Third Sunday of Lent March 20, 2022

Third Sunday of Lent, March 20, 2022

We approach the Lord this day observing the sufferings of so many throughout the world and are reminded that we must repent of our own failings to avoid suffering as we ask for the Father’s mercy.

1. That the Church may not perish but instead by confessing its guilt in matters of abuse, malfeasance, and clericalism will find vibrancy, life, and the kingdom of heaven on earth.  We pray to the Lord.
2. That world leaders who have made bad decisions in governing their people will have the humility to repent of their wrongdoing so that their efforts may bear good fruit.  We pray to the Lord.
3. That St. Joseph, who kept his family from harm while fleeing to Egypt, will watch over the refugees from Ukraine and other countries whose citizens are forced from their homes fleeing oppression, persecution, poverty, and war.  We pray to the Lord.
4. That we will not look at the hardships and failings of others as evidence of our superiority but may be grateful for the grace God has given us and be more generous in sharing our blessings.  We pray to the Lord.
5. That during this Lenten season, we may reflect on the times we have failed to bear good fruit, be grateful for another year of possibility, and trust in the Lord’s patience in providing us with opportunity.  We pray to the Lord. 
6. That aid supplies collected to assist those suffering from war and poverty may find their ways into the hands of those in desperate need.  We pray to the Lord. 
7. That those who farm may have bountiful harvests of fruits from the trees of their orchards as they cultivate and fertilize the ground so that they may not exhaust the soil but may feed a hungry world.  We pray to the Lord.
8. That we may not desire evil things, grumble about our lot in life, or think we are standing secure but may take care to seek what is good, be grateful for the many blessings we have received, and take care not to fall clinging to what cannot save us.  We pray to the Lord.
9. That we may not lose heart but may pray with fervor and faith for the end of hostilities in Ukraine and the return of the citizens of that country to lives of peace, hope, and joy.  We pray to the Lord. 
10. That we may be observant of the signs of God’s presence and calls in our lives — though not as dramatic as the burning bush seen by Moses — and respond with confidence in his love for us that he is the one to be remembered through all generations.  We pray to the Lord.
11. That this Lenten season may bring Fr. Christopher relief from his suffering so that he may be renewed to rejoice at Easter.  We pray to the Lord.
12. That those who are ill will know that the Lord heals all their ills, redeems their lives from destruction, and crowns them with compassion as they experience his kindness and mercy.  We pray to the Lord.
13. That those who have been struck down in Ukraine — the innocent, babies in arms, young mothers, and those defending their homes and their freedom — may not have died in vain and will receive their reward in the eternal peace and joy of heaven.  We pray to the Lord. 

God our Father, we come to you on this Lenten day offering our prayers, penance, and alms so that we may be renewed in body, mind, and spirit — strengthened to bear fruit in the future according to your will.  We make these prayers through Jesus Christ our Lord.    Amen.