INTRODUCTORY REFLECTION
John masterfully prefaces today’s Gospel with three dramatic words, ‘It was night’. Much more than a time check, it’s a theological statement about Judas’ departure into darkness.
The night that Judas has chosen accentuates the glory shining forth from Jesus and bathing the Eleven in light. Jesus bids them show that light to the world by lives of generous, faithful, self-sacrificial love like his.
Clearly, the followers of Jesus have no monopoly on life-giving love. They’re often put to shame by the exemplary love shown by non-believers, but the baptised are blessed by Jesus’ gift of the new commandment. It’s a constant reminder of life’s true purpose, a sure guide for each day’s myriad choices, and the key to freedom of heart.
THE WEEK’S PRAYER FOCUS
We pray for the dedicated members of the Laudato si’ movement 10 years on, that they will inspire the whole community to cherish and protect creation.
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, blessed by Jesus’ parting gift to us – his new commandment of love – let us hold the world in our hearts as we pray in the power of his Spirit.
READER
We pray for Pope Leo XIV that the Holy Spirit will endow him with all the wisdom, courage, insight and holiness he needs to guide the church’s mission to the human family. (Pause for silent prayer) Lord, hear us.
We pray for all who dwell on Earth, that the 10th anniversary of Pope Francis’ encyclical Laudato si’ will call them anew to care for creation and the poor. (Pause for silent prayer) Lord, hear us.
We pray for the world-wide Christian community, that the 1700th anniversary of the Council of Nicaea will enliven its faith in Jesus Christ, Son of God and Word made flesh. (Pause for silent prayer) Lord, hear us.
We pray for Confraternities in this Jubilee Year of Hope, that the members of all Christian associations will encourage each other to love as Jesus loved. (Pause for silent prayer) Lord, hear us.
We pray for the Catholic community in Australia, that Saturday’s Solemnity of Our Lady, Help of Christians, will draw everyone together in renewed faith and mission. (Pause for silent prayer) Lord, hear us.
We pray for the multitude of children who have been uprooted, maimed or orphaned by war, that a merciful end to hostilities will give them a chance to recover from their trauma. (Pause for silent prayer) Lord, hear us.
We pray for the civic community of Australia, that all citizens will value and safeguard the freedoms, democratic rights and good order they enjoy. (Pause for silent prayer) Lord, hear us.
We pray for young Australian men, that they will learn from fine role models to treat women with respect and never resort to coercion or violence. (Pause for silent prayer) Lord, hear us.
We pray for those who have died recently . . . . , and those whose anniversary of death occurs around this time, that they will be made at home in God’s new heaven and new earth. (Pause for silent prayer) Lord, hear us.
PRESIDER
God of everlasting glory, you make all things new in Christ. Fill our hearts with joy and send us forth as apostles of love. We ask this through Christ, our risen Lord.