Bidding prayers

Let us pray for those who are lonely...
During these dark days of winter may we all be aware that for many – the bereaved, those estranged from family, those living alone or in care and seldom having visitors, those in prison – this is an especially difficult time of the year. Let us be aware of people in this position and do what we can to care for them. 
Lord hear us..... 

Let us pray for peace... 
We remember in particular Pax Christi the catholic peace organisation which does so much to promote the peaceful resolution of conflict and campaigns against the evil of nuclear weapons. May we all in our own way seek to bring peace into our lives and in our contacts with those we meet 
Lord hear us...... 

Let us remember the poor... 
Ever growing numbers of people in our country face homelessness, hardship and want. In a rich country like ours this is a scandal. 
Pope Francis has given a clear lead in stating that our Church must be a church which prioritises care for the poor. 
We give thanks for organisations helping them including our local Foodbank and High Peak Homeless Help, and also the many national charities seeking to address this growing problem. 
Let us resolve to support them in what way we can 
Lord hear us ...................... 

For our political leaders......................... 
In our currently deeply divided nation may we as Christians show by our example tolerance of those who differ from us and help to foster that unity which Christ called for 
Lord hear us ............... 

We ask Mary to join her prayers with ours as we say - Hail Mary