INTRODUCTORY REFLECTION
It’s common wisdom now that many, if not most, of us live in our own information bubble. We communicate primarily with like-minded others. We reinforce each other’s opinions and save ourselves the trouble of seeking a truer wisdom. Perhaps it’s understandable self-defence against assault from the myriad voices of the media marketplace, but it’s dangerous.
Discernment is difficult but critically important. The most useful thing we can do may be the hardest – to listen carefully to those whose points of view we instinctively react against. If that confirms our informed convictions, so much the better. But it may also bring to light a resistance to conversion that we’d rather not admit. That’s what Jesus had to face from his own townsfolk.
THE WEEK’S PRAYER FOCUS
For all Australians, that NAIDOC week will deepen the nation’s respect for the cultural heritage of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people.
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, with faith in the wisdom and healing power of Jesus, let us pray in his name for all our needs.
READER
1. We pray for those who speak out truths we do not wish to hear, that they will continue to call us to personal and collective conversion. (Pause for silent prayer) Lord, hear us.
2. We pray for Pope Francis and all teachers of the Gospel, that they will be credible communicators of Christian faith and practice. (Pause for silent prayer) Lord, hear us.
3. We pray for the leaders of international agencies, that they will ensure their organisations are at the service of the whole human family. (Pause for silent prayer) Lord, hear us.
4. We pray for the people of Myanmar and for all who suffer from repressive regimes, that global support for their human rights will help them achieve freedom. (Pause for silent prayer) Lord, hear us.
5. We pray with Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people on this NAIDOC Sunday, that all who live in this land will work together to heal country and heal the nation. (Pause for silent prayer) Lord, hear us.
6. We pray for First Nations people in every land, that their history and culture will be more and more deeply appreciated. (Pause for silent prayer) Lord, hear us.
7. We pray for all temporary visa holders in Australia, that restrictive policies will be eased to give them greater security and peace of mind. (Pause for silent prayer) Lord, hear us.
8. We give thanks for all who render community service without public recognition, that their care for others will strengthen neighbourly bonds. (Pause for silent prayer) Lord, hear us.
9. We pray for the recently deceased . . . and for those whose anniversary of death occurs around this time, that the power of Christ will raise them to glory. (Pause for silent prayer) Lord, hear us.
PRESIDER
Holy God and Father of Jesus, free us from unbelief and hardness of heart and keep us close to your Son. We ask this through Christ our Lord.