27th SUNDAY IN ORDINARY TIME - World Teachers' Day, World Space Week

27th SUNDAY IN ORDINARY TIME

World Teachers' Day, World Space Week 

Gospel: Luke 16:19–31

On this day, as we celebrate World Teachers’ Day and World Space Week, we give thanks for all who open minds to wisdom and lead humanity to new horizons of understanding. With faith as small as a mustard seed, we bring our prayers before the Lord: LORD, HEAR OUR PRAYER or STRENGTHEN OUR FAITH, O LORD.

1. That the Church, our teacher in faith, may continue to proclaim God’s truth with humility and courage, forming believers who serve others with love and integrity. Let us pray to the Lord.

2. That government leaders, educators, and scientists may work together to uphold truth, justice, and peace—using knowledge to serve humanity and creation, especially as the world reflects on this year’s World Space Week theme, “Living in Space.” Let us pray to the Lord.

3. That teachers everywhere may find joy in their vocation as they guide the young toward truth and goodness. May they be strengthened in their noble task of shaping minds and hearts for the common good. Let us pray to the Lord.

4. That those who struggle with doubt, ignorance, or lack of opportunity may be enlightened by the light of learning and supported by communities that believe in their potential. Let us pray to the Lord.

5. That the faithful departed, especially teachers, mentors, and scientists who sought wisdom and truth, may now rejoice in the infinite knowledge and love of God. Let us pray to the Lord.

God of wisdom and wonder, You call us to faith that moves mountains and minds that seek understanding. Bless our teachers, leaders, and dreamers who help humanity reach for the stars while remaining grounded in Your truth. 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.