Prayers of the Faithful, General Intercessions, Petitions
Prayers of the Faithful, General Intercessions, Petitions
Prayers of the Faithful, General Intercessions, Petitions
May 17, 2026
⭐⭐⭐ May: Month of Mary
The Church
Witness to the Nations: That the Church, empowered by the Great Commission, may move beyond the safety of the “upper room” to be a bold witness to the Gospel, baptizing and teaching all nations to observe everything Christ commanded. Lord, hear our prayer.
The Body of Christ: That we may embrace our identity as the Body of Christ—the fullness of Him who fills all things—and accept our mission to be His hands, feet, and voice in the world today. Lord, hear our prayer.
Authentic Discipleship: That leaders and laity alike may resist the temptation to delay holiness, instead embracing the risk of authentic discipleship to build the reign of God through kindness and mercy. Lord, hear our prayer.
Enlightened Hearts: That the eyes of our hearts may be enlightened to know the hope of our calling, so that all the baptized may be set on fire by the Spirit to reveal the Father’s love to a world longing for hope. Lord, hear our prayer.
The Church
The Ascension of the Lord (A)
VATICAN NEWS (8:27) – The Holy Father begins his apostolic visits across the Italian peninsula, visiting Pompeii and Naples on the first anniversary of his pontificate, with special devotion to the Holy Rosary and the Supplica of the Blessed Virgin Mary. The video looks ahead to the Pope’s visit to Acerra.
May the Church, empowered by the Holy Spirit, be a bold witness to the Gospel, reaching the ends of the earth as we faithfully fulfill the commission to make disciples of all nations.
You will receive power
when the Holy Spirit comes on you;
and you will be my witnesses
in Jerusalem, and in all Judea and Samaria,
and to the ends of the earth
Acts 1:8
PEOPLE OF GOD
FIRST READING
These petitions are intentionally detailed; feel free to trim them for brevity.
Pope Leo XIV
May Pope Leo XIV be strengthened by the Holy Spirit to be a bold witness to the ends of the earth. As the Apostles looked up to the heavens, may he guide the Church to look forward with hope to Christ’s promised return. We pray to the Lord…
Successors of the Apostles
For our Bishops, that they may receive power from on high to proclaim the Kingdom of God with clarity and conviction. Grant them the grace to wait in prayerful anticipation for the Spirit’s guidance in all their apostolic labors. We pray to the Lord…
Ministers of the Word
For all Priests and Deacons, that they may faithfully instruct the baptized in all that Jesus began to do and teach. May their ministry be a living testament to the Ascension, drawing all hearts toward their true home in heaven. We pray to the Lord…
Consecrated Witnesses
For those in religious life, that they may stand as prophetic signs of the cloud that took Jesus from our sight. May their devotion and community life remind the world of the glorious day when the Lord will come back in the same way. We pray to the Lord…
The Laity in the World
For the laity in their workplaces, that they may not stand looking at the sky, but instead labor diligently as witnesses in their own Judea and Samaria. May their professional integrity manifest the reality of the Risen Lord to those they encounter. We pray to the Lord…
SECOND READING
Universal Shepherd
May the Father of glory grant Pope Leo XIV a spirit of wisdom and revelation resulting in knowledge of Him. May he lead the Church to understand the hope that belongs to God’s call and the riches of His glorious inheritance. We pray to the Lord…
Shepherds of the Flock
For our Bishops, that the eyes of their hearts may be enlightened to see the surpassing greatness of God’s power at work in the Church. May they exercise their authority in union with Christ, who is seated at the right hand of the Father. We pray to the Lord…
Sacramental Ministers
For Priests and Deacons, that they may serve the Church, which is the body of Christ and the fullness of the one who fills all things. May their service help the faithful recognize Christ as the head over all things for the Church. We pray to the Lord…
Consecrated to His Glory
For those in consecrated life, that their witness may point to the Great Might God exercised in raising Christ from the dead. May they find strength in the power that is far above every principality, authority, power, and dominion. We pray to the Lord…
The Laity in the Marketplace
For the laity in their daily work, that they may bring the light of the Gospel to every name that is named in this age. May they work with the realization that all things have been put beneath the feet of Christ, their King. We pray to the Lord…
GOSPEL
The Vicar of Christ
For Pope Leo XIV, that he may exercise the authority given to Christ in heaven and on earth to guide the universal Church. May he be sustained by the promise that the Lord is with him always, until the end of the age. We pray to the Lord…
The College of Bishops
For our Bishops, that they may lead the charge to go forth and make disciples of all nations. May they be tireless in their mission to baptize in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Spirit. We pray to the Lord…
Priests and Deacons
For our Priests and Deacons, that they may faithfully teach the people to observe all that the Lord has commanded. May their sacramental ministry bring the presence of the Risen Christ to the hearts of all who seek Him. We pray to the Lord…
Religious Communities
For those in religious and consecrated life, that their lives of poverty, chastity, and obedience may be a radical way of observing Christ’s commands. May they find joy in the constant presence of the Lord who walks with them in their common life. We pray to the Lord…
Faithful in the Workplace
For the laity in their professional lives, that they may make disciples through their examples of justice and charity. May they work with confidence, knowing that the Lord accompanies them in every task and every interaction until the close of the age. We pray to the Lord…
CHURCH UNITY
FIRST READING
These petitions are intentionally detailed; feel free to trim them for brevity.
Unity Among All Christians
Grant that all who follow Christ may receive power from the Holy Spirit to become a single, unified witness to the ends of the earth. May we stop standing and looking at the sky in division, and instead work together to fulfill the mission Jesus began to do and teach. We pray to the Lord…
Dialogue Between Christianity and Islam
May the Father of all creation guide Christians and Muslims to recognize our shared hope in the one God who will come back in the same way He ascended. Teach us to coexist in peace as we wait for the fulfillment of the Kingdom of God, bearing witness to His sovereignty. We pray to the Lord…
Peace Between Traditionalists and Progressives
For harmony within our own Catholic family, that we may move beyond internal stumbles and debates about times or seasons. May we be baptized by the one Spirit, focusing our common gaze on the Risen Lord rather than the differences that distract us from our apostolic call. We pray to the Lord…
SECOND READING
Communion of Christian Faiths
May the Father of glory grant all baptized believers a spirit of wisdom and revelation to recognize Christ as the head over all things. Enlighten the eyes of our hearts so that we may see the one body and the fullness of Him who fills all things. We pray to the Lord…
Respect Between Christians and Muslims
We pray for mutual understanding between the Church and the followers of Islam, acknowledging the surpassing greatness of God’s power at work in the world. May we honor the name of the Almighty, whose authority is far above every principality and every name that is named in this age. We pray to the Lord…
Unity of Hearts in the Church
For a healing of divisions between traditionalists and progressives, that all may cherish the glorious inheritance found in the Church. May we recognize that Christ is the head of the whole body, seating us together at His right hand in the heavenly places beyond our earthly labels. We pray to the Lord…
GOSPEL
Ecumenical Mission
Lord, lead all Christian communities to go forth and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Spirit. May our shared command to teach all that Jesus has commanded overcome the barriers that keep us apart. We pray to the Lord…
Charity Toward the Muslim Community
Grant that Christians and Muslims may labor for justice and peace in a world under the authority of God in heaven and on earth. May our interactions be seasoned with the truth of the Gospel as we recognize our common journey toward the close of the age. We pray to the Lord…
Reconciliation Among Catholics
For an end to polarization between conservatives and progressives, remembering that the Lord is with us always, even in our moments of doubt. May we faithfully observe all that He has commanded, seeking the unity of the Spirit in the bond of peace until the end of the age. We pray to the Lord…
VOCATIONS
FIRST READING
These petitions are intentionally detailed; feel free to trim them for brevity.
Vocations to the Priesthood
Lord, grant that many young men may receive power when the Holy Spirit comes upon them to serve as your primary witnesses to the ends of the earth. May they faithfully teach all that Jesus began to do and lead your people in prayerful anticipation of your return. We pray to the Lord…
Vocations to the Diaconate
We pray for an increase in holy Deacons who will not stand looking at the sky, but instead labor diligently in the Samaria of our modern world. May they be filled with the Spirit to provide the practical and spiritual service needed to build up the Kingdom of God. We pray to the Lord…
Vocations to Religious Life
May many souls respond to the call of the cloud that took Jesus from our sight by consecrating their lives to the things of heaven. Grant that their devotion may be a prophetic sign to the world, reminding us that the Lord will come back in glory. We pray to the Lord…
SECOND READING
Acts 1:1-11
Vocations to the Priesthood
Lord, grant that many young men may receive power when the Holy Spirit comes upon them to serve as your primary witnesses to the ends of the earth. May they faithfully teach all that Jesus began to do and lead your people in prayerful anticipation of your return. We pray to the Lord…
Vocations to the Diaconate
We pray for an increase in holy Deacons who will not stand looking at the sky, but instead labor diligently in the Samaria of our modern world. May they be filled with the Spirit to provide the practical and spiritual service needed to build up the Kingdom of God. We pray to the Lord…
Vocations to Religious Life
May many souls respond to the call of the cloud that took Jesus from our sight by consecrating their lives to the things of heaven. Grant that their devotion may be a prophetic sign to the world, reminding us that the Lord will come back in glory. We pray to the Lord…
GOSPEL
Vocations to the Priesthood
Lord Jesus, call forth priests who will go forth and make disciples of all nations by baptizing them in the name of the Trinity. May they be courageous in teaching the faithful to observe all that you have commanded, trusting that you are with them until the end of the age. We pray to the Lord…
Vocations to the Diaconate
Grant that many men may answer the call to service, even when they feel the hesitation of doubt upon the mountain. May they exercise the authority of the Gospel in their ministry, confident in your constant presence as they labor for the Church until the close of the age. We pray to the Lord…
Vocations to Religious Life
We pray for an increase in religious brothers and sisters who will dedicate themselves to the mission of making disciples through lives of radical holiness. May they find joy in the promise that the Lord is with them always, as they witness to His commands in every corner of the earth. We pray to the Lord…
Governing Authorities and the Salvation of the World
The Reign of Peace: That the truth of Christ’s reign at the right hand of the Father may lead all nations toward justice, reconciliation, and the recognition of human dignity, especially in places ravaged by violence and hate. Lord, hear our prayer.
Wisdom for Leaders: That the Spirit of wisdom and revelation may be given to all world leaders, guiding them to seek the common good and to act with courage and sound minds for the sake of peace. Lord, hear our prayer.
Reconciliation of Heaven and Earth: That the values of heaven—mercy and enduring peace—may invade and transform the structures of our world, reminding all people that while earthly things pass, the things of heaven remain. Lord, hear our prayer.
Sanctity of Life: For an end to cultures of death; that nations may honor the weak, the vulnerable, and the unborn, recognizing that every person is destined for the glory of heaven and a place on the throne of God. Lord, hear our prayer.
The World
The Ascension of the Lord (A)
CHURCH OF SAINT FRANCIS OF ASSISI (1:33) – Protecting human voices and faces in a world filled with content is crucial to preserving what makes us human and guiding technology in a positive direction.
On this World Communications Day, Sunday, May 17, we pray for all who wield influence in the field of social communication. May they heed the call to “preserve human voices and faces,” using their platforms not to distance us, but to be bold witnesses to the truth. Empowered by the Spirit, may they build bridges of hope that lead all people toward a deeper knowledge of Christ, who reigns over all things. We pray to the Lord.
God placed all things under his feet
and appointed him to be head
over everything for the church
Ephesians 1:22
CIVIL UNREST
FIRST READING
These petitions are intentionally detailed; feel free to trim them for brevity.
Political Unity in Mission
May our political leaders receive power from the Holy Spirit to move beyond standing and looking at the sky in partisan gridlock. Grant them the grace to work together as witnesses of justice, focusing on what they can begin to do and teach for the common good of our nation. We pray to the Lord…
Empathy in Public Discourse
We pray that those in government may engage in constructive dialogue, listening with the same prayerful anticipation the Apostles shared in Jerusalem. May they cast aside division to find a unified vision for our Judea and Samaria, seeking the restoration of the kingdom through peace and mutual respect. We pray to the Lord…
Economic Stability and Daily Needs
Lord, as we look for your promised return, we ask for your providence over the rising prices at our grocery stores and gas stations. Guide our officials to manage the times and seasons of our economy with wisdom, ensuring that all families have the resources they need to live in dignity. We pray to the Lord…
SECOND READING
Enlightened Governance
May the Father of glory grant our elected officials a spirit of wisdom and revelation to see the humanity in their political opponents. Enlighten the eyes of their hearts so they may recognize the hope that belongs to their call to serve the body of the people with integrity. We pray to the Lord…
Overcoming Polarization
We pray for an end to political polarization, acknowledging that true authority is far above every principality, power, and party name that is named in this age. May our leaders work with open-mindedness, putting all personal ambition beneath their feet for the sake of the fullness of the community. We pray to the Lord…
Economic Justice and Great Might
Grant our leaders the great might to address the heavy burden of inflation and the costs of daily living. May they exercise their authority to create an economy where the riches of our glorious inheritance are shared fairly among the poor and the working class. We pray to the Lord…
GOSPEL
Cooperation for the Common Good
Jesus, you who have all authority in heaven and on earth, lead our political parties to go forth in a spirit of cooperation rather than conflict. May they observe the command to care for one another, working to make disciples of peace through their collaborative efforts in the public square. We pray to the Lord…
Dialogue Amidst Doubt
We pray for those in government who hesitate or doubt, that they may feel your constant presence when seeking common ground with others. May their interactions be marked by the truth of your commands, replacing the bitterness of polarization with the charity that you have commanded us to show. We pray to the Lord…
Providence in the Marketplace
Lord, you promised to be with us always, until the end of the age; stay with us now as we face the challenges of an uncertain economy. Provide relief to those struggling with the cost of food and fuel, and guide our nation to steward its wealth with justice and compassion. We pray to the Lord…
WORLD PEACE
FIRST READING
These petitions are intentionally detailed; feel free to trim them for brevity.
Restoration of Peace in Ukraine
Lord, as the Apostles asked if you would at this time restore the kingdom, we plead for the restoration of peace in Ukraine. May your Holy Spirit descend to halt the violence, giving leaders the power to be witnesses of justice rather than instruments of war. We pray to the Lord…
Stability and Justice in Venezuela
We pray for the people of Venezuela, that they may not stand looking at the sky in despair, but find the power to rebuild their nation in truth. Grant that those in authority may govern with the integrity of all that Jesus began to do and teach, honoring the dignity of every citizen. We pray to the Lord…
End of Conflict in the Middle East
Grant that the nations of the Middle East and Iran may turn away from the path of destruction and seek the peace of the Kingdom of God. May the Spirit empower all people to move beyond the boundaries of Samaria and the ends of the earth to find reconciliation and healing. We pray to the Lord…
Protection Against Domestic Terrorism
Protect our nation from the threat of terrorism and those who would use violence to strike from the shadows. May we wait in prayerful anticipation for a spirit of peace to fill our land, turning hearts away from hatred and toward the promise of your glorious return. We pray to the Lord…
SECOND READING
Hope for the People of Ukraine
May the Father of glory enlighten the eyes of the hearts of those suffering in Ukraine, that they may know the hope that belongs to His call. We ask for the surpassing greatness of His power to protect the innocent and bring an end to the dominion of war. We pray to the Lord…
Healing for Venezuela
For the nation of Venezuela, that they may experience the riches of a glorious inheritance through an end to civil strife and economic hardship. May the Great Might of God be exercised to bring about a government that recognizes Christ as the head over all things for the Church. We pray to the Lord…
Peace Between Israel and Iran
We pray for a spirit of wisdom and revelation to descend upon the Middle East, that every name that is named in this age may seek the path of peace. May the authority of Christ, seated at the right hand of the Father, put the spirit of war beneath His feet. We pray to the Lord…
Vigilance and Peace at Home
Lord, protect the United States from every principality and power that seeks to spread fear through terror. May your fullness fill all things in our communities, granting us the wisdom to live in security and the grace to build a body of believers dedicated to peace. We pray to the Lord…
GOSPEL
Justice and Victory for Ukraine
Jesus, as you claimed all authority in heaven and on earth, we ask you to exercise that authority to bring a just end to the invasion of Ukraine. May the world observe all that you have commanded by defending the oppressed and walking with them until the end of the age. We pray to the Lord…
Sustenance for the Venezuelan People
For those in Venezuela who walk with doubt and fear, remind them that you are with them always. May the leaders of the world go forth to assist this nation, baptizing their efforts in a spirit of charity and helping them to observe the commands of your Gospel. We pray to the Lord…
Reconciliation in the Middle East
We pray for the people of the Middle East and Iran, that they may lay down their weapons and seek the command of love. May your presence be felt in the midst of conflict, guiding all nations to make disciples of peace and mercy until the close of the age. We pray to the Lord…
Security for our Nation
Protect the people of the United States from the threat of domestic terror and hidden violence. As we go forth into our daily lives, let us find comfort in your promise to be with us always, and grant us the courage to teach others the ways of your peace. We pray to the Lord…
ENVIRONMENT
FIRST READING
These petitions are intentionally detailed; feel free to trim them for brevity.
Witnesses of the Creator
Lord, grant that we may receive power from the Holy Spirit to be faithful witnesses of your creation to the ends of the earth. May we not stand looking at the sky in indifference, but instead work to restore the beauty of the earth you began to do and teach. We pray to the Lord…
Stewardship of the Visible World
As the Apostles watched you be lifted up into a cloud, help us to cherish the atmosphere and the sky that surround us. May we protect our natural resources in prayerful anticipation of your return, ensuring the world remains a glorious testament to your sovereignty until you come back again. We pray to the Lord…
SECOND READING
Wisdom to Protect the Body of Creation
May the Father of glory grant us a spirit of wisdom to recognize the riches of the glorious inheritance found in our natural world. Enlighten the eyes of our hearts to see your presence in the environment, which is part of the fullness of him who fills all things. We pray to the Lord…
Authority Over Earthly Resources
We pray that those in power may exercise their authority to protect the earth that God has put beneath the feet of Christ. May we use the great might of technology and science to preserve every living thing named in this age, honoring the surpassing greatness of your creative power. We pray to the Lord…
GOSPEL
Teaching Care for the Earth
Lord Jesus, you who hold all authority in heaven and on earth, help us to teach all nations to observe the command to care for your creation. May our mission to make disciples include a deep respect for the water of baptism and the fruits of the land that sustain us. We pray to the Lord…
A Legacy for the End of the Age
Grant us the grace to protect our natural resources for all generations, trusting that you are with us always in this holy work. May we be faithful stewards of the environment until the close of the age, ensuring that the earth remains a vibrant home for all whom you have called. We pray to the Lord…
For Those Facing Adversities
Comfort in Absence: For those who feel the “absence” of God—the lonely, the grieving, and the abandoned; may they realize that Christ’s Ascension is not an exit, but a new way of being present with them always. Lord, hear our prayer.
Strength for the Overwhelmed: For those paralyzed by fear, doubt, or the “assignments of life”; may they feel the surpassingly great power of Christ stretched out in blessing over them, replacing uncertainty with joy. Lord, hear our prayer.
Hope for the Suffering: For those struggling with illness, bodily corruption, or the weight of recent loss; may they listen with “sharp ears” to the promise that Jesus has gone to prepare a place for them. Lord, hear our prayer.
Support for the Marginalized: For expectant mothers in difficult situations and those who feel their lives have no value; may they find support in a community that reflects the kindness and presence of the Risen Lord. Lord, hear our prayer.
Special Needs
The Ascension of the Lord (A)
CATHOLIC PRAYER AND MEDITATION (4:35) – The prayer identifies fear of failure, fear of rejection, and fear of the unknown as the primary paralyzing forces that require deliberate surrender to Christ, who serves as refuge and strength when the path ahead remains invisible.
May those experiencing doubt, fear, or physical hardship feel the constant presence of the Lord, finding strength in His promise to remain with us always, even until the end of the age.
Then the eleven disciples went to Galilee,
to the mountain where Jesus had told them to go.
When they saw him, they worshiped him; but some doubted
Matthew 28:16-17
RESPECT FOR LIFE
FIRST READING
These petitions are intentionally detailed; feel free to trim them for brevity.
Prayer for the Unborn: Witnesses of Life
Lord, grant that we may receive power from the Holy Spirit to be courageous witnesses for the defenseless in every Judea and Samaria of our nation. May we not stand looking at the sky in indifference to the unborn, but actively labor to protect the life you began to do and teach. We pray to the Lord…
Prayer for Human Dignity: Awaiting the Lord
As the Apostles watched the Lord be taken up into a cloud, help us to see the divine dignity in every person, from conception to natural death. May we treat every life with the same prayerful anticipation we have for your return, honoring the sacredness of the human body until you come back again. We pray to the Lord…
SECOND READING
Prayer for the Culture of Life: Enlightened Hearts
May the Father of glory enlighten the eyes of our hearts to recognize the riches of the glorious inheritance found in every human life. Grant us a spirit of wisdom to oppose the culture of death, seeing that all life belongs to the fullness of him who fills all things. We pray to the Lord…
Prayer for Prisoners: Mercy Above All
We pray for those on death row, recognizing that Christ’s authority is far above every principality and every human judgment named in this age. May we exercise the great might of your mercy, seeking to put the spirit of vengeance beneath our feet while honoring the dignity of the repentant. We pray to the Lord…
GOSPEL
Prayer for Purity: Observing Commands
Lord Jesus, you who hold all authority in heaven and on earth, teach us to observe the command to respect the dignity of our bodies and others. May we reject the exploitation of pornography and make disciples who walk in the light of your presence, honoring the temple of the Spirit. We pray to the Lord…
Prayer for the Vulnerable: With Us Always
Grant that we may go forth to make disciples of all nations by protecting the most vulnerable among us from the close of the womb to the close of the age. May we find strength in your promise that you are with us always as we labor to build a culture of life. We pray to the Lord…
MARGINALIZED
FIRST READING
These petitions are intentionally detailed; feel free to trim them for brevity.
Prayer for the Homeless: Power to Serve
Lord, grant that we may receive power from the Holy Spirit to serve those without a home in our own Judea and Samaria. May we not stand looking at the sky while our brothers and sisters suffer, but instead be active witnesses of the compassion you began to do and teach. We pray to the Lord…
Prayer for the Marginalized: Witnesses to the Ends of the Earth
We pray for those pushed to the ends of the earth and the margins of society, that they may feel the presence of the Kingdom of God. May the Church be a bold witness to their dignity, waiting in prayerful anticipation for the day when every tear is wiped away at your return. We pray to the Lord…
Prayer for the Forgotten: Promise of Restoration
Lord, as the Apostles asked about the restoration of the kingdom, we ask for the restoration of hope for those forgotten by the world. May your Spirit descend upon us so that we may provide for the needy, honoring the cloud of your glory by serving the least among us today. We pray to the Lord…
SECOND READING
Prayer for the Hungry: Riches of Inheritance
May the Father of glory enlighten the eyes of our hearts to see the hunger of the poor as our own. Grant us the spirit of wisdom to share the riches of your glorious inheritance, ensuring that those who lack bread are filled by the one who fills all things. We pray to the Lord…
Prayer for the Impoverished: Surpassing Greatness
We pray for those living in deep poverty, that they may experience the surpassing greatness of God’s power through our charity. May we use our resources to lift them up, recognizing that Christ is the head over all things and calls us to care for every member of his body. We pray to the Lord…
Prayer for the Displaced: Seated in Glory
Lord, look upon those displaced from their lands, and grant them a place within the body of Christ. May they find refuge in the great might of your love, knowing that you are seated at the right hand of the Father and hold authority over every principality that causes their suffering. We pray to the Lord…
GOSPEL
Prayer for the Poor: All Authority
Jesus, you who have all authority in heaven and on earth, move our hearts to provide for the poor in every nation. May we faithfully observe all that you have commanded by feeding the hungry and clothing the naked, making disciples through our works of mercy and justice. We pray to the Lord…
Prayer for the Lonely: With Us Always
We pray for the lonely and the marginalized who walk with doubt and fear in their hearts. Remind them of your promise that you are with them always, until the end of the age, and help us to be the hands that reach out to them in your holy name. We pray to the Lord…
Prayer for the Destitute: Close of the Age
Lord, grant that we may go forth to make disciples by serving the destitute and the brokenhearted. May we be tireless in our mission to bring your presence to the darkest corners of the world, trusting in your guidance until the close of the age. We pray to the Lord…
ADDICTION & RECOVERY
FIRST READING
These petitions are intentionally detailed; feel free to trim them for brevity.
PPrayer for Deliverance: Witnesses of Power
Lord, grant those struggling with the chains of addiction the power that comes when the Holy Spirit descends upon them. May they move from the Samaria of their despair to become bold witnesses of the healing you began to do and teach in their lives. We pray to the Lord…
Prayer for Recovery: Prayerful Anticipation
We pray for those in recovery, that they may not stand looking at the sky in regret, but wait in prayerful anticipation for the daily restoration of their lives. May they trust in your promised return to wholeness as they labor to rebuild what was lost. We pray to the Lord…
Prayer for Families: Holy Spirit Power
For the families of those suffering, that they may receive power from on high to support their loved ones with patience. May they remain steadfast in hope to the ends of the earth, believing in the promise of the Kingdom of God even in the midst of trial. We pray to the Lord…
SECOND READING
Prayer for Clarity: Enlightened Hearts
May the Father of glory grant those in the grip of addiction a spirit of wisdom and revelation. Enlighten the eyes of their hearts to see the hope that belongs to your call, replacing the darkness of dependency with the riches of your glorious inheritance. We pray to the Lord…
Prayer for Strength: Surpassing Greatness
We pray for those fighting for sobriety, that they may experience the surpassing greatness of God’s power at work within them. May the same Great Might that raised Christ from the dead break the principality and power of addiction over their bodies and souls. We pray to the Lord…
Prayer for Wholeness: Fullness of Christ
Lord, bring those in recovery into the fullness of Him who fills all things, healing the void that leads to substance use. May they find their true identity as members of Christ’s body, where your authority puts all cravings and dependencies beneath His feet. We pray to the Lord…
GOSPEL
Prayer for Obedience: Observing Commands
Jesus, you who hold all authority in heaven and on earth, guide those in recovery to observe all that you have commanded for a life of truth. May they find the courage to go forth each day, making disciples of others through their testimony of your saving grace. We pray to the Lord…
Prayer for Support: With Us Always
We pray for those who feel the doubt and hesitation of relapse, that they may remember your promise to be with them always. May they find strength in your constant presence until the end of the age, knowing they never walk the path of sobriety alone. We pray to the Lord…
Prayer for New Life: Baptized in Hope
Grant that those seeking a fresh start may be baptized in a new spirit of hope and purpose. May they faithfully follow your lead to the close of the age, teaching the world that through your authority, every soul can find the way to peace and freedom. We pray to the Lord…
The Local Community
Missionary Vocation: That we may stop “standing and looking at the sky” and instead recognize our own vocation to be the presence of Christ in our families, our workplaces, and our city. Lord, hear our prayer.
The Circle of Influence: That we may be attentive to the “holy nudges” within our own circles—inviting the hesitant, comforting the lonely, and teaching our children the way of the Great Rabbi. Lord, hear our prayer.
Sacramental Transformation: That as we participate in this Mass, we may be fed by the bread of earth transformed by the Spirit, strengthening us to live our daily lives as an interaction between the human and the divine. Lord, hear our prayer.
Practical Charity: That the graces of our Baptism may be rekindled this week, empowering us to grow in specific virtues and to serve our neighbors through simple, real-time acts of love. Lord, hear our prayer.
Local Community
The Ascension of the Lord (A)
In this month of Mary, we pray that our lives, like Mary’s, may be a powerful testimony to the risen Lord, and that we, with her guiding hand, may have the courage to reach out to those around us, making disciples of all people as we were commissioned to do.
I pray that the eyes of your heart
may be enlightened in order that
you may know the hope to which he has called you,
the riches of his glorious inheritance
in his holy people
Ephesians 1:18
GATHERED ASSEMBLY
FIRST READING
These petitions are intentionally detailed; feel free to trim them for brevity.
Prayer for Holiness: Spirit’s Power
Lord, grant that this gathered assembly may receive power when the Holy Spirit comes upon us to grow in true holiness. May we become bold witnesses of your grace from our local neighborhoods to the ends of the earth, setting aside all distractions to focus on what you began to do and teach. We pray to the Lord…
Prayer for Prayer: Prayerful Anticipation
We pray for a spirit of deep and constant prayer within our community as we wait in prayerful anticipation for your glory. May we not be a people who merely stand looking at the sky, but a congregation that prepares for your promised return through fervent devotion and communal worship. We pray to the Lord…
Prayer for Mission: Apostolic Witness
Grant that our parish may go forth as witnesses to the restoration of the Kingdom of God in our modern world. May the Holy Spirit descend upon us, empowering us to share the Gospel in every Judea and Samaria we encounter, remaining faithful to your commands until you come back in the same way you ascended. We pray to the Lord…
SECOND READING
Prayer for Charity: Enlightened Hearts
May the Father of glory enlighten the eyes of our hearts so that we may see the Christ present in one another. Grant us a spirit of wisdom to practice a charity that reflects the riches of your glorious inheritance, building up the Church which is your body and the fullness of all things. We pray to the Lord…
Prayer for Wisdom: Revelation of Christ
We pray that this assembly may receive a spirit of wisdom and revelation resulting in a deep, personal knowledge of God. May we grow to understand the surpassing greatness of His power at work in us, recognizing Christ as the head over all things who fills our community with His grace. We pray to the Lord…
Prayer for Unity: One Body
Lord, help us to live as a unified body, acknowledging that your authority is far above every principality and power named in this age. May we put all selfishness and division beneath our feet, striving to achieve the fullness of Him who fills all things through our mutual love and service. We pray to the Lord…
GOSPEL
Prayer for Following: Observing Commands
Jesus, you who hold all authority in heaven and on earth, guide this assembly to observe all that you have commanded us. May we move beyond our hesitations and doubts to follow you with radical obedience, ensuring that our lives reflect the truth of the Gospel in every action we take. We pray to the Lord…
Prayer for Growth: Making Disciples
We pray for the growth of our faith community, that we may courageously go forth to make disciples of all those we meet. May we be a people who baptize the world in the name of the Trinity, teaching others the joy of your presence and the beauty of your holy law. We pray to the Lord…
Prayer for Perseverance: With Us Always
Grant us the grace of perseverance, trusting in your promise that you are with us always, until the end of the age. May this assembly find strength in your constant presence as we navigate the challenges of our time, remaining faithful to our mission until the close of the age. We pray to the Lord…
FAMILIES
FIRST READING
These petitions are intentionally detailed; feel free to trim them for brevity.
Prayer for Families: Witnesses of Life
Lord, grant that our families may receive power from the Holy Spirit to be your witnesses in the domestic church and to the ends of the earth. May parents not stand looking at the sky in passivity, but actively teach their children all that Jesus began to do and teach. We pray to the Lord…
Prayer for Children: Promised Spirit
We pray for our children, that they may wait in prayerful anticipation for the descent of the Holy Spirit upon their lives. May they grow in the promise of the Father, becoming bold witnesses of the Kingdom of God as they prepare for the day the Lord will come back in glory. We pray to the Lord…
Prayer for Grandparents: Spiritual Foundations
Grant that grandparents may be the foundation of faith for their families, testifying to the restoration of the kingdom in their own lives. May they guide the younger generations to look forward with hope to Christ’s return, sharing the wisdom of all they have seen since the beginning. We pray to the Lord…
SECOND READING
Prayer for Families: Enlightened Hearts
May the Father of glory enlighten the eyes of the hearts of our families, that they may know the hope that belongs to His call. Grant them a spirit of wisdom and revelation to recognize the riches of the glorious inheritance found in the love they share as one body. We pray to the Lord…
Prayer for Children: Surpassing Greatness
We pray for our children, that they may grow to understand the surpassing greatness of God’s power at work in those who believe. May they find security in the authority of Christ, who is far above every principality and name, and find their place in the fullness of Him. We pray to the Lord…
Prayer for Grandparents: Wisdom and Revelation
May our grandparents be blessed with a spirit of wisdom and revelation resulting in a deep knowledge of God. May they lead their grandchildren to see that all things have been put beneath the feet of Christ, witnessing to the Great Might God exercised in raising Him from the dead. We pray to the Lord…
GOSPEL
Prayer for Families: Making Disciples
Jesus, you who hold all authority in heaven and on earth, guide our families to go forth and make disciples within their own homes. May parents faithfully teach their children to observe all that you have commanded, trusting in your promise to be with them always until the end of the age. We pray to the Lord…
Prayer for Children: Baptized in Truth
We pray for our children, that they may be baptized in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Spirit, and grow in the light of the Trinity. May they find strength in your constant presence, even when they face moments of hesitation or doubt. We pray to the Lord…
Prayer for Grandparents: Teaching the Commands
Grant that grandparents may be tireless in teaching the next generation to observe all that the Lord has commanded. May they find joy in the mission of passing on the faith, confident that the Lord accompanies their family through every generation until the close of the age. We pray to the Lord…
SACRAMENTS
FIRST READING
These petitions are intentionally detailed; feel free to trim them for brevity.
Prayer for Confirmation: Empowered Witnesses
Lord, grant that we may experience a deepening appreciation for the Sacrament of Confirmation, receiving power when the Holy Spirit comes upon us. May this spiritual anointing make us bold witnesses of your Resurrection to the ends of the earth, as we move beyond standing and looking at the sky to actively building your Kingdom. We pray to the Lord…
Prayer for Holy Orders: Apostolic Succession
We pray for a profound understanding of the Sacrament of Holy Orders, through which men are ordained to continue all that Jesus began to do and teach. May our priests and deacons be strengthened by the promise of the Father to lead us in prayerful anticipation of your glorious return from the heavens. We pray to the Lord…
SECOND READING
Prayer for the Eucharist: Fullness of Christ
May the Father of glory enlighten the eyes of our hearts to see the riches of the glorious inheritance found in the Eucharist. Grant us a spirit of wisdom to recognize in this Sacrament the fullness of Him who fills all things, as we receive the body of Christ who is seated at the right hand of the Father. We pray to the Lord…
Prayer for Anointing: Surpassing Greatness
We pray for a deeper appreciation of the Anointing of the Sick, that the suffering may feel the surpassing greatness of God’s power at work in them. May this Sacrament bring the great might of your healing and peace, reminding the infirm that your authority is far above every principality, sickness, and earthly trial. We pray to the Lord…
GOSPEL
Prayer for Baptism: Making Disciples
Jesus, you who hold all authority in heaven and on earth, help us to cherish the Sacrament of Baptism by which we make disciples of all nations. May we live out our identity in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Spirit, faithfully observing all that you have commanded. We pray to the Lord…
Prayer for Matrimony: With Us Always
Grant that married couples may find in their Sacrament a deepening understanding of your promise to be with them always, until the end of the age. May their union be a sign of your presence that overcomes all doubt, as they teach their children to follow your commands until the close of the age. We pray to the Lord…
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