LECTIONARY READINGS
First reading: Ezekiel 37:12-14
Responsorial Psalm: Ps 129(130)
Second reading: Romans 8:8-11
Gospel: John 11:1-45
Link to readings
INTRODUCTORY REFLECTION
Just two years ago, Pope Francis added Mary and Lazarus to their sister Martha for joint commemoration on 29 July.
Though reprimanded by Jesus for worrying ‘about so many things’ (Lk 10:41), Martha was the one celebrated in the church’s calendar, perhaps because of John’s favourable portrait of her. Martha’s expansive confession of faith in Jesus as ‘the Christ, the Son of God, the one who was to come into this world’ exemplifies the whole purpose of his Gospel (Jn 20:31).
In sum, as the Vatican decree states, it was in the house of Bethany that ‘Martha generously offered him hospitality, Mary listened attentively to his words and Lazarus promptly emerged from the tomb at the command of the One who humiliated death’.
THE WEEK’S PRAYER FOCUS
For all who conduct Christian funeral rites, that they will testify to the church’s apostolic faith in the resurrection of the dead.
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, Jesus sets us free, like Lazarus, from the bonds of death. Let us pray for the world to be blessed with life.
READER
We pray for all who profit from the international arms trade, that they will invest in projects of peace instead of weapons of death and destruction. (Pause) Let us pray to the Lord.
We pray for stewards of creation around the world, that they will save threatened species from extinction and help nature thrive. (Pause) Let us pray to the Lord.
We pray for all who live in the land of Jesus’ birth, that the danger of deadly violence there will ease and communal leaders will choose the path of justice and peace. (Pause) Let us pray to the Lord.
We pray for the bishops of Australia, that they will do all in their power to implement the decisions of the Plenary Council. (Pause) Let us pray to the Lord.
We pray for all who have policy-making power for Australia’s economy, that they will reverse growing inequality and ensure that economic benefits are shared fairly. (Pause) Let us pray to the Lord.
We pray for the vulnerable communities of Asia, Africa and the Pacific, and First Nations people of Australia, that this Lent’s Project Compassion appeal will enable Caritas Australia to continue assisting them. (Pause) Let us pray to the Lord.
We pray for parents of children with a life-threatening illness, that they will receive all the medical, pastoral and personal support they need. (Pause) Let us pray to the Lord.
We pray for the elect, that their final weeks of preparation for initiation at Easter will confirm them in faith, hope and love. (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 share in the resurrection and life of Christ for ever. (Pause) Let us pray to the Lord.
PRESIDER
Loving and life-giving God, you never cease to bring us to new birth. Help us lead others to the fulness of life. We ask this through Christ our Lord.