Pentecost Sunday: The Birth of the Church

Introduction

(Pentecost Sunday)

Year C

At Pentecost, the apostles receive the Holy Spirit to mark the official start of their mission. They are to preach the Gospel to all peoples. The presence of the Spirit is a guarantee that their mission will not simply be a human endeavor but the work of God - the continuation of Jesus’ saving mission.

The “tongues of fire” mark the apostles’ inner transformation. Since they are to communicate God to others, God must be present in them like fire that enkindles into flame frozen hearts, and shines through the darkness of sin and unbelief.

        Please rise for the entrance hymn!

Prayers of the Faithful

(Pentecost Sunday)

(Priest):                        Filled with paschal joy, let us pray more earnestly to God that he, who graciously bestowed the Holy Spirit on the apostles may now send upon us the Spirit of his Son Jesus. We beseech the Lord:

“Lord, send us your Spirit”

(Reader):

·       May our Holy Father Francis and church leaders continue to be true shepherds leading their flocks to good pastures.   We pray: (R)

·       For those who hold public office and those who assist them in promoting the common good, that they may always seek guidance and inspiration from the Holy Spirit. We pray: (R)

·       For the elderly who suffer from isolation or sickness, that they may be strengthened by our love of them as brothers and sisters. We pray: (R)

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·       For missionaries and workers of evangelization, that they may be emboldened by the power of Holy Spirit dwelling in their hearts. We pray: (R)

·       For those who have fallen asleep in the hope of the resurrection, that God may welcome them into the light of his face. We pray: (R)

(Priest):                        Incline your merciful ear to our prayers, we ask, O Lord, and listen in kindness to the supplications of those who call on you. This we ask through Christ our Lord. Amen.