Prayers of the Faithful – First Sunday of Advent (Year A)

Priest: Brothers and sisters, as we begin a new Church year and the holy season of Advent,
let us lift our hearts in hope and prayer.
Christ our Lord will come again in glory — let us be found awake, walking in His light.

For the Holy Church of God
That in this Advent season, she may call the world to conversion —
teaching us to beat our swords into ploughshares
and to walk in the light of the Lord.
Lord, hear us. R. Lord, graciously hear us.

For Pope Leo, our bishops, priests, and deacons
that they may be true heralds of hope,
awakening in all people a deeper love for Christ and readiness for His coming.
Lord, hear us. R. Lord, graciously hear us.

For the nations of the world
that leaders may turn from pride and violence,
and seek the paths of justice and peace foretold by the prophet Isaiah.
Lord, hear us. R. Lord, graciously hear us.

For our parish community
that as Advent begins, we may wake from spiritual sleep,
cast off the works of darkness,
and put on the armour of light through prayer, repentance, and love.
Lord, hear us. R. Lord, graciously hear us.

For those weighed down by worry, loneliness, or sorrow
that the nearness of Christ may bring them comfort,
and that we may be alert to their needs with hearts ready to serve.
Lord, hear us. R. Lord, graciously hear us.

For families and children beginning this Advent
that homes may become places of prayer and preparation,
where faith is rekindled and hearts are made ready for Jesus.
Lord, hear us. R. Lord, graciously hear us.

For the faithful departed
that the Lord who comes in mercy may welcome them into His Kingdom of light and peace.
Lord, hear us. R. Lord, graciously hear us.

Priest:
Let us pause in silent prayer,
asking that our hearts may be awake and ready for the Lord who comes.
(pause briefly)

Together we turn to Mary, the first to welcome Christ with faith and love, and say:
Hail Mary, full of grace…

Priest: Lord Jesus Christ, You call us to be ready, watchful, and faithful as we await Your coming.
Strengthen our hope, purify our hearts, and make us eager to walk in Your light,
for You live and reign for ever and ever.
Amen.