Week 23: Liturgy of the Word: Prayer of the Faithful

By Archbishop Michael Jackels

Witness Publisher

The Liturgy of the Word concludes with the Prayer of the Faithful, which is the congregation’s response to what was heard in the Mass readings.

Inspired especially by the teaching, example, and saving deeds of Jesus, in this prayer of petition we connect with others, care about them, and care for them by remembering their needs in prayer, which serves also as a pledge to serve those needs as we are able.

There is no required text, or even a set number of petitions. Traditionally, we pray for the members of the Church, for our country and local community, for peace, for job success and good harvest, for the sick, poor and needy, for those who have died, and for a happy death for ourselves.