INTRODUCTION TO THE MASS:

On this first Sunday in Lent, we learn that temptations are an ever present part of the human condition. Jesus shows us how to deal with temptation and not be mastered by it. If we are lead by the Holy Spirit, we can become stronger and have the same conviction Jesus showed. We must remain faithful to God at all times, for He is with us always.
 
Introduction to the First reading:  Deuteronomy (26:4-10 ) Moses teaches the people, the ritual they must follow and how, the priests must offer to God, the first fruits of the land, as a thanksgiving for being brought out from slavery, in Egypt, into freedom - into  the Promised Land.
 
Introduction to the second reading:  Letter of St. Paul to the Romans (10:8-13 ) St. Paul tell us to believe with our hearts and confess with our lips, for everyone who calls on the name of the Lord, will be saved.

 
PRAYERS  OF  THE  FAITHFUL
Cel:    Dear friends in Christ, as we pray for the strength, to remain faithful to God, in the face of temptation, we thank the Lord for all He has given us and place our petitions before Him, saying…
 
Our response:    Father, listen to our prayer ….
 
1.         We pray for our Pope, bishops, priests, clergy and religious, that during this Holy Season of Lent, they may be guided and strengthened, to serve Your people with dedication and courage, always following the example given by Jesus, for this we pray ……
 
2.         We lift up in prayer, all of us gathered here today, our loved ones as well, and we ask that the Lord help us learn self denial, sacrifice and repentance, so we may grow in holiness and come closer to Him, for this we pray ….
 
3.         We pray in a special way for all students, appearing for Board Examinations in the weeks ahead. Give them the strength and perseverance they need, to study hard and do their best and let them find that  peace of mind, that comes from knowing, that, as long as they have faith in You, all will be well, for this we pray …

4.         We pray for the victims of terrorism, hate and  natural disasters, be with them O Lord, during this time of trial and sorrow, and give them the courage to get up and carry on with life, for this we pray …
 
5.         For the prayers we make in the silence of our hearts ……
 
Cel:    Loving Father, as we place our concerns before You, we ask that Your loving hand always be over us, to guide and guard, comfort and bless, we make this prayer, through Christ Our Lord   Amen.