16th Sunday in Ordinary Time July 17, 2022
We approach the Lord with our needs, asking that we may be people who listen to his words in our life and respond to those words through the care and hospitality we show to our neighbors who are in need.
- That the Church may listen to the promptings of the Spirit and offer hospitality to those whose lives are torn apart by evil and sin, not hoarding its riches for some while neglecting those most in need of grace. We pray to the Lord.
- That the nations of the world may be inspired by Abraham and Sarah to provide welcome for those who travel over parched lands, peace for those who flee violence, and renewal of spirit for those who are brokenhearted. We pray to the Lord.
- That we may be like Mary in our own prayers and sit beside the Lord listening to his words for us. We pray to the Lord.
- That we may be like Martha, offering hospitality to guests that they may feel welcomed and come to know the Lord who sits among us. We pray to the Lord.
- That the efforts of women who serve the Church by offering wisdom and hospitality will be appreciated as vital to the life and growth of faith in all people. We pray to the Lord.
- That when we act with charity, we may avoid the anxiety and worry that plagued Martha and rejoice in our opportunities to provide hospitality and to serve. We pray to the Lord.
- That political efforts to deny the unborn their most basic right, the right to life, will give way to concerted and universal efforts to increase support and care for mothers, fathers, and babies.[1] We pray to the Lord.
- That victims of war who suffer in their homes from shelling and atrocities will exchange hospitality with their neighbors and through mutual support free themselves from anxiety and worry and hear the word of the Lord calling them to peace. We pray to the Lord.
- That Fr. Christopher may rejoice in his sufferings with St. Paul on behalf of the body of Christ, which is the church, of which he is a minister. We pray to the Lord.
- That COVID, malaria, cancer, diabetes, and dementia and all diseases that threaten lives and diminish human capacities will be controlled by technical advances and wise strategies that preserve and restore health. We pray to the Lord.
- That gun violence which steals innocent lives will be eradicated by creation of a culture that values the life of each individual. We pray to the Lord.
- That those who are ill will be given compassionate care that uplifts their spirits and tends to their physical needs. We pray to the Lord.
- That those who have died will be received with great joy into the life of heaven where they may sit with the Lord and enjoy eternal hospitality. We pray to the Lord.
O God, may the grace of your answer to our prayers inspire us to be people who treasure your word and who love our neighbors through generous sharing of the many gifts you have given us. We offer these prayers through Christ our Lord. Amen.
[1] Based on response of Archbishop William Lori, chair of the USCCB Committee on Pro-Life Activities, to July 8 executive order on abortion access.
parishionersforjustice.com 