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Cycle B Year I Thursday, October 1, 2015 THURSDAY OF (Lec. 458) 26 TH WEEK 1) Nehemiah 8:1-4a, 5-6, 7b-12 IN ORDINARY TIME 2) Luke 10:1-12 (OBL. MEM. Saint Thérèse of the Child Jesus, Virgin and Doctor of the Church) Scripture guides us in the way of holiness, and helps us grow in our knowledge and love of the Lord. Sacred Scripture is meant to hold a place of great importance within the life of each believer in Christ. By the power of the Holy Spirit, God inspired the authors of Scripture to write down those truths that are necessary for our salvation. (U.S. Catholic Catechism for Adults, 27) In this light, we can see that Sacred Scripture guides us in the way of holiness and brings us to deeper knowledge and love for God. In today's first reading, Ezra, a priest and scribe, reads the sacred word of God to those faithful Jews who had returned from exile in Babylon. They prostrate themselves and hear the Law explained to them. They rejoice in the Lord. In the Gospel, Jesus sends seventy-two disciples out to announce that the kingdom of God is at hand. PRIEST: With humble hearts, let us join together in presenting our petitions to our heavenly Father. 1) That the Gospel message, which is being preached by Catholic missionaries throughout the world, may be received with open hearts by all those who hear it, let us pray to the Lord. 2) That people throughout the world may take to heart God's command to love our neighbors as ourselves, so that peace may be possible in our time, let us pray to the Lord. 3) That people who suffer from physical ailments may receive comfort from patient and compassionate caregivers, let us pray to the Lord. 4) That all of us here may be strengthened by hearing God's word, and open our hearts to it, so that we may share God's love with others, let us pray to the Lord. 5) That those who have died may be granted eternal rest in God s heavenly kingdom, let us pray to the Lord. PRIEST: Almighty God, hear the petitions of your children gathered here today. Help us rely on you to provide for our needs. We pray through your Son, Jesus Christ, our Lord.

Friday, October 2, 2015 FRIDAY OF 26TH WEEK (Lec. 459) IN ORDINARY TIME 1) Baruch 1:15-22 (OBL. MEM. The Holy (Lec. 650) Guardian Angels) 2) Matthew 18:1-5, 10 Faith, humility and childlike simplicity are necessary to attain eternal life. Jesus reminds us that it s not power, force or strength that will win us the greatest glory we can attain, which is eternal life. He says, Unless you turn and become like children, you will not enter the kingdom of heaven. In the first reading from Baruch, we hear God s chosen people offering a prayer of repentance for their disobedience to God. The Gospel recounts the disciples asking Jesus who was greatest in the kingdom of heaven. Jesus replies that those who humble themselves are the greatest in the kingdom of heaven. PRIEST: We humbly offer our prayers to God our Father. 1) For all the faithful, may we continue to follow the example of Pope Francis in embracing humility and simplicity in our day-to-day lives, let us pray to the Lord. 2) For leaders of nations, may they seek to serve those who are least among them, let us pray to the Lord. 3) For those who live in exile from their homes as a result of war or natural disasters, may they find comfort and hope in the generosity of Christians, let us pray to the Lord. 4) For the sick in our families and faith community, may they be tended to with gentleness and patience, let us pray to the Lord. 5) For those who have gone before us in faith, that they will be welcomed into the kingdom of heaven, let us pray to the Lord. PRIEST: God our Father, hear our prayers offered today in humility and trust. Grant them according to your will. We pray through Jesus Christ, our Lord.

Saturday, October 3, 2015 SATURDAY OF (Lec. 460) 26 TH WEEK 1) Baruch 4:5-12, 27-29 IN ORDINARY TIME 2) Luke 10:17-24 (Saturday in honor of BVM) God calls us to renew our commitment to him, giving us hope and joy. It seems that we are always busy doing this and doing that. Are our activities building up God s kingdom here on earth? How can we know if we are on the right track? Perhaps if we take some time to reflect on the things that we are doing and hold them up in the light of prayer, we might just see. The first reading from the prophet Baruch exhorts the Israelites living in exile in Babylon to repent and walk in the Lord s ways, so that the Lord may deliver them from their bondage and bring them healing and salvation. In the Gospel, Jesus tells the disciples to rejoice; their names are written in heaven. PRIEST: With confidence in God s love for us, let us offer him our prayers of petition. 1) For members of the Church, may we continue to be faithful to the teachings of Christ and hear and respond to the cries of the poor in our midst, let us pray to the Lord. 2) For the leaders of the world, may they understand that the power they hold comes from God, and may they use it for the good of all, let us pray to the Lord. 3) For those who are suffering in body, mind or spirit, that God may renew their hope and courage as they face mental or physical illness, let us pray to the Lord. 4) For this eucharistic community, may we acknowledge that all of our successes in life are gifts from God, and rejoice in the fact that we are his, let us pray to the Lord. 5) For those who have died, may they be welcomed into the heavenly kingdom, let us pray to the Lord. PRIEST: O God, you hear the cries of the poor. Hear our prayers and grant us the grace to do your will. Through Christ our Lord.

SUNDAY, OCTOBER 4, 2015 TWENTY-SEVENTH (Lec. 140) SUNDAY 1) Genesis 2:18-24 IN ORDINARY TIME 2) Hebrews 2:9-11 3) Mark 10:2-16 or 10:2-12 Jesus fully reveals God s plan of salvation, and the way in which we need to live to enter unto eternal life in heaven. Today s Gospel reminds us of the dignity and sanctity within God s plan of salvation. Specifically, Jesus teaches that the covenant between a man and a woman was instituted by God, and is a lifelong commitment. Husbands and wives, through their love and faithfulness to God and to one another, offer a wonderful model of Christian life and love. The reading from Genesis tells of God creating woman to be a suitable partner for man. The Letter to the Hebrews makes the case that Jesus became human in order to bring about our redemption. In the Gospel, Jesus teaches that whoever does not accept the kingdom of God like a child cannot enter into it. PRIEST: Let us, with faithful trust, offer our petitions for all those in need. 1) For Church leaders, clergy and lay, that they may continue to help Christian families grow in their faith in order to give a more faithful and effective witness to the Gospel, let us pray to the Lord. 2) For peace throughout the world, that leaders of nations will work to resolve conflict in a non-violent manner, let us pray to the Lord. 3) For families who struggle with any burden, that they will find inspiration in the life and example of the Holy Family, who persevered in faith and love despite the struggles and adversities they faced, let us pray to the Lord. 4) For the Synod on the Family in Rome, that all participants will continue to remain open to the work of the Holy Spirit in their deliberations, let us pray to the Lord. 5) For all who have died, that they may have eternal rest in the heavenly kingdom, let us pray to the Lord. PRIEST: Almighty God, in faith and trust we offer you these prayers and those we hold in the silence of our hearts. Hear them, and in your mercy grant them according to your will. Through Jesus Christ our Lord.

Monday, October 5, 2015 MONDAY OF (Lec. 461) 27 TH WEEK 1) Jonah 1:1 2:2, 11 IN ORDINARY TIME 2) Luke 10:25-37 By helping those we encounter who are in need, even when it makes us uncomfortable, we follow the example of the Good Samaritan. The parable of the Good Samaritan reminds us of our duty as Christians to lovingly and compassionately assist those who are in need. We are to strive to do this to the best of our abilities. For what we do to the least of our brothers and sisters, we do unto our Lord. In the first reading Jonah tries to flee from the Lord, which proves to be futile. The Gospel account of the Good Samaritan forces us to reflect on who we identify as our neighbor, and how we can act with mercy toward them. PRIEST: Let us offer our prayers of petition to our heavenly Father. 1) For our Holy Father, Pope Francis, and our bishop and priests, may they continue to demonstrate acts of mercy that inspire the faithful to do so as well, let us pray to the Lord. 2) For police officers, firefighters and first responders, may God guide and protect them as they keep the peace, protect public safety and help those in need, let us pray to the Lord. 3) For those who work with the homeless, may God give them the grace to persevere, and may we give generously to support their work, let us pray to the Lord. 4) For those who are ill, especially members of our families and this faith community, may they experience the tender mercy of God s healing, let us pray to the Lord. 5) For our deceased brothers and sisters, that they may rejoice in the company of the angels and saints in the kingdom of heaven, let us pray to the Lord. PRIEST: Heavenly Father, we bring our prayers to you this day. In your kindness, please answer them according to your will. We pray through Christ our Lord.

Tuesday, October 6, 2015 TUESDAY OF (Lec. 462) 27 TH WEEK 1) Jonah 3:1-10 IN ORDINARY TIME 2) Luke 10:38-42 (Opt. Mem. Saint Bruno, Priest; Blessed Marie-Rose Durocher, Virgin) Obedience to God will free us from sin. At times we are called by God to do things we may not understand, much less want to do, such as offer compassion to someone we don t think deserves it, or forgiveness to someone who has hurt us. Cooperating with God and doing what he asks helps to keep our hearts free from bitterness and resentment, and allows God to work through our actions to bring healing and salvation to others. God s mercy is extended to those whom he chooses, not to those whom we deem worthy. In the first reading, upon hearing Jonah s prophecy, the people of Nineveh quickly repent and the king puts on sackcloth and ashes to atone for his sinfulness. In the Gospel, Jesus visits Martha and Mary. While Mary sits at the feet of Jesus listening to his words, Martha works to feed their guests. Jesus tells Martha that her sister has chosen the better path. PRIEST: Brothers and sisters, in the knowledge of his mercy, let us bring our prayers of petition to our God. 1) For our Holy Father, Pope Francis, that he may continue to be a shining example of discipleship to the entire world, let us pray to the Lord. 2) For our holy Mother Church, that she may continue to be blessed and strengthened as God s instrument in the world, let us pray to the Lord. 3) For those who do not know God, that they may come to know and love him as he loves us, let us pray to the Lord. 4) For our faith community, that we may recognize the need for ongoing repentance, let us pray to the Lord. 5) For those who have died, that they may be welcomed into the heavenly kingdom, let us pray to the Lord. PRIEST: Loving God, look kindly upon our petitions and grant them if it be your will. We pray through Jesus Christ, our Lord.

Wednesday, October 7, 2015 WEDNESDAY OF (Lec. 463) 27 TH WEEK 1) Jonah 4:1-11 IN ORDINARY TIME 2) Luke 11:1-4 (OBL. MEM. Our Lady of the Rosary) God's love shows itself in his loving, Fatherly care and forgiveness. We all know the Lord's Prayer, however, we express something very important regarding the prayer during the Mass. When it comes time for the Lord's Prayer, the priest says "...we dare to say..." Do we dare to say all of the words of the prayer? The part we dare to say is Our Father. Our Lord tells us that we should call God Father, or Abba, because that is how he lovingly relates to us. In today's first reading, we hear Jonah express his displeasure to God. The Lord reveals to Jonah that he was concerned about the survival of the people of Nineveh because they are his children and he loves them. In the Gospel, Jesus teaches his disciples how to pray. PRIEST: Confident that God, in his goodness and love, provides for our needs and hears and answers our prayers, let us join together in offering our prayers to our loving Father in heaven. 1) May those who shepherd the Church, especially Pope Francis and our bishop, N., continue to do so in a way that helps us to care for one another as loving and forgiving disciples, let us pray to the Lord. 2) May world and national leaders open their hearts to Jesus, the Prince of Peace, so that his peace and love may reign in their hearts and more fully upon earth, let us pray to the Lord. 3) May those who bear the cross of the Lord in their lives through sickness and suffering experience the Lord's healing power through the care and concern of others, let us pray to the Lord. 4) May we understand that when we call God our Father, it means we are all his sons and daughters and therefore called to treat each other as brothers and sisters, let us pray to the Lord. 5) May those who have died be welcomed by the risen Christ in the kingdom of heaven, let us pray to the Lord. PRIEST: Father, we ask that you hear and answer our prayers, for we offer them to you through Christ our Lord.

Thursday, October 8, 2015 THURSDAY OF (Lec. 464) 27 TH WEEK 1) Malachi 3:13-20b IN ORDINARY TIME 2) Luke 11:5-13 God waits for us to seek him through prayer. The readings of the day remind us that God is always aware of our sinfulness, weaknesses and imperfections. However, regardless of our worthiness, God loves unconditionally, forgives our sins, provides for our needs and hears and answers all of our prayers. Let us never be hesitant to turn to him in prayer. The first reading recounts that those who turn to God in repentance will receive compassion. In the Gospel, Jesus tells his disciples to seek God in prayer and to be persistent in doing so. He poses the question that if parents readily respond to their children s requests and needs, how much more will the Father in heaven give the Holy Spirit to those who ask him? PRIEST: Let us turn to our loving, heavenly Father and offer our prayers of petition on behalf of the Church, the world and ourselves. 1) For members of the Church, may we grow in our understanding of God as the true source of holiness, and reflect this belief in all that we do, let us pray to the Lord. 2) For those in positions of political power and for those who aspire to public service, may they model their actions on God s law of love, let us pray to the Lord. 3) For all those who serve the poorest of the poor, may they receive the support and encouragement they need to sustain them, let us pray to the Lord. 4) For our faith community, may we grow ever more courageous in expressing our faith through loving words and actions, let us pray to the Lord. 5) For those who have died, may they join the company of angels and saints in heaven in singing God s praises for all eternity, let us pray to the Lord. PRIEST: Heavenly Father, stir in our hearts the desire to pray constantly and never be separated from you. Hear the prayers we offer today and grant them according to your will. Through Christ our Lord.

Friday, October 9, 2015 FRIDAY OF (Lec. 465) 27 TH WEEK 1) Joel 1:13-15; 2:1-2 IN ORDINARY TIME 2) Luke 11:15-26 (Opt. Mem. Saint Denis, Bishop, and Companions, Martyrs; Saint John Leonardi, Priest) Who is Jesus and where does he get his authority? Many people during Jesus time struggled to answer the questions: Who is Jesus? Where does he get his authority? Many today still continue to struggle with these questions. The life, death and resurrection of Jesus the Christ clearly answer these questions. Now the challenge and question before us each day is: Do we consciously and intentionally live the faith we profess? In the first reading, the prophet Joel gives a warning that the Day of the Lord is near. In the Gospel, Jesus drives a demon out of a man who is mute, and the people question Jesus by whose authority he was able to do this. PRIEST: Trusting in the power of God to expel the darkness of sin and evil in our lives and provide for all of our needs, let us turn to him with our petitions. 1) That the Church s commitment to the New Evangelization will bring the Gospel to those who no longer practice the Catholic faith and bring about a renewal in their hearts, let us pray to the Lord. 2) That those in government positions will seek to respect the sanctity of life from conception through natural death, let us pray to the Lord. 3) That those who are unemployed or under-employed will find work that fulfills their needs and allows them to use their skills and talents, let us pray to the Lord. 4) That the members of this faith community will be moved by compassion to give generously to those around us who are in need, let us pray to the Lord. 5) That our beloved dead will be welcomed into the heavenly kingdom, let us pray to the Lord. PRIEST: Most merciful Father, we ask that you hear and answer these petitions, through your Son, Jesus.

Saturday, October 10, 2015 SATURDAY OF (Lec. 466) 27 TH WEEK 1) Joel 4:12-21 IN ORDINARY TIME 2) Luke 11:27-28 (Saturday in honor of BVM) The judgment of the Lord shall come for all nations. The liturgical year is slowly coming to an end. But every ending brings the possibility of a new beginning. Today s first reading, with its emphasis on the end times and the Lord s judgment, also speaks of the day when God will act to set all things right. In the first reading, the prophet Joel tells of the Day of the Lord, but his words of foreboding are tinged with hope and consolation that Israel will be renewed and restored, and will prosper. In the Gospel, Jesus teaches that those who hear the word of God and observe it are blessed. PRIEST: Having heard God s word, let us now, with courage and faith, bring our prayers and petitions to the Father. 1) For the Church, drawn from all nations and languages, may she continue to proclaim the Gospel message of salvation, let us pray to the Lord. 2) For all in civil power and authority, may their leadership bring peace to our world, let us pray to the Lord. 3) For all who are sick, may Christ, the Divine Physician, bring his healing touch to their lives, let us pray to the Lord. 4) For all married couples of our faith community, may they grow in love and fidelity and always be able to forgive each other, let us pray to the Lord. 5) For those who have died, may they receive a place at the eternal banquet in heaven, let us pray to the Lord. PRIEST: Almighty and eternal Father, hear our prayers and answer them according to your holy will. We make our prayer through Christ our Lord.

SUNDAY, OCTOBER 11, 2015 TWENTY-EIGHTH (Lec. 143) SUNDAY 1) Wisdom 7:7-11 IN ORDINARY TIME 2) Hebrews 4:12-13 3) Mark 10:17-30 or 10:17-27 The example of Jesus life and his teachings give us concrete guidance on how we are to live, so we may come to share eternal life in heaven. Jesus does not condemn the rich man in today s Gospel. Rather, with a gaze of love and compassion, he instructs the rich man to let go of that which stands in the way of him receiving the gift of salvation, namely, his riches. The first reading from the Book of Wisdom speaks of how wisdom overshadows all the riches of the world. The second reading from the Letter to the Hebrews reminds us that being steeped in Scripture helps us to be open to God s will for us. The Gospel tells of the rich man coming to Jesus and asking what he must do to inherit eternal life. PRIEST: Grateful for all the abundant gifts and blessings God has bestowed upon us, let us offer our prayers to our loving Father in heaven. 1) For members of the Church, that we may continue to call all people to turn away from sin and place their faith in Jesus, so they might receive the gift of salvation, let us pray to the Lord. 2) For the leaders of this world, that they remember their moral duty to ensure that the basic needs of all people are provided for, let us pray to the Lord. 3) For those who are hungry or homeless, that they be assisted in their need by committed Christians and people of goodwill, let us pray to the Lord. 4) For each of us, that we may respond to the call of the Lord Jesus to be good stewards by giving generously of our time, talent and treasure, let us pray to the Lord. 5) For the faithful departed, that they may come to share eternal life in heaven, let us pray to the Lord. PRIEST: Almighty God and Father, in your goodness and love hear and answer our prayers. We offer them to you through your Son, Jesus Christ our Lord.

Monday, October 12, 2015 MONDAY OF (Lec. 467) 28 TH WEEK 1) Romans 1:1-7 IN ORDINARY TIME 2) Luke 11:29-32 God has given each of unique gifts and talents, and he expects us to use these to help build up his kingdom on earth. During those times when we feel down and discouraged, and wonder if our lives truly matter, it is important to remember that God has given us the grace to overcome. This allows us to regain the perspective we need to continue using our gifts to make a contribution to the world. The first reading from the Letter of Saint Paul to the Romans tells of Paul being called by Jesus to be an apostle, and to preach the Gospel to the Gentiles. In the Gospel, Jesus teaches the crowd that no sign will be given to it except the sign of Jonah. PRIEST: Let us turn to our Lord, whose abundant grace and infinite mercy will help us on our path to holiness. 1) For the Church and her leaders, that they may faithfully guide the people of God to live the Gospel more fully, let us pray to the Lord. 2) For our world, that those with evil in their hearts may come to repent and believe in Jesus, let us pray to the Lord. 3) For those who suffer oppression, particularly victims of religious persecution, that they may draw strength and courage to persevere from their faith in God, let us pray to the Lord. 4) For our parish community, that our actions may be a reflection of our belief in the Gospel of Jesus Christ, let us pray to the Lord. 5) For our faithful departed, that they may enjoy the rewards their life of faith in Christ has yielded, let us pray to the Lord. PRIEST: Father in heaven, you know our needs and are always there to offer strength on our faith journey. Please look favorably on our intentions and grant them in accordance with your holy will. We ask this through Christ our Lord.

Tuesday, October 13, 2015 TUESDAY OF (Lec. 468) 28 TH WEEK 1) Romans 1:16-25 IN ORDINARY TIME 2) Luke 11:37-41 We are to lead lives which give an effective witness to the Gospel. Leading a life that gives a faithful and effective witness to the Gospel requires us to be honest about ourselves. We, like everyone else, have our weaknesses and sin. It is only by God s grace and through faith in Jesus that we are saved, and receive the strength needed to live more like him each day. The first reading from the Letter of Saint Paul to the Romans reminds us that the Gospel is the power of God for the salvation of all who believe. In the Gospel, Jesus chastises the Pharisees for failing to attend to the inner condition of their hearts and souls. PRIEST: Grateful for God s mercy and forgiveness, let us join in offering him our prayers and petitions. 1) For the Church, that she may be blessed with men and women in all walks of life who offer their time, treasure and talent to alleviate the sufferings of the poor in our world, let us pray to the Lord. 2) For world leaders, that they make decisions and laws with charitable hearts, so as not to cause hardship or harm, let us pray to the Lord. 3) For those who have grown lax in the practice of the faith, that through our prayers and outreach they may experience Christ s love and care, let us pray to the Lord. 4) For our faith community, that we may see Jesus in all those we meet, and be mindful to show charity and respect, let us pray to the Lord. 5) For those who have died, that they may come to enjoy eternal life in heaven, let us pray to the Lord. PRIEST: Heavenly Father, creator of all things, we ask that you hear and answer our prayers. We offer them to you through Christ our Lord.

Wednesday, October 14, 2015 WEDNESDAY OF (Lec. 469) 28 TH WEEK 1) Romans 2:1-11 IN ORDINARY TIME 2) Luke 11:42-46 (Opt. Mem. Saint Callistus I, Pope and Martyr) God alone can judge the hearts of others. Sacred Scripture teaches us clearly and unequivocally that we are not to judge the lives and hearts of others. The reason for this is two-fold. First, only God who knows all things can judge. Second, judging others takes our focus off our own spiritual journey toward knowledge and love for of God. In Romans, Saint Paul warns against holding others to a standard we don't follow ourselves. God's mercy should lead us to repentance, not condemnation. In the Gospel, Jesus reprimands the Pharisees for failing to understand that the purpose of following the Law is to grow in love for God. PRIEST: God calls us to repentance, and promises his mercy. Strengthened by his grace, let us bring him our needs and petitions. 1) For Holy Mother Church, may she continue to be blessed with the grace and blessings needed to carry out her mission of reconciling sinners to God, let us pray to the Lord. 2) For world leaders, that they may continue to work diligently to resolve disputes and disagreements peacefully, let us pray to the Lord. 3) For victims of domestic violence, may they be blessed with places of safe refuge and the assistance needed to foster healing, let us pray to the Lord. 4) For our faith community, that we may grow in understanding of God's plans for us, and seek to do his will through good works, let us pray to the Lord. 5) For those who have died, may they come to share eternal life in heaven through God s grace and the assistance of our prayers, let us pray to the Lord. PRIEST: Loving God, we ask that you hear and answer our prayers that we offer through Christ our Lord.

Thursday, October 15, 2015 THURSDAY OF (Lec. 470) 28 TH WEEK 1) Romans 3:21-30 IN ORDINARY TIME 2) Luke 11:47-54 (OBL. MEM. Saint Teresa of Jesus, Virgin and Doctor of the Church) FOCUS God makes us righteous through faith. Our life of faith must lead others to God. A Christian life is a journey of faith. The journey begins by believing in God, who reveals himself and his plan of salvation most fully through his son, Jesus. All are invited to be justified through faith in Jesus. Saint Paul expounds on the importance of faith in Jesus. He makes it clear that faith, not works, makes one righteous before God. In the Gospel, Jesus chastises the scholars of the law for taking away the key of knowledge. They did this by failing in charity and by stopping those who were sincerely seeking to grow in their own knowledge of the Father. PRIEST: As we sincerely strive to lead lives that glorify God, let us join together in offering our prayers and needs to the Lord. 1) For pastors, theologians and catechists who inspire and impart knowledge of the Christian faith, may God bless them in their ministries, let us pray to the Lord. 2) For health care professionals, may they exercise their duties with compassion and respect the religious faith of those they serve, let us pray to the Lord. 3) For those who live in the spirit of Saint. Teresa of Jesus, may they follow her example of contemplation, prayer and working to draw others to God, let us pray to the Lord. 4) For members of this faith community, may we be blessed with the grace needed to persevere in faith amidst the trials of daily life, let us pray to the Lord. 5) For those who have died, may they come to enjoy perfect peace and perpetual joy in heaven, let us pray to the Lord. PRIEST: Gracious and loving God, we ask that you hear and answer our prayers. We offer them to you through Christ our Lord.

Friday, October 16, 2015 FRIDAY OF (Lec. 471) 28 TH WEEK 1) Romans 4:1-8 IN ORDINARY TIME 2) Luke 12:1-7 (Opt. Mem. Saint Hedwig, Religious; Saint Margaret Mary Alacoque, Virgin) Faith in God through Christ Jesus saves all who believe. God cares about every aspect of our lives, no matter how small. We learn from today s readings that, like Abraham, who had such faith in God he was willing to sacrifice his son, we are justified through Christ, who died for our salvation. The love of God, demonstrated through the sacrifice of his son, Jesus, is evident in every aspect of our lives. Salvation through faith is at the center of the Gospel message, a message Saint Paul preached from the time he was converted until his death. Paul s unshakable faith, and his message of Christ s saving grace for Jew and Gentile alike, is at the heart of the reading from the Letter to the Romans. PRIEST: With confidence, let us bring our concerns before our heavenly Father. 1) For our Holy Father, bishops and all Church leaders, that they continue to preach the message of salvation in all corners of the world, let us pray to the Lord. 2) For world leaders, that they demonstrate respect for all life in their actions and their policymaking, let us pray to the Lord. 3) For those who feel alienated from society, that the kindness and generosity of others will make them feel welcomed and encourage them to rejoin communities, let us pray to the Lord. 4) For the suffering, especially those facing the loss of a loved one, that we reach out a helping hand and let them know that we care, let us pray to the Lord. 5) For those who have died, may they be welcomed into God s heavenly kingdom, let us pray to the Lord. PRIEST: Heavenly Father, hear our prayers of petition and grant them according to your will, we ask this through Christ our Lord.

Saturday, October 17, 2015 SATURDAY OF (Lec. 472) 28 TH WEEK 1) Romans 4:13, 16-18 IN ORDINARY TIME 2) Luke 12:8-12 (OBL. MEM. Saint Ignatius of Antioch, Bishop and Martyr) Receiving God s gift of salvation requires that we humbly acknowledge our need for forgiveness. Jesus taught that there is only one unforgivable sin blasphemy against the Holy Spirt. This sin refers to a person s inner disposition and hardness of heart in refusing to accept God s love and mercy. Mindful of this, we must strive to open ourselves more fully to the Lord s mercy so that we might one day come to enjoy eternal life in heaven. The first reading from Saint Paul s Letter to the Romans reminds us that the promise made to Abraham, that he would be a father of many nations, was not made through the law, but through faith. In the Gospel, Jesus pronounces that he will acknowledge those who confess his name on earth. PRIEST: With faith and trust in God s unlimited compassion, we place our needs before him. 1) Heavenly Father, your Son knew human suffering firsthand; may your Holy Spirit strengthen us through all our trials, let us pray to the Lord. 2) God the Father, you sent your Son to heal our bodies and souls through the power of your Spirit. Be with all who struggle spiritually and physically, let us pray to the Lord. 3) Almighty Father, your Son won redemption for us sinners through the blood of the cross. Inspire us to receive more frequently your mercy and the grace of the Holy Spirit in the sacrament of reconciliation, let us pray to the Lord. 4) Loving Father, you sent your Holy Spirit down on bishops, priests and deacons through Holy Orders. May they always be strong and faithful in bringing your Son to the faithful through his body and blood, let us pray to the Lord. 5) Merciful Father, your Son forgave even the worst sinners. May the Holy Spirit guide those who don t believe in you, and those who have lost faith, back into your loving presence, let us pray to the Lord. PRIEST: Heavenly Father, all good in our lives and in our world comes from you. In our weakness, give us the faith and knowledge that with you, nothing is impossible. We ask this through Christ our Lord.

SUNDAY, OCTOBER 18, 2015 TWENTY-NINTH (Lec. 146) SUNDAY 1) Isaiah 53:10-11 IN ORDINARY TIME 2) Hebrews 4:14-16 3) Mark 10:35-45 or 10:42-45 Jesus calls us to lay down our lives in humble service to God and neighbor. In today s Gospel, Jesus teaches that he did not come to be served by others. Rather, he came to serve and to give his life as a ransom for many through his ultimate sacrifice. This means that all those who sincerely aspire to live as disciples of Jesus must be willing to lay down their lives in love and service to others. The first reading tells of the faithful servant of the Lord who gives his life as an offering for sin. The second reading exhorts us to confidently approach the throne of grace. In the Gospel, Jesus teaches that whoever wishes to be great among you will be your servant. PRIEST: Trusting that God, in his goodness, hears and answers our prayers, let us together present our needs to the Almighty Father. 1) For Pope Francis, bishops, priests and deacons, may their lives of humble service to God, the Church and to the human family inspire many to lay down their lives more fully in love, let us pray to the Lord. 2) For world and national leaders, may they turn to God for guidance as they seek nonviolent resolutions to conflicts and disputes, let us pray to the Lord. 3) For members of this faith community, that we may work to protect the dignity and sanctity of all life, let us pray to the Lord. 4) For each of us, may we continually strive to deepen our relationship with the Lord Jesus by praying daily, by faithfully attending Mass each week, and by leading lives of humble love and service to others, let us pray to the Lord. 4) For all those who have died, may they enjoy perfect happiness and peace for all eternity, let us pray to the Lord. PRIEST: Father, we ask that you hear and answer our prayers, both those spoken and those we hold within the silence of our hearts, for we offer them to you through Christ our Lord.

Monday, October 19, 2015 MONDAY OF (Lec. 473) 29 TH WEEK 1) Romans 4:20-25 IN ORDINARY TIME 2) Luke 12:13-21 (OBL. MEM. Saints John de Brébeuf and Isaac Jogues, Priests, and Companions, Martyrs) The power of the Holy Spirit enlightens us to believe in God s promise of salvation in Jesus. Saints John de Brébeuf, Isaac Jogues and their companions kept their faith until death. While most of us will not have to die for our faith, we are called to follow their example and give witness to God s unconditional love in the world. They raise the bar for living the faith, and beckon us to reach this higher level of witness and faithfulness. The first reading from Romans reminds us that Abraham did not doubt God s promise in unbelief, but instead Abraham was empowered by his faith. In the Gospel, Jesus teaches us to guard against greed, for one s life does not consist of possessions. PRIEST: In faith let us gather our prayers for those in need and offer them to God our Father. 1) For our Holy Father and all who serve the Church, that they may continue to follow the example of the saints in all they do, let us pray to the Lord. 2) For leaders of nations, that they be open to God s grace to guide them in carrying out their responsibilities, let us pray to the Lord. 3) For the unborn, the elderly and the vulnerable, that they receive the protection and care all human beings deserve, let us pray to the Lord. 4) For the success of the recent Synod on the Family, that the vocation and mission of the family in the Church and the world will flourish under the guidance of the Holy Spirit, let us pray to the Lord. 5) For the faithful departed, that they receive a place at the eternal banquet in heaven, let us pray to the Lord. PRIEST: Father, in your goodness, hear and answer our prayers, for we offer them to you through Christ our Lord.

Tuesday, October 20, 2015 TUESDAY OF (Lec. 474) 29 TH WEEK 1) Romans 5:12, 15b, 17-19, IN ORDINARY TIME 20b-21 (Opt. Mem. 2) Luke 12:35-38 Saint Paul of the Cross, Priest) Jesus calls us to be awake and alert so that we might be found worthy of eternal life in heaven. Amid the strains and distractions of today s world, it is important to take time to pray daily to remain focused on the things that matter most, namely, love of God and love of neighbor. Then, we may be judged worthy to share eternal life in heaven. In Saint Paul s Letter to the Romans, he reminds us that sin entered the world through one man, but also that through the obedience of one the many will be made righteous. In the Gospel, Jesus stresses the importance of staying vigilant, so that when our time comes to stand before him, we might be found worthy. PRIEST: Trusting that God hears and answers all our prayers, let us offer our petitions to our loving Father in heaven. 1) For the Church, may she continue her mission of bringing God s mercy and love to all people, let us pray to the Lord. 2) For world leaders, may they recognize that the source of their authority is God and promote the good of all, let us pray to the Lord. 3) For those ensnared by addiction, may they turn to God to gain freedom from their bondage and receive the grace needed to begin healing, let us pray to the Lord. 4) For our community, that we remain faithful to the will of God through service to our neighbor, let us pray to the Lord. 5) For the faithful departed, that they may be found worthy of entering into eternal life in heaven, let us pray to the Lord. PRIEST: Father, hear and answer our prayers, and grant us the grace to lead lives that are holy and pleasing to you. We ask this through Christ our Lord.

Wednesday, October 21, 2015 WEDNESDAY OF (Lec. 475) 29 TH WEEK 1) Romans 6:12-18 IN ORDINARY TIME 2) Luke 12:39-48 Jesus opened the gates of heaven for us, but it is our responsibility to live in such a way that we may be found worthy of entering into eternal life in heaven. Each of us has a limited time on earth. The exact time and manner in which we will die is known by God alone. Will we have time to ask forgiveness for our sins? Will we think to invoke the name of Jesus? Whether it is today or years from now, Jesus counsels us to put our lives in order and to live according to his teachings, so that when the time comes, we will be prepared. The first reading reminds us that, through faith in Jesus, we have been set free from bondage to sin and selfishness. Therefore, we must imitate the example of Jesus by pouring ourselves out in love and service to others. In the Gospel, Jesus teaches that we must stay ready and alert, for he will return at an hour we do not expect. PRIEST: Together, let us bring our petitions to the Father, trusting in his providential love for each of us. 1) That our Church leaders may continue to be effective witnesses to the Gospel and help others to live as faithful followers of Jesus, let us pray to the Lord. 2) That world leaders may act in accord with natural moral law written on every human heart and seek justice and peace, let us pray to the Lord. 3) That those who grieve the death of a loved one may be comforted by their faith and by the promise of eternal life, let us pray to the Lord. 4) That members of this faith community may strive to live as intentional disciples of Jesus by making the choice each day to follow his example, let us pray to the Lord. 5) That those who have died may be granted a place at the heavenly table, let us pray to the Lord. PRIEST: Loving God, we ask that you hear and answer our prayers. We offer them to you through Christ our Lord.

Thursday, October 22, 2015 THURSDAY OF (Lec. 476) 29 TH WEEK 1) Romans 6:19-23 IN ORDINARY TIME 2) Luke 12:49-53 (Opt. Mem. Saint John Paul II, Pope) Jesus frees us from bondage to sin so that we may experience a new and abundant life in his love. It is a tragic reality that so many fall into the trap of seeking happiness in the accumulation of material things, only to come away empty and wanting more. Understanding this reality, it is important that our lives model our Christian values so that others can see that true happiness comes from loving and serving God and others. The first reading from the Letter of Saint Paul to the Romans reminds us that The wages of sin are death, but the gift of God is eternal life in Christ Jesus our Lord. In the Gospel, Jesus teaches that when we live as his disciples we will encounter resistance and opposition from others, even from members of our own family. PRIEST: Seeking to lead lives in humble and loving service to God and our neighbor, let us join in offering our prayers to God our Loving Father. 1) For all members of the Church, that we may follow Jesus teachings by loving and serving God and others, let us pray to the Lord. 2) For civic, national and world leaders, that they may lead with integrity and place the needs of the people above personal gain, let us pray to the Lord. 3) For our faith community, that we may support each other as we strive to live as disciples of Jesus, let us pray to the Lord. 4) For the sick and lonely in our community, that they may find comfort in the support of others, let us pray to the Lord. 5) For those who have died, may they be welcomed into eternal life with God, let us pray to the Lord. PRIEST: Lord God, we ask you to hear our prayers and grant us the grace needed to persevere in faith. We ask this through our Lord, Jesus Christ.

Friday, October 23, 2015 FRIDAY OF (Lec. 477) 29 TH WEEK 1) Romans 7:18-25a IN ORDINARY TIME 2) Luke 12:54-59 (Opt. Mem. Saint John of Capistrano, Priest) We can count on God s help to bring about true change in our lives. If we take time for reflection, we can readily identify things in our lives we need to change in order to live in greater accord with the teachings of Jesus. However, we cannot make these changes on our own. We need God s help. By cooperating with his grace, we can make the changes needed to live in a way that is pleasing to the Lord. In his Letter to the Romans, Saint Paul speaks of not being able to do the good he desires at times because of sin and human weakness. In the Gospel, Jesus chastises the crowds for failing to pay attention to the things that matter most the power and presence of God at work in their midst. PRIEST: Together, let us offer our prayers to God who is all-good, all-loving and ever-faithful to his promises. 1) For all members of the Church, may we take time to reflect on our lives, and with God s help seek to live in greater accord with the teachings of Jesus, let us pray to the Lord. 2) For an end to violence in the world, and for God s peace to reign in our hearts and spread to all whom we meet, let us pray to the Lord. 3) For lawyers, judges and other members of the legal profession, may God grant them wisdom to deal justly with those whom they serve, let us pray to the Lord. 4) For those who are sick, may Christ s compassion for them be expressed through the loving actions of our community, let us pray to the Lord. 5) For those who have died, may they come to enjoy perfect peace and joy in heaven, let us pray to the Lord. PRIEST: God of wisdom and knowledge, we come to you for guidance. Hear our prayers and teach us your ways so that we may one day be with you forever, through Christ our Lord.

Saturday, October 24, 2015 SATURDAY OF (Lec. 478) 29 TH WEEK 1) Romans 8:1-11 IN ORDINARY TIME 2) Luke 13:1-9 (Opt. Mem. Saint Anthony Mary Claret, Bishop; Saturday in honor of BVM) Christ frees us from sin and calls us to lead lives that bear good fruit for God. Jesus frees us from sin and gives us a new life in his love, while also offering us the hope of eternal life in heaven. In order to be judged worthy of coming to share eternal life in heaven, we must turn away from sin and lead lives of faithful discipleship. The first reading reminds us that those who live according to the flesh are concerned with the things of the flesh, but those who live according to the spirit with the things of the spirit. In the Gospel, Jesus teaches that if we do not repent and lead a life that bears good fruit for God, we face the prospect of eternal separation from him. PRIEST: In humble confidence that the Holy Spirit dwells in us, let us offer our petitions to God. 1) That all members of the Church may open their hearts more fully to the gifts and fruit of the Holy Spirit, let us pray to the Lord. 2) That the world will come to know Christ, and turn away from life lived solely in the flesh to a life in the Spirit, let us pray to the Lord. 3) That those who feel overwhelmed by sin will repent and open their hearts to a new life in Christ, let us pray to the Lord. 4) That our community will continue to grow more deeply in the life of the Spirit, let us pray to the Lord. 5) That those who have died may experience everlasting peace and joy in the kingdom of God, let us pray to the Lord. PRIEST: Gracious Father, you raised your Son, Jesus Christ, from death to life. Hear the prayers of your people in whom he dwells and to whom he has given new life.

SUNDAY, OCTOBER 25, 2015 THIRTIETH (Lec. 149) SUNDAY 1) Jeremiah 31:7-9 IN ORDINARY TIME 2) Hebrews 5:1-6 3) Mark 10:46-52 Turn to Jesus in faithfulness and prayer. Today s readings offer reminders that God is faithful to his covenants. We, in turn, must place our trust in him and approach him with faith-filled prayer, so that we may experience the fulfillment of his promises in our lives and hearts. The first reading from the prophet Jeremiah offers a message of hope to the people of Israel that God will act to bring them renewal and restoration. The second reading reminds us that God the Father called and appointed Christ to be the eternal high priest who intercedes on our behalf in heaven. In the Gospel, Jesus cures the blind man, Bartimaeus. PRIEST: Confident that the Lord hears the cries of those who call out to him, let us offer our petitions. 1) That members of the Church may hear the cries of the poor, serve them with compassion and treat them with dignity, let us pray to the Lord. 2) That young people discerning their vocation in life may open their hearts to the workings of the Holy Spirit, let us pray to the Lord. 3) That those with disabilities receive the support and assistance they need in order to share their many gifts with their communities, let us pray to the Lord. 4) That each of us may turn to Jesus daily and ask for the grace needed to continue to grow in our knowledge and love for him, let us pray to the Lord. 5) For our beloved dead, that they may see the face of God in heaven, let us pray to the Lord. PRIEST: Lord. Heavenly Father, with faith we ask that you hear and answer the prayers we offer through Christ our

Monday, October 26, 2015 MONDAY OF (Lec. 479) 30 TH WEEK 1) Romans 8:12-17 IN ORDINARY TIME 2) Luke 13:10-17 Jesus offers new life, healing and salvation. Today s Gospel tells of Jesus curing a woman who had been hunched over and incapable of standing upright. Jesus healing action demonstrates not only his love and care for the woman, but for all of us. For if we are open to God s grace, Jesus the divine physician will bring us new life, healing and salvation. The first reading from the Letter of Saint Paul to the Romans reminds us that when we allow the Spirit to guide and direct us, we come to live more fully as sons and daughters of God. In the Gospel, Jesus is criticized because his cure of the woman occurred on the Sabbath, and he replies, ought she not to have been set free on the Sabbath day from this bondage? PRIEST: Thankful for God s love and care for us, we bring our prayers to him. 1) For Pope Francis and all bishops, priests and deacons, may the Holy Spirit continue to guide them as they guide us, let us pray to the Lord. 2) For civic leaders, may they see and respond to the needs of the people they serve, let us pray to the Lord. 3) For people living with chronic illness or pain, may they receive comfort and relief through the hands of skilled, compassionate caregivers, let us pray to the Lord. 4) For members of this faith community, that we take time to pray every day and be open to the Spirit s guidance in our lives, let us pray to the Lord. 5) For those who have died, may they come to enjoy eternal life in heaven, let us pray to the Lord. PRIEST: Father in heaven, we ask that you hear our prayers and strengthen us with the grace we need to share your love more fully with others. We ask this through Christ our Lord.

Tuesday, October 27, 2015 TUESDAY OF (Lec. 480) 30 TH WEEK 1) Romans 8:18-25 IN ORDINARY TIME 2) Luke 13:18-21 The sufferings of the present time are as nothing compared with the glory to be revealed for us. Through the struggles we face in this life, we grow in God s grace. We can place our hope in Christ, knowing the last and greatest struggle has already been won by him on the cross. If we live according to his teachings and persevere in faith, we are promised eternal life in heaven. In the first reading, Paul instructs the Church in Rome to have hope because their present sufferings are nothing compared to the glory promised in Christ s redemption through the cross. In the Gospel, Jesus compares the kingdom of God to a mustard seed that grows into a large bush. PRIEST: We bring our prayers and burdens to God, placing our hope and trust in him. 1) For the Church, that we who have been granted the first fruits of the Spirit may bear good fruit for God through our loving words and deeds, let us pray to the Lord. 2) For the leaders of all nations, that they may seek fair wages and humane working conditions for all workers, let us pray to the Lord. 3) For health care workers, that they respect the sanctity of life from conception to natural death, let us pray to the Lord. 4) For the sick and the suffering, that they find strength in their faith and in joining their sufferings to Christ s for the salvation of the world, let us pray to the Lord. 5) For the faithful departed, that they join the angels and saints in giving glory to God in heaven, let us pray to the Lord. PRIEST: Almighty God, we ask that you answer our prayers and show us your compassion. We pray through Christ, our Lord.