Prayer Celebration Directions

GATHERING SONG (Display posters during Liturgy.)
Leader		We join in thankful prayer for the life of Saint Elizabeth Ann Seton. She is a model for us today because, following God’s word, she lived her life for others—the way Jesus wants each of us to live. As we listen to God’s word in Scripture, may our minds and hearts hear what God is asking of each of us.
READING
Reader 1		A reading from the Gospel of Matthew (Matthew 13:10–17.) The Gospel of the Lord.
All		Praise to you, Lord Jesus Christ.
RESPONSE
Reader 2		Faith is a precious gift from God. Elizabeth Ann Seton received that gift and lived it throughout her life. We are called to look at our lives. How are we living our faith? As we listen to the music, we pray for the strength to continue to follow God’s way in our lives. (All pray silently during the meditation music.)
PRAYER OF THANKSGIVING
Leader		Let us pray.
Reader 3		God, you have given each of us a gift, the gift of faith.
All		For the gift of faith, we thank you.
Reader 3		Elizabeth Ann Seton helped others find you in their lives.
All		For the gift of Elizabeth Ann Seton, we thank you.
Reader 3		Elizabeth Ann Seton helped Catholic education take root in our country.
All		For the gift of a religious education, we thank you.
Reader 3		In the Scriptures, at Mass, and in our prayers, we hear your word.
All		For the gift of your word, we thank you.
Leader		God of all the saints, holy people like Elizabeth Ann Seton are reflections of your love and sense of justice. Help us to live your word faithfully like Elizabeth so that we may teach others your love an just ways. We ask this through Jesus Christ our Lord.
All		Amen.
CLOSING SONG