12 September 2025, Day of Remembrance for Unborn Children (US), The Most Holy Name of Mary

23rd WEEK IN ORDINARY TIME - FRIDAY

Gospel: Luke 6:39–42

Today we honor the Holy Name of Mary, she who bore Christ and became Mother of the Church. We also mark Unborn Child Memorial Day, entrusting every fragile life to her maternal care. On this day the world also observes the International Day for South-South Cooperation, reminding us of our shared responsibility to build solidarity and development among nations. Trusting in God, let us bring our prayers before Him: LORD, HEAR OUR PRAYER or LORD, LET US SEE WITH CLEAR EYES

1. That the Church, guided by Christ who calls us not to judge like hypocrites, may lead with humility, seeing clearly before correcting others. Let us pray to the Lord.

2. That government leaders and lawmakers may enact policies that protect the unborn, support mothers, and uphold the dignity of every human life, following the intercession of Mary, Mother of the Unborn. Let us pray to the Lord.

3. That nations of the Global South may strengthen bonds of solidarity, complementing North-South cooperation, and advancing the common good in the spirit of SDG 17: Partnerships for the Goals. Let us pray to the Lord.

4. That, inspired by the example of Mary, we may see in the poor, the vulnerable, and creation itself the face of Christ, and respond with compassion and care. Let us pray to the Lord.

5. That those who suffer in body, mind, or spirit may find hope in Christ who heals, and that we may not close our eyes to their cries. Let us pray to the Lord.

6. That the faithful departed, especially unborn children, may find eternal rest in God’s mercy, and that their families may be comforted by Mary’s maternal embrace. Let us pray to the Lord.

God our Father, you gave us the name of Mary as a refuge of hope. Through her intercession, teach us to see with clear eyes, to treasure every life, and to work in solidarity for justice, peace, and the care of creation. We ask this through Christ our Lord. Amen.

Prayer for Creation from Laudato Si’

This prayer by Pope Francis appeared at the end of his 2015 encyclical Laudato Si'. It is for all who believe in God who is the all-powerful Creator.

All powerful God,
you are present in the universe
and in the smallest of your creatures.
You embrace with your tenderness all that exists.
Pour out upon us the power of your love,
that we may protect life and beauty.
Fill us with your peace, that we may live
as brothers and sisters, harming no one.
O God of the poor,
help us to rescue the abandoned
and forgotten of this earth,
so precious in your eyes.
Bring healing to our lives,
that we may protect the world and not prey on it,
that we may sow beauty,
not pollution and destruction.
Touch the hearts
of those who look only for gain
at the expense of the poor and the earth.
Teach us to discover the worth of each thing,
to be filled with awe and contemplation,
to recognize that we are profoundly united
with every creature
as we journey towards your infinite light.
We thank you for being with us each day.
Encourage us, we pray, in our struggle,
for justice, love and peace.