BIDDING PRAYERS
PRIEST
God our Father, today we pray for the many needs of those who depend upon the sea for their livelihood, confident that you will respond to our prayers according to your goodness and mercy.
READER
We pray for the leaders of the maritime industry: may they always endeavour to promote justice and human rights in the management and exercise of their responsibilities: (pause) … Lord hear us.
Let us pray for seafarers: may they be sustained in times of loneliness. Deepen the bonds of love that unite them with their families and loved ones: (pause) … Lord hear us.
We pray that, through our own ministry and concern for the welfare of those who ply the oceans we can inspire the growth of Christian communities among them: (pause) … Lord hear us.
We pray for the Apostleship of the Sea who carry out their work on our behalf: may they continue to reveal, especially through their hospitality, the love of Christ: (pause) … Lord hear us.
For all those who have died at sea: we remember especially the families who are left to mourn and grieve the loss of loved ones: (pause) … Lord hear us.
We commit to the care and protection of Our Lady, Star of the Sea, seafarers and their families, as we pray together: Hail Mary … etc.
We pray now, in silence, for our own personal intentions.
PRIEST
Merciful Father, bless those who sail the seas. Give them your care and protection in times of danger and, at all times, guide them safely to their destination. We ask this through Christ our Lord. Amen.
Sea Sunday