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Presider’s Page for 1 February (Ordinary Time 4)

Opening Comment
We come together to listen to God’s word and share the bread of life together. We praise the One who has rescued us from sin and darkness, and brought us the hope of heaven.

Alternative Opening Prayer (from the 1998 ICEL Missal)
Faithful God,
your Holy One, Jesus of Nazareth,
spoke the truth with authority, and you confirmed his teaching by wondrous deeds.
Through his healing presence,
drive far from us all that is unholy,
so that by word and deed we may proclaim him Messiah and Lord
and bear witness to your power to heal and save.
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
Deuteronomy 18:15-20 — A prophet is promised to the people, to speak in God’s name. Christians see this prophecy fulfilled in Jesus’ preaching.
1 Corinthians 7:32-35 — Paul seems to be downplaying marriage, but his passion is for the Kingdom. He wants his followers in Corinth to give undivided attention to the Lord, before all else.
Mark 1:21-28 — Jesus teaching makes a deep impression on people when he takes on the forces of evil.

BIDDING PRAYERS

Introduction (by the Presider) As the people belonging to God’s pasture, let us bring our prayers before the Lord who saves us.

  1. For all who teach in God’s name, that they may help many find the Kingdom (pause for silent prayer). Lord, hear us.
  2. For Pope Francis and all bishops, that God may guide their words and actions (pause for silent prayer). Lord, hear us.
  3. For those who have answered the call to religious life – monks, Brothers and Sisters, that their lives may show Christ to the world (pause for silent prayer). Lord, hear us.
  4. For Christians suffering persecution for their faith, that Christ may be close to them (pause for silent prayer). Lord, hear us.
  5. For the prophets of today, who challenge all of humanity, that they may have divine help in spreading the message of justice and truth (pause for silent prayer). Lord, hear us.
  6. For all adults, married and single, that God may have their undivided attention and first loyalty (pause for silent prayer). Lord, hear us.

The presider prays for the dead: For those who have died (especially N and N), that they may dwell in the Lord’s house forever (pause for silent prayer). Lord, hear us.

Conclusion (by the Presider) God our shepherd, you gently lead your people: hear the prayers we make and graciously answer them, through Christ our Lord. Amen.

SONGS AT MASS (Suggestions): ‘All people that on earth do dwell’; ‘Holy God’; ‘The Lord’s my Shepherd’.

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