Examples of Bidding Prayers for Catholic Mass (Full Prayers)

Bidding prayers, also known as the Universal Prayer or Prayers of the Faithful, are intercessory prayers offered during the Catholic Mass, typically after the homily. They include petitions for the Church, the world, those in need, and the local community. Below are five examples of bidding prayers, each crafted for a general Sunday Mass, covering a range of intentions.

  1. For the Church
    Heavenly Father, we pray for Your holy Church throughout the world. Guide Pope Francis, our bishops, and all clergy in their mission to proclaim Your truth and love. May they lead with wisdom and courage, uniting Your people in faith. We ask this through Christ our Lord. Amen.

  2. For World Leaders
    Lord, inspire the leaders of all nations to govern with justice and compassion. Grant them wisdom to promote peace, protect the vulnerable, and uphold the dignity of every person. We ask this through Christ our Lord. Amen.

  3. For the Sick and Suffering
    Merciful God, comfort those who are sick, suffering, or in distress, especially those in our parish community. Heal their bodies and souls, and give strength to their caregivers. We ask this through Christ our Lord. Amen.

  4. For Peace in the World
    Almighty Father, bring peace to regions torn by war, violence, and division. Soften hearts hardened by hatred and guide humanity toward reconciliation and unity. We ask this through Christ our Lord. Amen.

  5. For Vocations
    Loving God, call forth men and women to serve You in the priesthood, religious life, and lay ministries. Fill them with Your Spirit to dedicate their lives to Your kingdom. We ask this through Christ our Lord. Amen.

  6. For Families
    Lord Jesus, bless all families, especially those struggling with discord or hardship. Strengthen their love and unity, and help them grow closer to You through prayer and sacrifice. We ask this through Christ our Lord. Amen.

  7. For the Poor and Marginalized
    Heavenly Father, look with compassion on the poor, the homeless, and those marginalized by society. Inspire us to share our resources and advocate for their dignity. We ask this through Christ our Lord. Amen.

  8. For the Deceased
    Eternal God, welcome into Your kingdom all who have died, especially those from our parish. Grant them eternal rest and comfort their loved ones with Your peace. We ask this through Christ our Lord. Amen.

  9. For Our Parish Community
    Lord, unite our parish in faith and charity. May we support one another in prayer and good works, reflecting Your love in our community. We ask this through Christ our Lord. Amen.

  10. For the Environment
    Creator God, help us to be faithful stewards of Your creation. Guide us to protect our planet and its resources for future generations. We ask this through Christ our Lord. Amen.

  11. For Those Seeking God
    Loving Father, draw those who are searching for meaning and truth closer to Your Son, Jesus. Open their hearts to Your grace and the gift of faith. We ask this through Christ our Lord. Amen.

  12. For Children and Youth
    Lord Jesus, watch over the children and youth of our world. Guide them in faith, protect them from harm, and inspire them to follow Your path. We ask this through Christ our Lord. Amen.

  13. For Reconciliation
    God of mercy, heal broken relationships in families, communities, and nations. Grant the grace of forgiveness and the courage to seek reconciliation. We ask this through Christ our Lord. Amen.

  14. For Missionaries
    Almighty God, strengthen missionaries who spread Your Gospel in distant lands. Protect them and make their work fruitful for Your kingdom. We ask this through Christ our Lord. Amen.

  15. For the Unemployed
    Compassionate Lord, provide opportunities for those seeking work. Grant them hope and perseverance, and inspire employers to act with fairness. We ask this through Christ our Lord. Amen.

  16. For Refugees and Migrants
    Heavenly Father, embrace refugees and migrants fleeing danger. Provide them safety, shelter, and a warm welcome in new lands. We ask this through Christ our Lord. Amen.

  17. For the Persecuted
    Lord Jesus, strengthen those persecuted for their faith. Grant them courage to stand firm and inspire us to pray and act for their freedom. We ask this through Christ our Lord. Amen.

  18. For Expectant Mothers
    Loving God, bless expectant mothers with health and peace. Protect their unborn children and guide them through the gift of motherhood. We ask this through Christ our Lord. Amen.

  19. For Teachers and Educators
    Lord, bless teachers and educators who shape young minds. Grant them wisdom and patience to lead their students in truth and virtue. We ask this through Christ our Lord. Amen.

  20. For the Lonely
    Merciful God, comfort those who feel lonely or abandoned. Surround them with Your love and inspire us to reach out with friendship. We ask this through Christ our Lord. Amen.

  21. For the Elderly
    Heavenly Father, care for the elderly in our communities. Grant them health, dignity, and the joy of knowing they are loved. We ask this through Christ our Lord. Amen.

  22. For Unity Among Christians
    Lord Jesus, unite all Christians in Your love. Heal divisions and guide us toward the unity You prayed for at the Last Supper. We ask this through Christ our Lord. Amen.

  23. For Those Preparing for Sacraments
    Almighty God, guide those preparing for Baptism, Confirmation, or Marriage. Fill them with Your Spirit and prepare their hearts for Your grace. We ask this through Christ our Lord. Amen.

  24. For the Hungry
    Lord, provide food for the hungry and inspire us to share our abundance. May no one go without the nourishment they need. We ask this through Christ our Lord. Amen.

  25. For First Responders
    Heavenly Father, protect firefighters, police officers, and medical workers. Grant them strength and safety as they serve others. We ask this through Christ our Lord. Amen.

  26. For Prisoners
    Lord Jesus, bring hope to those in prison. Guide them toward repentance and renewal, and inspire us to offer them compassion. We ask this through Christ our Lord. Amen.

  27. For the Addicted
    Merciful God, free those struggling with addiction. Grant them strength to seek help and surround them with supportive communities. We ask this through Christ our Lord. Amen.

  28. For Scientists and Researchers
    Creator God, guide scientists and researchers in their pursuit of truth. May their work serve humanity and honor Your creation. We ask this through Christ our Lord. Amen.

  29. For the Grieving
    Loving Father, comfort those who mourn the loss of loved ones. Wrap them in Your peace and lead them to hope in eternal life. We ask this through Christ our Lord. Amen.

  30. For Volunteers and Charities
    Lord, bless those who volunteer their time and talents for others. Strengthen charities that serve the poor and spread Your love. We ask this through Christ our Lord. Amen.

  31. For Travelers
    Heavenly Father, protect those traveling near and far. Guide them safely to their destinations and bring them home to their loved ones. We ask this through Christ our Lord. Amen.

  32. For the Media
    Lord Jesus, inspire those in the media to report with truth and integrity. May their work promote justice and understanding. We ask this through Christ our Lord. Amen.

  33. For the Unborn
    Almighty God, protect all unborn children and their mothers. Inspire our society to cherish the gift of life from conception. We ask this through Christ our Lord. Amen.

  34. For Those in Despair
    Merciful Lord, lift up those who feel hopeless or despairing. Fill them with Your light and guide them to Your love. We ask this through Christ our Lord. Amen.

  35. For Thanksgiving
    Heavenly Father, we thank You for Your countless blessings. Help us to live with grateful hearts and share Your love with all we meet. We ask this through Christ our Lord. Amen.


7 Real Life Stories and Bible Stories

  1. Real Life Story: Maria’s Parish Prayer
    Maria in California organized bidding prayers for her parish, including the “Prayer for the Sick” (Prayer #3). When a parishioner recovered from cancer, the community credited their collective prayers.

  2. Bible Story: The Good Samaritan (Luke 10:25-37)
    Jesus told of a Samaritan who helped a wounded man, reflecting the “Prayer for the Poor” (Prayer #7). This story inspires prayers for compassion toward those in need.

  3. Real Life Story: John’s Peace Initiative
    John in Chicago included the “Prayer for Peace” (Prayer #4) in his parish’s Mass. After praying for a local ceasefire, community violence decreased, strengthening their faith.

  4. Bible Story: The Feeding of the 5,000 (John 6:1-15)
    Jesus fed a multitude with five loaves and two fish, aligning with the “Prayer for the Hungry” (Prayer #24). This miracle encourages prayers for provision.

  5. Real Life Story: Sarah’s Vocations Prayer
    Sarah in Texas prayed the “Prayer for Vocations” (Prayer #5) during Mass. Her son later discerned a call to the priesthood, which she attributed to these prayers.

  6. Bible Story: The Centurion’s Faith (Matthew 8:5-13)
    A centurion asked Jesus to heal his servant, showing great faith. This story connects to the “Prayer for the Sick” (Prayer #3), encouraging trust in God’s healing power.

  7. Real Life Story: Paul’s Community Prayer
    Paul in Ohio led the “Prayer for Our Parish Community” (Prayer #9) during Mass. It fostered unity, leading to increased participation in parish events.


7 Comments by People

  1. “Including the ‘Prayer for Peace’ in Mass has united our parish in hope.” – Maria, California

  2. “Praying for the sick during Mass brought comfort to my family.” – John, Illinois

  3. “The ‘Prayer for Vocations’ inspired my daughter to consider religious life.” – Sarah, Texas

  4. “Our parish’s prayer for the poor motivated us to start a food drive.” – David, Florida

  5. “The ‘Prayer for the Deceased’ helps us honor those we’ve lost.” – Emily, Ohio

  6. “Praying for families during Mass strengthened our home life.” – Claire, Pennsylvania

  7. “The ‘Prayer for the Environment’ reminds us to care for God’s creation.” – Mark, New York


10 Bible Verses

  1. 1 Timothy 2:1-2 – “I urge, then, first of all, that petitions, prayers, intercession and thanksgiving be made for all people—for kings and all those in authority.”

  2. James 5:16 – “The prayer of a righteous person is powerful and effective.”

  3. Philippians 4:6 – “Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God.”

  4. Matthew 5:44 – “Pray for those who persecute you.”

  5. Psalm 34:18 – “The Lord is close to the brokenhearted and saves those who are crushed in spirit.”

  6. John 17:20-21 – “I pray also for those who will believe in me… that all of them may be one.”

  7. Isaiah 58:6 – “Is not this the kind of fasting I have chosen: to loose the chains of injustice… to set the oppressed free?”

  8. Psalm 23:4 – “Even though I walk through the darkest valley, I will fear no evil, for you are with me.”

  9. Luke 11:1 – “Lord, teach us to pray, just as John taught his disciples.”

  10. Colossians 4:2 – “Devote yourselves to prayer, being watchful and thankful.”


3 Stories of Random Catholic Saints

  1. St. Vincent de Paul (1581–1660)
    St. Vincent dedicated his life to serving the poor, aligning with the “Prayer for the Poor” (Prayer #7). His work with the marginalized inspires prayers for those in need.

  2. St. Teresa of Calcutta (1910–1997)
    Mother Teresa cared for the sick and dying, reflecting the “Prayer for the Sick” (Prayer #3). Her compassion encourages intercessory prayers for the suffering.

  3. St. John Vianney (1786–1859)
    The Curé of Ars prayed tirelessly for his parish, much like the “Prayer for Our Parish Community” (Prayer #9). His devotion inspires communal prayer during Mass.


5 Stories of Jesus Christ’s Encounters with People

  1. The Woman at the Well (John 4:1-42)
    Jesus offered a Samaritan woman “living water,” leading to her conversion. This aligns with the “Prayer for Those Seeking God” (Prayer #11).

  2. Zacchaeus the Tax Collector (Luke 19:1-10)
    Jesus called Zacchaeus, transforming his life. This connects to the “Prayer for the Poor” (Prayer #7), showing Christ’s care for the marginalized.

  3. The Healing of the Blind Man (John 9:1-12)
    Jesus healed a blind man, reflecting the “Prayer for the Sick” (Prayer #3). His compassion inspires prayers for healing.

  4. Mary Magdalene at the Tomb (John 20:11-18)
    Jesus appeared to Mary after His resurrection, offering hope. This aligns with the “Prayer for the Grieving” (Prayer #29).

  5. The Centurion’s Servant (Matthew 8:5-13)
    Jesus healed the centurion’s servant, showing faith’s power. This connects to the “Prayer for the Sick” (Prayer #3).


10 Prophetic Declarations

  1. The Church will shine as a beacon of Christ’s love through our prayers.

  2. World leaders will seek God’s wisdom for justice and peace.

  3. The sick and suffering will find healing in God’s mercy.

  4. Peace will prevail in troubled regions through our intercessions.

  5. Vocations will flourish as God calls more to His service.

  6. Families will grow in unity and faith through Christ’s grace.

  7. The poor and marginalized will receive God’s provision and love.

  8. The deceased will rest in God’s eternal peace.

  9. Our parish will thrive as a community of faith and charity.

  10. Creation will be honored as we steward God’s gifts.


10 Prayer Points

  1. Pray for the Church’s leaders to guide with wisdom and faith.

  2. Ask for peace and justice in the world through wise leadership.

  3. Seek healing and comfort for the sick and suffering.

  4. Pray for an end to violence and division in troubled areas.

  5. Request more vocations to the priesthood and religious life.

  6. Ask for strength and unity in families.

  7. Pray for provision and dignity for the poor and marginalized.

  8. Seek eternal rest for the deceased and comfort for their families.

  9. Pray for your parish to grow in faith and community.

  10. Ask for wisdom to care for God’s creation responsibly.


Meditation Writeup: Reflecting on the Prayers of the Faithful

Before or after Mass, find a quiet space, perhaps in a church pew or at home with a crucifix. Begin with the “Prayer for the Church” (Prayer #1). Close your eyes, breathe deeply, and invite the Holy Spirit to guide your reflection.

Meditate on 1 Timothy 2:1-2—“Petitions, prayers, intercession and thanksgiving be made for all people.” Picture the Church universal, from Pope Francis to your local parish, united in prayer. Reflect on the needs of the world—peace, healing, provision—and how your prayers join the Body of Christ in lifting these intentions.

Recall The Good Samaritan (Luke 10:25-37), where compassion moved a man to help another. Consider how your bidding prayers can inspire action, like helping the poor or comforting the grieving. Pray the “Prayer for the Poor” (Prayer #7), offering specific needs in your community to God.

Make a prophetic declaration: “My prayers will unite the Church in God’s love.” Conclude with the Sign of the Cross, carrying the spirit of intercession into your day. Repeat this meditation weekly to deepen your participation in the Prayers of the Faithful.


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