JAN 12, 2025
Petitions based on Psalm 104
✨ Marveling at Creation: Recognizing God's Handiwork
We pray that the beauty and wonder of creation, as described in Psalm 104, inspires our communities to appreciate and care for the Earth, our common home. May we be responsible stewards of God's magnificent creation, cherishing the gift of life in all its forms. We pray to the Lord.
Sustaining Life: Sharing Earth's Bountiful Resources
In light of Psalm 104, we pray for the equitable distribution of Earth's resources, that all people may benefit from God's abundant provisions. May our communities foster a spirit of solidarity and justice, ensuring that the needs of the vulnerable are met with compassion. We pray to the Lord.
Proclaiming God's Glory: Living as Witnesses of Faith
We pray that the testimony of Psalm 104 inspires us to share the Good News of God's love and mercy with all people. May our communities nurture joyful disciples who proclaim God's glory through their words and actions, making the divine presence tangible in our world. We pray to the Lord.
Strengthening Our Faith: Encountering God in Creation
Drawing from Psalm 104, we pray that our encounters with the beauty of creation deepen our faith and trust in God. May our communities experience the divine presence in the wonders of nature, recognizing the wisdom and power of our Creator. We pray to the Lord.
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Respond & Acclaim - The Baptism of the Lord, 2025 - Year C - Psalm 104 - Alstott
Prayers of the Faithful Petitions
Prayers of the Faithful Petitions
General
Intercessions
The Church
For the Church: that we may recognize our calling to be daughters and sons of God and empowered by the Holy Spirit manifest God’s love and compassion through our words and deeds
For all who have responded to God’s call to ministry: that God will strengthen them, make fruitful their service, and empower them with the Holy Spirit
SOURCE: Sunday Website
RELATED
Baptism of the Lord - YEAR C
⬇️ THE CHURCH
Almighty God, Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, who sanctified and blessed the water of baptism for all Christians through his own baptism by John, continue your work of cleansing all in the Church from sin by the power of your Holy Spirit, so that we who honor Jesus as your beloved Son might live in the holiness of perfect love, to the glory of your holy name.
After all the people had been baptized
and Jesus also had been baptized and was praying,
heaven was opened and the Holy Spirit descended upon him
in bodily form like a dove.
And a voice came from heaven,
“You are my beloved Son;
with you I am well pleased.”
GOSPEL
CHURCH LEADERS
FIRST READING
For Our Pope: Faithful Servant of Justice
We pray for Pope Francis, that he may continue to be an instrument of justice in our world, guided by the Holy Spirit. May he remain a humble servant, bringing hope and compassion to those in need. We pray to the Lord.
For Our Bishops: Chosen Leaders
We pray for our Bishops, that they may be steadfast in their calling as chosen leaders of the Church. May they uphold the teachings of Christ and inspire the faithful to live justly, building a more compassionate and united world. We pray to the Lord.
For Our Priests: Bearers of Gentle Compassion
We pray for our Priests, that they may embody the tender compassion of Christ in their ministry. May they be a gentle presence for the marginalized and vulnerable, offering solace and guidance to those who are struggling. We pray to the Lord.
SECOND READING
For Our Pope: Preaching the Message of Inclusion
We pray for Pope Francis, that he may continue to proclaim the inclusive love of Christ, embracing people from all nations and backgrounds. May his leadership inspire the Church to be a welcoming community, promoting peace and understanding. We pray to the Lord.
For Our Bishops: Embodying the Love of Christ
We pray for our Bishops, that they may embody the compassionate love of Christ in their words and actions. May they be guided by the Holy Spirit, fearlessly preaching the Good News of salvation and fostering unity among all. We pray to the Lord.
For Our Priests: Ministers of God’s Peace
We pray for our Priests, that they may be ministers of God’s peace, building bridges of understanding and acceptance within their communities. May they continue to proclaim the Gospel message of love and justice, guiding us toward a world of greater unity and understanding. We pray to the Lord.
GOSPEL
For Our Pope: Embracing the Spirit of Service
We pray for Pope Francis, that he may be strengthened in his commitment to serve the Church and the world, following the example of Christ. May his leadership inspire the faithful to be loving servants of God and one another. We pray to the Lord.
For Our Bishops: Shepherding with Wisdom and Humility
We pray for our Bishops, that they may shepherd their flocks with wisdom and humility, always seeking God’s guidance. May their dedication to prayer and the fulfillment of God’s will strengthen and unify the Body of Christ. We pray to the Lord.
For Our Priests: Fulfilling God’s Mission of Love
We pray for our Priests, that they may be faithful ministers of God’s love and compassion. May their ministry be a source of strength and encouragement for those they serve, guiding us toward the fulfillment of God’s mission in our world. We pray to the Lord.
Prayers of
the Faithful
Governing Authorities and the Salvation of the World
For a new dawning of peace and reconciliation: that those who strive for peace may not tire and that God will open new opportunities for opponents to recognize the good in one another
SOURCE: Australian Catholics
Baptism of the Lord - YEAR C
⬇️ THE WORLD
For Mike Johnson, Speaker of the House, Minority Leader Haeekm Jeffries, and all members of the 119th Congress: that God will give them a clear understanding of the issues before them and wisdom to effectively address them for the common good
Peter proceeded to speak to those gathered
in the house of Cornelius, saying:
“In truth, I see that God
shows no partiality.
Rather, in every nation
whoever fears him and acts uprightly
is acceptable to him.
SECOND READING
WORLD PEACE
FIRST READING
For Peace in the Middle East: Guided by the Spirit of Justice
Almighty Father, we pray for the leaders and people in the Middle East, that they may be guided by the spirit of justice, like the servant in Isaiah. May their efforts be rooted in a deep commitment to the well-being of all, as they work to build a more peaceful and harmonious future. We pray to the Lord.
For Eastern Europe: Bringing Forth Light and Truth
Lord, we pray for the nations of Eastern Europe, that they may be filled with the light and truth of your Word, like the servant in Isaiah. May their actions be guided by the wisdom and compassion that brings forth justice, as they work together to build a brighter future for all. We pray to the Lord.
SECOND READING
For Peace in the Middle East: Embracing Unity and Reconciliation
Heavenly Father, we pray for the people of the Middle East, that they may be inspired by the message of unity and reconciliation in Acts. May they find strength in the knowledge that you show no partiality, working together to overcome divisions and build a future based on peace and understanding. We pray to the Lord.
For Eastern Europe: Spreading the Message of Hope
Lord, we pray for the nations of Eastern Europe, that they may be strengthened by the message of hope in Acts. May they be guided by the knowledge that the Gospel is for all people, spreading the good news of peace and unity throughout their lands. We pray to the Lord.
GOSPEL
For Peace in the Middle East: Living in the Spirit of Love and Humility
Dear God, we pray for the people of the Middle East, that they may be inspired by the spirit of love and humility in the Gospel of Luke. May they find strength in the knowledge that true greatness comes from serving others, working together to build a more peaceful and just society. We pray to the Lord.
For Eastern Europe: Fulfilling Our Baptismal Calling
Father, we pray for the nations of Eastern Europe, that they may be guided by their baptismal calling in the Gospel of Luke. May they be filled with the power of your Holy Spirit, working together to spread the message of love and reconciliation throughout their lands. We pray to the Lord.
ENVIRONMENT
FIRST READING
Prayer for Environmental Responsibility: Caring for Creation
Almighty Father, we pray that we may be guided by the servant’s example in Isaiah, called to bring forth justice and care for your Creation. May we take responsibility for the world around us, working to protect and restore the environment that sustains us. We pray to the Lord.
Prayer for Stewardship: Learning from the Earth’s Wisdom
Lord, we pray for the grace to be good stewards of your Creation, like the servant in Isaiah who listens attentively to the earth’s wisdom. May we learn from the natural world and be inspired to live in harmony with it, ensuring a healthy planet for generations to come. We pray to the Lord.
SECOND READING
Prayer for Ecological Conversion: Responding to the Gospel’s Call
Heavenly Father, we pray for the grace to respond to the Gospel’s call to love and unity, embracing the message of Laudato Si’. May we be inspired to undergo an ecological conversion, recognizing the interconnectedness of all Creation and working to protect and preserve our common home. We pray to the Lord.
Prayer for Environmental Justice: Serving All Creation
Lord, we pray for the strength to follow the Gospel’s call to serve one another, extending this service to all Creation. May we work to ensure environmental justice for all, especially the poor and vulnerable, and be guided by the spirit of solidarity and love. We pray to the Lord.
GOSPEL
Prayer for Baptismal Responsibility: Caring for Our Common Home
Dear God, we pray that we may fulfill our baptismal calling, as Christ demonstrated in the Gospel of Luke. May we be guided by the spirit of love and humility, caring for our common home and ensuring a sustainable future for all. We pray to the Lord.
Prayer for Environmental Leadership: Bringing Forth a New World
Father, we pray for leaders who will guide us in the spirit of the Gospel, promoting environmental protection and responsible stewardship. May they be inspired by Christ’s example to work for justice and peace, bringing forth a new world where all Creation can flourish. We pray to the Lord.
NATIONS
FIRST READING
Prayer for Justice and Unity in Africa: Fulfilling the Servant’s Calling
Lord, we pray for the nations of Africa, where your justice and mercy are needed. May the leaders be guided by the example of the servant in Isaiah, who does not break the bruised reed or quench the burning wick, promoting unity and peace. We pray to the Lord.
Prayer for Environmental Leadership in North America: Bringing Forth a Sustainable Future
Heavenly Father, we pray for the leaders in North America, tasked with guiding us toward sustainability. May they be inspired by the servant in Isaiah, who brings forth justice for the nations and is a light to the world. We pray to the Lord.
SECOND READING
Prayer for Compassion and Solidarity in Asia: Responding to the Gospel’s Message
Almighty Father, we pray for the people of Asia, where your love knows no boundaries. May the message of Acts, that you show no partiality, inspire acts of compassion and solidarity in facing the challenges ahead. We pray to the Lord.
Prayer for Unity and Reconciliation in South America: Embracing the Gospel’s Message
Lord, we pray for the nations of South America, where divisions hinder progress. May the message of Acts, that the Gospel is for all people, encourage efforts toward unity and reconciliation, to overcome differences and work for the common good. We pray to the Lord.
GOSPEL
Prayer for Baptismal Commitment in Europe: Living Our Calling with Humility
Dear God, we pray for the nations of Europe, facing ecological crises. May the baptismal calling in the Gospel of Luke remind us to live in humility, working to preserve our common home and care for your Creation. We pray to the Lord.
Prayer for Hope and Stewardship in Australia & Oceania: Living Our Baptismal Calling
Father, we pray for the people of Australia & Oceania, facing environmental challenges. May they draw hope from the baptismal calling in the Gospel of Luke, working to preserve our common home and ensure a sustainable future for all. We pray to the Lord.
Prayers of
the Faithful
Los Angeles Fires
The situation in Los Angeles is dire, with multiple wildfires raging across the region, including the Palisades Fire, Eaton Fire, Hurst Fire, Lidia Fire, and Sunset Fire. These fires have forced the evacuation of over 130,000 residents, destroyed nearly 2,000 structures, and claimed the lives of five people.
SOURCE: Fr. Austin Fleming
Baptism of the Lord - YEAR C
⬇️ SPECIAL NEEDS
Loving and compassionate God, we come before You today with heavy hearts, lifting up those who are experiencing emotional distress and displacement due to the devastating Los Angeles fires. We ask for Your divine comfort and solace to surround them during this difficult time. In the midst of uncertainty and fear, may they find refuge in Your unshakeable presence.
SOURCE: Sunday Website
Comfort,
give comfort to my people,
says your God… A voice cries out:
In the desert prepare the way of the LORD!
Make straight in the wasteland a highway for our God!
Every valley shall be filled in,
every mountain and hill shall be made low;
the rugged land shall be made a plain,
the rough country, a broad valley.
SECOND READING (OPTION B)
RESPECT FOR LIFE
FIRST READING
Prayer for Justice: Upholding the Sanctity of Life in a Culture of Death
Inspired by Isaiah 42:1-7, we pray for justice and the protection of the unborn, that we may uphold the sanctity of life in a culture that often chooses death. May we embrace the call to be a light to the nations, standing firm against the darkness of abortion. We pray to the Lord.
Prayer for Compassion: Supporting Vulnerable Mothers in Crisis
Guided by Isaiah 42:1-7, we pray for the strength to extend compassion to mothers facing unplanned pregnancies, offering love and resources to support them in choosing life. May we embody the servant’s gentle spirit, bringing forth justice for the most vulnerable among us. We pray to the Lord.
SECOND READING
Prayer for Openness: Breaking Barriers and Embracing the Dignity of All
Reflecting on Acts 10:34-38, we pray for the wisdom to recognize the inherent dignity in every person, breaking barriers that divide us and embracing the Gospel’s message of inclusion. May we reject all forms of discrimination, especially in matters of life and death. We pray to the Lord.
Prayer for Truth: Countering the Deceptions of Pornography
In light of Acts 10:34-38, we pray for courage to speak the truth about the harms of pornography, which distorts the beauty of human sexuality and exploits the vulnerable. May we proclaim the Gospel’s message of love and respect, promoting a culture that values the dignity of all individuals. We pray to the Lord.
GOSPEL
Prayer for Solidarity: Standing Against the Death Penalty
Drawing from Luke 3:15-16, 21-22, we pray for solidarity among those who oppose the death penalty, affirming the sanctity of human life at every stage. May our baptismal calling inspire us to stand against violence and promote restorative justice. We pray to the Lord.
Prayer for Hope: Nurturing a Culture of Life and Love
Inspired by Luke 3:15-16, 21-22, we pray for the grace to foster a culture of life and love, rooted in the Gospel’s message of hope and transformation. May we live our baptismal calling with humility, building a society that cherishes the dignity of all human beings. We pray to the Lord.Reply in a thread
LA WILDFIRES
For all those affected by the devastating wildfires in Los Angeles, may they find solace in God’s love and receive the support they need during these challenging times. Lord, hear our prayer.
For the Brave Firefighters: May our courageous firefighters battling the Los Angeles Fires receive God’s unwavering strength, courage, and protection.
For the parishes and schools within the Archdiocese of Los Angeles, may they continue to be beacons of hope and support for those impacted by the wildfires. Lord, hear our prayer.
For Archbishop Gomez and the leaders of the Archdiocese of Los Angeles, may they be guided by the Holy Spirit in their efforts to respond to the needs of the community. Lord, hear our prayer.
We lift up those who seek clarity and direction amidst chaos and uncertainty. May they receive Your affirmation and guidance as they navigate their path forward.
For First Responders and Medical Professionals: We pray that those caring for the affected communities are blessed with the resources, wisdom, and knowledge necessary to continue their life-saving work.
We pray for unity and resilience within the community of Los Angeles, may the love of Christ bind them together as they work towards recovery and rebuilding in the aftermath of the wildfires. Lord, hear our prayer.
For Authorities: May God guide the efforts of local, state, and federal authorities, granting them discernment and wisdom to make the best decisions for the greater good.
For the journalists and media professionals covering the wildfires, may they be sustained in their efforts to provide accurate and vital information to the public. Lord, hear our prayer.
For Those Experiencing Anxiety and Fear: May God bring peace, calm, and comfort to those experiencing emotional distress, reminding them of His steadfast presence.
For Those Grieving Loved Ones: May God provide solace, comfort, and healing to those mourning the loss of loved ones.
Prayers of
the Faithful
The Local Community
For all who have been baptized in our community, particularly those during this last year: that they may be faithful disciples of Jesus and continue to grow in their knowledge and love of God
For all catechumens: that they may hear God’s call, allow God to prepare a way in their hearts, and grow in their relationship with God each day.
SOURCE: Sunday Website
Baptism of the Lord - YEAR C
⬇️ LOCAL COMMUNITY
For all those in the Order of Christian Initiation of Adults (OCIA) be guided and strengthened in their faith journey as they deepen their understanding and commitment to the teachings of the Catholic Church. We pray to the Lord…
I, the LORD, have called you
for the victory of justice,
I have grasped you by the hand;
I formed you, and set you
as a covenant of the people,
a light for the nations,
to open the eyes of the blind,
to bring out prisoners from confinement,
and from the dungeon,
those who live in darkness.
FIRST READING
FAMILIES
FIRST READING
Prayer for Guidance: Supporting Children’s Faith Formation
We pray for the children in our families and communities, that they may be guided by the gentle spirit of the servant in Isaiah, growing in faith and understanding. May we be role models of justice and compassion, nurturing the next generation to bring forth peace in the world. We pray to the Lord.
Prayer for Unity: Strengthening Family Bonds in a Divided World
Drawing from Isaiah 42:1-7, we pray for unity within families, that they may remain strong in a world often divided by conflicts and injustice. May the example of the servant inspire parents and children to work together as lights to the nations, upholding the values of justice and peace. We pray to the Lord.
SECOND READING
Prayer for Acceptance: Cultivating Inclusivity Among Children
In the spirit of Acts 10:34-38, we pray for our children to embrace the Gospel’s message of acceptance, welcoming and valuing all individuals regardless of differences. May we nurture inclusive attitudes within families, promoting a culture of love and respect that begins in the home. We pray to the Lord.
Prayer for Faithfulness: Upholding Family Values in a Secular World
Guided by Acts 10:34-38, we pray for the courage to uphold Christian values within our families, sharing the truth of the Gospel with the next generation. May we remain steadfast in our faith, fostering an environment where our children can grow in love and holiness. We pray to the Lord.
GOSPEL
Prayer for Humility: Raising Children Rooted in Christ’s Teachings
We pray for children and families, inspired by Luke 3:15-16, 21-22, that they may be grounded in the humility of Jesus’ baptism and his example of servant leadership. May our baptismal calling remind us to nurture a Christ-centered home, where love and compassion flourish. We pray to the Lord.
Prayer for Unity: Reconciling Generational Differences within Families
Reflecting on Luke 3:15-16, 21-22, we pray for unity between parents and children, as they navigate generational differences and changing cultural norms. May the bonds of faith and love, strengthened by our baptism, prevail over misunderstandings and bring harmony to family life. We pray to the Lord.
SACRAMENTS
FIRST READING
Prayer for Reconciliation: Nurturing Forgiveness and Peace
We pray that the Sacrament of Reconciliation strengthens our communities, inspired by the servant’s example in Isaiah 42:1-7. May we embody the values of justice and compassion, seeking reconciliation to mend broken relationships and cultivate unity. We pray to the Lord.
Prayer for Holy Orders: Raising Leaders with Servant Hearts
Drawing from Isaiah 42:1-7, we pray for those discerning the Sacrament of Holy Orders, that they may be guided by the servant’s gentle spirit. May we support and nurture these individuals, fostering a community led by selfless and dedicated servants of God. We pray to the Lord.
SECOND READING
Prayer for Baptism: Embracing the Call to Holiness
In light of Acts 10:34-38, we pray for our communities to recognize the transformative power of Baptism, embracing the call to live as children of God. May we be guided by the Gospel’s message of acceptance and love, nurturing a culture of holiness and unity. We pray to the Lord.
Prayer for Matrimony: Building Faith-Filled Families
Inspired by Acts 10:34-38, we pray for those preparing for the Sacrament of Matrimony, that they may cultivate strong, faith-filled families rooted in the Gospel’s values. May our communities support and encourage these couples, strengthening the foundation of love and commitment. We pray to the Lord.
GOSPEL
Prayer for Eucharist: Deepening Unity through the Body of Christ
Reflecting on Luke 3:15-16, 21-22, we pray for our communities to experience the unifying power of the Eucharist, drawing strength from Christ’s presence among us. May we partake in the sacrament with humility, fostering love and unity as we share in the Body of Christ. We pray to the Lord.
Prayer for Confirmation: Empowering Disciples for Service
Inspired by Luke 3:15-16, 21-22, we pray for those awaiting the Sacrament of Confirmation, that they may be strengthened by the Holy Spirit to live as faithful disciples. May our communities nurture and support these individuals, empowering them to share their gifts in service to others. We pray to the Lord.
RELIGIOUS ED
FIRST READING
Nurturing Gentle Spirits: Catechists Guiding with Patience
We pray for our catechists, that they may model the servant’s gentleness and patience as portrayed in Isaiah 42:1-7. May their dedication inspire the next generation, instilling values of kindness and understanding within our communities. We pray to the Lord.
Faith Formation: Illuminating the Path for All Nations
In light of Isaiah 42:1-7, we pray that our religious education programs become beacons of hope, guiding individuals from all backgrounds to grow in faith. May these initiatives promote inclusivity and unity, empowering disciples to live as servants of God’s love. We pray to the Lord.
SECOND READING
Embracing Gospel Values: Teaching Acceptance and Love
We pray that the lessons of Acts 10:34-38 inspire our catechesis and faith development efforts. May our communities foster an environment of acceptance and love, encouraging individuals to live as true disciples of Christ, embracing all as children of God. We pray to the Lord.
Strengthening Families: Nurturing Domestic Churches
In light of Acts 10:34-38, we pray for the strengthening of faith within families. May our catechetical programs and faith development initiatives empower parents and guardians to guide their children, creating strong domestic churches where faith flourishes. We pray to the Lord.
GOSPEL
Modeling Holiness: Inspiring Discipleship through Education
Reflecting on Luke 3:15-16, 21-22, we pray for our religious education programs to inspire a spirit of holiness and discipleship. May these initiatives help individuals recognize the transformative power of the sacraments and encourage active participation in their communities. We pray to the Lord.
Uniting Communities: Building Connections through Faith Formation
Drawing from Luke 3:15-16, 21-22, we pray that our catechesis and faith development efforts strengthen the bonds within our communities. May these programs promote collaboration and mutual support, fostering a sense of unity and togetherness in Christ. We pray to the Lord.
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