8 March 2026 - prayers of the faithful for the 3rd Sunday of Lent

Introduction: In our readings today, we hear of Moses bringing forth water in the desert to satisfy the thirst of the people. We hear of Jesus presenting himself as the source of living water to the woman at the well. Today, we celebrate the first scrutiny for those adults preparing for baptism at Easter, where they will receive the water of new life. May all of us in the Catholic Church Christ for the life-giving water that only our Lord can provide. 

Priest - penitential rite - 

Lord Jesus - you are a fountain of love and grace. 

Christ Jesus - you are our peace and our reconciliation. 

Lord Jesus - you are the way that leads us to new life. 

Priest: As hope does not disappoint, we continue to place our hope in the Lord as we present our prayers this morning: 

1. That we in the Church be a source of life-giving water for those who thirst for a spiritual home. We pray to the Lord. 

2. We pray for those in the United States and throughout the world who do not have access to clean drinking water. We pray for those working to improve the water system in the city of Jackson. We pray to the Lord. 

3. For all men and women who are members of consecrated religious orders. That they be blessed and strengthened in their vocations and their ministries. We pray to the Lord. 

4. For our catechumens and candidates preparing for entry into the Church at the Easter vigil mass. For our children and youth preparing to receive the sacraments of first holy communion and confirmation during the Easter season. We pray to the Lord. 

5. That all Christians may experience renewal and conversion in their lives of faith during this season of Lord. We pray to the Lord.

6. May we reach out to others in our community through the spiritual and corporal works of mercy. We pray to the Lord.

7. For our first responders, for the men in women in the military, for our veterans, and for our medical professionals. May the Lord continue to bless and keep them safe. We pray to the Lord. 

8. For the prayers we hold in the silence of our hearts today. For those who have asked for our prayers. We pray to the Lord. 

Priest: God of goodness, we ask that you shower us with your blessings and respond to our every thirst. We present our prayers through your son Jesus Christ, our Lord forever and ever. AMEN.