LITURGY PLANNER – 6th Sunday of Easter (A)

SUNDAY PREP

CATHOLIC WOMEN PREACHJEFF CAVINSBISHOP GOLKAKNOW BEFORE YOU GOONE MINUTE HOMILYPRIESTS FOR LIFESOCIETY OUR LADY OF TRINITYWORD ON THE WORD

↩️ ↪️ Catholic Women Preach

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6th Sunday of Easter (A)

THE WORD THIS WEEK infographics are created using using GOOGLE’S AI Gemini 2.5 Pro. You are free to use the above infographic in any non-profit ministry. Please give credit to TheWordThisWeek.net and Catholic Women Preach video series.

Prayers of the Faithful

The following petitions are based on themes from the above video.

Presider: God is love, and whoever remains in love remains in God. As we celebrate this Sixth Sunday of Easter and honor the maternal figures who have modeled God’s grace for us, let us bring our needs before the Father who first loved us.

The Petitions:

For the Church: That she may be a bold witness to the love she has encountered, acting as a "proclaimer" of God's grace and a model of compassion that seeks out those on the margins.
For the World: That the courage of maternal love—which crosses borders and faces uncertainty—may inspire global leaders to fight for justice and create a better world for future generations.
For Those in Special Need: For all who are currently facing their "rock bottom" or experiencing heartbreak, that they may be comforted by "Godwink" moments of unexpected grace and the steady, active support of this community.
For our Local Assembly: For the mothers, grandmothers, and maternal figures among us—living and deceased—that we may honor their legacy by living in such a way that no one we meet ever doubts they are loved.

Closing Prayer: Heavenly Father, you have given us the blueprint of love through the life and ministry of your Son, Jesus Christ. Hear the prayers of your people and help us to choose love as our way of life, ensuring that the gift we have received never stops with us. We ask this through Christ our Lord. Amen.

↩️ ↪️ Jeff Cavins

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6th Sunday of Easter (A)

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THE WORD THIS WEEK infographics are created using using GOOGLE’S AI Gemini 2.5 Pro. You are free to use the above infographic in any non-profit ministry. Please give credit to TheWordThisWeek.net and Sundays with Ascension video series "Encountering the Word."

Prayers of the Faithful

The following petitions are based on themes from the above video.

NOT AVAILABLE

↩️ ↪️ Bishop James Golka

Infographic/Bulletin Insert | Prayers of the Faithful

6th Sunday of Easter (A)

THE WORD THIS WEEK infographics are created using using GOOGLE’S AI Gemini 2.5 Pro. You are free to use the above infographic in any non-profit ministry. Please give credit to TheWordThisWeek.net and Diocese of Colorado Springs video series.

Prayers of the Faithful

The following petitions are based on themes from the above video.

Presider's Introduction: Dear brothers and sisters, as we journey through this glorious season toward Ascension and Pentecost, we are reminded that we are never left as orphans. Trusting in the Advocate who pleads our cause and dwells within us, let us bring our petitions before our loving Father.

Petitions:

For the Church: That all members of the Body of Christ may cultivate a spirit of docility and faithful obedience, trusting that God’s assignments for us—even those we would not choose for ourselves—lead to true joy and the fulfillment of His divine will.
- Let us pray to the Lord. (R. Lord, hear our prayer.)
For the World: That leaders and nations may be moved by the Spirit of Truth to seek justice for the Anawim, defending the oppressed, taking up the cause of the fatherless, and pleading the case of the widow.
- Let us pray to the Lord. (R. Lord, hear our prayer.)
For those in Special Need: For the lonely, the abandoned, and those who feel like orphans in this world; may they experience the indwelling of the Holy Spirit, our Counselor, who stands at their side and never leaves them alone.
- Let us pray to the Lord. (R. Lord, hear our prayer.)
For the Local Assembly: That we may move beyond simply knowing about God to truly knowing Him; may our meditation turn to contemplation as we immerse ourselves in the life of Jesus through the Eucharist this Sunday.
- Let us pray to the Lord. (R. Lord, hear our prayer.)

Presider's Closing Prayer: O God, who knows what we need far better than we know ourselves, grant us the freedom that comes through obedience to your Word. May the Spirit who remains in us guide us to the salvation You so desire for us. We ask this through Christ our Lord. Amen.

↩️ ↪️ Know Before You Go

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6th Sunday of Easter (A)

THE WORD THIS WEEK infographics are created using using GOOGLE’S AI Gemini 2.5 Pro. You are free to use the above infographic in any non-profit ministry. Please give credit to TheWordThisWeek.net and Dominican Friars, Province of St. Albert the Great.

Prayers of the Faithful

The following petitions are based on themes from the above video.

Presider: God of life and truth, you have promised never to leave us as orphans. Trusting in the Advocate you have sent to be with us always, we confidently bring our needs and the needs of the world before you.

Lector:

For the Church and all its leaders: That they may faithfully proclaim the Word of God and, like the apostles Peter and John, continually call upon the Holy Spirit to inspire, renew, and guide the hearts of the faithful. Let us pray to the Lord. Response: Lord, hear our prayer.
For our world, our civic leaders, and all who report the news: That the Spirit of Truth may inspire them to uphold the highest standards of honesty and integrity, rejecting falsehoods and working for the common good. Let us pray to the Lord. Response: Lord, hear our prayer.
For all mothers, grandmothers, and mother figures on this Mother's Day: That God may bless them abundantly for the love, nourishment, and sacrifices they offer, and that the Holy Spirit may serve as the binding glue of peace and unity in all our families. Let us pray to the Lord. Response: Lord, hear our prayer.
For those who feel abandoned, discouraged, or lacking in hope: That they may experience the comforting presence of the Holy Spirit, our Advocate, and find renewed strength and purpose in God’s unfailing love. Let us pray to the Lord. Response: Lord, hear our prayer.
For this faith community: That we may sanctify Christ in our hearts, live as people who seek and speak the truth, and always be ready to share the reason for our hope with the world around us. Let us pray to the Lord. Response: Lord, hear our prayer.

Presider: Loving Father, you have given us the ultimate gift in the Holy Spirit, the Lord and Giver of Life. Hear the prayers we speak aloud and those we hold in the silence of our hearts. Empower us to live out our baptismal call with courage and joy. We ask this through Christ our Lord. Amen.

THE WORD THIS WEEK infographics are created using using GOOGLE’S AI Gemini 2.5 Pro. You are free to use the above infographic in any non-profit ministry. Please give credit to TheWordThisWeek.net and Dominican Friars, Province of St. Albert the Great.

↩️ ↪️ 1-Minute Homily

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6th Sunday of Easter (A)

THE WORD THIS WEEK infographics are created using using GOOGLE’S AI Gemini 2.5 Pro. You are free to use the above infographic in any non-profit ministry. Please give credit to TheWordThisWeek.net and THE JESUIT POST.

Prayers of the Faithful

The following petitions are based on themes from the above video.

Presider: Heavenly Father, you have promised that we will never be left alone. Confident in the abiding presence of the Holy Spirit, we lift up our prayers to you, asking that your Advocate may continue to accompany and guide us.

Lector:

For the Church: That the Holy Spirit, moving like a strong and mighty wind, may continuously propel the Church forward in faith, courage, and evangelization. Let us pray to the Lord. Response: Lord, hear our prayer.
For the World: That the Holy Spirit, descending like a peaceful dove, may bring an end to conflict and division, instilling a profound peace in the hearts of all leaders and nations. Let us pray to the Lord. Response: Lord, hear our prayer.
For those with Special Needs, the sick, and the suffering: That the Holy Spirit, burning like a steady flame, may fuel their inner strength, renew their passions, and bring the warmth of comfort to their deepest struggles. Let us pray to the Lord. Response: Lord, hear our prayer.
For our Local Assembly: That we may recognize the diverse ways the Holy Spirit works within us, embracing the gifts we have been given to guide our daily journey of faith. Let us pray to the Lord. Response: Lord, hear our prayer.

Presider: God of love and mercy, hear the prayers of your people. Grant that the Holy Spirit, our Advocate and Guide, may continue to dwell within us, transforming our lives so that we may bear witness to your truth in all we say and do. We ask this through Christ our Lord. Amen.

↩️ ↪️ Priests for Life

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6th Sunday of Easter (A)

THE WORD THIS WEEK infographics are created using using GOOGLE’S AI Gemini 2.5 Pro. You are free to use the above infographic in any non-profit ministry. Please give credit to TheWordThisWeek.net and PRIESTS FOR LIFE.

Prayers of the Faithful

The following petitions are based on themes from the above video.

Introduction by the Celebrant

Dear brothers and sisters, as we celebrate the great promise of the Risen Christ to send another Advocate to be with us always, let us turn to the Father in prayer, asking the Holy Spirit to fill us with the power for pro-life advocacy.

The Intercessions

For the Church and Her Leaders: That the Church, energized by the Holy Spirit, may boldly continue Christ's Easter mission. May all pastors and bishops, inspired by the spirit of truth, preach the message of life with clarity, especially concerning the protection of the unborn and the vulnerable. We pray to the Lord: R. Lord, hear our prayer.
For World Leaders and Public Servants: That the Holy Spirit, the Advocate, may grant wisdom and courage to those who make our laws. May they recognize the dignity of all human life, from conception to natural death, and work tirelessly to build a true "Culture of Life" in our society. We pray to the Lord: R. Lord, hear our prayer.
For the Unborn and All Helpless: We pray for those who cannot speak for themselves, especially children in the womb and the elderly. Lord, as we contemplate your presence among us, surround them with your protection and give us the strength to be their faithful advocates. We pray to the Lord: R. Lord, hear our prayer.
For Ourselves and our Local Community: That as we prepare for Ascension and Pentecost, we may open our hearts to the Holy Spirit. May the Spirit fill us, "give speech to our tongues," and transform us into courageous advocates for life in our families, workplaces, and neighborhoods. We pray to the Lord: R. Lord, hear our prayer.
For Those Affected by Abortion: For all parents who have lost children to abortion and for all medical professionals involved. May the Holy Spirit, the Comforter, bring healing and peace to their hearts, and may they find in us a community of mercy that proclaims Christ's promise: "I live and you will live." We pray to the Lord: R. Lord, hear our prayer.
For the Ministry of Priests for Life: We pray for the work of Frank Pavone and Priests for Life. Bless their efforts to "Proclaim the Message of Life" through their teaching and resources, and grant them safety and the power of the Spirit in their advocacy. We pray to the Lord: R. Lord, hear our prayer.

Conclusion by the Celebrant

Heavenly Father, you promised never to leave us orphans. Receive the prayers we offer today through the power of the Holy Spirit, that we may be transformed into the presence of your Son, our First Advocate, who lives and reigns with you forever and ever. R. Amen.

↩️ ↪️ SOLT Liturgy Prep

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6th Sunday of Easter (A)

THE WORD THIS WEEK infographics are created using using GOOGLE’S AI Gemini 2.5 Pro. You are free to use the above infographic in any non-profit ministry. Please give credit to TheWordThisWeek.net and Society of Our Lady video series "Liturgy Prep."

Prayers of the Faithful

The following petitions are based on themes from the above video.

Celebrant: Brothers and sisters, as we celebrate the promise of the Risen Christ to send the Paraclete, let us turn to the Father in prayer, asking the Spirit of Truth to guide and advocate for us.

For the Church: That guided by the Holy Spirit, she may faithfully interpret the life of Jesus and lead all people into the fullness of truth and eternal life. We pray to the Lord: R. Lord, hear our prayer.
For World Leaders: That the Advocate may defend the cause of the oppressed and inspire all people to act with justice and integrity. We pray to the Lord: R. Lord, hear our prayer.
For Those Facing Spiritual or Earthly Enemies: That they may feel the presence of the Holy Spirit as their personal Defender and find peace in His protection. We pray to the Lord: R. Lord, hear our prayer.
For Our Prayer Life: That we may allow the Holy Spirit to join our prayers and intercede for us, bringing our hearts into closer communion with the Father. We pray to the Lord: R. Lord, hear our prayer.
For the Baptized and Confirmed: That we may remain mindful of the gift of the Paraclete received in the sacraments and live as courageous witnesses to the Gospel. We pray to the Lord: R. Lord, hear our prayer.

Celebrant: Heavenly Father, you gifted us the Holy Spirit to be our constant Advocate. Hear the prayers we offer today and grant us the grace to live in the light of Your truth. Through Christ our Lord. Amen.

↩️ ↪️ The Word on the Word

Infographic/Bulletin Insert | Prayers of the Faithful

6th Sunday of Easter (A)

THE WORD THIS WEEK infographics are created using using GOOGLE’S AI Gemini 2.5 Pro. You are free to use the above infographic in any non-profit ministry. Please give credit to TheWordThisWeek.net and EWTN video series "The Word on the Word."

Prayers of the Faithful

The following petitions are based on themes from the above video.

Celebrant: Loving Father, you are the source of our faith and our hope. We thank you for the timeless wisdom of 1 Peter and for the personal examples that inspire us to connect our daily lives with our call to discipleship. With confidence in your love, we now turn to you with our prayers.

Lector:

For the universal Church: That all her members may deepen their personal knowledge and love of God, so that defending the faith becomes as natural as defending a beloved spouse. May we always make this defense with gentleness and reverence.
- We pray to the Lord: R. Lord, hear our prayer.
For our local parish and faith community: That we may accept the special challenge to always do what is right out of love for God. Grant us the wisdom to see that ancient scripture still holds powerful meaning for our lives today.
- We pray to the Lord: R. Lord, hear our prayer.
For all believers who face discouragement: That they may find courage to take a stand for their faith. Strenghten us this week to be courageous for Christ and to not be afraid to bear witness to the hope that is in us.
- We pray to the Lord: R. Lord, hear our prayer.
For our persecuted brothers and sisters: For all Christians around the world who are currently suffering for doing what is right. May they be strengthened in their trials by our prayers and the intercession of the great cloud of witnesses.
- We pray to the Lord: R. Lord, hear our prayer.
For those in the midst of any trial: That they may remember the instruction to pray for the intercession of those who have suffered before them. We also pray for Catholic media and ministries that help us find scripture's relevance, especially programs like "The Word on the Word."
- We pray to the Lord: R. Lord, hear our prayer.
For all engaged and married couples: That their commitment to each other may always point them toward a deeper commitment to Christ, making them bold and protective defenders of their faith.
- We pray to the Lord: R. Lord, hear our prayer.

Celebrant: Father, source of all grace, you have given us the ultimate reason for hope. Hear the prayers we make this day. Grant us the strength and courage to take a stand for your Son, especially when it is difficult, and to always be ready to defend our faith with gentleness and reverence. We ask this through Christ our Lord. Amen.

LITURGY PLANNING

Liturgy Notes

6th Sunday of Easter (A)

Spreading the Good News

by Fr. Lawrence Mick

This week’s readings suggest a continuation of last week’s focus on the mission of the baptized. Vatican II taught us that many different groups of people can be saved, even those who are not baptized, even those who are atheists. Therefore, baptism is not primarily about being saved or getting to heaven. Those who are baptized are called to carry on the mission of the church, and that mission, as we will hear next week, begins with spreading the good news to all the nations.

Today’s first reading recounts the spread of the Gospel among the Samaritans. Notice, by the way, that it was a deacon named Philip who initiated this mission (see last week’s column). And remember that Jews and Samaritans were enemies, which reminds us how universally the Gospel message must be shared.
The responsorial psalm echoes this theme with its refrain: “Let all the earth cry out to God with joy.” The second reading also speaks of evangelization. “Always be ready to give an explanation to anyone who asks you for a reason for your hope, but do it with gentleness and reverence ...”
The Gospel is not explicit about evangelizing, but it speaks of two key related points. Jesus calls us to keep his commandments, which includes the command to preach the good news. And he speaks of the gift of the Holy Spirit, who guides us in our efforts and opens the hearts of others to the Gospel.

LITURGICAL OVERVIEW

Liturgical Color: White or Gold (Symbolizing joy, purity, and the light of the Resurrection).
Atmosphere: Expectant, joyful, and focused on the "Advocate" to come. The environment should reflect the "reason for our hope."

THE WORD: READINGS & OPTIONS

Reading	Standard Year A Text	Optional 7th Sunday Substitution
First Reading	Acts 8:5–8, 14–17 (The Spirit in Samaria)	No change recommended.
Second Reading	1 Peter 3:15–18 (Reason for our hope)	1 Peter 4:12–14 (Glorifying God in suffering)
The Gospel	John 14:15–21 (The Promise of the Paraclete)	John 17:1–11a (Eternal life is knowing God)

Planning Note: If celebrating Ascension next Sunday, you may substitute the Second Reading and/or Gospel from the 7th Sunday. Both options maintain a strong focus on evangelization and the witness of the faithful.

CORE LITURGICAL THEMES

The Gift of the Advocate: Jesus promises he will not leave us orphans. The Holy Spirit is the source of our strength in the mission.
Evangelization as Testimony: * Standard: Always be ready to give an explanation for your hope with gentleness.
- Optional: Glorifying God through suffering; the witness of martyrs draws others to Christ.
Eternal Life: To know the only true God and the one whom He sent, Jesus Christ.

SPECIAL RITES & DEVOTIONS

Whenever you celebrate the Ascension, it would be appropriate to recommend to the assembly the tradition of a novena to the Holy Spirit leading up to the celebration of Pentecost. A novena, by definition, lasts nine days. If you celebrate the Ascension next Thursday, then the novena runs from Ascension to Pentecost. If you don’t celebrate the Ascension until next Sunday, people can still begin the novena this Friday. No formal prayers are needed; simply praying for the gift of the Spirit’s guidance will suffice. But you could print a prayer to the Holy Spirit in the bulletin this week.

The Novena to the Holy Spirit:
- Purpose: Preparing the assembly for the descent of the Spirit at Pentecost.
- Timing (Ascension Next Sunday): Begin the Novena this Friday.
- Timing (Ascension Thursday): Begin the Novena on Ascension Day.
- Action Item: Print a "Prayer to the Holy Spirit" in the parish bulletin to encourage daily communal prayer.
Baptismal Remembrance: Use the Sprinkling Rite (Asperges) to recall the Spirit received at Baptism.

Sunday, May 10, 2026

Saint Vincent College President Rev. Paul R. Taylor, O.S.B. offers a Mother's Day blessing from the historic Saint Vincent Archabbey Basilica. "Ave Maria" is performed by Mr. Thomas Octave, Associate Professor of Music at Saint Vincent.

MUSIC - OCP

OCP MUSIC

Sprinkling of Water

Response & Acclaim

RESPONSORIALGOSPEL ACCLAMATION

Presentation & Preparation

Presentation and Preparation

Communion

Mother's Day

Holy Is His Name (John Michael Talbot)

Spirit & Song #110; Never Too Young #201; Breaking Bread #695

Today is Mother’s Day in the United States. Although not a liturgical occasion, we would do well not to ignore the holiday but, rather, see it as an opportunity to bless our mothers and those women who have acted as mother in our lives. John Michael Talbot’s gentle setting of the Magnificat serves to remind us of how Mary loved her Son tenderly and faithfully. She was open to the Holy Spirit and is a model of discipleship.