31st Sunday of Ordinary Time, November 05, 2017

31st Sunday of Ordinary Time, November 05, 2017

Coming before the Lord acknowledging the many times we fail in our efforts to practice our faith as we should, we offer our prayers and petitions.

1. That Church authorities may be given the grace to follow St. Paul and work gently and with affection among the people, not to burden them, but to share both the Gospel and themselves. We pray to the Lord.
2. That world leaders will promote the key principles of Catholic Social Teaching including the inherent dignity of the human person, solidarity among all people, peace as the fruit of justice, and stewardship of all creation. We pray to the Lord.
3. That we may strive to follow Jesus’ command to practice what we preach and actively work to model Christian principles in all aspects of our lives. We pray to the Lord.
4. Observing those with heavy burdens hard to carry laid on their shoulders, may we find ways to be of assistance and to provide encouragement. We pray to the Lord.
5. That we may act with humility in all that we do, not performing good works just to be seen or seeking places of honor, that we may ably be servants of others. We pray to the Lord.
6. That during this National Vocation Awareness Week, we may renew our prayers and support for those considering vocations to the priesthood, diaconate, or consecrated life that they may respond to God’s authentic call with open hearts and willing spirits. We pray to the Lord.
7. As Fr. Christopher lives his priestly vocation under difficult circumstances caused by human failures, may he be comforted by knowing his share of the cross is merited by his faithfulness to his call. We pray to the Lord.
8. For the sick and those who care for them, that they may be sustained by knowledge of God with them and by our prayers and support. We pray to the Lord.
9. That our deceased friends and deceased parishioners of St. Isabel may be embraced by God and held close in the peace and joy of heaven. We pray to the Lord.

O God, we offer our petitions to you with sincere desire that these are not the words of Pharisees but are the expressions of our needs and of what we nurture and practice in our lives of faith.  We make these prayers through Christ our Lord. Amen.