DEC 22, 2024
Petitions Inspired based on Psalm 80
✨ These petitions reflect the essence of the responsorial, transforming its themes into heartfelt prayers.
Psalm 80:2–3
Eternal Shepherd, we ask for Your constant presence and guidance, that our faith may flourish and remain unwavering. As we follow Your path, may we find comfort and protection within Your loving embrace. We pray to the Lord.
Psalm 15–16
Loving Savior, we pray for the restoration of Your vineyard, the Church, that it may continue to bear fruit and flourish in Your divine love. As faithful stewards, may we nurture Your gift of creation, caring for the earth and all its inhabitants. We pray to the Lord.
Psalm 18–19
Lord Jesus, we beseech You to unite Your people, as we journey together in faith. May the light of Your countenance shine upon us, guiding us towards peace, understanding, and collaboration, creating a world that reflects Your divine love. We pray to the Lord.
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Respond & Acclaim - Fourth Sunday of Advent, 2025 - Year C - Psalm 80 - Alstott
Prayers of the Faithful Petitions
Prayers of the Faithful Petitions
General
Intercessions
The Church
For the Church: that our hearts may leap for joy as we recognize God-with-us in the people and events of our lives
For the Church: that we may experience joy through recognizing God with us each day and be instruments in helping others become aware of God’s work in their lives
SOURCE: Sunday Website
RELATED
4th Sunday of Advent - YEAR C
⬇️ THE CHURCH
We pray for Catholic believers, that the opening of the Jubilee Year on Christmas Eve will call them to set out afresh as pilgrims of hope in our shadowed world.
SOURCE: Australian Catholics
O shepherd of Israel, hearken,
from your throne upon the cherubim,
shine forth.
Rouse your power,
and come to save us.
RESPONSORIAL PSALM
CHURCH LEADERS
FIRST READING
Strength for Our Shepherd
For Pope Francis, who shepherds the Church, may he find unwavering strength, wisdom, and guidance from the Lord, so that he may lead us with integrity and humility. We pray to the Lord.
Empowering Our Bishops
For bishops across the world, may they embrace the light of Christ, courageously confronting the shadows of our time, and lead their flocks towards a future founded on justice and peace. We pray to the Lord.
Fostering Righteousness in Our Priests
For our beloved priests, may the Holy Spirit inspire them to be living examples of righteousness, strengthening our communities with their steadfast faith, courage, and service. We pray to the Lord.
SECOND READING
Fulfilling God’s Will Through Our Pope
For Pope Francis, as he walks the path of obedience, may he discern and carry out the will of God, and through his guidance, may the Body of Christ draw near to our Father. We pray to the Lord.
Sanctifying Grace for Bishops
For bishops around the globe, may the Holy Spirit’s sanctifying grace be abundant upon them, enabling them to offer spiritual nourishment and loving care to the faithful entrusted to their guidance. We pray to the Lord.
Consecrated Hearts of Our Priests
For our priests, may their hearts be consecrated, set apart to do God’s will, and through their loving ministry, may the faithful experience the joy of salvation in Christ. We pray to the Lord.
GOSPEL
Mary’s Grace for Our Pope
For Pope Francis, may the Blessed Virgin Mary be his guiding light, and through her example, may he lead the Church with the same humility, faith, and obedient service. We pray to the Lord.
Spirit-Filled Bishops
For bishops around the world, may the Holy Spirit fill their hearts with joyful anticipation as they lead their dioceses to recognize and receive Christ in their midst. We pray to the Lord.
Joyful Priestly Service
For our priests, may they share in Mary’s overflowing joy as they faithfully serve God’s people, mirroring her humble acceptance of His divine plan. We pray to the Lord.
Prayers of
the Faithful
Governing Authorities and the Salvation of the World
For refugees who have fled violence or oppression: that God will protect them from harm, give them strength to face their challenges, and guide them to places of safety
SOURCE: Sunday Website
4th Sunday of Advent - YEAR C
⬇️ THE WORLD
For all who live in Bethlehem and the hill country of Judah; for Christians, Jews, and Muslims: that God’s Spirit will open new pathways of peace and bring forth new hope for all who live in fear
SOURCE: Sunday Website
Mary set out
and traveled to the hill country in haste
to a town of Judah,
where she entered the house of Zechariah
and greeted Elizabeth….
GOSPEL
WORLD PEACE
FIRST READING
Establishing Lasting Peace in the Middle East
Almighty Father, we implore You to strengthen the peacemakers in the Middle East, that they may establish lasting peace amidst strife and turmoil, reflecting the coming of Your Son, the Prince of Peace. We pray to the Lord.
Uniting Nations in Eastern Europe
In the midst of Eastern Europe’s divisions, we beseech You, Lord, to instill Your divine wisdom within the leaders, guiding them towards unity and understanding, establishing Your reign of peace. We pray to the Lord.
SECOND READING
Transforming Hearts for Peace
Loving God, we ask You to transform the hearts of those in conflict in the Middle East and Eastern Europe, that through the offering of Your Body, they may know true peace and salvation in Your divine will. We pray to the Lord.
Unity in Christ Amidst Conflict
Through the sanctifying grace of Your Holy Spirit, we pray for the people of Eastern Europe and the Middle East to come together as one body in Christ, setting aside their differences to pursue lasting peace and reconciliation. We pray to the Lord.
GOSPEL
Embracing Mary’s Example for Peace
Blessed Mother, as you visited Elizabeth to share the joy of your divine calling, may the people of the Middle East and Eastern Europe embrace your spirit of service and humility, paving the way for peace in their lands. We pray to the Lord.
Blessings for Peace Initiatives
Empowered by Mary’s overflowing joy, we pray for the success of peace initiatives in the Middle East and Eastern Europe, that Your divine presence may bring forth understanding and harmony among nations. We pray to the Lord.
ENVIRONMENT
FIRST READING
Prayer for Environmental Renewal: Seeking Peace with Creation
Inspired by Micah’s vision of peace, we pray for the renewal of our commitment to care for creation, promoting ecological harmony, and safeguarding the blessings of the earth for future generations. We pray to the Lord.
Prayer for Sustainable Action: Fostering Eco-Justice
As we anticipate Christ’s coming, may we, like the just ruler from Bethlehem, work diligently towards eco-justice, fostering sustainable practices that honor God’s creation and address environmental challenges. We pray to the Lord.
SECOND READING
Prayer for Holistic Stewardship: Offering Creation’s Sanctity
Drawing from Hebrews’ call for sanctification, we ask for guidance to practice holistic environmental stewardship, cherishing the sacredness of creation and fostering a culture of ecological conversion. We pray to the Lord.
Prayer for Environmental Sacrifice: Walking the Path of Sustainability
In the spirit of Christ’s self-offering, we implore the Holy Spirit to strengthen our resolve to make sacrifices for the environment, walking together towards a sustainable and equitable world. We pray to the Lord.
GOSPEL
Prayer for Ecological Joy: Rejoicing in Nature’s Glory
In the same spirit of joy that filled Mary and Elizabeth, may our hearts overflow with gratitude for the wondrous gift of creation, inspiring us to nurture and protect the earth, our common home. We pray to the Lord.
Prayer for Intergenerational Care: Nurturing Future Generations
Inspired by Mary’s loving acceptance of her divine mission, we pray for the commitment to nurture future generations through responsible environmental care, ensuring a life-sustaining planet for all. We pray to the Lord.
NATIONS
FIRST READING
Africa: Strengthening Peace Efforts in Conflict Zones
Almighty Father, we pray for the nations of Africa experiencing conflict and unrest, that they may find strength in Your peace, echoing Micah’s prophecy of harmony among nations. Guide leaders towards lasting solutions that foster unity and stability. We pray to the Lord.
North America: Promoting Justice and Reconciliation
Lord Jesus, in the spirit of Micah’s vision, we pray for the strength to actively work towards justice, reconciliation, and peace within North America, healing historical wounds, and fostering mutual understanding among all people. We pray to the Lord.
SECOND READING
Asia: Support for Christian Minorities
Eternal God, we beseech You to protect and support our Christian brothers and sisters facing persecution in various parts of Asia. Through Your divine grace, sanctify their sacrifices and strengthen their faith, as we work together to promote religious freedom and understanding. We pray to the Lord.
South America: Empowering Environmental Stewardship
Holy Spirit, sanctify the efforts of South American communities striving to protect the environment and promote sustainable practices, in alignment with Your divine will. Guide us to cherish creation as a sacred gift and to foster eco-justice. We pray to the Lord.
GOSPEL
Europe: Encouragement for Christian Unity
Blessed Mother, we ask for your intercession to help Christian communities across Europe embrace the spirit of unity and collaboration, mirroring the joyous encounter between Mary and Elizabeth. May we celebrate our shared faith and work towards a more united Church. We pray to the Lord.
Australia & Oceania: Support for Communities Affected by Natural Disasters
Loving God, we pray for those in Australia and Oceania impacted by natural disasters, that they may find solace and strength in Your love and the support of their neighbors. Inspire acts of kindness, echoing Mary’s joyful service to her cousin Elizabeth. We pray to the Lord.
Prayers of
the Faithful
Those Burdened
by Adversity
or Difficulties
For spiritual companions and guides: that we may each find a wise and trusted soul who will accompany us as we discover how God is at work in us and the world around us
For anyone experiencing fear, anxiety, or depression: that the birth of Christ may bring light into their lives and freedom to their hearts
SOURCE: Sunday Website
4th Sunday of Advent - YEAR C
⬇️ SPECIAL NEEDS
We pray for women of spirit like Mary and Elizabeth, that their bold belief in God’s saving power will inspire young and old alike to lives of daring faith.
SOURCE: Australian Catholics
When Elizabeth heard Mary’s greeting,
the infant leaped in her womb,
and Elizabeth, filled with the Holy Spirit,
cried out in a loud voice and said,
“Blessed are you among women,
and blessed is the fruit of your womb.
FIRTST READING
RESPECT FOR LIFE
FIRST READING
Prayer for Life’s Sanctity: Respecting Human Dignity
Lord of all creation, we pray that the inherent value and dignity of every human life, from conception to natural death, be upheld and cherished. Guided by Micah’s vision of peace, may we foster a culture that treasures the gift of life in all its stages. We pray to the Lord.
Prayer for Culture Transformation: Embracing a Culture of Life
Inspired by Micah’s call for justice, we pray for the transformation of our societies, moving away from the culture of death and embracing a culture of life. May our actions and choices affirm the sanctity of life and promote the common good. We pray to the Lord.
SECOND READING
Prayer for Healing and Forgiveness: Supporting Post-Abortion Recovery
Merciful God, we pray for those who have undergone or been involved in abortion, that they may find solace, healing, and forgiveness in Your loving embrace. May they experience Your redemptive grace and compassion, as we work together to support their journey of recovery. We pray to the Lord.
Prayer for Pornography Victims: Restoring Dignity and Purity
Loving Savior, we lift up those affected by pornography, that they may be liberated from its grasp and find restoration in Your divine purity. Strengthen us to create safe spaces for dialogue and promote a culture that respects human dignity. We pray to the Lord.
GOSPEL
Prayer for Life-Affirming Choices: Honoring the Unborn
Blessed Mother, we ask for your intercession to guide expectant mothers facing challenging situations, that they may find the support and resources needed to choose life for their unborn children. May we emulate your unwavering faith and trust in God’s divine plan. We pray to the Lord.
Prayer for Compassionate Care: Comforting Those Facing Death
Holy Spirit, we pray for those nearing the end of their earthly lives and those on death row, that they may experience Your comforting presence and the compassion of others. Inspire us to accompany them on their journey, advocating for the preservation of life and the dignity of each person. We pray to the Lord.
Prayers of
the Faithful
The Local Community
For all believers: that we, like Mary, may believe that God will do great things in and through our ordinariness
For a spirit of joy: that we may be grateful for all the gifts and opportunities that God offers us and rejoice in the blessings which come to us each day
For new parents and expectant parents: that God will bless their children with health and help them to care for and nurture their children both physically and spiritually
For all who are traveling during this season: that they may arrive safely and have renewing visits with family and friends
SOURCE: Sunday Website
4th Sunday of Advent - YEAR C
⬇️ LOCAL COMMUNITY
We pray for parish musicians and song leaders, that their ministry will enable the whole community to celebrate the Christmas mystery with joyful praise.
SOURCE: Australian Catholics
Behold, I am the handmaid of the Lord.
May it be done to me according to your word.
ALLELUIA
FAMILIES
FIRST READING
Prayer for Family Unity: Strengthening Bonds of Love
Loving God, we pray for families around the world, that they may be inspired by Your love to strengthen their bonds and create a nurturing environment for children to thrive, reflecting Micah’s vision of harmony and peace. We pray to the Lord.
Prayer for Children’s Growth: Nurturing Future Generations
Lord Jesus, we ask for Your guidance in nurturing the physical, emotional, and spiritual growth of children, that they may become the just and faithful leaders of tomorrow, fulfilling Micah’s prophecy of a new age of peace. We pray to the Lord.
SECOND READING
rayer for Holistic Parenting: Raising Children in Faith
Eternal Father, we pray for parents as they raise their children in the faith, that they may foster a love for You and Your divine will. May Your sanctifying grace empower them to model Christian values and cultivate a culture of life within their families. We pray to the Lord.
Prayer for Christian Formation: Fostering a Faith-Filled Home
Holy Spirit, we beseech You to guide families in their journey of faith, that they may create a home environment filled with Your presence, enabling children to grow in their understanding of Your sacrificial love and obedience. We pray to the Lord.
GOSPEL
Prayer for Joyful Families: Sharing God’s Love
Blessed Mother, we pray for families to emulate your joyful spirit, sharing the love of God with one another and those around them. May they find inspiration in your humble service and support to Elizabeth, fostering a nurturing and loving home. We pray to the Lord.
Prayer for Generational Blessings: Embracing the Gift of Children
Loving Savior, we pray for couples facing challenges in conceiving, that they may experience the joy of parenthood and welcome children as a blessing from You. May they find hope and comfort in Mary’s faithful acceptance of her divine calling. We pray to the Lord.
SACRAMENTS
FIRST READING
Prayer for Eucharistic Unity: Celebrating Christ’s Presence
Lord Jesus, we pray that our communities may recognize and celebrate Your presence among us through the Eucharist, just as Micah prophesied Your coming. May we find strength and harmony in this sacred meal, deepening our bonds as one Body in Christ. We pray to the Lord.
Prayer for Reconciliation’s Grace: Restoring Peace
Eternal Father, we pray for a greater appreciation of the Sacrament of Reconciliation within our communities, that through Your mercy and forgiveness, we may find healing and peace. May Micah’s vision of a world united in harmony inspire us to seek reconciliation with You and one another. We pray to the Lord.
SECOND READING
Prayer for Sacramental Obedience: Living Holy Lives
Holy Spirit, we ask for a deepened understanding of the Sacraments in our communities, empowering us to live holy and obedient lives. May the grace bestowed upon us through these sacred encounters strengthen our commitment to follow Your divine will, as echoed in Hebrews. We pray to the Lord.
Prayer for Anointing’s Comfort: Healing the Sick
Loving Savior, we pray for our brothers and sisters who are ill or in their final journey, that they may find comfort and solace through the Sacrament of the Anointing of the Sick. May the hope found in Your sanctifying grace sustain them in their time of need. We pray to the Lord.
GOSPEL
Prayer for Baptismal Joy: Welcoming New Believers
Blessed Mother, we ask for a renewed appreciation for the Sacrament of Baptism, that our communities may welcome and celebrate new believers with overflowing joy, just as you and Elizabeth rejoiced at the coming of Christ. May we support and nurture the faith of our brothers and sisters. We pray to the Lord.
Prayer for Matrimonial Love: Strengthening Families
Heavenly Father, we pray for couples preparing for the Sacrament of Matrimony, that they may grow in love, faith, and commitment to one another, mirroring Mary’s humble acceptance of her divine calling. May their union reflect Your divine love and grace. We pray to the Lord.
RELIGIOUS ED
FIRST READING
Fostering Faith in Future Generations:
Eternal Father, we ask for Your guidance in nurturing the faith of children and youth, that they may become steadfast in their love for You and Your teachings, realizing Micah’s vision of a just and peaceful world. We pray to the Lord.
Enlightened Catechists:
Lord Jesus, we pray for our catechists and faith formation leaders, that they may be inspired by Your divine wisdom to effectively guide and mentor the faithful, fostering a strong foundation of faith within our communities. We pray to the Lord.
SECOND READING
Cultivating Obedient Hearts:
Holy Spirit, we ask for a deepening of our understanding of Scripture and Church teachings, that we may follow Your divine will with obedient hearts, sanctified by Your grace and the example set forth in Hebrews. We pray to the Lord.
Nurturing Spiritual Growth:
Loving Savior, we pray for opportunities to nourish our spiritual development and that of our fellow believers, as we gather in Your name to learn and grow in faith, supporting one another on our journey towards holiness. We pray to the Lord.
GOSPEL
Empowering Faith-Filled Service:
Blessed Mother, we pray for the courage and strength to live out our faith through acts of humble service, mirroring your selfless support of Elizabeth. May we be bearers of Your divine joy and love to those in need. We pray to the Lord.
Cultivating a Marian Devotion:
Heavenly Father, we ask for a deepening devotion to Mary, our Blessed Mother, that her example of faith, humility, and joy may inspire us to trust in Your divine plan, and that her intercession may guide us in our journey of faith. We pray to the Lord.
The resources on this page–including videos and articles–
are here to help you develop your own prayer intentions.
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