Presider’s Page for 5 October (Ordinary Time 27)
Opening Comment
There are reassuring words for us in God’s Word, with Paul reminding us that there is no need for us to worry. If there is anything we need, we can pray for it and God’s peace will be ours. (Today is ‘Day for Life’ in Ireland.)
Alternative Opening Prayer (from 1998 ICEL Missal)
Yours, O God, is the vineyard and its harvest,
yours the kingdom of justice and peace.
You call your people to tend its growth.
Bless the work entrusted to our hands,
that we may offer you
an abundance of just works,
a rich harvest of peace.
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
Isaiah 5:1-7 — God poetically tells all he has done for his people, and shows sadness and anger at what he has got in return.
Philippians 4:6-9 — Peace is promised for all who ask God’s help.
Matthew 21:33-43 — The sadness of the first reading is reflected in the Gospel: this time there is disappointment at how God’s son is treated.
BIDDING PRAYERS
Introduction (by the Presider) Let us bring our prayers into the presence of the Lord of hosts, who promises peace to those who pray.
- For all the members of the Church, that we may be thankful for what we have been given (pause for silent prayer). Lord, hear us.
- For those who lead countries and governments, that they may respect human life and work to defend it (pause for silent prayer). Lord, hear us.
- For all men and women of goodwill, that they may uphold the sacredness of human life from beginning to end (pause for silent prayer). Lord, hear us.
- For those who make decisions over life and death, that they may opt for life, and hope, and peace (pause for silent prayer). Lord, hear us.
- For our communities and parishes, that we may respect and honour each other, as people created in the likeness of God (pause for silent prayer). Lord, hear us.
- For people who worry, and for all who suffer, that the peace of God may fill them (pause for silent prayer). Lord, hear us.
The Presider prays for those who have died (especially N and N), and all who mourn after them, that eternal peace and comfort may be theirs (pause for silent prayer). Lord, hear us.
Conclusion (by the Presider) God of hosts, you turn your face to your people: let your grace fill us according to our needs, through Christ our Lord. Amen.
SONGS AT MASS (Suggestions): ‘Praise to the Holiest’; ‘Eat This Bread’; ‘Holy God We Praise Thy Name’; ‘Give me joy in my heart…’.