August 24, 2025
August 24, 2025
General Intercessions, Prayers of the Faithful for Sunday Mass.
General Intercessions,Prayers of the Faithful for Sunday Mass.
The Church
We pray for the global church, that its mission of proclaiming the good news to the world will be enhanced by the creative use of social media..
We pray for the baptised faithful, that no believer will lose sight of Jesus who leads us in our faith and brings it to fulfilment.
SOURCE: Australian Catholics
For the Church: that we may draw close to Christ, who is the gate into eternal life and the way to wholeness
For spiritual growth: that Spirit will help us implement disciplines that will deepen our knowledge and love of God and increase our ability to respond to God’s invitations each day
For unity in the Body of Christ: that Christians from east and west, north and south, may work together in confronting evil, poverty, and disease so that the Gospel may be made known in deeds as well as words
SOURCE: Sunday Website
The Church
21st Sunday of Year C
EWTN (4:03) - Dr. Pecknold provides insight into Augustinian spirituality and how it may influence the new pope's leadership, particularly in addressing the spiritual needs of American Catholics and the broader culture. (May 9, 2025)
We pray for Pope Leo, that this week’s feasts of St Augustine (28 August) and his mother Monica (27 August) will confirm and strengthen his vow to live in the spirit of St Augustine.
SOURCE: Australian Catholics
And so they took Jeremiah
and threw him into the cistern of Prince Malchiah,
which was in the quarters of the guard,
letting him down with ropes.
There was no water in the cistern, only mud,
and Jeremiah sank into the mud.
FIRST READING
CHURCH LEADERS
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Governing Authorities and the Salvation of the World
We pray for ceasefires in every place of bloodshed, hate and pain, that serious negotiations can be undertaken to end suffering and promote peace.
We pray for all who are engaged in the development of artificial intelligence, that their work will be governed by a strong code of ethics and always serve the human good.
SOURCE: Australian Catholics
For missionaries and aid workers: that God will renew their spirits and give them the resources they need to support and inspire those whom they serve
For refugees and those fleeing warfare: that God will open a path to safety, provide food and shelter for them, and help them to find acceptance in their new communities
SOURCE: Sunday Website
The World
21st Sunday of Year C
UNITED NATIONS (1:21) - Hundreds of thousands of people have vanished during conflicts or periods of repression in at least 85 countries around the world.
As the United Nations commemorates International Day of Victims of Forced Disappearances (August 30), grant world leaders the grace to stand alongside them seeking truth, justice, and an end to this grave human rights violation.
SOURCE: Australian Catholics
Thus says the LORD:
I know their works and their thoughts,
and I come to gather nations of every language;
they shall come and see my glory.
I will set a sign among them...
FIRST READING
WORLD PEACE
FIRST READING
Prayer for Unity:
Almighty God, inspire nations in the Middle East and Eastern Europe to gather together in unity, casting aside hostilities. May they acknowledge your glory and embrace your message of peace. We pray to the Lord...
Prayer for Understanding:
Lord, guide us in our efforts to reconcile differences with China, fostering understanding through diplomacy. Strengthen our determination to seek a peaceful resolution amidst the trade conflict. We pray to the Lord...

SECOND READING
Prayer for Forgiveness:
Father, touch the hearts of those caught in the cycle of violence and vengeance, especially in war-torn regions. Grant them the humility to forgive and transform their suffering into a harvest of righteousness. We pray to the Lord...
Prayer for Endurance:
Grant us, O God, the endurance to foster peace amidst the trials and persecutions faced by our brothers and sisters in Asia. Sustain us as we strive to heal division and spread your message of love. We pray to the Lord...

GOSPEL
Prayer for Inclusion:
Compassionate Lord, guide the Middle East and Eastern European nations to embrace inclusivity, ensuring that no one is left behind or forgotten. Strengthen our efforts to create a world where all are welcomed at the heavenly banquet. We pray to the Lord...
Prayer for Discernment:
Grant us, O God, the wisdom to discern your teachings and walk the path of righteousness. May our actions in navigating conflicts, such as the China trade war, reflect your divine love and justice. We pray to the Lord...

For Those Facing Adversities
We pray for today’s children, women and men trapped in economic or sexual servitude, that campaigners against modern slavery will succeed in setting them free. (Pause for silent prayer) Lord, hear us.
SOURCE: Australian Catholics
For all who feel unworthy of God and fear death: that they may encounter God’s love for them and recognize that God desires life and wholeness for them
For all who are facing difficult choices, particularly about health issues, relationships, or employment: that the Spirit guide them to inner freedom, integrity, and wholeness
For grace to enter through the narrow gate: that the Spirit will guide us in living lives of forgiveness, compassion, self-control, and acts of service so that our lives may manifest the reign of God
SOURCE: Sunday Website
Special Needs
21st Sunday of Year C
RECONCILED WORLD (3:22) - A prayer for children with disabilities.
Loving God, we turn our hearts to those with special needs who face adversity in their daily lives. Like Jesus journeying towards Jerusalem, may they find the strength, guidance, and support they need to navigate the challenges before them. Help us to build a more inclusive and compassionate world, where every individual can pass through the narrow gate of love and acceptance.
SOURCE: Australian Catholics
Jesus passed through towns and villages,
teaching as he went and making his way to Jerusalem.
Someone asked him,
"Lord, will only a few people be saved?"
He answered them,
"Strive to enter through the narrow gate,
for many, I tell you, will attempt to enter
but will not be strong enough.
GOSPEL
RESPECT FOR LIFE
FIRST READING
Prayer for Reverence of Life:
Lord, deepen our commitment to building a culture of life where every individual, born and unborn, is cherished and protected. Guide our actions to end the tragedy of abortion and uphold the sanctity of human life. We pray to the Lord...
Prayer for Dignified Treatment:
Father, inspire compassion in the hearts of those who work in the criminal justice system. Help us promote respect for the inherent dignity of each person, guiding us towards alternatives to the death penalty. We pray to the Lord...

SECOND READING
Prayer for Chastity:
Strengthen us, O God, in our struggle against the prevalence of pornography and its detrimental effects on individuals and society. Grant us the grace to pursue a life of chastity and respect for one another. We pray to the Lord...
Prayer for Culture Transformation:
Guide our efforts, Lord, to transform the culture of death into a culture of life, fostering a world where love, justice, and righteousness prevail. Inspire us to persevere amidst challenges and be instruments of your divine plan. We pray to the Lord...

GOSPEL
Prayer for Inclusive Love:
Teach us, Lord, to extend your love and compassion to all, especially those marginalized or discarded by society. May our actions promote respect for the dignity of every individual, from conception to natural death. We pray to the Lord...
Prayer for Moral Discernment:
Guide us, O God, in our moral choices as we navigate the complexities of our world. Grant us wisdom and courage to proclaim your teachings and stand firm in upholding the sanctity of life. We pray to the Lord...

YEAR OF HOPE
FIRST READING
Healing Wounds of Sorrow:
Loving God, in this Year of Hope, guide us as we navigate the wounds of sorrow that burden our hearts. Grant us the strength to find solace in your divine love and compassion, transforming our pain into a testament of faith. We pray to the Lord...
Hope for the Brokenhearted:
Almighty Father, bind the wounds of those who feel discarded or forgotten, especially those facing societal injustices. Through our collective efforts, may we bring hope to those in need, reflecting your enduring love. We pray to the Lord...

SECOND READING
Overcoming Hopelessness:
Lord, guide us through moments of darkness and despair, transforming our struggles into opportunities for growth and resilience. Grant us the wisdom to seek comfort in your divine love, as we strive to uplift those weighed down by hopelessness. We pray to the Lord...
Unity in Faith and Hope:
Father, unite your Church in a spirit of hope and love during this Year of Hope. Grant us the courage to walk together in faith, healing the wounds of division and spreading your message of unity and reconciliation. We pray to the Lord...

GOSPEL
Embracing the Marginalized:
Compassionate Jesus, open our eyes to the plight of the marginalized and vulnerable within our societies. As we commemorate the Year of Hope, may we be agents of change, bringing hope and dignity to those in need. We pray to the Lord...
Hope Through Forgiveness:
Lord, in this Year of Hope, grant us the strength to forgive those who have wronged us, healing our wounded hearts. May our journey towards reconciliation be a testament to your divine mercy and love. We pray to the Lord...

The Local Community
We pray for business managers in dioceses, parishes and church agencies, that they will fulfil their responsibilities with integrity and ensure that the church’s material resources serve its gospel mission.
We pray for those in poor health within our families, our parish community and among our friends and acquaintances, that they will take heart from the loving care we offer them.
SOURCE: Australian Catholics
For fortitude: that we may resist the easy path of violence, greed, prejudice, and self-righteousness, and strive to encourage and support one another in following Christ in our unique vocations
SOURCE: Sunday Website
Local Community
21st Sunday of Year C
DARE TO DO. MOTIVATION (2:05) - A short but beautiful story for life 🙂 Let us pray for all teachers and students as they begin the new school year.
For all beginning a new school year: that they may grow in knowledge, wisdom, and virtue and be kept safe from all harm in the months ahead
SOURCE: Sunday Website
All discipline seems
a cause not for joy but for pain,
yet later it brings the peaceful fruit
of righteousness to those who are trained by it.
So strengthen your drooping hands...
SECOND READING
FAMILIES
FIRST READING
Gathering Families in Faith:
Lord, just as you gather people from every nation, unite families within our parish to worship and grow in faith. Inspire parents to instill hope in their children, guiding them to become messengers of your love. We pray to the Lord...
Embracing the Vulnerable:
Father, following the example of your love for all your children, instill in our families a spirit of acceptance and compassion for those who are marginalized. May we be instruments of hope, welcoming those who seek your loving embrace. We pray to the Lord...

SECOND READING
Fostering Endurance in Families:
Almighty God, guide families through times of hardship, and help them find strength and hope in your unfailing love. As we journey together through trials and suffering, may our families find solace and healing in your divine presence. We pray to the Lord...
Strengthening Family Bonds in Christ:
Lord, bless our families with the wisdom to follow the path of righteousness, fostering resilience and unity amidst life's challenges. May we support one another as we strive for a life rooted in faith and hope, embracing the discipline that leads to true peace. We pray to the Lord...

GOSPEL
Welcoming All Children:
Loving Jesus, help us open the doors of our hearts and families to all children, especially those who are overlooked or cast aside. May we embody your love and mercy, offering hope and a place of belonging to those in need. We pray to the Lord...
Fostering Unity and Reconciliation:
Father, inspire families within our parish to follow the path of unity and reconciliation, overcoming divisions and misunderstandings that hinder their spiritual growth. May we strengthen our bonds of love and hope, as we journey together towards your heavenly kingdom. We pray to the Lord...

SACRAMENTS
FIRST READING
Prayer for Sacramental Unity:
Lord, as we gather nations together in your name, may the celebration of the sacraments unite our community in faith and love. Grant us a deep appreciation for the transformative power of your grace, especially in the Sacrament of the Eucharist. We pray to the Lord...
Prayer for Reconciliation:
Father, in our journey towards your holy mountain, help us embrace the Sacrament of Penance and Reconciliation. May this healing encounter with your mercy strengthen our commitment to justice and righteousness. We pray to the Lord...

SECOND READING
Prayer for Confirmation's Guidance and Strength
Almighty God, pour out the gifts of the Holy Spirit upon our community through the Sacrament of Confirmation. As we navigate life's challenges, may we find strength in this anointing and remain steadfast in our pursuit of peace. We pray to the Lord...
Prayer for Matrimonial Love:
Lord, bless our families with the enduring love of the Sacrament of Matrimony. Strengthen their bonds of unity and understanding, as they strive for holiness and provide a nurturing environment for their children's faith. We pray to the Lord...

GOSPEL
Prayer for Sacramental Inclusion:
Loving Jesus, help us to recognize and welcome the presence of Christ in every individual, especially in the celebration of the sacraments. May we share the joy of your divine love with all, especially those who long to encounter you in the Sacrament of Baptism. We pray to the Lord...
Prayer for Holy Orders:
Father, guide those in our community who are called to serve through the Sacrament of Holy Orders. May they lead us with humility and wisdom, as we strive to enter the narrow gate that leads to eternal life. We pray to the Lord...

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