THE KINGDOM OF HEAVEN
L : O God, come to my assistance.
A : O Lord, make haste to help me.
Glory be to the Father and to the Son and to the Holy Spirit, as it was in the beginning, is now and ever shall be, world without end. Amen.
Hymn:
O Christ, the light of heaven and the world’s true light,
You come in all your radiance to cleave the web of night.
May what is false within us before your truth give way,
That we may live untroubled with quiet hearts this day.
May steadfast faith sustain us, and hope made firm in you;
The love that we have wasted, o God of love, renew.
Blest Trinity we praise you, in whom our quest will cease;
Keep us with you for ever in happiness and peace.
Prayer:
Lord, God Almighty, you have brought us safely to the beginning of this day. Defend us today by your mighty power, so that we may not fall into sin. Protect us, so that in all our words and thoughts and actions we may be so guided by you as to day always what is holy in your sight. Amen
Scripture Reading:Parables of the treasure and of the pearl: Mat.13:44-46)
The kingdom of Heaven is like treasure hidden in a field which someone has found; he hides it again, goes off in his joy, sells everything he owns and buys the field. Again, the kingdom of Heaven is like a merchant looking for fine pearls; when he finds one of great value he goes and sells everything he owns and buys it.
-Silence for reflection-
Bidding Prayers
· Let us pray to God, who has called us to become the person He has meant us to be. That we give every person the right to live according to his nature and character.
· That we are patient with people for whom everything in life goes too fast; That we consider other people’s feeling and ideas.
· That we have patience with ourselves and do not strife after things that are beyond our capacities, but do what lies within our grasp.
· That we always be aware that we should seek the kingdom of Heaven by following in the footsteps of the chaste, poor, and obedient Christ.
· That we can presevere and grow in our vocation, and dedicated ourselves to the charism and mission of our congregation.
· Our Father......
Concluding prayer:
Lord our God, we ask you to send your Holy Spirit into our hearts, so that, guided by his inspiration, we may contribute to the coming of your kingdom here on earth and thus live and work for you glory and honour. We ask this through Christ, our Lord. Amen.
Closing Song: “God gives his people...”
God gives his people hope.
If we but trust in his word, our prayers are always heard.
He warmly welcomes anyone who’s erred.
God gives his people hope.
God gives his people love.
If we but open wide our heart, he’s sure to do his part,
He’s always the first to make a start.
God gives his people love.
