Twenty-Second Sunday of Ordinary Time, August 30, 2020

Twenty-Second Sunday of Ordinary Time, August 30, 2020

As Jeremiah was called to prophesy under the difficult circumstances of the final days of the kingdom of Judah, we are called to proclaim the Lord in our own difficult times.  We come to the Father with our prayers that we might be faithful messengers.   

1. That the Church will not be timid in crying out with outrage against violence despite the derision and reproach that the word of the Lord may bring. We pray to the Lord.
2. That the world may be blessed with political leaders who govern with compassion, justice, humility, and in the best interests of the freedom and welfare of all people.  We pray to the Lord. 
3. That those who have lost their homes or been displaced by the fires in the West and those whose health has been impaired by the flames and smoke may be spared further devastation and find relief from their suffering.  We pray to the Lord.
4. That the victims of Hurricane Laura struggling to reestablish the rhythms of their lives will be consoled, encouraged, and treated with compassion as they mourn the loss of loved ones, their homes, and the structures of their communities.  We pray to the Lord. 
5. That those suffering from the coronavirus or mourning deaths in their families or among friends, and those engulfed by a sense of despair may be renewed in mind so that they may discern the will of God, all that is good and pleasing and perfect.  We pray to the Lord.
6. That students and teachers will be kept safe and will find success in their efforts to instruct, learn, and be inspired by the science, arts, and humanities as they grow in their appreciation of all that God has created.  We pray to the Lord.
7. That people in the cities of our country and in regions of the world marked by civil instability may progress in justice, security, peace, and mutual respect.  We pray to the Lord.
8. That we may be encouraged by Peter who recognized Jesus as the Christ but at times was an obstacle to him, thinking not as God does, as we too stumble in our efforts to take up our crosses and follow Jesus.  We pray to the Lord.
9. That Fr. Christopher and all who have been persecuted or denied justice as they live their faith will be undeterred in following their call to follow Jesus and will know the hope that belongs to their call.  We pray to the Lord.
10. In gratitude that many in our communities who have been fighting various illnesses in near isolation have been recovering through their faith and the selfless help of loved ones and insightful medical personnel.  We pray to the Lord.
11. That those who have lost their lives while isolated from friends and family will gain eternal life with all the angels and saints.  We pray to the Lord.

O God, may your answer to our prayers cause your will for us to burn like a fire in our hearts.  We make our prayers through Christ our Lord.  Amen.