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Ordinary Time, 17th Sunday (27 July)

Opening Comment
God has given us many gifts, including the promise that we will share in Christ’s glory. We give thanks for these treasures, as we continue on our journey to the fullness of the kingdom of heaven.

Alternative Opening Prayer (from 1998 ICEL Missal)

God of eternal wisdom,
you alone impart the gift of right judgement.
Grant us an understanding heart,
that we may value wisely
the treasure of your kingdom
and gladly forgo all lesser gifts
to possess that kingdom’s incomparable joy.
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
1 Kings 3:5, 7-12 — Solomon is offered any gift he chooses and opts for the gift of wisdom.
Romans 8:28-30 — Paul explains that God turns everything to good for those who love him.
Matthew 13:44-52 — Jesus describes the kingdom of heaven using many parables.

BIDDING PRAYERS

Introduction (by the Presider) Let us bring our prayers before our God of wisdom and love:

  1. That all Christians may be inspired to continue along the path to the Kingdom by the treasure that awaits them (pause for silent prayer). Lord, hear us.
  2. That those who govern nations may have the wisdom of the great leader Solomon (pause for silent prayer). Lord, hear us.
  3. That all who search for answers to their questions may receive the gift of true wisdom (pause for silent prayer). Lord, hear us.
  4. That those on pilgrimage may know the Lord’s presence on their journey, particularly those climbing Croagh Patrick today (pause for silent prayer) Lord, hear us.

The Presider prays for the dead: That those whose life on earth is over may reach their eternal home in heaven (especially N & N) (pause for silent prayer).  Lord, hear us.

The Presider introduces a moment of quiet prayer: That we may have God’s help in all our difficulties, particularly the needs we remember in silence now: (long pause for silent prayer). Lord, hear us.

Conclusion (by the Presider) God of wisdom and love, your will is wonderful indeed: hear the prayers we make and help us live by your precepts, through Christ our Lord. Amen.

SONGS AT MASS (suggestions): ‘Lord of All Hopefulness’; ‘Be Not Afraid’; ‘Go Tell Everyone’.

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One Comment

  1. Frank Purcell says:

    Absolutely amazing that the P of F are so glib: not a mention of Ukraine, Gaza, and other “stuff” happening around the world?

    Reply

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