Thirteenth Sunday in Ordinary Time C, June 30, 2019

Thirteenth Sunday in Ordinary Time C, June 30, 2019

Jesus calls us to follow him despite the many distractions and lures we encounter in our lives.  We turn to the Father in faith with our prayers for ourselves and for the world.

1. That the Church will be resolute in following Jesus and not be deterred by criticism that stems from its promotion of principles of charity, morality, and respect for human life. We pray to the Lord.
2. That people of various cultures and faiths who journey on pilgrimages to Jerusalem and other holy places will find welcome in their travels from those they encounter on the way. We pray to the Lord.
3. That the U.S. bishops and bishops throughout the world will not only proclaim their policies for addressing sexual abuse but will take action that proves their commitment to the elimination all forms of clerical abuse. We pray to the Lord.
4. That Christians imprisoned in China for their faith, sold into human trafficking in Pakistan, kidnapped in Syria, or struggling to live their faith in the Middle East may find freedom from persecution and the opportunity to worship without fear. We pray to the Lord.
5. That those who believe that calling down fire from heaven to consume their enemies will solve problems among peoples and nations will hear the rebuke of Jesus and have a change of heart. We pray to the Lord.
6. That our country will be blessed and renewed in its commitment to life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness for all people through its celebration of Independence Day this week. We pray to the Lord.
7. That those seeking rest and renewal during this summer will be safe in their recreation and move closer to the Lord through contemplation of his many gifts . We pray to the Lord.
8. That those suffering from heat, storms, drought, and an all forms of harsh weather may find relief and be supported by their neighbors. We pray to the Lord.
9. That St. Isabel, whose feast is celebrated this Friday^[1], may intercede on behalf of Fr. Christopher and our parish to remove all enmity and restore the faith and sense of joy of the Catholic people of Sanibel. We pray to the Lord.
10. That those who are ill will be given needed medical care and the support and prayers of friends, family, and neighbors. We pray to the Lord.
11. That those who have died sacrificing their lives for the principles of freedom throughout the history of our nation will find everlasting freedom and peace in heaven for all time. We pray to the Lord.
12. For our own intentions that we recall in silence…….. We pray to the Lord.

O God, may we always walk with Jesus in the travels of our lives as His followers.  We turn to you with our prayers and petitions asking that all that prevents us from growing in our faith will be removed. We make these prayers through Christ our Lord.  Amen.

^[1] St. Isabel’s memorial is celebrated on July 4 except in the US where it has been transferred to July 5 because of the celebration of Independence Day.