Twelfth Sunday in Ordinary Time, June 23, 2024
Today we contemplate the power of Jesus to calm the stormy seas and ask the Father to be with us with his Son and send his Spirit to calm the storms of our lives.
- For the Church, that bishops may not be so concerned about legacy or accomplishment or success but will strive to put one foot in front of the other, doing the best they can, trying to let love live through their ministry.[1] We pray to the Lord.
- That the storms of war, persecution, bigotry, and hatred that threaten to destroy people, cultures, and nations may be quieted and stilled by the Lord so that they will cease and be replaced by great calm. We pray to the Lord.
- That throughout the storms of our lives, we may hear the Lord speaking to us that we may know he guides us and watches over us. We pray to the Lord.
- That we might no longer live for ourselves but for Christ who died for our sake and was raised. We pray to the Lord.
- That in these turbulent times, we may not think of Jesus as being asleep or having abandoned us but will have faith in him who even the wind and sea obey. We pray to the Lord.
- That during this season of storms, tornadoes, and hurricanes, the Lord will bar the doors of the sea and its garment of clouds commanding them, “Thus far shall you come, but no farther” so that proud waves will be stilled, and torrents will be weakened. We pray to the Lord.
- That those who sail the seas bringing food, supplies, and relief to communities facing starvation, sickness, and destruction may find calm waters and safe passage on their missions of mercy. We pray to the Lord.
- That we will practice compassion for “all those who are forced to flee their homes in search of peace and security.”[2] We pray to the Lord.
- That young people killed in the madness of war who had their whole lives ahead of them will not be forgotten but will serve as a constant reminder of the futility of war. We pray to the Lord.
- That those suffering the violent squalls of deadly disease that threaten to overwhelm them, may know the great calm that faith provides. We pray to the Lord.
- That our Heavenly Father may grant eternal rest, eternal life, and eternal peace to those whose lives were taken by accidents, war, or disease. We pray to the Lord.
God our Father, offer these prayers asking for the faith to know your presence among us and the grace to marvel at your constant loving care for us. We make these prayers through Christ our Lord. Amen.
[1] Based on statement of Fr. Greg Boyle, S.J. founder of Homeboy Industries and 2024 recipient of the Presidential Medal of Freedom.
[2] From remarks of Pope Francis at his weekly General Audience, June 19, 2024.
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