Sixteenth Sunday in Ordinary Time (A) July 19th, 2020

As we join the unending cycle of prayer on our planet, turning through time and space, we rejoice in the upholding, the mercy and forgiveness of our heavenly Father. In all our small-mindedness we ask for his in breathing, so that we learn to look with his vision and act with his wideness of compassion.

May the Lord our God be present at all meetings and negotiations, where feelings run high, and many lives are profoundly affected by the decisions made. We pray for real communication which listens to needs and appreciates difficulties, so that we may live on this earth together in harmony and peace.

We pray for this neighbourhood and the particular problems it has; for communities split apart by conflict or crushed by tragedy. We pray for those involved with court proceedings; may our judicial system uphold the principle of justice with mercy.

We pray for those who have a raw deal in this life; for those with ongoing health problems, and all who are caught up in war and deprivation. We pray for a just and realistic sharing of our resources, and courage, support and healing for all who suffer.

We pray for those who have died and now see their lives as they really are; we pray that the Father may have mercy on them, and we thank him for all their acts of goodness and love.