December 8, 2024

Second Sunday of Advent

For all who lead us in faith. May Francis, our Pope, and ___, our Bishop, imitate John the Baptist by always pointing into the direction of our Savior, Jesus Christ.

We pray to the Lord.

For people who live in despair. May we find courage to point our hearts and actions toward Christ Jesus and to work for people facing war, violence and destruction. May peace be born on earth.

We pray to the Lord.

For our uncertain hearts in Advent. May we not ignore the longing and waiting of this holy season. May we take time to reflect on our true desires as we prepare for Christ’s coming now and in the future.

We pray to the Lord.

For parent and family survivors of children who have been murdered in our schools. May we hear the cry of our parents for protection of our youth. May gunfire stop and healing be known on earth.

We pray to the Lord.

For those who are preparing for initiation into the Church at Easter. May we all search for faith and freedom in our new liturgical year. May love unite us in the Eucharist.

We pray to the Lord.

For people who worry about their families in Advent. May families discover new moments of reconciliation and harmony. May the divisions of the past be replaced by compassion and affection as we prepare for Christmas.

We pray to the Lord.

For a deeper awareness of our earth and its resources. May fresh air and clean water be our legacy for the next generations. May God’s Kingdom in heaven reveal to us how to live on the earth.

We pray to the Lord.

For people who face depression in the dark hours of winter. May the Light of Christ illumine our hearts and minds in Advent. May our waiting for God provide hope and patience for every human heart.

We pray the Lord.

For people who face long years in prison. May our brothers and sisters behind bars and high walls know the inner freedom of Christ Jesus. May love become known in every human heart.

We pray to the Lord.

For our loved ones who have died. May our beloved dead rest in the assurance the Kingdom of God. May love be assured for all who sleep in Christ.

We pray to the Lord.