Here are some scripture themed general intercessions for vocations to the Priesthood, Diaconate and Religious Life which may be used for the Prayer of the Faithful during Lent.
Ash Wednesday – February 22, 2023
In the letter to the Corinthians, St. Paul writes “As his fellow workers, we beg you once again not to neglect the grace of God you have received.” We pray that those whom the Lord is calling to follow him as a priest, deacon or religious, may not neglect the grace they have received and answer the call of the Lord.
First Sunday of Lent – February 26, 2023
In the Gospel we see Jesus being tempted in the desert. We pray that those who are praying and discerning about a vocation to the priesthood, the diaconate or religious life, may find the strength to overcome whatever may be tempting them away from God’s call.
Second Sunday of Lent – March 5, 2023
In today’s letter to Timothy, St Paul urges: “With me, bear the hardships for the sake of the Good News, relying on the power of God who has saved us and called us to be holy …” We pray for those who are discerning a vocation to the priesthood, diaconate or religious life, that they will rely on the power of God who calls them to live a life of holiness.
Third Sunday of Lent – March 12, 2023
The response to our psalm today is “O that today you would listen to his voice! Harden not your hearts” We pray for those who are discerning a call to live their lives in service as a priest, deacon or religious, that they may be able to listen today to the voice of the Lord in their hearts and follow in His Way.
Fourth Sunday of Lent – March 19, 2023
In our first reading (1 Samuel) we hear that “God does not see as man sees: man looks at appearances, but the Lord looks at the heart” Let us pray for those whom the Lord is calling to live their lives a s a priest, deacon or religious, that they may be guided by the holy Spirit and discern what is in their hearts.
Fifth Sunday of Lent – March 26, 2023
In our second reading, St Paul writes to the persecuted church in Rome encouraging them “Unless you possessed the Spirit of Christ you would not belong to him.” We pray for those discerning a vocation to the priesthood, diaconate or religious life, that they may be possessed by the Spirit of Christ and respond to His call.