Weekly Prayers of the Faithful

The Baptism of the Lord, January 12, 2025

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The Baptism of the Lord, January 12, 2025

With gratitude for our own baptisms and as beloved children of God, we offer our prayers to the Father asking that he may be well pleased with us.  

  1. That the Church will cry out with John the Baptist to bring faith and baptism to all the corners of the world.  We pray to the Lord. 
  2. That world leaders will embrace their responsibility to work for the well-being of all the citizens of their countries, for peace with their neighbors, and with compassion for all who struggle because of poverty and oppression.  We pray to the Lord.
  3. That the victory of justice will be brought to all nations engaged in senseless wars that cause harm, injury, destruction, and loss of life.  We pray to the Lord.
  4. That we will not remain indifferent when children “instead of being loved and protected, are robbed of their childhood, of their dreams, [as they are made] victims of exploitation and marginalization.”[1]  We pray to the Lord. 
  5. That God might “open our minds and hearts to care and tenderness” and that “every boy and girl might be able to grow in age, wisdom, and grace, receiving and giving love.”1 We pray to the Lord.
  6. That we will always be filled with expectation, confident that Jesus comes to us and is the Christ in all we encounter.  We pray to the Lord. 
  7. That the Holy Spirit who came to each of us at our baptism will inspire us with faith, wisdom, and hope throughout our lives.  We pray to the Lord.
  8. That we will take to heart the fact that in truth God shows no partiality so that we can accept and welcome all people as part of his creation.  We pray to the Lord.
  9. That the people in California whose homes, businesses, and communities are being engulfed and destroyed by raging fires will be kept safe from harm and receive needed support and encouragement.  We pray to the Lord.
  10. That first responders and those who selflessly serve others fighting fires, offering medical care, and assisting with food and shelter may be strengthened by our prayers and not give in to hopelessness or discouragement.  We pray to the Lord.
  11. That those who are oppressed by the devil will be healed and welcome Jesus into their lives.  We pray to the Lord.
  12. That those who have died fleeing war, fire, floods, or persecution may find safety and eternal rest in the peace of heaven.  We pray to the Lord.

God our Father we join this day with the people in the desert baptized by John seeking Christ who saves us and with thanks for that which is beyond all our expectation, the gifts of your mercy and love.  We make through Jesus Christ our Lord.  Amen.

[1] From remarks of Pope Francis at his General Audience, January 8, 2025.

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