Nineteenth Sunday in Ordinary Time (A) August 9th, 2020

We pray for the gift of deeper faith in God, so that we trust him in a way that alters our dependence on everything else, and allows us clearer vision as to the direction and role of the Church. May he remind us that it is his Church, and not ours; his work, his power and his kingdom.

As we call to mind the stormy areas of our world, the raging and the insecurity, the confusion and bewilderment, the restlessness and fear, may the calming and reassuring presence of the Lord be sensed and recognised, bringing peace and goodness, righteousness and hope.

May the Lord come to us in the storms of life, when we let one another down, mishandle opportunities and come to the end of our strength or patience; may he bless us with his faithful love.

We pray for those whose emotional damage makes trusting and receiving seem threatening and dangerous. We pray for peace of mind for the anxious, and hope for all who are close to despair.

We place into the loving keeping of the faithful God all those who have died, knowing their dependence on him and his limitless mercy. We thank him for them and their gifts to the world, come to him across the waters of death and live in his company for ever.