INTRODUCTORY REFLECTION
Luke portrays the Pentecost drama with broad strokes.
He locates it in Jerusalem, without specifying the place as either the Temple (Lk 24:53), the upper room (Acts 1:13) or somewhere else. Were the apostles alone seized by the Spirit, or were Mary and the other women too, and the 120 disciples (Acts 1:13-15)?
Luke is intent on presenting the big picture. He evokes the awe-inspiring theophanies of the past to herald the birth of a new era of salvation, first for diaspora Jews, and later for all the peoples of the earth. Fear and doubt are swept away; tongues are set free for bold speech.
Dare we hope for a new Pentecost to fan our faith into a blaze?
THE WEEK’S PRAYER FOCUS
For all who testify to the good news at risk of their lives, that they will embolden all the baptised to bear witness to Christ.
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, reminded by the Spirit of all that Jesus taught, let us commend the needs of the world to the boundless love of God.
READER
For Christian believers and communities around the world, that the Holy Spirit will set their hearts on fire with all-embracing love. (Pause) Let us pray to the Lord.
For world leaders in every sphere, that they will do all in their power to promote the wellbeing, peace and unity of the human family. (Pause) Let us pray to the Lord.
For all who care for nature, especially the world’s oceans, that World Environment Day (5 June) will give them fresh heart in their work for the world. (Pause) Let us pray to the Lord.
For the Jewish community celebrating the Feast of Weeks (Shavu’ot -4-6 June), that they will treasure and find life in God’s gift of the Torah. (Pause) Let us pray to the Lord.
For journalists everywhere, especially those reporting in dangerous situations, that they will continue to be blessed with the courage they need to tell the truth. (Pause) Let us pray to the Lord.
For health-care workers of every kind, that they will be assured of safe working conditions and fair pay. (Pause) Let us pray to the Lord.
For the citizens of all democratic societies, that they will value their civic rights and fulfil their civic duties. (Pause) Let us pray to the Lord.
For all who are confined in prisons, detention centres and refugee camps, that they will not lose their freedom of mind and spirit. (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 inherit the glory Christ has won for them. (Pause) Let us pray to the Lord.
PRESIDER
All-loving God, you have brought us to new birth by the outpouring of your Spirit. Free us to bear bold witness to your love. We ask this through Christ our Lord.