21st Sunday of Ordinary Time, August 22, 2021
We are drawn together to pray at this Eucharistic celebration, believing the words of Spirit and life that Jesus has offered us and asking the Father to answer all our needs.
- That in this world being torn apart by war, disease, poverty, fires, floods, and hurricanes, the Church may be a bold voice proclaiming God’s love for all people and instigating action that demonstrates that love. We pray to the Lord.
- That despite the disarray and hardship in the world that is disheartening to so many, people may not lose faith but will turn to Jesus, as did Peter, and declare, “You have the words of eternal life.” We pray to the Lord.
- That the injured and homeless of Haiti who have lost friends and family as well as all their meager possessions in the earthquake and flooding will remain resolute and will be lifted up by the aid being sent into their country. We pray to the Lord.
- That those who are homeless because of floods in Germany, Belgium, and throughout Europe as well as in Nigeria, Japan, Somalia, and Columbia may find safe haven from rising waters and have their lives restored. We pray to the Lord.
- That the women and girls of Afghanistan will be kept safe from oppression, loss of educational and employment opportunities, sexual exploitation, fear, and depression and be aided tangibly by those who declare the importance of life and freedom. We pray to the Lord.
- That Pope Francis’ urging that, “getting vaccinated is a simple yet profound way to care for one another, … a moral responsibility, … and a small individual gesture capable of transforming and improving societies” will be echoed by all people of good will and will gain a response that provides a “better future.”[1] We pray to the Lord.
- That politicians and governmental leaders whose hubris puts their personal whims above sound policies that protect and unite those they serve will find the humility to act responsibly and with the love of Jesus. We pray to the Lord.
- That children returning to school will develop emotionally, intellectually, and spiritually in environments that provide them personal safety, respect, and opportunity. We pray to the Lord.
- That as Joshua gathered the elders and leaders of the tribes of Israel challenging them to serve the Lord, Pope Francis may be successful in gathering the clergy of the church to transform hearts and minds so that they may be true servants of the Gospel. We pray to the Lord.
- That husbands and wives may be subordinate to one another out of reverence for Christ and love one another as gifts to each other and as models for their children. We pray to the Lord.
- That Fr. Christopher will continue to be pleased to serve the Lord despite the actions of those who seek to drive him away from his vocation and his sacred call. We pray to the Lord.
- That those who are depressed and discouraged in their battles with illness will cry out with confidence that that the Lord is close to the brokenhearted; and those who are crushed in spirit he saves. We pray to the Lord.
- That those in our community and parish who have died may be called by the Father and granted the grace to be with Jesus in the everlasting life of heaven. We pray to the Lord.
Heavenly Father, on this day we recognize our struggles to be better followers of your Son, even though we know that we are accompanied by Him in all our trials and celebrations. May we always be faithful and never be tempted by “former ways” that separate us from you. We make these prayers through Christ our Lord. Amen.
[1] Based on video message of Pope Francis with some bishops of the Americas, August 18, 2021.
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