September 7, 2025
September 7, 2025
General Intercessions, Prayers of the Faithful for Sunday Mass.
General Intercessions,Prayers of the Faithful for Sunday Mass.
BEING CATHOLIC TV (1:35) - Join us in this heartfelt prayer to Blessed Carlo Acutis, the patron saint of the internet and a model of youthful holiness. As we lift our voices together, let's pray for Carlo on his journey towards priesthood. May his example inspire us to deepen our faith and embrace a life of service and devotion.
The Church
We pray for the Catholic bishops of Australia, especially Shane Mackinlay who is being installed as the Archbishop of Brisbane this week, that they will be faithful teachers of divine wisdom for the local church entrusted to them.
SOURCE: Australian Catholics
For the Church: that we may strive to open our hearts to God each day and be vigilant against allowing anyone or anything to displace God as the center of our life
For the gift of Wisdom: that the Spirit of God will enlighten our minds and guide us in making loving and life-giving decisions each day
SOURCE: Sunday Website
The Church
23rd Sunday of Year C
GOOD MORNING AMERICA (6:25) - When Robert Prevost was in the first grade, his neighbor told him he would be the first American pope, one of his brothers told ABC News. In 2025, that prophecy came true, when the 69-year-old cardinal was elected to be the 267th pontiff -- and the first from the United States.
Loving Father, we thank you for the gift of Pope Leo XIV who years ago responded to your call. We ask that he continues to be blessed as he puts God first in his life for service in the Church. Grant him strength, fortitude, and wisdom in his unwavering commitment to discipleship.
Great crowds were traveling with Jesus,
and he turned and addressed them,
“If anyone comes to me
without hating his father and mother,
wife and children, brothers and sisters,
and even his own life,
he cannot be my disciple.
GOSPEL
Infographic created with Google AI Gemini 2.5 Pro tools (e.g. Chart.js and Tailwind CSS). Feel free to use it in any non-profit ministry. Please include the website link (https://thewordthisweek.net).
CHURCH LEADERS
FIRST READING
Prayer for Papal Guidance
Almighty Father, bless Pope Leo XIV with wisdom to guide the Church in accordance with your divine plan. May he continue to lead us with humility, fostering unity, and promoting the common good. We pray to the Lord...
Prayer for Episcopal Leadership
Gracious God, grant our bishops the wisdom to discern your will and the courage to lead with justice, mercy, and love. May their leadership inspire the faithful to seek truth and serve others as Christ taught. We pray to the Lord...
Prayer for Clergy and Laity
Lord Jesus, strengthen our priests, deacons, and all lay ministers as they serve your people. May they grow in holiness and effectively collaborate with one another to build up the Body of Christ. We pray to the Lord...
SECOND READING
Prayer for Pastoral Reconciliation
Compassionate Father, inspire Pope Leo XIV, bishops, priests, and deacons to promote reconciliation and unity within the Church. May they follow Saint Paul's example in fostering forgiveness and healing among your people. We pray to the Lord...
Prayer for Fraternal Leadership
Lord, guide our bishops and clergy to care for one another as brothers in Christ, supporting and encouraging each other in their ministry. May they foster a spirit of fraternity and collaboration within the Church hierarchy. We pray to the Lord...
Prayer for Servant Leadership
Heavenly Father, grant our Church leaders the humility and compassion to serve as Christ served. May they be role models of servant leadership, selflessly dedicating themselves to the needs of your people. We pray to the Lord...
GOSPEL
Prayer for Leadership through Discipleship
Almighty God, help Pope Leo XIV, bishops, priests, and deacons to embrace the path of discipleship. May they heed Christ's call to take up their cross and lead the faithful with courage, conviction, and love. We pray to the Lord...
Prayer for Faithful Stewardship
Lord Jesus, inspire Church leaders to be faithful stewards of your teachings. Grant them the wisdom to prioritize the spiritual growth and well-being of the faithful, and to always place you at the center of their lives and ministry. We pray to the Lord...
Governing Authorities and the Salvation of the World
We pray for leaders of the world’s nations, that they will forsake war and empire-building and dedicate themselves to nurturing the wellbeing of the human family.
We pray for the many millions of people still enslaved in our time, that like Onesimus of old they will be granted the freedom and dignity that is their right.
SOURCE: Australian Catholics
For an end to terrorism: that all who feel trapped and burdened by life may seek new ways to address their pain and come to a new understanding of the dignity of human life
For refugees and those who have fled violence, particularly children: that God will open the hearts of many to recognize them as sisters and brothers, help them find places of safety, and be welcomed into communities of faith
For preservation of our common home: that God will inspire leaders to develop policies and practices that will preserve the natural systems that God designed for the earth so that all may benefit from earth’s resources
SOURCE: Sunday Website
The World
23rd Sunday of Year C
FOX NEWS (3:04) - Ukraine has signaled its readiness to negotiate with Russian President Vladimir Putin, amid a significant escalation of conflict and a new $825 million US military aid package to support Ukraine's defense.
Lord, we ask for your divine intervention to bring about peace and understanding between President Zelenskyy and President Putin. We pray that you open their hearts and minds to seek a peaceful resolution through diplomatic means, setting aside pride and aggression. Guide them towards constructive dialogue and a willingness to find common ground that respects the sovereignty and well-being of all people.
SOURCE: Australian Catholics
What king marching into battle
would not first sit down
and decide whether with ten thousand troops
he can successfully oppose another king
advancing upon him with twenty thousand troops?
But if not, while he is still far away,
he will send a delegation
to ask for peace terms.
GOSPEL
Infographic created with Google AI Gemini 2.5 Pro tools (e.g. Chart.js and Tailwind CSS). Feel free to use it in any non-profit ministry. Please include the website link (https://thewordthisweek.net).
Infographic created with Google AI Gemini 2.5 Pro tools (e.g. Chart.js and Tailwind CSS). Feel free to use it in any non-profit ministry. Please include the website link (https://thewordthisweek.net).
WORLD PEACE
FIRST READING
Prayer for Wisdom in International Relations
Gracious God, grant world leaders the wisdom and insight needed to foster peace and harmony in the Middle East, Eastern Europe, and Asia. May they seek your guidance to navigate the complexities of global relations. We pray to the Lord...
Prayer for Peace in Trade Negotiations
Lord, we pray for a peaceful resolution to the ongoing trade disputes between nations. May leaders prioritize dialogue and collaboration over conflict, working together to achieve fair and equitable agreements. We pray to the Lord...
SECOND READING
Prayer for Reconciliation among Nations
Almighty Father, inspire the leaders of the Middle East, Eastern Europe, and Asia to follow the example of Saint Paul and Onesimus, reconciling their differences and working together for the common good. We pray to the Lord...
Prayer for Unity in Conflict Resolution
Lord Jesus, help the leaders involved in the trade war to recognize their shared responsibility in promoting global stability. May they unite in their efforts to find solutions that benefit all parties involved. We pray to the Lord.
GOSPEL
Prayer for Commitment to Peace
Heavenly Father, strengthen the resolve of world leaders to prioritize peace over personal gain. May they heed Christ's call to take up their cross and selflessly serve the greater good. We pray to the Lord...
Prayer for Sacrificial Love in International Relations
Loving God, grant leaders the grace to embody sacrificial love as they navigate complex international issues. May they be willing to make difficult choices and work together in love for the sake of global peace. We pray to the Lord...
For Those Facing Adversities
For courage: that God will strengthen us as we encounter our daily crosses so that we may give witness to Christ through living the paschal mystery and embracing our new life in Christ
For freedom of spirit: that God will unbind us from past hurts and failures so that we may be free to love, serve and be in relationship
For a true appreciation of all of our possessions: that we may accept them as gifts from God, use them to serve God and others, and never be possessed by them
For all who have no food: that God will touch the hearts of those with abundance to share their bounty so that all may experience the reign of God
SOURCE: Sunday Website
Special Needs
23rd Sunday of Year C
OUR CATHOLIC HEROES (3:11) - Eduard Profittlich was born in Germany, but moved to Estonia after becoming a Jesuit priest. He worked tirelessly to spread the Catholic faith in Estonia and he was later named a bishop. When WWII broke out, he faced persecution from Soviet authorities. He was arrested and taken to a prison camp, where he dies of exposure.
He will be beatified on September 6, 2025!
For all who are suffering for their discipleship or who are imprisoned or persecuted for their faith: that God will heal their pain, strengthen their spirit, and make strong and effective their witness to Christ
I, Paul, an old man,
and now also a prisoner for Christ Jesus,
urge you on behalf of my child Onesimus,
whose father I have become in my imprisonment...
SECOND READING
Infographic created with Google AI Gemini 2.5 Pro tools (e.g. Chart.js and Tailwind CSS). Feel free to use it in any non-profit ministry. Please include the website link (https://thewordthisweek.net).
PRIESTS FOR LIFE (2:50) - Frank Pavone, National Director of Priests for Life, reflects on the Sunday readings for the 23rd Sunday in Ordinary Time, Year C and their message about abortion.
RESPECT FOR LIFE
FIRST READING
Prayer for Wisdom:
Heavenly Father, grant us the wisdom to discern right from wrong and choose life in every situation. May we follow your guidance to protect the dignity of all human beings, especially the unborn, and foster a culture that cherishes life. We pray to the Lord...
Prayer for Respect for Life:
Lord, instill in us a deep respect for the sanctity of life, from conception to natural death. Help us to create a world where every person is valued and cherished, regardless of their circumstances or abilities. We pray to the Lord...
SECOND READING
Merciful Father, as Philemon forgave and welcomed Onesimus, help us to embrace reconciliation and forgiveness in our relationships. May we remember that all people are your children, deserving of love and mercy. We pray to the Lord...
Prayer for Transformation:
Lord Jesus, just as you transformed Onesimus, we ask for your grace to change hearts and minds in our society. Transform our culture of death into a culture of life, where every person is treasured and protected. We pray to the Lord...
GOSPEL
Prayer for Discipleship:
Jesus, our Teacher, give us the strength to follow you with unwavering commitment, just as you challenged your disciples. Help us to carry our cross daily and embrace your teachings, even when it is difficult. We pray to the Lord...
Prayer for Family Unity:
Loving Father, grant us the wisdom to prioritize our love for you over worldly attachments, as Jesus taught in today's Gospel. May our families be united in faith and love, always striving for your heavenly kingdom. We pray to the Lord...
AP PRAYERS (1:40) - Father in heaven, may the faith you have given us in your son, Jesus Christ, our brother, and the flame of charity enkindled in our hearts by the Holy Spirit...
YEAR OF HOPE
FIRST READING
Healing Our Wounds:
Gracious God, as we journey through this Year of Hope, we ask for your healing touch upon the wounds of sorrow, pain, and hopelessness that burden many. Restore our hearts and bring light into our darkness, as we learn from Wisdom. We pray to the Lord...
SECOND READING
Finding Hope in Forgiveness:
Merciful Father, inspired by Philemon's forgiveness, let us find hope in reconciliation. May we experience the transformative power of forgiveness in our relationships, healing our communities and our world. We pray to the Lord...
GOSPEL
Prioritizing Love for God:
Loving Lord, as you challenged your disciples, grant us the courage to put you first in our lives. Help us to love you above all else, so that our hearts may overflow with hope and joy. We pray to the Lord...
Embracing the Cross of Hope:
Lord Jesus, teach us to embrace our daily cross with trust and love, knowing that it leads to true hope. Transform our suffering into a source of redemption, as we grow in faith and love. We pray to the Lord...
The Local Community
We pray for the young and old who have not been taught to read and write, that this week’s United Nations Literacy Day (8 September) will help create opportunities for them to acquire these basic life-skills.
We pray for our parish community, that we will gladly bear one another’s burdens and help carry each other’s cross.
SOURCE: Australian Catholics
For a renewal of creativity: that the Spirit of God will inspire us to use the many gifts that God has given us to bring forth new blessings and undreamed-of possibilities for our faith community and all the human family
For a deeper connection with all the people who are in our life: that we may see them with the love that God has for each of them and encourage them to live their life fully
SOURCE: Sunday Website
Local Community
23rd Sunday of Year C
CATHOLIC SAINT STORIES (6:04) - This video shares a few children's books from My Little Nazareth! Have you heard of these books before! They are such helpful resources for passing along knowledge of our faith to little ones! 🙂
Tomorrow is World Literacy Day (September 8). For Catholic parents and educators, that they may nurture a love of reading in their children and share stories of the saints, teaching them about faith, virtue, and our rich Catholic heritage, we pray to the Lord...
"Scarce do we guess the things on earth,
and what is within our grasp we find with difficulty;
but when things are in heaven,
who can search them out?
Or who ever knew your counsel,
except you had given wisdom
and sent your holy spirit from on high?
And thus were the paths of those
on earth made straight."
FIRST READING
Infographic created with Google AI Gemini 2.5 Pro tools (e.g. Chart.js and Tailwind CSS). Feel free to use it in any non-profit ministry. Please include the website link (https://thewordthisweek.net).
FAMILIES
FIRST READING
Strengthening Family Bonds:
Bless the families in our parish as we nurture wisdom and understanding within our homes. May we cherish and support one another, growing together in faith and love, like the bond between Paul and Onesimus. We pray to the Lord...
Raising Faith-Filled Children:
Grant us the grace to raise our children in the ways of faith, guiding them to love and serve you above all else. May they embrace your teachings with the wisdom of the Spirit, as we learn from the Gospel. We pray to the Lord...
SECOND READING
Embracing Forgiveness in Families:
Help us to forgive as Philemon forgave Onesimus, healing our family relationships with love and mercy. May our homes be places of reconciliation, fostering hope and unity among family members. We pray to the Lord...
Supporting Children's Faith Journey:
Grant us the wisdom to support our children as they discover their unique paths in faith, carrying their crosses with courage and hope. May we encourage and guide them, following the example of the early disciples. We pray to the Lord...
GOSPEL
Prayer for Discipleship:
We ask for the courage to follow you wholeheartedly. Help us to embrace the cost of discipleship, surrendering our possessions and earthly ties to become true disciples. May we walk in the footsteps of Jesus, giving up everything for the sake of the Gospel. We pray to the Lord...
Prayer for Sacrifice and Commitment:
Guide us to understand the depth of commitment required to be your disciples. Strengthen our resolve to place you above all else, even our own lives, as Jesus teaches in the Gospel. May we be willing to make sacrifices, carrying our cross daily, and walk faithfully in your way. We pray to the Lord...
SACRAMENTS
FIRST READING
Prayer for Sacramental Wisdom:
Loving God, as we celebrate the sacraments in our community, we ask for the wisdom to recognize their significance in our lives. May the Holy Eucharist, like the wisdom described in the reading from Wisdom, provide nourishment for our souls and strengthen our bonds with one another. We pray to the Lord...
SECOND READING
Prayer for Reconciliation and Forgiveness:
Heavenly Father, through the Sacrament of Reconciliation, grant us the grace to forgive as you forgive us. Inspired by Philemon's example of reconciliation with Onesimus, may we seek forgiveness and extend mercy to others, healing our relationships and strengthening our community. We pray to the Lord...
GOSPEL
Prayer for Eucharistic Commitment:
Lord Jesus, as we reflect on the call to discipleship in Luke's Gospel, may we deepen our commitment to you through the Holy Eucharist. Strengthen our resolve to give up everything for the sake of your love, receiving you in this sacrament of unity and love. We pray to the Lord...
Prayer for the Sacraments in Family Life:
Loving God, bless our families as we celebrate the sacraments together, especially the Sacrament of Matrimony. May these sacred moments nourish our faith, unite us in love, and inspire us to carry our daily crosses with courage, following Jesus' example in the Gospel. We pray to the Lord...
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