Lord, Hear Our Prayer

This collection of texts for the Prayers of the Faithful covers Sundays and major feasts for all three cycles of the liturgical year as well as Prayers of the Faithful for ritual Masses. Reflecting the themes and language of the Sunday or feast's Lectionary readings, each prayer text includes an introduction for the presider; petitions for both the universal and local Church, for those who lead and serve the Church, the nation, and the community, for the special needs of others (e.g., families, the poor, and the sick), and for the faithful departed; and the celebrant's closing collect. As prayers of the faithful belong to the community of faithful, this book can also be used as a guide by leaders and planners of worship to write and offer their own community's prayers "for the coming of your kingdom, where you live and reign forever."

Several features have been added to assist in reading: The text is broken into sense lines. In some places key words that should be emphasized appear in italics. The year (A, B, or C), week or feast (such as the First Sunday of Advent), and Reading references for that day (with a verse that captures the theme) head the prayers. The type is large and readable. A ribbon marker allows you to mark your page. The book's design makes it appropriate for use in the sanctuary.

Jay Cormier, DMin, is editor of Connections, a monthly newsletter of ideas and resources for homilists and preachers. He is also an adjunct professor of humanities and communications at St. Anselm College in Manchester, New Hampshire, and leads workshops for clergy and laity in preaching skills and liturgy. Cormier has contributed to many religious journals including America, Worship, and U.S. Catholic and is the author of several books, including The Deacon's Ministry of the Word and previous editions of Waiting in Joyful Hope: Daily Reflections for Advent and Christmas and Not by Bread Alone: Daily Reflections for Lent, published by Liturgical Press.