admin

Prayers Of The Faithful – January 3

For Pope Francis who urges unity among Catholics that will be a model for nations during this time of crisis and pandemic.
We pray to the Lord.

For Bishop Christian as he continues to challenge and support our diocese in ways of evangelization and welcoming.
We pray to the Lord.

For greater awareness of Christ and His gospel in nations that are hostile to Christians and the Church.
We pray to the Lord.

For the safety of all travelers, especially those who make their living from the sea and for their families.
We pray to the Lord.

For people emerging from the holidays disappointed and discouraged and for a growing enthusiasm and gratitude for the blessings we have received in our great province and country.
We pray to the Lord.

For each person who is ill and in need of our prayers today.
We pray to the Lord.

For any special needs you have brought here today.
We pray to the Lord.

For those who have died, and for those who mourn them.
We pray to the Lord.

admin

Introduction – Prayers Of The Faithful

The Italians have many beautiful legends that speak to us about Jesus’ birth and the events surrounding that moment. One, in particular, recounts the visit of the Magi on what we celebrate as the Epiphany. The news of Jesus birth was still spreading amongst the poor in the countryside around Bethlehem. One poor shepherd boy made his way to see this wonder. He arrived just before the Magi. When he saw the rich gifts they brought for the Infant King he was overwhelmed by his own poverty and realized he had nothing to give God’s Son.

Mary was holding Jesus as the kings offered their gifts. There was no place around her to lay her Son so she could receive the tribute of the Three Kings. She looked and saw the shepherd boy, empty handed, and asked him if he could hold her Son!

It is easy to look back at this Christmas Season and regret what we could not do because of the pandemic and how our parish life and prayer had been disrupted. But maybe this Christmas, this Epiphany, because of what we did not have and could not do, we are most able to receive Jesus. And we need Him now, more than ever!

admin

Prayers Of The Faithful – January 1

For our Holy Father, Pope Francis, as he gives hope to the world amidst continuing health crises and economic uncertainty.
We pray to the Lord.

For the Church, that the year dedicated to St. Joseph may bring encouragement to workers and their families and strength to Christians under persecution.
We pray to the Lord.

For the world, that hostile leaders and tyrants with many weapons will be defeated and peace will flourish.
We pray to the Lord.

For Bishop Christian and his priests and catechists throughout the diocese, that union in faith with all members of our Diocesan family may strengthen our civil society.
We pray to the Lord.

For peace among opposing groups and factions in our country and for peace in our places of work and learning and peace in our hearts and homes.
We pray to the Lord.

For anyone who lives with physical or mental illness and anyone who struggles with addiction and for their families.
We pray to the Lord.

For those who have died: Irene Lawlor, that God will give them refreshment light and peace in the Kingdom of Heaven.
We pray to the Lord.

admin

Introduction – Prayers Of The Faithful

The beginning of a new Calendar year is usually an occasion for celebration and optimism. Many people choose this time to make some resolutions that will bring about change in their lives and maybe affect others. Often the resolutions don’t last as long as the light and sound from the fireworks at midnight!

While resolutions are a positive and hopeful exercise maybe a little preparation might bring a better rate of success. Maybe, before looking forward, we might look back. Why have certain habits, activities come about or changed? Why have I let resentment creep into my heart and create a distance between myself and coworkers, friends, neighbours or family members?

Maybe letting go of some of these will provide space in my mind and heart to embrace something more positive and lifegiving. To be sure the past year was awful in many ways! But it brought out the very best in most of humanity. That was a sign and reassurance that God had not abandoned us. And He will just as surely accompany us as we journey into 2021 with confidence in His providence and His love for each of us!