Presider’s Page for 15 Sept (24th Sunday in Ordinary Time)
Opening Comment (for the Presider)
Our God seeks out sinners to forgive them. At this gathering, we worship our loving and compassionate God. Penitential Rite: As we enter into the celebration, we call to mind our sins: (pause) You were sent to heal the contrite of heart …You came to call sinners …. You plead for us at the right hand of the Father: Lord, have mercy.
Introduction to the Scripture Readings (for Ministers of the Word)
Exodus 32: 7-11, 13-14 God relents in response to pleas for leniency.
1 Timothy 1: 12-17 Between now and the end of October, we read from St Paul’s letters to Timothy, which dealt with issues that arose in communities founded by Paul. In today’s excerpt, Paul insists that Jesus came into the world to save sinners — people like Paul himself.
Luke 15: 1-32 A series of stories that show God stretching out a hand to sinners.
BIDDING PRAYERS
Introduction (by the Presider) With confidence, let us bring the needs of the community before our great and compassionate God.
- That all who try to follow the right path, may find forgiveness when they fail (pause). Lord, hear us.
- That people who believe they have gone too far from God, may experience compassion (pause). Lord, hear us.
- That those suffering because of war and violence may have relief (pause). Lord, hear us
- That all who live in loneliness and isolation, may feel part of the Christian family (pause). Lord, hear us.
- That people who are sick in mind or body, may experience God’s healing power (pause). Lord, hear us
- That we may have God’s help in our particular needs, which we remember now (long pause for silent prayer) Lord, hear us
The presider prays for the dead, those who died during the week and those whose anniversaries occur (and the person/people for whom Mass is offered): That those who have died, (especially N and N) may know the joy of God’s presence (pause) Lord, hear us.
Conclusion (by the Presider) O God, in your kindness, you blot out our sins and failings: hear our humble prayers, through Christ our Lord. Amen.
SONGS AT MASS (for Ministers of Music): God of Mercy and Compassion; Grant to Us O Lord; Be Not Afraid; Lord of all Hopefulness