Sixth Sunday Easter – Prayers of the faithful etc
Opening Comment
We gather in the love of God, redeemed in the death and resurrection of Jesus. We are people with a mission, challenged to grow in love each day. We ask God for divine help with this mission, today and during the coming week. Penitential rite: As we enter into this celebration, let us call to mind the times we failed to show love to each other: I confess…
Introduction to the Scripture Readings
Acts 10:25-26, 34-35, 44-48 — Peter once believed that the message of salvation was only for Jews. But in this part of the story of the early Church, he sees the Holy Spirit given to Cornelius, a Roman. As a result, he preaches that all can be baptised.
1 John 4:7-10 — The sign that we know God is that we love each other.
John 15:9-17 — We are called to lay down our lives for each other, as Jesus did for us.
BIDDING PRAYERS
Introduction (by the Presider) Sisters and brothers, let us pray to the Lord of love.
- For all who follow Christ today, that his love may be visible in their lives. (Pause for silent prayer.) Lord, hear us.
- For those who seek the truth, that the Spirit may help them to find it in Jesus. (Pause for silent prayer) Lord, hear us.
- For young people who celebrate Confirmation this year, that the gifts of the Spirit may help them live Christian lives. (Pause for silent prayer) Lord, hear us.
- For people who suffer in mind or body,that the love of friends and neighbours may remind them of God’s care. (Pause for silent prayer) Lord, hear us.
- For those whose sufferings are over — for all our dead, (especially N & N),that they may experience eternal life and love in heaven. (Pause for silent prayer) Lord, hear us.
- For our own needs and intentions, which we remember in a moment’s quiet prayer (Long pause for silent prayer) Lord, hear us
Conclusion (by the Presider) Ever-loving God, we sing a song of praise to your name, for you have worked wonders: Continue to guide your people, and hear our prayers, through Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen.
Other Liturgical Suggestions Penitential Act page 379 (Confiteor). Or begin Mass with the blessing and sprinking of holy water (given at the end of the Roman Missal, page 1353; use third prayer – Easter Time.) Preface of Easter 5. Eucharistic Prayer 2. Solemn Blessing 6 (Easter Time), page 551. Songs ‘Jesus Christ is Risen Today’, ‘Love is his Word’, ‘This is my will’, ‘Sing a New Song Unto the Lord’.