May 18, 2025
Petitions Prayers of the Faithful Petitions
Petitions Prayers of the Faithful Petitions
General
Intercessions
The Church
We pray for Pope Leo XIV that the Holy Spirit will endow him with all the wisdom, courage, insight and holiness he needs to guide the church’s mission to the human family. (Pause for silent prayer) Lord, hear us.
SOURCE: Australian Catholics
5th Sunday of Easter C
The Church
ABC NEWS (3:31) - Pope Leo made his first trip outside of the Vatican, stopping at the tomb of his predecessor, Pope Francis, laying a single white rose.l.
We pray for Pope Leo XIV that he be guided by the wisdom of the Holy Spirit to bring forth peace and love in the Church and world. We pray to the Lord...
The One who sat on the throne said,
“Behold, I make all things new.”
SECOND READING
EWTN (3:29) - From Chicago to Chiclayo: learn about the life of Cardinal Robert Francis Prevost and how he became Pope Leo XIV. (May 9, 2025)
CHURCH LEADERS
FIRST READING
Prayer for Guiding Bishops
We pray for our bishops, that they may follow the example of the early Church leaders Paul and Barnabas, to persevere through difficulties and strengthen the faith of our communities. We pray to the Lord...
Prayer for Choosing Worthy Leaders
We ask for the guidance of the Holy Spirit in appointing bishops, that they may be faithful servants and true shepherds, leading us in the path of Christ and fostering love and unity within the Church. We pray to the Lord...
Prayer for Supporting Bishops
We pray that we, as a community, may provide our bishops with the support and encouragement they need to carry out their vital mission, and that we may work together to face challenges and spread the Gospel. We pray to the Lord...
SECOND READING
Prayer for Faithful Priests
We pray for our priests, that they may be witnesses to the promise of a new heaven and a new earth, proclaiming the hope and joy of the Gospel and leading us to a deeper relationship with Christ. We pray to the Lord...
Prayer for Priests' Strength
We ask for strength and courage for our priests, that they may remain steadfast in their faith and service, wiping away tears from every eye, as they guide us on our journey towards the heavenly Jerusalem. We pray to the Lord...
Prayer for Nurturing Priestly Vocations
We pray for an increase in priestly vocations, that more men may answer the call to serve as priests and faithfully shepherd God's people, leading us to the Holy City where death shall be no more. We pray to the Lord...
GOSPEL
Prayer for Love and Unity
We pray for our Holy Father, Pope Leo XIV, that he may continue to promote love and unity among all Christians, following Jesus' commandment to love one another as a sign of true discipleship. We pray to the Lord...
Prayer for the Pope's Strength and Wisdom
We ask for strength, wisdom, and guidance for Pope Leo XIV, that he may have the grace to shepherd God's people and be a beacon of faith, hope, and love in our world today. We pray to the Lord...
Prayer for the Pope's Worldwide Mission
We pray for the global ministry of Pope Leo XIV, that he may reach out to all nations and all people, sharing the Gospel message and bringing glory to God through his words and actions. We pray to the Lord...
UNITY
FIRST READING
Prayer for Strengthening the Faith Community (Acts 14:22)
We pray that our parishes may grow in unity, just as the early Church strengthened the faith of the disciples, encouraging them to persevere through trials. We pray to the Lord...
Prayer for Collaboration in Ministry (Acts 14:23)
We ask for the guidance of the Holy Spirit in fostering collaboration among our bishops, priests, and laypeople, just as Paul and Barnabas appointed elders in every church. We pray to the Lord...
Prayer for Ecumenical Dialogue (Acts 14:27)
We pray for the ongoing efforts of ecumenical dialogue, that we may continue to gather together as believers and share the news of all that God has done, seeking unity among Christian denominations. We pray to the Lord...
SECOND READING
Prayer for Eternal Hope (Revelation 21:1-2)
We pray for unity among all believers in Christ, seeking the promise of the new heaven and earth, where God will dwell with his people and bring comfort to those who mourn. We pray to the Lord...
Prayer for Trust in God's Love (Revelation 21:3-4)
We ask for strength in our unity as children of God, embracing the love and compassion of the risen Christ, who wipes away every tear and makes all things new. We pray to the Lord...
Prayer for Christ-Centered Communities (Revelation 21:5a)
We pray that our parishes may be Christ-centered communities, reflecting the heavenly kingdom on earth, welcoming all people and fostering unity in our diversity as God's children. We pray to the Lord...
GOSPEL
Prayer for Love in Action (John 13:34-35)
We pray that we may truly live out Jesus' commandment to love one another, serving each other with compassion and humility, and striving for unity as a testament to our discipleship. We pray to the Lord...
Prayer for United Service (John 13:35)
We ask for guidance in uniting our service efforts within the Church and with other Christian communities, working together to help those in need and create a more just and loving world, showing the world that we are Jesus' disciples by our love. We pray to the Lord...
Prayer for Overcoming Division (John 13:33a)
We pray for the courage to confront division within our faith communities, finding strength in the peace that Jesus leaves us, transforming struggles into opportunities for growth, forgiveness, and reconciliation. We pray to the Lord...
PROTECTION
FIRST READING
Prayer for Courage in Adversity (Acts 14:22)
We pray for the strength to face adversity and trials, as the early disciples persevered through persecutions, finding comfort in the knowledge that we must go through many hardships to enter the kingdom of God. We pray to the Lord...
Prayer for Unity in Times of Struggle (Acts 14:23)
We ask for resilience in our faith communities, seeking strength in unity, just as the early Church strengthened the faith of disciples and appointed elders in every church to support them in their ministry. We pray to the Lord...
Prayer for Faith Under Pressure (Acts 14:27)
We pray for those facing persecution for their faith, that they may remain steadfast in their witness to Christ, as the apostles gathered together and shared the news of all that God had done despite opposition. We pray to the Lord...
SECOND READING
Prayer for God's Presence (Revelation 21:3)
We pray for God's protection over our Church, seeking refuge in His presence as He dwells with His people, bringing comfort and shelter from life's storms and providing a beacon of hope to all. We pray to the Lord...
Prayer for Renewal and Restoration (Revelation 21:5a)
We ask for the guidance of the Holy Spirit in renewing and restoring the Church, creating new beginnings and building upon the strong foundations laid by those who came before us. We pray to the Lord...
Prayer for a Safe Haven (Revelation 21:4)
We pray that our Church may be a safe haven for the vulnerable, reflecting the heavenly kingdom on earth, providing solace from pain, suffering, and division, and sheltering those in need with God's love. We pray to the Lord...
GOSPEL
Prayer for Love's Protection (John 13:34-35)
We pray that our love for one another may serve as a shield, protecting us from harm and fostering unity within our faith communities, as we strive to follow Jesus' commandment to love as He loved us. We pray to the Lord...
Prayer for Jesus' Peace (John 13:33a)
We ask for protection through the peace that Jesus leaves us, finding solace in His love and guidance, as we navigate conflicts and divisions within our communities and confront challenges with courage. We pray to the Lord...
Prayer for Discipleship in Adversity (John 13:35)
We pray that our service and discipleship may shine as a beacon of hope amidst adversity, demonstrating the love of Christ, and serving as a testament to the power of unity and compassion in protecting the Church. We pray to the Lord..
Prayers of
the Faithful
Governing Authorities and the Salvation of the World
For healing of the divisions in the human family: that God will heal the wounds of racism and ethnic discrimination so that there may be one crowd of people from every land offering praise and worship to God with a common voice
For those who strive to manifest a New Heavens and a New Earth: that God will inspire those working to end injustice and poverty, assist the elderly and homebound, and be a source of hope for all who are suffering
SOURCE: Sunday Website
We pray for the multitude of children who have been uprooted, maimed or orphaned by war, that a merciful end to hostilities will give them a chance to recover from their trauma. (Pause for silent prayer) Lord, hear us.
SOURCE: Australian Catholics
5th Sunday of Easter C
The World
DIOCESE OF KNOXVILLE (2:26) - As the 10th anniversary of Pope Francis' encyclical Laudato Si approaches, Bishop Mark Beckman reflects on the beauty of God's creation and our call to care for it. (May 10, 2025)
We pray for all who dwell on Earth, that the 10th anniversary of Pope Francis’ encyclical Laudato si’ will call them anew to care for creation and the poor. (Pause for silent prayer) Lord, hear us.
SOURCE: Australian Catholics
Then I, John, saw a new heaven and a new earth.
The former heaven and the former earth had passed away,
and the sea was no more.
I also saw the holy city, a new Jerusalem,
coming down out of heaven from God,ands.
SECOND READING
WORLD PEACE
FIRST READING
Prayer for Strengthening Unity
We pray for the strengthening of unity and peace in the Middle East, Eastern Europe, and Asia, following the example of the early Church in Acts, fostering love and understanding between nations and peoples. We pray to the Lord...
Prayer for Wisdom in Resolving Conflict
We ask for wisdom and guidance for world leaders to resolve conflicts and establish peace, as Paul and Barnabas faced challenges in their journey, finding resolutions and fostering unity in the midst of turmoil. We pray to the Lord...
SECOND READING
Prayer for God's Healing Presence
We pray that God's presence may bring healing and renewal to the Middle East, Eastern Europe, and Asia, reflecting the heavenly kingdom on earth, comforting those affected by conflict and restoring peace in troubled regions. We pray to the Lord...
Prayer for a New Beginning
We ask for new beginnings in regions torn by strife, creating a world where the former things have passed away, and a new era of peace and understanding emerges, as depicted in the vision of a new heaven and earth in Revelation. We pray to the Lord...
GOSPEL
Prayer for Love's Power to Bring Peace
We pray that our love for one another may serve as a catalyst for peace in the Middle East, Eastern Europe, and Asia, following Jesus' commandment to love as He loved us and showing the world that we are His disciples by our love. We pray to the Lord...
Prayer for Discipleship in Times of Conflict
We ask for courage and strength to practice discipleship in times of conflict, seeking peace and reconciliation in the spirit of the love and unity exemplified by Jesus and His disciples, and bringing hope to those affected by unrest. We pray to the Lord...
ROME REPORTS (2:02) - “Canticle of the Creatures” was written in 1226 and is one of the first works of Italian literature.
ENVIRONMENT
FIRST READING
Prayer for Faith-Inspired Action
We pray for the courage and commitment to care for the environment, inspired by the steadfast faith of Paul and Barnabas in Acts, dedicating our efforts to the preservation of God's creation for generations to come. We pray to the Lord...
Prayer for Responsible Stewardship
We ask for guidance in being good stewards of the Earth, as Paul and Barnabas preached the message of responsibility and love in their travels, responding to the call for ecological conversion and caring for our common home. We pray to the Lord...
SECOND READING
Prayer for God's Restorative Power
We pray that God's healing presence may bring renewal to our planet, transforming the world into a new heaven and earth, where the environment is restored, and all creation is protected from harm. We pray to the Lord...
Prayer for a Sustainable Future
We ask for wisdom in creating a sustainable future, in line with the vision of a renewed world in Revelation, fostering eco-friendly practices and promoting harmony between humanity and nature. We pray to the Lord...
GOSPEL
Prayer for Love's Influence
We pray that our love for one another may extend to the care for our environment, following Jesus' commandment to love as He loved us, demonstrating our discipleship by preserving and cherishing God's creation. We pray to the Lord...
Prayer for Unity in Environmental Action
We ask for unity among world leaders and communities in caring for the Earth, taking inspiration from Jesus' message of love and unity, and working together to protect the environment for the benefit of all. We pray to the Lord...
FISCAL STABILITY
FIRST READING
Prayer for Wise Economic Leadership
We pray for world leaders to have wisdom and discernment in making economic decisions, inspired by the example of Paul and Barnabas in Acts, who guided and strengthened communities in faith, fostering stability and prosperity. We pray to the Lord...
Prayer for Fair Distribution of Resources
We ask for guidance in promoting a fair distribution of resources, as Paul and Barnabas preached the message of love and equality, ensuring that all people may share in the blessings of God's abundance and have equal opportunities for economic growth. We pray to the Lord...
Prayer for Steadfastness in Adversity
We pray for perseverance and resilience in the face of economic challenges, drawing strength from the unwavering faith of the early Church communities, that we may work together to build a stable and inclusive global economy. We pray to the Lord...
SECOND READING
Prayer for Economic Renewal
We pray for the renewal of our global economy, guided by the vision of a new heaven and earth in Revelation, fostering sustainable growth and providing hope for a future where resources are abundant, and all people may live in dignity. We pray to the Lord...
Prayer for Equitable Systems
We ask for the guidance of the Holy Spirit in building equitable economic systems, as depicted in the heavenly city of Revelation, promoting fairness and justice in the distribution of wealth, and ensuring that all may share in the fruits of God's creation. We pray to the Lord...
GOSPEL
Prayer for Love's Impact
We pray that our love for one another may influence the way we approach economic challenges, following Jesus' commandment to love as He loved us, spreading compassion, and working together for a more stable and inclusive global economy. We pray to the Lord...
Prayer for Unity in Financial Responsibility
We ask for unity among nations in promoting responsible fiscal policies, drawing inspiration from Jesus' message of love and unity, ensuring that our actions contribute to economic stability and the well-being of all people. We pray to the Lord...
NATIONS
FIRST READING
Prayer for Perseverance in Adversity
We pray for those affected by the ongoing social and economic challenges in North America, drawing strength from the steadfast faith of the early Church communities in Acts, that we may find hope and resilience in times of difficulty. We pray to the Lord...
Prayer for Courageous Leadership
We ask for courageous and wise leaders in Europe, inspired by the example of Paul and Barnabas in Acts, guiding communities through the ongoing challenges of immigration, economic instability, and political tensions, promoting peace and cooperation. We pray to the Lord...
SECOND READING
Prayer for Renewal and Hope
We ask for guidance in addressing the environmental and health crises in Asia, guided by the vision of a new heaven and earth in Revelation, fostering healing and renewal, and providing hope for a more sustainable and prosperous future. We pray to the Lord...
Prayer for Equitable Development
We pray for the equitable development and distribution of resources in Africa, drawing on the vision of a renewed world in Revelation, addressing poverty, and fostering sustainable growth, ensuring that all people may share in God's abundance. We pray to the Lord...
GOSPEL
Prayer for Unity and Compassion
We pray for the people of South America, facing political and social unrest, seeking inspiration from Jesus' commandment to love as He loved us, and working together with compassion and unity to overcome challenges and build a better future for all. We pray to the Lord...
Prayer for Environmental Love and Action
We ask for a strong commitment to protecting the unique and diverse ecosystems of Australia and Oceania, following Jesus' commandment to love as He loved us, demonstrating our discipleship through responsible stewardship of God's creation. We pray to the Lord...
Prayers of
the Faithful
For Those Facing Adversities
For the grace to love as God has loved us: that we may have the courage to lay down our lives in service of one another and for those who are most in need
For freedom of mind and heart: that God will free us from old attachments and help us follow the movement of the Spirit into new relationships and new forms of service
For all who have experienced abuse: that God will heal them, give them new courage, and renew their vision for a future filled with God’s promises
SOURCE: Sunday Website
5th Sunday of Easter C
Special Needs
ARCHDIOCESE OF HARTFORD (1:24) — Join Archbishop Christopher Coyne in prayer, uniting all our prayers with all those who have been affected by the sin of abuse.
Gentle Jesus, shepherd of peace, join to your own suffering the pain of all who have been hurt in body, mind, and spirit by those who betrayed the trust placed in them. Hear the cries of our brothers and sisters who have been gravely harmed and the cries of those who love them.
“Behold, God’s dwelling is with the human race.
He will dwell with them and they will be his people
and God himself will always be with them as their God.
He will wipe every tear from their eyes,
and there shall be no more death or mourning, wailing or pain,
for the old order has passed away.”
SECOND READING
RESPECT FOR LIFE
FIRST READING
Prayer for Strengthening the Culture of Life
We pray for a renewed commitment to promoting a culture of life, drawing inspiration from the early Church communities in Acts, supporting and protecting the dignity of every human being from conception to natural death. We pray to the Lord...
Prayer for Courage in Defending Life
We ask for courage to stand up against the threats to human life, as Paul and Barnabas persevered in the face of adversity, working to uphold the sanctity of life and speaking out against the culture of death. We pray to the Lord...
SECOND READING
Prayer for Abolition of the Death Penalty
We pray for the global abolition of the death penalty, guided by the vision of a new heaven and earth in Revelation, where death shall be no more, affirming the inherent dignity of every human life and promoting restorative justice. We pray to the Lord...
Prayer for Respect and Compassion
We ask for a deepening respect for the dignity of individuals, as depicted in the heavenly city of Revelation, fostering compassion and care for all people, especially those who are marginalized or vulnerable, and promoting the sacredness of life. We pray to the Lord...
GOSPEL
Prayer for Love's Impact on Life Issues
We pray that our love for one another may influence the way we approach pro-life issues, following Jesus' commandment to love as He loved us, spreading compassion, and working together to defend the vulnerable and protect human life. We pray to the Lord...
Prayer for Unity in Protecting Life
We ask for unity among nations in promoting the sanctity of life, drawing inspiration from Jesus' message of love and unity, ensuring that our actions contribute to a culture of life and a world where every individual is cherished and respected. We pray to the Lord...
YEAR OF HOPE
FIRST READING
Hearts of Hope
We pray for an awakening of hope within the Church, inspired by the missionary journeys in Acts, spreading the message of God's love and healing to those carrying wounds of sorrow and pain, and restoring faith in the promise of a brighter tomorrow. We pray to the Lord...
Strength in Adversity
We ask for strength and resilience in facing personal and societal challenges, as Paul and Barnabas persevered through adversity, bringing hope to the weary and reminding us that through our faith, we can overcome hardships. We pray to the Lord...
SECOND READING
A New Heaven and Earth
We pray for the renewal and restoration of our wounded world, guided by the vision of a new heaven and earth in Revelation, where God's presence brings comfort, healing, and hope to those who mourn, and transforms suffering into joy. We pray to the Lord...
Wiping Away Tears
We ask for the comfort of the risen Christ, who wipes away every tear, healing the wounds of hopelessness and despair, and bringing the hope of a world where death, pain, and suffering are no more. We pray to the Lord...
GOSPEL
Love's Transforming Power
We pray that our love for one another may transform personal and societal wounds, following Jesus' commandment to love as He loved us, fostering hope, unity, and healing within our communities and the world. We pray to the Lord...
United in Hope
We ask for unity among all people of goodwill in spreading hope and compassion, inspired by Jesus' message of love and unity, creating a world where all may experience the healing power of hope and live in the joy of the Gospel. We pray to the Lord...
Prayers of
the Faithful
The Local Community
For all couples preparing for marriage: that they may appreciate the gift that they are to one another and form a partnership of life for the good of each other
SOURCE: Sunday Website
We pray for musicians in this Jubilee Year of Hope, especially those whose gifts enrich our worship, that their music-making will inspire joy, gratitude and generous love. (Pause for silent prayer) Lord, hear us.
SOURCE: Australian Catholics
5th Sunday of Easter C
Local Community
ARCHDIOCESE OF ST PAUL - MINNEAPOLIS (7:44) - In his May video, Archbishop Bernard Hebda shares his Easter joy and describes this exciting time of renewal, with his encouragement for all the faithful to engage at a time such as this (May 5, 2025).
For the renewal of community life: that God will guide us in deepening our relationships, encouraging one another along life’s journey, and caring for one another as we face hardships
SOURCE: Sunday Website
I give you a new commandment: love one another.
As I have loved you, so you also should love one another.
This is how all will know that you are my disciples,
if you have love for one another.”
GOSPEL
FAMILIES
FIRST READING
Nurturing Faith in Families
We pray for families within our Church, that they may follow the example of the early Christian communities in Acts, fostering faith and hope within their homes, and encouraging children to grow in their love for Christ. We pray to the Lord...
Support for Struggling Families
We ask for the guidance of the Holy Spirit in supporting families facing difficulties, as Paul and Barnabas offered guidance and strength to those in need, helping parents and children navigate life's challenges together. We pray to the Lord...
SECOND READING
God's Presence in Our Homes
We pray for the presence of God in our homes and families, reflecting the heavenly kingdom on earth, bringing comfort and hope to children and parents, and fostering unity, love, and understanding within our domestic churches. We pray to the Lord...
A Future of Hope
We ask for the grace to raise children with hope in their hearts, as depicted in the vision of a new heaven and earth in Revelation, nurturing their faith, and teaching them to build a brighter, more compassionate world. We pray to the Lord...
GOSPEL
Love's Impact on Family Relationships
We pray that our love for one another may strengthen family bonds, following Jesus' commandment to love as He loved us, creating homes where children and parents cherish, support, and encourage each other in faith and hope. We pray to the Lord...
United in Love and Service
We ask for unity among families in loving and serving each other, inspired by Jesus' message of love and unity, and creating a foundation of faith and hope for children to carry into the world as they grow. We pray to the Lord...
SACRAMENTS
FIRST READING
Baptism: Foundation of Faith
We pray for a deepened understanding of Baptism's role in welcoming new members into our Church community, just as Paul and Barnabas spread the Good News to believers in Acts, calling us to celebrate and nurture the faith of those entering our family of faith. We pray to the Lord...
Eucharist: Strengthening Unity
We ask for a renewed appreciation of the Eucharist's power to unite our community, drawing inspiration from the fellowship of the early Church in Acts, as we gather together in remembrance of Christ's sacrifice and love, and support one another in faith. We pray to the Lord...
SECOND READING
Confirmation: Empowered Witnesses
We pray for an increased awareness of the Holy Spirit's presence in our lives through the Sacrament of Confirmation, empowering us to share the hope and love of Christ with others, as we journey together toward the heavenly kingdom. We pray to the Lord...
Anointing of the Sick: Comfort and Hope
We ask for the comfort and hope of the Anointing of the Sick to touch the lives of those in need, bringing solace and strength to our community, as we support and care for one another on our paths toward eternal life. We pray to the Lord...
GOSPEL
Holy Orders: Guiding Leaders
We pray for the continued guidance of the Holy Spirit in calling dedicated individuals to the Sacrament of Holy Orders, blessing our Church with selfless leaders who serve our community with love, wisdom, and compassion, following Jesus' example of love and unity. We pray to the Lord...
Matrimony: Love's Sacred Bond
We ask for a deepened appreciation of the Sacrament of Matrimony, celebrating the love and unity it brings to our families, and asking for the grace to support and encourage couples in their vocations, as they grow in faith and hope together. We pray to the Lord...
RELIGIOUS ED
FIRST READING
Nurturing Faith-Filled Communities
We pray for the growth of vibrant and faith-filled communities, as Paul and Barnabas established strong foundations of faith in Acts, fostering catechesis and encouraging lifelong learning to deepen our understanding of God's word. We pray to the Lord...
Empowering Catechists and Teachers
We ask for wisdom and guidance for catechists and teachers who share the Good News, following the example of the apostles in Acts, inspiring them to ignite the flame of faith in the hearts of others and promote a love for religious education. We pray to the Lord...
SECOND READING
Developing Hope-Filled Hearts
We pray for the development of hope-filled hearts within our community, guided by the vision of a renewed world in Revelation, promoting lifelong faith formation, and encouraging all to seek deeper relationships with Christ. We pray to the Lord...
Transforming Lives Through Faith
We ask for transformative faith experiences in the lives of those in our communities, as Revelation speaks of a new heaven and earth, leading us to embrace our call to discipleship, and share the hope and love of Christ with others. We pray to the Lord...
GOSPEL
United in Love and Faith
We pray for the strengthening of love and unity within our faith communities, following Jesus' commandment to love as He loved us, working together to deepen our understanding of the faith, and sharing it with those around us. We pray to the Lord...
Discipleship Through Service
We ask for opportunities to serve as witnesses of faith, inspired by Jesus' example in John, promoting the importance of religious education, and fostering the development of lifelong disciples who share the hope of Christ with the world. We pray to the Lord...
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