Scripture for Mass
Isaiah 35:1-6a, 10
Psalm 146 (145): 6c-7. 8-9a. 9b-10.
Response: Matthew 5:3
James 5:7-10
Matthew 11:2-11
Even a casual glance at our world and at our planet earth reveals great suffering. And if we examine things more closely, we are likely to feel horrified not only that such suffering is widespread, but that human indifference and callousness are frequently its root cause.
The world in which Jesus ministered was equally brutal. Violence and oppression, greed and poverty, discrimination and disability caused great suffering for individuals, families and communities.
Throughout his public ministry, Jesus vigorously addressed the root causes of such suffering while also extending healing and hope to victims. The reign of God which he witnessed to and proclaimed was made visible in the promotion of life – the sick were restored to health, the oppressed were liberated, and the poor experienced God’s preferential concern and care for them. Moreover, the joy that flowed from those whose lives were healed or renewed by Jesus became a cause for rejoicing within their families and communities, which in turn sent ripples of light and hope across the entire society.
As Christians, we believe that Christ continues to come into our world and make his presence visible through the lives of all those who have been baptised, the Church. Moreover, he empowers the Christian community to continue his mission of advocating for those on the margins of society, patiently supporting those who are struggling with various limitations, and caring for those who are troubled or wounded. In this way, Christ’s love and mercy shines through our faith communities so that he continues to be the light of the world.
PRIEST: The Spirit of the Lord has been given to us, let us Cry out with Joy and Gladness, as we prepare for his coming and pray for his help in our needs.
READER: As disciples of Christ we have been anointed to bring good news to the poor and heal broken hearts, May we show true care for the weakest among us. Lord hear us.
Response: Come Lord Jesus.
As we prepare for the Day of the Lord, may we act with Justice and Compassion. May those who would harm us be confounded by our Love. Lord hear us.
Response: Come Lord Jesus.
We pray for our leaders and governments that they will work to turn the new climate accord into practical action.
Lord hear us.
Response: Come Lord Jesus.
We pray especially for those, who are enslaved and unjustly deprived of liberty and freedom. May we work for justice and salvation in our world.
Lord hear us.
Response: Come Lord Jesus .
We pray for those afraid of and worried about Christmas because of the financial crisis, may we come to the aid of the poorest in our society. Lord hear us.
Response: Come Lord Jesus.
We remember especially the sick, those in hospital and those who are housebound, those of our own families wherever they may be. Lord hear us.
Response: Come Lord Jesus.
Let us pray for those who have recently died… and for all our dead… and for all who mourn that they may be comforted. Lord hear us.
Response: Come Lord Jesus.
Let us ask Mary the Mother of the Lord to pray with us: Hail Mary…
Now let us pray for a few moments in silence for our own needs and intentions.
PRIEST: Almighty and ever-living God as we look forward in faith to the feast of our Lord’s birth, grant that we may experience the happiness that our Saviour brings and joyfully celebrate his coming. We ask this through Jesus Christ our Lord. AMEN
Merciful God, grant us a spirit of gratitude for the many blessings you give us.
Open our hearts to all who are forgotten, troubled and suffering in our world today.
Grant us a spirit of perception so that we might sense the pain of those around us whose wounds are invisible.
Grant us a spirit of collaboration with others within our faith community in the service of those who need our support.
Grant us a spirit of compassion towards those who long to experience Christ’s concern and care, healing and peace.
May Christ become visible once again in our world through us.
Amen.
Fr. Tim Mulroy
