PRAYERS FOR YOUR CELEBRATION
Prayers of the Faithful for Good Shepherd Sunday
Good Shepherd Sunday is a familiar name for the Fourth Sunday of Easter. It is a fitting occasion to pray for those serving the Church and for people discerning a vocation. The intentions should ask for God’s help directly rather than turn the shepherd image into an instruction in every sentence. These sets include one focused vocation petition and retain the needs of the wider world. They are general examples for the celebration, not an automatic match to every lectionary cycle. Choose one set, consider the appointed readings, and adapt any local references to seminarians, religious communities, or parish ministry with care.
THE UNIVERSAL PRAYER
Prayers of the Faithful for Good Shepherd Sunday
PRIEST · INTRODUCTION
Trusting in the care of Christ our Good Shepherd, let us bring our needs before our heavenly Father.
Lord, hear our prayer.
For the Church throughout the world, that God may strengthen her faith and sustain her mission among all peoples.
We pray to the Lord.
For public leaders and all entrusted with authority, that the Lord may grant them wisdom and protect the people in their care.
We pray to the Lord.
For all who lack a safe home or enough to eat, that the Lord may provide help and restore their hope.
We pray to the Lord.
For those discerning priesthood, the diaconate, or religious life, that God may guide their choices and give them peace.
We pray to the Lord.
For deceased members of our families and parish, that Christ may welcome them into the joy of his kingdom.
We pray to the Lord.
For our parish and all who seek a welcome here, that the Lord may grant peace, friendship, and a sense of belonging.
We pray to the Lord.
PRIEST · CONCLUDING PRAYER
Loving Father, hear our prayers. Sustain those called to serve your Church and keep all your people in the care of Christ. Through Christ our Lord. Amen.
Click or tap any prayer text to edit. Your changes stay on this device.
PRACTICAL GUIDANCE
Preparing these prayers.
Which Sunday is Good Shepherd Sunday?
It is the Fourth Sunday of Easter. The civil date changes with Easter, so confirm the correct date for the year being prepared.
Must all six intentions be about vocations?
No. A focused petition for vocations can be included while retaining the Church, the world, those who suffer, and the local community.
Can local seminarians or communities be named?
Yes, briefly and accurately. Confirm the names and avoid turning one intention into a long catalogue of institutions or people.
