INTRODUCTORY REFLECTION
Reading the whole passion story can be as overwhelming as seeing the Sistine Chapel. Though hard to take it all in, experiencing the work as a whole helps us discover depth in its details.
Luke alone records the exchange between Jesus and the two criminals crucified with him. Both are immobilised in body, one is crippled in spirit by bitter resentment, the other freed by owning his fate and placing himself in Jesus’ hands. In response Jesus assures him they will be together in paradise that very day.
A moment later, Jesus mirrors and completes his companion’s faith by entrusting himself into the Father’s hands. Holy Week offers us a graced opportunity to let go of our crippling resentments and be freed for life.
THE WEEK’S PRAYER FOCUS
For all victims of betrayal and injustice, that by the grace of God they will not lose faith in themselves or the truth.
SAMPLE INTERCESSIONS
These intercessions are offered for selected use at Sunday Mass in the parish alongside those that express local needs and concerns.
PRESIDER
Dear friends, today we join Jesus on his way through Jerusalem to Calvary and on to the tomb. In union with him, let us pray for the world to see God’s saving power at work in our human weakness.
READER
We pray for the whole human family, especially those who are suffering great pain or distress, that God’s spirit will strengthen the hope and love that binds us all together. (Pause) Let us pray to the Lord
We pray for the church, that in this Jubilee Year of Hope all the baptised will testify with their lives to the saving mercy of God at work in our world. (Pause) Let us pray to the Lord
We pray for Christians who face persecution, hostility or discrimination for their faith in Christ, that like Isaiah’s suffering servant they will refuse to lose trust in God’s pledge of love. (Pause) Let us pray to the Lord
We pray for the people of Myanmar, devastated by both earthquake and warfare, that international powers will respond to their plight, deliver urgent aid, and open a pathway to peace and justice for all. (Pause) Let us pray to the Lord
We pray for all working tirelessly to find healthy solutions to global warming, that their expertise and strong community support will help keep the planet safe. (Pause) Let us pray to the Lord
We pray for young Australians voting for the first time this federal election, that they will value the opportunity to exercise this right and cast their vote conscientiously. (Pause) Let us pray to the Lord
We pray for all Lenten donors to Project Compassion, that their generous support for the work of Caritas Australia will continue faithfully throughout the year. (Pause) Let us pray to the Lord
We pray for our parish community, especially those preparing to receive the Easter sacraments, that everyone will take part in the paschal liturgies with grace and joy. (Pause) Let us pray to the Lord
We pray for those who have died recently . . ., and those whose anniversary of death occurs around this time, that they will be raised on high with Christ to the glory of God. (Pause) Let us pray to the Lord.
PRESIDER
Holy God and Father of Jesus, you gave us your Son that we might come to life in him. Help us to always choose life and follow him with all our heart. We ask this through Christ, our Lord.