Solemnity of Mary, Mother of God – 1 January 2015
Introduction: (Commentator)
Good morning ... A new year begins today and we wish one another God's blessings, good health, happiness. On this day as we celebrate the Solemnity of Mary, the Mother of God, we also include very earnestly and intently wishes and prayers for deep and lasting peace in a world beset with violence and strife, for Mary gave us Jesus Christ, the Prince of Peace. Let our sense of justice and unity, of mutual forgiveness and acceptance create the atmosphere in which peace can grow in our hearts, in our homes, in the world.
Prayers of the Faithful
For the Church – that the Church may always reflect the face of God, as a blessing for the world…
Response: E te Ariki whakarongo mai rā ki a mātou
For children – that all children may be cared for in love…
For parents – that the love of parents for their children may reflect the love of the Father for the Son, and of Mary and Joseph for Jesus born among us…
For foster parents who care for children other than their own, and for all families, whatever their circumstances, that they may love one another…
For peace – that peace may reign in our hearts, our homes, our community, our country and through the universe…
For those who have died –that they now may join the elect, with Mary, the Mother of God and all the saints…
Concluding Prayer:
O God, you come near to us, born of the Virgin Mary. She gave birth in the depths of darkness. Hear, therefore, our prayers from the depths of our hearts. We make our prayer through the One who was born of Mary, and now lives and reigns with you and the Holy Spirit, God, forever and forever. AMEN.