INTRODUCTORY REFLECTION
On the eve of the Glasgow climate summit, we might be struck by the absence of creation in Jesus’ reply to the scribe. ‘We are to love God, neighbour and self with all our hearts.’
What about creation? Two things at least can account for Jesus’ silence. First, nature was not under threat as it is now; it did not need special attention. Second, Jesus was fully at home in the natural world and perceptive of its life. He had made his own the ancient tradition of his people that God pronounced all creation good.
Ultimately, this is what must drive us – not fear of climate catastrophe, but a passionate love for the world in all its divine beauty and goodness.
THE WEEK’S PRAYER FOCUS
For all leaders taking part in the Glasgow climate conference, that they will make the urgent commitments needed to protect the planet from global warming.
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, the call of Jesus is to whole-hearted and all-embracing love. In answer to his call, let us offer loving prayer for all that God has made.
READER
We pray for the earth and all its creatures, that world leaders attending the Glasgow climate conference will adopt effective measures to limit global warming. (Pause for silent prayer) Lord, hear us.
We pray for Pope Francis, that his prophetic appeals for a new human solidarity and for loving care of the earth will be heeded. (Pause for silent prayer) Lord, hear us.
We pray for the followers of all the world’s great faiths, that united in love they will renew the face of the earth. (Pause for silent prayer) Lord, hear us.
We pray for the people of Afghanistan, Lebanon, Syria, and all places of great suffering, that the world community will come to their aid. (Pause for silent prayer) Lord, hear us.
We pray for impoverished nations with weak health systems, that they will be given a just share of the vaccines and resources they need to deal with COVID-19. (Pause for silent prayer) Lord, hear us.
We pray for parents, teachers and children in COVID-affected states, that the resumption of in-school education will be a blessing for all. (Pause for silent prayer) Lord, hear us.
We pray for parish communities facing an uncertain future, that the challenge of change will draw them together and bring forth the gifts of the Spirit. (Pause for silent prayer) Lord, hear us.
We give thanks for all whose holy lives have inspired our faith, and pray that the feast of All Saints will deepen our communion with them. (Pause for silent prayer) Lord, hear us.
We pray for the recently deceased . . , for those whose anniversary of death occurs around this time, and for all who have gone before us, that they will live in the love of God for ever. (Pause for silent prayer) Lord, hear us.
PRESIDER
God of all creation, you made everything in boundless love. Free our hearts to love as Jesus loved. We ask this through Christ our Lord.