Twenty-First Sunday in Ordinary Time C, August 25, 2019

Twenty-First Sunday in Ordinary Time C, August 25, 2019

We come together this day acknowledging God’s presence in our lives, knowing that if we are to enter through the narrow gate and be saved, it is through God’s strength and not our efforts.

1. That the Church may tell the Good News to nations of every language and culture that they may come and see the glory of the Lord. We pray to the Lord.
2. That leaders of all nations and peoples may be humble in seeking the well-being of those people they serve and of the citizens of all nations. We pray to the Lord.
3. That missionaries who labor on rocky and crooked paths may not let their hands droop or their knees weaken as they seek to heal the disjointed lameness of the world. We pray to the Lord.
4. That those who are marginalized for calling the Church away from all forms of abuse may not disdain their suffering nor lose heart in their trials but will receive the grace and support to persevere that they may soon know the peaceful fruit of righteousness and of joy. We pray to the Lord.
5. That when we eat the Body and Blood of Christ and hear his words taught through the Gospels we will acknowledge him as Lord so that we may be among those welcomed into the Kingdom of Heaven. We pray to the Lord.
6. That as we celebrate the Memorials of St. Monica and her son St. Augustine this week, we may be renewed in our persistent prayer for those in need of faith and not be discouraged by delays in obtaining answers to those prayers. We pray to the Lord.
7. That the desire for power, honor, and adulation that infects so many who lead in the Church and in other walks of life will be replaced by commitment to service, compassion, and love for the down-trodden so that the last may be first. We pray to the Lord.
8. That Father Christopher may endure his trials as “discipline” of the Lord such that they may be a cause for joy and not for pain as he seeks the peaceful fruit of righteousness. We pray to the Lord.
9. That those who are ill may receive the grace to persist in in their trials and experience God’s love through prayer, the support of friends, and the marvel of the gift of life. We pray to the Lord.
10. That those who have died and knock on heaven’s door will be welcomed to recline at table in the kingdom of God among those who heard his word and desire his company. We pray to the Lord.
11. For our own intentions that we recall in silence…….. We pray to the Lord.

O God, we offer our prayers this day, and every day, knowing that in our weaknesses and stumbles your kindness is steadfast and your fidelity endures forever.  We offer our prayers of petition and praise that we may more completely know your presence that brings light and truth to all our actions.  We make these prayers through Christ our Lord.  Amen.