Prayers of the faithful - Feast of the Holy Family - 31 December 2023 - Catholic prison ministry for the men of the Central Mississippi Correctional Facility

Introduction: We celebrate the feast of the Holy Family today as we continue our celebration of the holy season of Christmas.  The holy family gives us a model to follow on our journey of faith.  As we celebrate the final weekend of 2023, let us resolve to pray to the holy family for guidance and support.  Let us look to the holy family for inspiration.  

Lord Jesus - You are the glory of Israel - Lord have mercy. 

Christ Jesus - You are the awaited Messiah - Christ have mercy. 

Lord Jesus - You are the Son of Mary - Lord have mercy. 

PRIEST: As we celebrate the Holy Family in a special way this weekend in the midst of our celebration of the Christmas season, let us bring our prayers to God, who showers blessings upon all his sons and daughters.

1. For all members of the Christian family, that they may have joy and peace throughout the Christmas season. We pray to the Lord. 

2. For our families, that members of our families may treat each other with tolerance and respect and work towards unity and reconciliation. We pray for all of you men who are separated from your families.  May they feels your love and prayers reaching out to them. We pray to the Lord. 

3. For families where there is hurt, lack of forgiveness, and struggles, that those who have suffered may find healing. We pray to the Lord. 

4. For families that live with illness and health issues, that those called to be care givers may be filled with gentleness and patience. We pray to the Lord. 

5. For families who are homeless, that political leaders work toward providing affordable housing.  

6.  For the members of our families who have died, and for all those who died during 2023. As we lift them up in our prayers, we pray that the light of heaven may be theirs. We pray to the Lord. 

7. For justice for all the men here at CMCF.  May you be able to live a life of dignity and respect.  May you reach out to the other around you out of your faith and out of charity.  We pray to the Lord. 

8. For the prayers we hold in the silence of our hearts.  We pray to the Lord. 

PRIEST: O God, your care for your family is constant: hear the prayers we make in faith and trust through your son Jesus Christ, our Lord for ever and ever.  AMEN.