We bring our petitions to you Lord, on the last Sunday of Advent, and ask you to answer our prayers.

Reader:

In the First Reading, the prophet Micah says that someone will be born who will himself be peace. Let us pray that world leaders may avoid conflict, and work untiringly for peace, and that we do all we can to support their efforts. (pause) Lord in your mercy, hear our prayer.

St Paul tells the Hebrews that Jesus came to do God's will. Let us pray that we try to understand God's will for us, what he wants us to do with our lives, and let us obey God's commands. (pause) Lord in your mercy, hear our prayer.

Elizabeth was filled with the Holy Spirit when she met Mary and recognised that she was pregnant. Let us pray that we shall be filled with joy at the coming of the Christ child, and love and cherish our own children and relations. (pause) Lord in your mercy, hear our prayer.

As school and college terms come to an end; and staff, students and pupils have a holiday, Let us pray that they may enjoy their break and go back refreshed in the New Year. (pause) Lord in your mercy, hear our prayer.

A lot of us will be travelling over the Christmas period, as will many others. Let us pray that we travel safely and show concern for other travellers, and also let us remember all those who work for the Emergency Services. (pause) Lord in your mercy, hear our prayer.

At this time of Christmas we remember in our prayers the poor, the hungry and homeless that they will find hope in the Infant Jesus and help from their brothers and sisters in the human family (pause) Lord in your mercy, hear our prayer..

Like Elizabeth let us pray to Mary Hail Mary…

Let us ask God for our own intentions in silence.

Lord, we pray that you will grant our prayers in Jesus' name, who gives hope to the world.