Mass commentary - Fifth Sunday of Lent - Cycle A - April 2 2017

Introduction to penitential rite: 

As we journey further in our Lenten journey, Christ calls out to us to leave our old ways behind and to more fully embrace the new life we have in him.  As we do so, let us call to mind our sins: 

1. Lord Jesus, you raised Lazarus from the dead: Lord, have mercy.

2. Christ Jesus, you are the Messiah, the Son of God: Christ, have mercy.

3. Lord Jesus, you are the life and the resurrection, you are the way that leads to everlasting life: Lord, have mercy.

May almighty God have mercy on us, Forgive us our sins, and bring us to everlasting life. 

Introduction to the Nicene Creed:  Saint Paul assures us today that “if the Spirit of the One who raised Jesus from the dead dwells in (us),” we too will have new life.  As we hear these sacred words of scripture, let us profess our faith.  

Prayers of the faithful: 

Priest:  Let us now cry out to the Lord out of the depths, trusting in the Lord and in his holy word as we present our prayers to God: 

1. For the holy Church, may always proclaim life to a world that is weighed down by death and despair, let us pray to the Lord.

2. That nations of the world and our world leaders may set aside weapons of destruction and embrace healing and reconciliation, let us pray to the Lord.

3. For those who face discrimination and oppression in their lives, that they may know encouragement and life, let us pray to the Lord.

4. For those preparing for the Easter sacraments, as they die to their old lives and are born anew in Christ, let us pray to the Lord.

5. That our community of faith might bring our neighbors to new

life by our actions of justice and mercy.  

6. For all the prayers that we hold in the silence of our hearts; for

all our intentions spoken and unspoken, let us pray to the Lord.

7.  For the sick and shut ins of our community. 

8.  For the repose of the souls of the faithful departed.  

Priest: O God of life, with you is kindness and plentiful redemption. Graciously hear and answer these our prayers, which we make in the name of Jesus, our Lord for ever & ever.