INTRODUCTORY REFLECTION
The glorious feast of the Epiphany is doubly disadvantaged in the land of the Southern Cross. On the one hand it’s sidelined by summer holidays and sport, and on the other its focus is narrowed to the magi.
In the Eastern tradition Epiphany embraces other manifestations of Jesus’ glory such as the wedding feast at Cana. It’s this story from John’s Gospel with which the Year of Luke happily begins.
For the first time Jesus ‘let his glory be seen’. Coupled with today’s oracle from Isaiah, the story revels in nuptial imagery. The wedding of heaven and earth and of the divine and human in Jesus is redolent with joy. A lovely and liberating start to the season of Ordinary Time.
THE WEEK’S PRAYER FOCUS
For the church, that it be a community of faith in which the gifts of the Spirit are free to flourish.
SAMPLE INTERCESSIONS
These intercessions are offered for selected use at Sunday Mass in the parish alongside those that express local needs and concerns.
PRESIDER
Dear friends, Jesus revealed his glory at the wedding feast in Cana. With faith in him, let us pray for all people to be blessed with the wine of joy in God’s kingdom.
READER
For Pope Francis and all religious leaders, that with one voice they will proclaim a powerful message of hope and healing for the world. (Pause) Let us pray to the Lord.
For the people of Afghanistan and every land where daily life is a desperate struggle to survive, that the world community will support them with effective aid. (Pause) Let us pray to the Lord.
For the citizens of the world’s democratic states, that they will cherish their freedoms and put their rights at the service of the common good. (Pause) Let us pray to the Lord.
For those who are using their gifts to engage in practical climate action, that their example will inspire many more to care for the earth, our common home. (Pause) Let us pray to the Lord.
For all the baptised, that they will recognise and use the gifts the Spirit has given them to build up the body of Christ. (Pause) Let us pray to the Lord.
For nurses, doctors, carers and support staff in all health facilities, that they will stay safe, healthy and strong as they deal with the pressing demands of the pandemic. (Pause) Let us pray to the Lord.
For all who are returning from summer holidays and resuming work, that they will face the year’s tasks with good spirits and renewed energy. (Pause) Let us pray to the Lord.
For all couples preparing for marriage, that they will be able to celebrate their pledge of love happily with family and friends. (Pause) Let us pray to the Lord.
For the recently deceased . . . and for those whose anniversary of death occurs around this time, that they will take their place gladly at the wedding feast of the Lamb. (Pause) Let us pray to the Lord.
PRESIDER
Glorious God, in Jesus you bless us with the new wine of the kingdom. Help us share this gift of yours with all we meet. We ask this through Christ our Lord.
Image: Wedding at Cana, stained glass window from Saint Germain-l'Auxerrois church in Paris, France — Photo by zatletic, depositphotos.com