the prayer we make to you this day, through Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen.

SONGS AT MASS (suggestions): ‘Be Still and Know that I am God’; ‘Come to Me’; ‘I will never forget you my people’.

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