Second Sunday of Lent – Prayers of the Faithful etc

Opening Comment

As we continue to celebrate Lent, it’s important that we keep the goal of our journey before us. The gospel of the transfiguration is read on this Lenten Sunday each year, to remind us to hold firm to a vision of glory, on dark days. Easter and its joy will follow this season of penance, just as the resurrection followed the passion and death of Jesus. Penitential rite: As we prepare ourselves for the paschal celebration, let us call to mind our sins: (pause) You raise the dead to life in the Spirit: Lord, have mercy….

Introduction to the Scripture Readings

Genesis 22:1-2, 9-13, 15-18 — The heartbreaking story of Abraham offering up his only child Isaac teaches that true sacrifice is about faith and obedience rather than slaughter.

Romans 8:31-34 — God’s will is that we be saved, not condemned. Jesus, who died and rose for us, intercedes for us still.

Mark 9:2-10 — On the second Sunday of Lent each year, the story of Jesus’ transfiguration is read – this year, as Mark recorded it.

The General Intercessions

 Introduction (by the Presider) Let us call on the Lord’s name, praying with thanksgiving and trust.

1. For all the members of the Church, as we continue on our lenten journey — we pray (Pause for silent prayer). Lord, hear us.
2. For those preparing to become members of the Christian community at Easter time — we pray (Pause for silent prayer). Lord, hear us.
3. For the Jewish people of every country, the sons and daughters of Abraham — we pray (Pause for silent prayer). Lord, hear us.
4. For those who are starving in this world of plenty — we pray (Pause for silent prayer). Lord, hear us.
5. For our community, and particularly for people who are lonely or fearful — we pray (Pause for silent prayer). Lord, hear us.
6. For those who have gone before us in faith (especially N & N who died recently and N & N whose anniversaries occur) — we pray (Pause for silent prayer). Lord, hear us.

Conclusion (by the Presider) Loving God, we are your servants who trust in you, even in the midst of affliction: hear our prayers and help us to walk in your presence all our days, through Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen.

Liturgical Suggestions: Purple vestments, purple banners, purple cloths: few or no flowers. Penitential Rite Invocations IV, page 1386. Gloria omitted, no Alleluia. Preface of the Second Sunday of Lent, given with the Mass texts, page 88. Eucharistic Prayer 1 (which invokes Abraham). Prayer over the People also give with Mass texts, page 88. Preceded by ‘Bow down for the blessing’ and followed by the simple blessing: ‘And may the blessing of almighty God, the Father, and the Son, + and the Holy Spirit, come down on you  and remain with you for ever.’

Songs: ‘Here I am Lord’; ‘Be Thou My Vision’; ‘God of Mercy and Compassion’.