Sisters and Brothers, our thoughts are on “endings” this week: the end of the cycle of celebrations we began year ago with Advent, the end of the cycle of readings when we focused on St Matthew’s Gospel, and today on Christ as our Lord who will come again to judge the living and the dead at the end of time. Consciousof this time of endings, we place our needs before the Father.
We have gathered here as a priestly people, so let us pray for the whole church on earth, that it may be worthy of the Kingdom.
We have gathered here as a priestly people: Let us pray for the gift of peace and serenity in our lives. May we discover a kingdom beyond the powers of this world.
We have gathered here as a priestly people: Let us pray for those who have positions of power in this world, that they recognise that there is an order in creation and respect and value it.
We have gathered here as a priestly people, so let us pray for those who have lost hope, lost faith and lost courage.
We have gathered here as a priestly people, so let us pray for all in our parish, our families and friends, that we may meet in the Kingdom that God has prepared for us.
For those who are suffering in the pandemic: may they experience the comfort and peace that Jesus offers in his promise that he will be with us always. We pray for those who are working to alleviate their suffering.
We pray for those suffering from anxiety and depression. May they find strength and support through serious commitment to prayer and the sacraments.
For our loved ones who have gone before us: that they may enjoy the fulfilment of Christ’s promise that he has gone to prepare a place for us in his Father’s house.
As we thank God for the gift of Jesus to our world, we call to mind all those who have special claim to our prayers at this time.
For Pope Francis, the bishops and all those entrusted with leadership in the church: that they may guide us wisely on our journey through life.
Father, you sent your Son as our prophet, our priest and our King and so made us your holy people. Hear our prayers and grant our needs. Through Christ our Lord Amen.