FEB 2, 2025
✨ 1. Petition for Welcoming the King of Glory: Embracing Christ's Triumphant Love/strong>
Almighty God, as we call upon the King of Glory to enter our hearts, we pray for the grace to welcome Jesus, our victorious Lord, into our lives. May we recognize his triumphant love and allow it to transform us, that we may be vessels of his light in the world. We pray to the Lord...
2. Petition for Strength and Courage: Finding Fortitude in the King of Glory/strong>
Lord, our Mighty King, we ask for your strength and courage to face life's battles. As we proclaim your glory, may we be empowered to overcome challenges and stand firm in our faith. Be our source of fortitude as we strive to live as your dedicated disciples. We pray to the Lord...
3. Petition for Opening Our Hearts: Unlocking the Gates of Love
Eternal Father, as we lift up the gates of our hearts, we pray for the wisdom to recognize and embrace the King of Glory in our midst. May we continually open ourselves to your divine presence, allowing your love to flow through us and transform our lives. We pray to the Lord...
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Respond & Acclaim - Presentation of the Lord, 2025 - Year C - Psalm 24 - Alstott
Prayers of the Faithful Petitions
Prayers of the Faithful Petitions
General
Intercessions
The Church
For the Church: that the Light of Christ may shine through our lives and reveal God to all who are searching for meaning or purpose to their lives.
For the Light of Wisdom for all church leaders: that their teaching and actions may lead others to a deeper relationship with Christ and bind the Church in greater unity
For all members of Religious Communities: that the Spirit will renew them and empower them to give faithful witness to Christ who is the center of their lives
SOURCE: Sunday Website
RELATED
Presentation of the Lord
⬇️ THE CHURCH
Loving God, as we celebrate the feast of the Presentation of Jesus, we are reminded of our own consecration to you at Baptism. We offer ourselves, body and soul, in service to your divine plan. May we embrace the truth that we belong to you, and may our lives be a constant offering of praise. As St. Bernard prayed, help us to live fully dedicated to your divine love. We pray to the Lord…
When they had fulfilled all the prescriptions
of the law of the Lord,
they returned to Galilee, to their own town of Nazareth.
The child grew and became strong, filled with wisdom;
and the favor of God was upon him.
GOSPEL
CHURCH LEADERS
FIRST READING
Petition for Clarity and Understanding
We pray that our Church leaders, particularly our Pope, Bishops, and priests, may receive the wisdom and guidance of the Holy Spirit to understand and interpret God’s Word. Just as Ezra read from the book of the law, may our leaders bring clarity and insight to the faithful. We pray to the Lord…
Petition for Receptive Hearts
May the hearts of the faithful be open to the teachings of our Church leaders, like the people who listened attentively to Ezra. We pray that the Pope, Bishops, and priests remain steadfast in their mission to spread the Gospel, and that their words may penetrate the hearts of believers. We pray to the Lord…
Petition for Joyful Worship
As Nehemiah encouraged the people to celebrate and feast, we pray that our Church leaders inspire the faithful to rejoice in the Lord through worship and fellowship. May they lead us in expressing our faith with heartfelt devotion, just as the people of Israel celebrated with great joy. We pray to the Lord…
SECOND READING
Petition for Unity in Diversity
We pray that our Church leaders, particularly our Pope, Bishops, and priests, foster unity among the diverse members of the Church, recognizing that we are one body in Christ. May they lead us in appreciating and utilizing the unique gifts and talents of each individual, promoting harmony within the Church. We pray to the Lord…
Petition for Empathy and Compassion
Inspired by St. Paul’s words, we pray that our Church leaders guide us in empathizing with and caring for those who suffer. May they remind us that when one member of the body suffers, we all suffer together, inspiring acts of mercy and love throughout the Church. We pray to the Lord…
Petition for Humble Leadership
May our Church leaders, especially our Pope, Bishops, and priests, lead with humility and love, prioritizing the greater good of the Church over personal recognition. We pray that they embody the wisdom of St. Paul, reminding us to value and honor the roles of all members within the body of Christ. We pray to the Lord…
GOSPEL
Petition for Inspired Teaching
May our Church leaders, particularly our Pope, Bishops, and priests, proclaim the Gospel with conviction and passion, as Luke described the ministry of the early Church. We pray that their words penetrate the hearts and minds of the faithful, inspiring deeper commitment to Christ and His teachings. We pray to the Lord…
Petition for Compassionate Service
Inspired by Jesus’ proclamation of good news to the poor, we pray that our Church leaders guide us in serving those in need with love and compassion. May their example and encouragement inspire us to bring hope, healing, and freedom to the vulnerable and marginalized. We pray to the Lord…
Petition for Courageous Witness
As Luke testified to the events of Christ’s life, we pray that our Church leaders demonstrate courage and faithfulness in their witness to the Gospel. May their lives and teachings reflect the love, humility, and sacrifice of Jesus, inspiring the faithful to proclaim the Good News in word and action. We pray to the Lord…
Prayers of
the Faithful
Governing Authorities and the Salvation of the World
For the members of the United States Senate: that God will guide their deliberations, help them grasp the truth, and give them the courage to act for the good of the nation
For Light for all world leaders: that God will help all world leaders to see the value and dignity of human life and work tirelessly for peace
SOURCE: Sunday Website
Presentation of the Lord
⬇️ THE WORLD
As the UN celebrates Human Fraternity Day this week for peace and cooperation, we turn to you in prayer, seeking the wisdom and guidance necessary to create environments conducive to tolerance, respect, and peaceful coexistence. Grant us the grace to recognize the common values that unite us as human beings, transcending our differences and embracing the transformative power of compassion.
Lift up, O gates, your lintels;
reach up, you ancient portals,
that the king of glory may come in!
RESPONSORIAL PSALM
WORLD PEACE
FIRST READING
A Refiner’s Fire for Spiritual Renewal
Lord, our Redeemer, we ask for your refining fire to bring spiritual renewal to the Middle East. May your divine love purify hearts and minds, inspiring the people to embrace a path of peace and unity. Help them to recognize the value of interreligious dialogue and cooperation. We pray to the Lord…
Raising Up Courageous Leaders
God of wisdom, raise up courageous leaders in the Middle East who will work towards peace and justice. Bless them with the strength to overcome the challenges they face, and may they be guided by your divine light. We ask this in your holy name. We pray to the Lord…
SECOND READING
A Merciful High Priest for Unity
Heavenly Father, we pray that the people of Eastern Europe may find unity and strength through Jesus, our merciful high priest. As he shared in our humanity, may he be a bridge between the divisions that separate nations, helping them to foster peace and mutual understanding. We pray to the Lord…
Empathy and Compassion for All
Loving God, we ask for the grace to cultivate empathy and compassion in the hearts of the people of Eastern Europe. As Jesus empathized with our human struggles, may the people understand and support one another, fostering a spirit of cooperation and peace. We pray to the Lord…
GOSPEL
Revealing the Light of Christ
God of love, as Simeon recognized the light of Christ at the Temple, we pray that the people of the Middle East may also recognize and embrace your divine presence. May they be guided by the light of Christ to seek peace, understanding, and reconciliation among all nations. We pray to the Lord…
Hope in the Messiah’s Promise
Lord, our source of hope, as Anna rejoiced in the coming of the Messiah, we pray that the people of Eastern Europe find hope and assurance in your divine promises. May they be filled with the joy of the Gospel, striving together to build a future founded on peace and unity. We pray to the Lord…
ENVIRONMENT
FIRST READING
Purifying Our Hearts for Creation Care
Loving God, as your refining fire purifies our hearts, we pray for the wisdom and compassion to care for the Earth, our common home. Guide us in our stewardship of creation, so that we may work together to protect and restore the environment for future generations. We pray to the Lord…
Sustaining Our World with Your Love
Lord, our Provider, we ask for the grace to live sustainably, embracing lifestyles that respect the delicate balance of your creation. May your love inspire us to share resources equitably, ensuring a just and sustainable future for all. We pray to the Lord…
SECOND READING
Unity in the Web of Life
Eternal God, we pray that we may recognize the interconnectedness of all life, as Jesus shared in our humanity and is united with us in the web of creation. May our actions reflect our interconnectedness, fostering harmony among all living beings and caring for our common home. We pray to the Lord…
Transforming Our Hearts for Ecological Conversion
God of transformation, as Jesus brings reconciliation and healing to our lives, we pray for an ecological conversion that awakens our hearts to the urgent need for environmental stewardship. Grant us the courage to change our hearts and minds, embracing sustainable practices that honor your creation. We pray to the Lord…
GOSPEL
Revealing the Light of Christ in Creation
Father of lights, as Simeon and Anna recognized Christ as the light of the world, we pray that the light of your love may guide us to reverence and respect all living creatures and the Earth. Help us to see your divine presence in the beauty of creation and respond with love and care. We pray to the Lord…
Hope and Justice for Future Generations
Loving God, as Anna and Simeon rejoiced in the promise of salvation for all generations, we pray for the wisdom and resolve to work for intergenerational justice. May our actions today safeguard the well-being of future generations and the Earth, our common home. We pray to the Lord…
NATIONS
Africa: Prayer for Courageous Leadership in Times of Change
Lord, our source of strength, we pray for the people and leaders of Africa, especially in times of political and social transformation. As Malachi called for courage in preparation for the Messiah, may African leaders be guided by your wisdom to work for justice and peace. We pray to the Lord…
North America: Prayer for Hope and Transformation in Times of Struggle
Gracious God, we pray for North America, facing social and political division. As Malachi prophesied the coming of a refiner’s fire, we ask for your transformative love to heal divisions and bring about reconciliation and unity. We pray to the Lord…
Europe: Prayer for Reverence and Protection of Creation
Eternal Father, we pray for Europe’s commitment to environmental stewardship, as we are called to honor and protect your creation. As Luke 2 highlights the presentation of Christ, the light of the world, may Europe be guided by your light to care for the Earth, our common home. We pray to the Lord…
Australia & Oceania: Prayer for Faithfulness and Courage in Environmental Stewardship
Father of all, we pray for Australia and Oceania as they face the challenges of climate change and environmental degradation. As Simeon and Anna remained faithful to your promises, may the people of these regions be steadfast in their commitment to caring for your creation. We pray to the Lord…
South America: Prayer for Unity and Solidarity Among Nations
Lord, our source of hope, we pray for the nations of South America, that they may be united in their efforts to overcome the challenges they face. As Hebrews speaks of Jesus as the bridge between humanity and God, may South American nations find strength in cooperation and solidarity. We pray to the Lord…
Asia: Prayer for Compassion in Overcoming Differences
Loving God, we pray for the diverse nations of Asia, that they may embrace empathy and compassion in navigating their differences. As Hebrews speaks of Jesus’ empathy for human struggles, may the people of Asia find unity and understanding amid their unique challenges. We pray to the Lord…
Prayers of
the Faithful
For Those Facing Adversities
For all who live in darkness: that the Light of the Gospel may open new insights for them and show them the path to life that Christ offers
For growth in prayer: that like Simeon and Anna, we may patiently await God’s word in the silence of our hearts and reflect upon all that God has done for us
SOURCE: Sunday Website
Presentation of the Lord
⬇️ SPECIAL NEEDS
For all who are recovering from the fires in Los Angeles: that God will give them strength, renew their hope, and help them to find the resources that they need to rebuild their lives
For he is like the refiner’s fire,
or like the fuller’s lye.
He will sit refining and purifying silver,
and he will purify the sons of Levi,
FIRST READING
RESPECT FOR LIFE
FIRST READING
Prayer for Purifying Love in Defending Life:
Lord, our Redeemer, we pray that your purifying love may inspire us to defend the sacredness of human life from conception to natural death. As Malachi speaks of your refining fire, may our hearts be transformed to embrace a culture of life. We pray to the Lord…
Prayer for Courage to Embrace a Culture of Life:
Loving God, we ask for courage to build a culture of life that respects the inherent dignity of every person. As Malachi called for preparation before the Messiah’s arrival, may we prepare our world to welcome and protect all human life. We pray to the Lord…
SECOND READING
Prayer for Compassionate Action Against the Death Penalty:
Jesus, our High Priest, who shared in our humanity, we pray for the abolition of the death penalty. As you are a source of mercy, help us to replace retribution with restorative justice and respect for life. We pray to the Lord…
Prayer for Christ’s Healing in the Face of Pornography:
Christ, our brother, we pray for your healing grace to support those affected by pornography, an industry that exploits human dignity. May your example of empathy and love guide us to promote healthy relationships and respect for all individuals. We pray to the Lord…
GOSPEL
Prayer for Light and Hope in Overcoming Abortion:
Father of Lights, as the light of Christ was presented in the Temple, we pray for an end to abortion and for support for mothers in need. May your light guide our world to choose life and uphold the dignity of every unborn child. We pray to the Lord…
Prayer for the Joy of Embracing a Culture of Life:
God of Joy, as Simeon and Anna rejoiced at the sight of the infant Jesus, we pray that our world may find joy in embracing a culture of life. May we celebrate the gift of each human person and support policies that foster respect for life. We pray to the Lord…
LA WILDFIRES
FIRST READING
A Prayer for Healing and Restoration in the Wake of Wildfires
Compassionate God, we lift up the people and lands affected by the Los Angeles wildfires. As Malachi speaks of your refining fire, we pray that you transform the ashes into new life and restore the beauty of your creation. Be with those who have lost their homes and belongings, and grant them strength and hope. We pray to the Lord…
SECOND READING
A Prayer for Unity and Support in Times of Crisis
Loving Father, as Jesus, our High Priest, shared in our humanity, we pray for unity and support among the communities impacted by the Los Angeles wildfires. May they find solace in your divine love and in the compassionate actions of their neighbors. Inspire us to come together in solidarity, providing comfort and resources to those in need. We pray to the Lord…
GOSPEL
A Prayer for Hope and Light in the Face of Wildfires
God of Hope, as Simeon and Anna recognized the light of Christ in the Temple, we pray for the people affected by the Los Angeles wildfires. May your light shine through the darkness, offering hope and guidance to those who are suffering. Empower us to be bearers of your light, providing support and relief to those in need. We pray to the Lord…
Prayer for Renewal and Growth
A Prayer for Renewal and Growth Following the Wildfires
Eternal Father, as the infant Jesus was presented in the Temple, we pray for the renewal and growth of the lands devastated by the Los Angeles wildfires. May your divine love nourish the Earth, restoring its beauty and vitality. Strengthen our commitment to environmental stewardship, and guide us in our efforts to prevent future disasters. We pray to the Lord…
Prayers of
the Faithful
The Local Community
For the grace of awareness: that we may recognize Christ in all the ways that Christ is present in our lives, particularly through the poor, our relationships, and the ordinary events of our day
For parents of infants: that God will guide them in caring for and nurturing their child so that each child may grow to their fullest potential and be a blessing for the human family
SOURCE: Sunday Website
Presentation of the Lord
⬇️ LOCAL COMMUNITY
Jesus, our High Priest, as you shared in our humanity, we pray for a greater appreciation for the Mass. May this sacrament of unity draw us closer to you and to one another, as we partake in the sacred mystery of your body and blood. We pray to the Lord…
Since the children share in blood and flesh,
Jesus likewise shared in them,
that through death he might destroy the one
who has the power of death…
SECOND READING
FAMILIES
FIRST READING
A Prayer for Families to Grow Together in Faith
Loving God, we pray for families to embrace your refining love and grow together in faith. As Malachi speaks of preparation for the Messiah, may families support one another in their spiritual journeys and discover the joy of your divine presence. We pray to the Lord…
Prayer for Protection and Guidance for Children:
Lord, our Protector, we pray for your divine protection and guidance for children around the world. As Malachi reminds us of your transformative love, may children be shielded from harm and nurtured in a safe and loving environment. We pray to the Lord…
SECOND READING
A Prayer for Embracing Christ’s Empathy in Families
Jesus, our High Priest, we pray that families may embody your empathy and compassion in their relationships. As you experienced our human struggles, may families support and understand one another, fostering a spirit of unity and love. We pray to the Lord…
Prayer for Strength and Faith for Parents:
God of Strength, we pray for parents to find the courage and faith they need to raise their children in a challenging world. As Jesus, our compassionate High Priest, offers us grace and understanding, may parents be empowered to guide their children with wisdom and love. We pray to the Lord…
GOSPEL
A Prayer for Families to Share Joy and Hope
Father of Lights, as Simeon and Anna rejoiced at the sight of the infant Jesus, we pray for families to share the joy and hope of your divine presence. May they find inspiration in your promises and celebrate the gift of life together. We pray to the Lord…
Prayer for Wisdom and Guidance for Children:
Lord, our Guide, as the light of Christ was presented in the Temple, we pray for children to be guided by your wisdom and love. May they discover their unique gifts and share your light with others, building a brighter future for all. We pray to the Lord…
SACRAMENTS
FIRST READING
A Prayer for Renewal Through the Sacrament of Baptism
Loving God, as Malachi speaks of your refining fire, we pray for a deepening appreciation of the Sacrament of Baptism. May we recognize the transformative power of this sacrament, as we are cleansed from sin and reborn as your beloved children. We pray to the Lord…
A Prayer for the Gifts of the Holy Spirit in Confirmation
Lord, our Strengthener, as Malachi reminds us of your purifying love, we pray for a deeper understanding of the Sacrament of Confirmation. May the Holy Spirit’s gifts empower us to live as faithful disciples, spreading your love and truth throughout our community. We pray to the Lord…
SECOND READING
A Prayer for Unity Through the Sacrament of the Eucharist
Jesus, our High Priest, as you shared in our humanity, we pray for a greater appreciation of the Sacrament of the Eucharist. May this sacrament of unity draw us closer to you and to one another, as we partake in the sacred mystery of your body and blood. We pray to the Lord…
A Prayer for Compassion and Forgiveness in Reconciliation
Compassionate Christ, as you empathized with our human struggles, we pray for a deeper understanding of the Sacrament of Reconciliation. May we experience your healing mercy and find the grace to extend forgiveness to others, fostering peace and unity within our community. We pray to the Lord…
GOSPEL
A Prayer for the Light of Christ in the Sacrament of Marriage
Father of Lights, as Simeon and Anna celebrated the arrival of the infant Jesus, we pray for a renewed appreciation of the Sacrament of Marriage. May married couples embody the light of Christ, as they grow in love and commitment, and may their unions serve as a witness of your divine love. We pray to the Lord…
Prayer for the Sacrament of Holy Orders:
Lord, our Guide, as the light of Christ was presented in the Temple, we pray for a deepening understanding of the Sacrament of Holy Orders. May those called to this sacrament faithfully serve your Church, guiding and nurturing your people with wisdom and love. We pray to the Lord…
RELIGIOUS ED
FIRST READING
Refiner’s Fire of Knowledge and Wisdom
Lord, as your refining fire purifies our hearts, we pray for the flame of knowledge and wisdom to ignite within us a deeper understanding of your divine teachings. May our faith development be strengthened as we embrace the truths of our faith. We pray to the Lord…
Catechists’ Role in Spiritual Growth
God of truth, we ask for your grace upon catechists, that they may be effective guides in faith development. As Malachi prepared the way for the Messiah, may catechists prepare the hearts and minds of those they teach to welcome your divine love. We pray to the Lord…
SECOND READING
Christ’s Example in Faith Formation
Jesus, our compassionate High Priest, as you shared in our humanity, we pray for a deepening appreciation of your role in our faith journey. May we follow your example of empathy and love, growing in our understanding of faith and inspiring others to do the same. We pray to the Lord…
Faith Development Through Reconciliation
Loving Savior, as you experienced our human struggles, we pray for the healing grace of Reconciliation to strengthen our faith development. May this sacrament deepen our understanding of your mercy and guide us to embrace a life of holiness. We pray to the Lord…
GOSPEL
Family’s Role in Catechesis
Father of Lights, as Simeon and Anna celebrated the arrival of the infant Jesus, we pray for families to be beacons of faith. May parents and guardians inspire a love for your divine teachings, cultivating a strong foundation for catechesis within their homes. We pray to the Lord…
Faith Development Through Scripture
God of wisdom, as the light of Christ was presented in the Temple, we pray for a renewed appreciation of Scripture in faith development. May your divine word guide and nurture our spiritual growth, deepening our understanding of your divine love and truth. We pray to the Lord…
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