INTRODUCTORY REFLECTION
The Council of Jerusalem recounted by Luke in Acts 15 has been called the church’s first exercise of synodality. Challenged to resolve the divisive issue of circumcision for gentile converts, ‘the apostles and elders met to look into the matter’.
The outcome, arrived at after careful consideration of the issues, is to waive the need for circumcision. This is implied rather than stated, because the apostolic letter sent out from Jerusalem probably resulted from a separate meeting about relations between Jewish and gentile Christians.
By merging the two meetings, Luke upholds the fundamental principle of Christian freedom while advising respect for others’ sensibilities. That’s an on-going challenge in our fragmented church – how to hold fast to personal convictions while respecting difference.
THE WEEK’S PRAYER FOCUS
For all engaged in preparing for the Synod on Synodality, that they will attend carefully to the many voices of the Holy Spirit.
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, guided by the Paraclete whom Jesus promised, let us pray for the needs and hopes of the whole human family.
READER
We pray for Pope Francis and all whom he inspires to care for the earth, that Laudato si’ Week (22-29 May) will strengthen our shared resolve to work for climate justice. (Pause) Let us pray to the Lord.
We pray for peace in every land, especially in places of entrenched and brutal warfare, that the trauma suffered by ordinary people will come to a merciful end. (Pause) Let us pray to the Lord.
We pray for the many peoples afflicted by famine or food insecurity, that their plight will move the international community to effect a just sharing of resources. (Pause) Let us pray to the Lord.
We pray for women and girls denied freedom and education by oppressive regimes, that they will stay strong in their struggle for human rights. (Pause) Let us pray to the Lord.
We pray for the Australian nation, that those elected to public office will commit themselves to conscientious service of the common good. (Pause) Let us pray to the Lord.
We pray for the First Peoples of Australia, that Sorry Day (26 May), National Reconciliation Week (27 May-3 June) and the Uluru Statement from the Heart will renew their hope for a better future. (Pause) Let us pray to the Lord.
We pray for all who are providing or receiving palliative care, that this service of compassion will bear witness to the dignity of every human person. (Pause) Let us pray to the Lord.
We pray for our parish community, that together we will keep the word of God and be taught by the Holy Spirit, the Paraclete. (Pause) Let us pray to the Lord.
We pray for the recently deceased . . . and for those whose anniversary of death occurs around this time, that they will enjoy for ever the peace the world cannot give. (Pause) Let us pray to the Lord.
PRESIDER
Holy God, giver of all good things, keep us true to your Son’s word and open to the wisdom of your Holy Spirit. We ask this through Christ our Lord.