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Presider’s Page for 16 November (Ordinary Time 33)

Opening Comment
The beginning of the Advent season is coming closer, and the Liturgy invites us to look further into the future, towards the end of time, when the Day of the Lord comes. Today’s gathering will help us on our way,  teaching us how to live and giving us food for the journey.

Alternative Opening Prayer (from the 1998 ICEL Missal)
O God,
from whose own abundance
all gifts and skills are lavishly bestowed,
encourage us to use our talents
as generously as you have allotted them,
so that, being faithful to your purpose,
we may become sharers in your glory.
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
Proverbs 31:10-13, 19-20, 30-31 — The different talents people possess are highlighted in today’s readings. The first describes some of the gifts a woman can bring to marriage.
1 Thessalonians 5:1-6 — We’re reminded that the Day of the Lord could come at any moment, so we must be on the watch.
Matthew 25:14-30 — The talents we receive are given to us for a purpose — to be used.

BIDDING PRAYERS

Introduction (by the Presider) Brothers and sisters, let us make our prayers known to the Lord, who blesses those who learn to trust.

  1. For all the members of our community — that we may use our talents well, putting them at the service of all (pause for silent prayer). Lord, hear us.
  2. For an increase in the number who volunteer — that charities may not lack for help (pause for silent prayer). Lord, hear us.
  3. For wives and husbands — that they may value each other’s gifts, and be generous to the needy (pause for silent prayer). Lord, hear us.
  4. For prisoners, and their families — that they may put their trust in God, who never forgets them (pause for silent prayer). Lord, hear us
  5. For victims of crime — that they may see justice done and find healing (pause for silent prayer). Lord, hear us.
  6. For people who are sick, in mind, body or spirit — that our prayers and practical concern may support them (pause for silent prayer). Lord, hear us.

The presider prays for those who have died (especially N & N) — and for victims of road traffic accidents, and for all who have died tragically, that those who grieve may be consoled (pause for silent prayer). Lord, hear us.

Conclusion (by the Presider) Eternal God, you bless those who trust in you: hear the prayers we make, through Christ our Lord. Amen.

SONGS AT MASS (Suggestions) ‘Lord of all Hopefulness’; ‘All that I Am’; ‘Shepherd Me O God’; “Give me Joy in my Heart’, ‘Be Not Afraid’.

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