Prayers of the faithful - Pentecost - 19 May 2024

Introduction: As we reach the end of the joyful Easter season, we very appropriately conclude our celebration of the resurrected Christ with the coming of the Holy Spirit at Pentecost. May our prayers today be prayers of gratitude and thanksgiving for the presence of the Holy Spirit and the resurrected Christ in our lives.

Penitential Rite:

Lord Jesus, as you died on the cross as a sign of love: Lord have mercy. 

Christ Jesus, you ascended into heaven and are seated at the right hand of the Father: Christ, have mercy.

Lord Jesus, you send us the Holy Spirit at Pentecost to bring us healing and peace: Lord have mercy.

Prayers of the faithful:

PRIEST: Let us pray today in the presence of the Holy Spirit for our brothers and sisters in our own local community and throughout the world. 

1. For our Church, led by Pope Francis and Bishop Kopacz, as we seek to be a Church that longs to preach the Gospel to the world with justice and conviction. We pray to the Lord.

2. That the peace of the Holy Spirit may dwell in our hearts as we share that peace with others in our words and actions. We pray to the Lord.

3. For all who have celebrated sacraments of initiation this Easter season, for those who went through our RCIA program, and for the youth who received confirmation this spring, that they may grow in their appreciation for the gifts of the Holy Spirit that they have received. We pray to the Lord. 

4. For those who are discerning their vocation in life. We pray especially for all who are being called to the priesthood, the diaconate, religious life, or lay ministry in response to the call of the Holy Spirit. We pray to the Lord. 

5. That summer vacation be a time of rest, refreshment, new vitality, and safe travels. We pray to the Lord.

6. For the sick and shut-in of our parish community. For those in the hospital, hospice and nursing home. Let us pray to the Lord.

7. For the prayers we hold in the silence of our hearts, for our prayer intentions spoken and unspoken. We pray to the Lord.

PRIEST: Merciful God, your gift of the Holy Spirit enables us to continue the mission of our savior Jesus Christ here on earth. Give us the courage to accept our mission as disciples of Christ. We make these prayers in the name of your Son, our risen Lord for ever and ever. AMEN.