Twenty-First Sunday of Ordinary Time, August 26, 2018

Twenty-First Sunday of Ordinary Time, August 26, 2018

As people who have chosen to serve the Lord, we worship God who leads us; and we ask for the strength to live with conviction that Jesus is the Holy One of God.

1. For the Church, that in this time of turmoil and grief, leaders will emerge who will stand up for justice, integrity, and genuine concern for all people. We pray to the Lord.
2. That during his visit to Ireland, Pope Francis will be a messenger of healing that will renew the faith of the Irish people and spark renewal throughout the world. We pray to the Lord.
3. That politicians and secular leaders may not welcome the scandals in the Church as distractions from their own responsibilities but will work tirelessly for the well being of all people. We pray to the Lord.
4. That those haunted and discouraged by the scandals in the Church who are tempted to leave may not lose hope but may join with Peter in declaring, “To whom shall we go? You have the words of eternal life.”  We pray to the Lord.
5. That married couples may cherish each other with love, as Christ does his Church, and receive the grace needed to live well their wedding vows. We pray to the Lord.
6. That Fr. Christopher may remain determined to fight for justice and for his priesthood, receiving the support he needs through prayer, encouragement, and God’s grace. We pray to the Lord.
7. That those suffering because of the algae blooms in Florida, and all who are suffering from natural disasters, may find relief for themselves and experience the benefits of responsible environmental management. We pray to the Lord.
8. That those who are ill may be people of hope, confident in God’s love for them even as they seek relief from their pains. We pray to the Lord.
9. That those who have died may reap the rewards of serving God in their lives and rejoice forever in the eternal life of heaven. We pray to the Lord.
10. For our own intentions that we recall in silence…….. We pray to the Lord.

O God, you save all people and renew the spirits of those who are crushed by the challenges of this world.  Hear our prayers and give us the gifts we need to serve you faithfully and to walk with joy in the footsteps of faith.  We make our prayer through Christ our Lord.   Amen.