The Baptism of the Lord

The Readings

Available from the USCCB here.

First Reading Isaiah 55:1-11

Responsorial Psalm Isaiah 12:2-3, 4bcd, 5-6

You will draw water joyfully from the springs of salvation.

Second Reading 1 John 5:1-9

Gospel Mark 1:7-11

Prayers of the Faithful

• For all members of the church to spread the light and truth of Jesus’ message to the world, we pray: Hear us, Lord Emmanuel.
• For our nation’s leaders, that they put the good of the people in the forefront of the national agenda, especially during this time of COVID, we pray: Hear us, Lord Emmanuel.
• For an increase in sharing of our resources to those who need food, clothing and warmth in the winter months, we pray: Hear us, Lord Emmanuel.
• For those troubled in body, mind or soul that they find peace and healing in the words of friends and caring neighbors, we pray: Hear us, Lord Emmanuel.
• For the prayers we hold deep in our hearts today, we pray: Hear us, Lord Emmanuel.
• For Lucille Conlan; Albert, Earl & Dorothy Cady & Family; Ray Vogt; Connie Kelly; Melvin Freisinger; Roy & Millie Schlickman; and all who have died that they enjoy the rewards of their baptism in the company of the saints, we pray: Hear us, Lord Emmanuel.

Spiritual Communion Prayer

My Jesus, I believe that You are present in the Most Holy Sacrament. I love You above all things, and I desire to receive You into my soul. Since I cannot at this moment receive You sacramentally, come at least spiritually into my heart. I embrace You as if You were already there and unite myself wholly to You. Never permit me to be separated from You. Amen.

A Prayer for During the Pandemic

Holy Virgin of Guadalupe,
Queen of the Angels and Mother of the Americas.
We turn to you today as your beloved children.
We ask you to intercede for us with your Son,
as you did at the wedding in Cana.

Pray for us, loving Mother,
and gain for our nation and world,
and for all our families and loved ones,
the protection of your holy angels,
that we may be spared the worst of this illness.

For those already afflicted,
we ask you to obtain the grace of healing and deliverance.
Hear the cries of those who are vulnerable and fearful,
wipe away their tears and help them to trust.

In this time of trial and testing,
teach all of us in the Church to love one another and to be patient and kind.
Help us to bring the peace of Jesus to our land and to our hearts.

We come to you with confidence,
knowing that you truly are our compassionate mother,
health of the sick and cause of our joy.

Shelter us under the mantle of your protection,
keep us in the embrace of your arms,
help us always to know the love of your Son, Jesus. Amen.