The Mass: Liturgy of the Word Part VIII

At last we reach the conclusion of our exploration of the second section of the Mass, The Liturgy of the Word. At every Mass, the final part of this section is the Prayer of the Faithful, also known as the “Universal Prayer.”

The presider of the Mass opens and closes this prayer. The prayer takes in a particular format. Usually prayers are offered for the needs of the Church, public authorities, those who are struggling, and the local community. In our parish, we mention those who are sick and have recently died, our departed service men and women, as well as indicate for whom the Mass is offered. It is called the Universal Prayer because we really are praying for the whole world.

If a deacon is present, typically he will offer the prayers. This is in line with a principle of his role in the Mass, that being a liaison between the assembly and the presider. The deacon, being a person working and living in secular society, is often in touch with the needs of the community, and becomes their voice to God, who always hears our prayers.

The Prayer of the Faithful is our last response to the Word of God before we enter into the Liturgy of the Eucharist. It truly helps us enter into the proper frame of mind so that we may receive Jesus’ True Presence fully in the Eucharist.

Our participation in this prayer helps to fulfill our calling as Christians that we received at baptism. The intentions we present are an opportunity for us to participate in a real and meaningful way in addressing the needs of our brothers and sisters. May we lift our prayers together at every Mass with love.

“In the Universal Prayer or Prayer of the Faithful, the people respond in some sense to the Word of God which they have just received in fath and, exercising the office of their baptismal priesthood, offer prayers to God for the salvation of all.” - General Instruction of the Roman Missal Church, no. 69.

Questions? Comments? Suggestions? Contact me at eucharist@stmli.org.