INTRODUCTORY REFLECTION
Some three centuries elapsed between Matthew’s missionary baptismal formula and the trinitarian definitions of the ecumenical councils. That’s how long it took the church to forge the words of the Nicene Creed that we still recite.
Now, half a century after Vatican II, the Australian church has embarked on a fresh exploration of what it means to be baptised in the name of the Father, Son and the Holy Spirit.
The success of the Plenary Council will depend on the people of God discovering or recovering the dignity, power and mission that is theirs as the baptised. They are daughters and sons of God, sisters and brothers of Christ and bearers of the Spirit with good news for the world.
THE WEEK’S PRAYER FOCUS
For catechists, that they will be blessed with the gifts of the Spirit in their ministry of teaching the mysteries of faith.
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, united in the Spirit of love, let us pray in Jesus’ name, asking God our Father for all we need.
READER
- We pray for Pope Francis, bishop of Rome and pastor of all, that his plea for a missionary church will be taken up with zeal around the world. (Pause for silent prayer) Lord, hear us.
- We pray for Christian faith communities of every kind, that they bear clear witness to the love eternally shared between Father, Son and Spirit. (Pause for silent prayer) Lord, hear us.
- We pray for all the peoples of the earth, that World Environment Day will inspire them to fulfil their vocation as stewards of creation. (Pause for silent prayer) Lord, hear us.
- We pray for all who dwell in Israel and the Palestinian territories, that the tragic deaths of civilians, especially children, will hasten a ceasefire and lead to new negotiations for lasting peace. (Pause for silent prayer) Lord, hear us.
- We pray for the citizens of Australia, that National Reconciliation Week will strengthen mutual respect and understanding between non-indigenous Australians and Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples. (Pause for silent prayer) Lord, hear us.
- We pray for all temporary visa holders living in uncertainty in the Australian community, that their claims for residence will be given a fair, full and timely hearing. (Pause for silent prayer) Lord, hear us.
- We pray for the residents of aged care facilities, that increased funding will provide them with the nursing care, nourishment and personal support they deserve. (Pause for silent prayer) Lord, hear us.
- We pray for all parents, that they will raise their children with steadfast love and guide them wisely on their way to adulthood.(Pause for silent prayer) Lord, hear us.
- We pray for the recently deceased . . . and for those whose anniversary of death occurs around this time, that they will share for ever in the love of Father, Son and Spirit. (Pause for silent prayer) Lord, hear us.
PRESIDER
Holy God, in the waters of baptism you made us your daughters and sons. Keep us true to the freedom you have bestowed on us. We ask this through Christ our Lord.