INTRODUCTORY REFLECTION
The ancient Greeks could not have imagined the use to which the letters of their alphabet would be put. Their names abound in maths and science and even identify strains of deadly diseases.
Christian writers adopted them to shed light on the mystery of Christ. He is Alpha and Omega, the beginning and the end, the origin and the destiny of all that is.
Such a claim could easily be seen as a philosophical abstraction were it not grounded in his humanity. This Christ was pierced and died for love of humankind. The Spirit he breathed forth in death pervades the whole universe and suffuses it with glory.
Today we attune ourselves to this wondrous truth and give thanks.
THE WEEK’S PRAYER FOCUS
For all seekers of truth, that they will find wise guides to accompany them on their quest.
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, by his dying and rising Jesus has made us a priestly people. In union with him let us pray for the life of the world.
READER
We pray for Pope Francis and all the bishops of the church, that they will boldly proclaim the truth that sets us free. (Pause) Let us pray to the Lord.
We pray for all who risk their lives giving faithful witness to Jesus, that they will stay strong and steadfast in their convictions. (Pause) Let us pray to the Lord.
We pray for the whole human family, that all will unite in bringing to birth a new world order of love, goodness and truth. (Pause) Let us pray to the Lord.
We pray for island nations under threat from rising sea levels, that their pleas for climate justice will be heard and heeded. (Pause) Let us pray to the Lord.
We pray for all who farm the land to produce the food we eat, that they will do all in their power to keep the earth healthy and fruitful. (Pause) Let us pray to the Lord.
We pray for women everywhere, that this week’s International Day for the Elimination of Violence Against Women (25 November) will help make the world a safer place for them. (Pause) Let us pray to the Lord.
We pray for Indigenous Australians caught up in the justice system, that they be treated fairly, respectfully and humanely. (Pause) Let us pray to the Lord.
We pray for all owners of animals, that they care for them and protect them from all forms of cruelty. (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 join Jesus, the First-born from the dead, in the glory of heaven. (Pause) Let us pray to the Lord.
PRESIDER
Holy God and Father of Jesus, you Son has washed away our sins with his blood. Keep us true to his name. We ask this through Christ our Lord.