Lent 5: Bidding Prayers / Intercessions / Prayers of the Faithful

Priest:

Let us pray now for our world, and for humanity, acknowledging the need we have for God's help in all we do.

Reader:

Let us pray for our Church and for all who lead her that their decisions may be made based on knowledge and compassion. 
Lord, hear us.

We pray for those who suffer discrimination, whether because of race, colour or creed, (remembering especially the victims in France this week, and) remembering that our Lord too suffered pain and death because of fear and pride.  May He help those who are blinded by prejudice to recognise the humanity we all share, and the equal love God has for all mankind.
Lord, hear us.

As the trees start to burst into leaf, make us more aware of the beauty of your creation which is constantly renewing itself. May we act as worthy stewards of our world, treading lightly, reverently and considerately as we go about our daily tasks.
Lord, hear us.

Let us pray for ourselves. May all the defeats and setbacks of our daily lives, small and large, be turned into sources of life learning and wisdo.
Lord, hear us.

Let us pray for all those who have died. As they lived in the hope of Christ may they now find forgiveness and eternal rest, face to face with Christ our saviour.
Lord, hear us.

Let us turn to Mary our mother to intercede for us as we say - Hail Mary

Let us now pray in silence for our own intentions.

Priest:
May God hear our prayers, 
and pour his blessings on us all. 
Through Christ our Lord. Amen.