Eighth Sunday in Ordinary Time, March 02, 2025

Eighth Sunday in Ordinary Time, March 02, 2025

We offer our prayers to the Father asking that he may hear us so that we may be bearers of good fruit.  

1. That the insights into living faithfully that Pope Francis has provided through the words and actions of his life will inspire people of all faiths to live with kindness, hope, patience, and joy.  We pray to the Lord.  
2. That the international community will act to protect children in Haiti and other countries enduring civil collapse by defending their rights, ensuring their safety, and freeing them from the constant threat of armed violence.  We pray to the Lord.
3. That when we speak, we will not merely show our faults; but the words we speak will disclose the bent of our minds to be wisdom, mercy, compassion, and love for all people.  We pray to the Lord.
4. That the elderly may be vigorous and sturdy so that their lives may persistently bear the fruit for which they were planted on this Earth.  We pray to the Lord.  
5. That we may be firm, steadfast, always fully devoted to the work of the Lord, knowing that in the Lord nothing we do is in vain.  We pray to the Lord.
6. That we will see the splinters in other’s eyes as reminders of the wooden beams in our own eyes that prevent us from knowing every individual as a beloved creation of God.  We pray to the Lord.  
7. That peace will come to Ukraine through diplomacy that does not exploit the destruction caused by the Russian invasion but that brings justice, hope, opportunity, and support to the people of that nation who have suffered so much.  We pray to the Lord.
8. That the joy experienced by families and communities in Israel and Gaza at the return of loved ones will inspire them to seek a lasting peace that provides unity, safety, and an end to animosity and fear.  We pray to the Lord.
9. That refugees fleeing their homelands will not be treated as thornbushes and brambles to be destroyed and eliminated but will be nurtured for their ability to produce good fruit that enriches and enhances society.  We pray to the Lord. 
10. That those struggling with disease, addictions, dementia, or depression will be blessed with hope and contentment through prayer, wise medical care, and the love and attention of family and friends.  We pray to the Lord. 
11. That those who have lost their lives in service to others may rejoice in heaven with God who gives us victory over death through our Lord Jesus Christ.  We pray to the Lord.

Heavenly Father, you all that we truly need and ask for your mercy in answer to our petitions.  We make these prayers through Christ our Lord.  Amen.