Intercessions

ASH WEDNESDAY

Priest:

As we start our Lenten preparations, we turn in longing and hope to the Father who is present with us here as we ask for his mercy.

Reader:

We pray for an awareness of our need for God. May we learn to find time for God in our lives, making time for prayer and quiet reflection. Lord in your mercy. Hear our prayer.

We pray for a spirit of self-giving. May we become more aware of the needs of others, and by our fasting and self-discipline, may we be moved to provide and care for all in need. Lord in your mercy. Hear our prayer.

We pray for a sense of discipline in our lives. As Jesus gave himself to the will of the Father, we pray that during this Lent we may remain faithful to our Lenten promises. Lord in your mercy. Hear our prayer.

We pray for a renewal in our commitment to the way of Christ. Following the Lord's command to not condemn but to forgive, grant that we may learn to follow his teaching and lead lives transformed by his gospel of peace, love and mercy. Lord in your mercy. Hear our prayer.

We pray for a deeper awareness of God's faithfulness and love. In a world that is often in shadow and filled with the power of darkness, may we be a light to the nations. Lord in your mercy. Hear our prayer.

We ask Mary, Refuge of Sinners, to intercede for us and for all God's people, living and dead, as we say together: Hail Mary...

Let us now pray for a few moments in silence for our personal intentions.

Priest:

God our Father, we ask you to hear our prayers in the name of Jesus your Son whose life, death and resurrection brings hope and salvation to the world. Amen