About the Mass Series:Liturgy of the Word: General Intercessions Part 1

ABOUT THE MASS SERIES:

THE MASS; ABOUT THE MASS ICON.

Liturgy of the Word: General Intercessions Part 1 

Historically, General Intercessions have been part of the Liturgy of the Word. In the Synagogue Liturgy, there was a series of 18 blessings containing requests for individuals and universal needs.

By the second century a similar prayer became a fixed part of eastern and western liturgies. Writings of St. Justin the martyr at this time describe the celebration of Baptism, and included ‘the offering of prayers in common for ourselves, for him who had just been enlightened and for people everywhere’. Interestingly, these prayers were considered so significant that the catechumens (those preparing for Baptism) could not be present for them and were dismissed beforehand. 

Although these prayers are properly called the ‘General Intercessions’ since they extend beyond the needs and concerns of the local congregation, they are frequently called ‘Prayers of the Faithful’, since historically the catechumens were dismissed. In our Liturgy today, the remnant of the ancient form of this prayer at Rome is still found in the Solemn Prayers of Good Friday.  

 The General Intercessions are an integral part of the Liturgy of the Word. In the Liturgy of the Word, we as a congregation present our face to God, and allow the features of the divine message to be drawn there, as in a mirror.  However, in the General Intercessions, we present to God this face marked by the Word we have heard.

We know in faith that God always hears our prayers, so we can be confident to pray for the needs and concerns of the world and the Church, as we respond from our hearts ‘Lord hear our prayer’.