Fifth Sunday of Easter (B) : The Universal Prayer / Bidding Prayers / Intercessions / Prayer of the Faithful

Fifth Sunday of Easter (B)

Priest:
Christ is the vine and we are the branches: we draw our life and inspiration from him.  With courage and faith, let us come before the Lord with our petitions.

Reader:
For the Church: that she may continue to make Jesus known to the world through words of hope and works of love.
Lord, hear us.

For our bishops, priests, deacons and religious: that they may be fruitful branches of Christ, the life-giving vine, and that they may never fail to proclaim the Gospel even in the face of adversity or trial
Lord, hear us.

For those seeking election to local authorities: that they may be guided by truth and a concern for the common good. Where they are right, may the Lord strengthen and confirm them; where they are in error, may he direct them for the good of all people.
Lord, hear us.

Let us pray for the sick and those who care for them: that Christ may be the cornerstone of their lives and a firm hope in times of trouble.
Lord, hear us.

For those who have died, that they may they be granted the fullness of life and joy in heaven.
Lord, hear us.

With Our Lady, who already shares in the resurrection, we pray, Hail Mary ..

Now, let us make our private petitions to our heavenly Father.

Priest:
Heavenly Father, the vine grower, we ask that your Spirit may work in and through us to make us branches that bear much fruit for your kingdom.  We ask this through Christ our Lord. Amen.