Eleventh Sunday in Ordinary Time, June 13, 2021

On this day we give thanks to the Lord and ask that we may flourish like the palm tree, grow like a cedar of Lebanon, and always walk by faith. 

1. That the Church may sow the seeds of faith among all people and that they will spring up and become a large source of joy and respectful human interaction in this contentious world.  We pray to the Lord.
2. That world leaders may plant initiatives among nations that will put forth branches, bear fruit, and display the majesty of peace.  We pray to the Lord.
3. That the US Conference of Catholic Bishops meeting this week in their Spring General Assembly will be guided by the Holy Spirit and given the Wisdom to act well on their deliberations regarding marriage, family life, and the meaning of the Eucharist in the life of the Church.  We pray to the Lord.
4. That the massacre of innocents in Burkina Faso and the slaughter and kidnapping of children under the guise of religious principles will cease, and that the millions of displaced people may return to their homes and live securely in peace.  We pray to the Lord.
5. That prayer may be a part of all our actions, not interrupting or contradicting the duties of daily life, but giving them meaning and peace.^[1]  We pray to the Lord.
6. That in forming the relationship among faith, our daily responsibilities, and prayer, we may keep alight the flame of Christian life that God expects of each one of us.^[2]  We pray to the Lord.
7. That the poor in this world who do not have access to adequate medical care, medications, and vaccines may be protected from illness and be given the compassionate aid that respect for their lives demands.  We pray to the Lord.  
8. That the mustard seeds of faith sown in the sacraments of initiation in our children may be nurtured by families and communities so that they may grow to reveal the great love of God that provides protection from the unwelcome pain of despair and disappointment and offers the shade of comfort and hope.  We pray to the Lord. 
9. That people subjected to blistering heat, forceful winds and devastating drought will find large branches of shade, strong structures, cool water, and the resources they need to survive during the challenging weather of summer.   We pray to the Lord. 
10. That as he celebrates his birthday and the anniversary of his ordination this week, Fr. Christopher may be renewed in both body and spirit.  We pray to the Lord.
11. That those who are suffering from illness and distress will find courage in facing their future, support of friends and family, relief from pain, and peace in accepting God’s will for their lives.  We pray to the Lord. 
12. That those who have died may be like withered trees replanted and made to bloom in the house of the Lord for all eternity.  We pray to the Lord.

God our Father, we offer our prayers with gratitude asking that we may know your will and always declare how just is the Lord, our rock, in whom there is no wrong.  We make our prayer through Jesus Christ our Lord.  Amen.

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^[1] Based on General Audience of Pope Francis, 2 June 2021.

^[2] Based on General Audience of Pope Francis, 2 June 2021.