BIDDING PRAYERS
PRIEST
Through the birth of our Lord, Jesus Christ, we are called to a new way of life. Let us pray to him with all our hearts during this season of Advent that he may bring us a renewed sense of his presence in our world.
READER
Let us pray for all Christian people: may they renew the commitment made at Baptism. May they be ever more perfect witnesses to the Gospel so that, through them, others may be drawn into faith: (pause) … Lord hear us.
We pray for all those in public office: may they fulfil their responsibilities by a humble service of others. May Christ, who came into the world so that people might be free, be their example of the life God means us all to live. (pause) … Lord hear us.
Let us remember all prisoners of conscience: may all who suffer unjustly the loss of their freedom find strength in their struggle against oppression by our prayers and moral support: (pause) … Lord hear us.
Let us pray for all the members of our Christian community: as we prepare for the coming of Jesus Christ, may we learn to see and receive him in the poor and suffering of our neighbourhood: (pause) … Lord hear us.
Let us make our prayers with Mary as we begin our preparations to celebrate Christ’s coming as we say: Hail Mary … etc.
Jesus has instructed us to pray at all times. We now pray in silence for our own needs.
PRIEST
God our Father, your Son came on earth to preach his gospel of freedom to all humankind. Hear the prayers of your people that the whole world may choose to know his saving message. We make our prayer through Christ our Lord. Amen.
First Sunday of Advent – Year C