OUR LITURGICAL FOUNDATION
The Prayers of the Faithful in GIRM 69–71
The General Instruction of the Roman Missal gives a clear foundation for the universal prayer: the needs of all, the prayer of the community, and sober, succinct intentions.
69 · The prayer of the whole people
In the universal prayer, the faithful respond to the word of God and exercise their baptismal priesthood by offering prayers for the salvation of all. The prayer ordinarily belongs in Masses celebrated with a congregation. Its horizon is wider than the concerns of any one person or group.
70 · The usual order of intentions
The series ordinarily remembers: the needs of the Church; public authorities and the salvation of the whole world; people burdened by any kind of difficulty; and the local community. At a particular celebration, such as Confirmation, Marriage, or a Funeral, the series may reflect the occasion more closely.
71 · The priest, the minister, and the words
The priest celebrant directs the prayer, introducing it briefly and concluding it with a prayer. The intentions are announced by the deacon, a cantor, a lector, or another member of the lay faithful. They should be sober, composed freely but prudently, and succinct, expressing the prayer of the entire community.
How this shapes our prayer sheets
Every ordinary set includes a priest’s introduction and conclusion, short intentions in the usual order, and a clear response cue. The editor supports five to seven intentions as a practical house style. That count and our word-length targets are not requirements stated by the GIRM. The final text should be reviewed by the celebrant, especially after names or local circumstances are added.
A simple example of a petition
“For those who govern nations, that God may guide their work for peace and protect the dignity of every person.” A short cue, such as “Let us pray to the Lord,” follows. The congregation responds, “Lord, hear our prayer.” The intention asks for God’s help without turning into a speech about what leaders should learn.
Do we require silent personal intentions?
The GIRM does not require an additional spoken petition for silent personal intentions in every set. A brief silence can be used according to the celebration and local practice. It should not be presented as a mandatory extra item or used to exceed the editor’s intention limit.
Guided by the GIRM is not official approval
These are original drafts prepared according to the composition principles above. This website is not an official liturgical authority and does not claim that its texts are approved by the Church. Proper liturgical books and the direction of the celebrant and diocese take precedence.
Questions or corrections? Contact Universal Prayers. For liturgical decisions about a particular Mass, consult your celebrant or diocese.