Third Sunday of Advent, December 17, 2023

Third Sunday of Advent, December 17, 2023

On this Gaudete Sunday we offer our prayers to the Father overlooking the troubles of this world because we know that the Lord is near and is faithful to all his people.   

1. That in celebrating his 87th birthday today, Pope Francis may rejoice heartily in the Lord who has called him to lead the poor, the brokenhearted, captives, and those imprisoned by evil so that we may know Jesus and the message of the Gospels.  We pray to the Lord.
2. That world leaders may search for joy and peace rather than justifications for war, hatred, and destruction.  We pray to the Lord.
3. That despite the difficulties we encounter, we may rejoice always, pray without ceasing, and in all circumstances give thanks in accord with the will of God for each of us in Christ Jesus.  We pray to the Lord.
4. That we will not despise prophetic utterances that call us to better live the Gospels but will test everything, retain what is good, and refrain from every kind of evil.  We pray to the Lord.
5. That the God of peace will reign over Israel, Gaza, Ukraine, Russia, and the many other countries experiencing terrorism, drug wars, and political unrest so that all of humanity may rejoice and know the coming of the Lord.  We pray to the Lord.
6. That we may have the humility of John the Baptist, not declaring ourselves to be light but testifying to Jesus, the true light.  We pray to the Lord.
7. That those families and communities in upheaval whose members have disappeared in war, as refugees, as hostages, or through persecution may live with hope and know the peace of Christ that is beyond all understanding. We pray to the Lord.
8. That the story of Joseph who set out from Galilee toward Nazareth with Mary who was with child will inspire us in these last days before Christmas to set out so that faith may be born in our hearts and minds. We pray to the Lord.
9. That on this Gaudete Sunday we may rejoice in the knowledge of Jesus who came into the world, who comes to us each day and in the Eucharist, and who will continue to come to us despite our unworthiness and failings.  We pray to the Lord.
10. That those in mourning over the loss of loved ones, from loneliness, or from separation from their families in the Advent season may be in our prayers and be uplifted by small kindnesses and gentle encouragement.  We pray to the Lord.
11. That those who have given their lives in service to the suffering may be rewarded for all eternity with all the angels and saints in eternal joy.  We pray to the Lord.

O God, may we never fail to recognize the great things the Almighty has done for each of one of us.  Through your answer to our prayers may we know your mercy and remembrance of all our needs. We make these prayers through Christ our Lord.  Amen.