Prayers of the faithful - 14 September 2025 - Exaltation of the holy cross

Introduction: By his crucifixion, Jesus transformed the cross from an instrument of execution to a symbol of triumph and salvation. Jesus sanctified the cross, making it holy and sacrificing his life for our salvation. We celebrate the feast of the exaltation of the Holy Cross this weekend in our liturgies, commemorating the cross of cross that was rediscovered by St Helena in the Holy Land in the fourth century. We unite the crosses we carry in life with the cross of Christ. 

Priest: Penitential Rite

Lord Jesus - you suffered the passion of the cross. 

Christ Jesus - you call us to take up our crosses and follow you. 

Lord Jesus - you bring us redemption and salvation. 

Priest: As we commemorate the Feast of the Exaltation of the Holy Cross of Jesus today at Mass today, we present our prayers to the heavenly Father with hope and trust: 

1. That Pope Leo XIV, Bishop Kopacz, and all our Church leaders may lead us and guide us in wisdom and courage as we carry our crosses on our journey of faith.We pray in a special way for Bishop Kopaz as he celebrates his 75th birthday this upcoming week. We pray to the Lord. 

2. That we may all see it as our mission to evangelize our brothers and sisters in the faith, especially during this Jubilee Year of Hope. We pray to the Lord. 

3. That we may undertake corporal and spiritual works of mercy with love and faith, reaching out to our brothers and sisters in need. We pray to the Lord. 

4. For those without hope, those looking for work, those who are struggling with addictions, depression or mental health issues. For those who have fallen away from the Church. That God may give them hope and encouragement. We pray to the Lord. 

5. For the sick and the afflicted. For healing for all of us in body, mind, and spirit. We pray to the Lord. 

6. For first responders, fire fighters, the men and women serving in the military, and 911 workers. That the Lord strengthen them in their important work. We pray to the Lord. 

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

Priest: As we continue our journey of faith with dignity and hope, and as we celebrate the exaltation of the cross today, we present our prayers through your Son Jesus Christ, our Lord forever and ever. AMEN.