Prayer Celebration Directions

GATHERING SONG
GATHERING PRAYER
Leader		We honor Mary now as the Mother of God and Queen of Peace. She is our mother, too, and we honor her as the Mother of the Church. We pray together the "Memorare."
All		Remember, O most gracious Virgin Mary, that never was it known that anyone who fled to your protection, implored your help, or sought your intercession was left unaided. Inspired by this confidence, we fly unto you, O Virgin of virgins, our Mother! To you we come, before you we stand, sinful and sorrowful. O Mother of the Word incarnate, despise not our petitions, but in your mercy hear and answer us. Amen.
READING
Reader		A reading from the book of the prophet Isaiah. (Read Isaiah 61:10–11) The word of the Lord.
All		Thanks be to God.
LITANY TO MARY
Leader		We offer our prayers to Mary.
Reader		Mary, you reign in heaven with God the Father, Jesus your Son, the Holy Spirit and all the saints. We, too, wish someday to be in heaven and have eternal life. Mary Queen of Heaven,
All		Pray for us.
Reader		Mary, you want us to pray for peace. You saw the violence which hatred and prejudice caused when your Son Jesus was crucified. We ask for the grace to be people of peace. Mary, Queen of peace,
All		Pray for us.
Reader		Mary, we celebrate your queenship during this month. You have asked us to pray the Rosary. Keep us faithful to prayer in your honor throughout our lives. Mary, Queen of the Rosary,
All		Pray for us.
Reader		Mary, we are the Church, the people who are the community of believers, and you are our Mother. Mary, Mother of the Church,
All		Pray for us.
CLOSING PRAYER
Leader		Loving God, bless all of us gathered here today as you blessed Mary. You asked her to be the mother of your Son. In the same way, you ask each of us to be members of your Church. Help us to be people of peace and love. We share a sign of peace with one another. (Participants shake hands with those nearby.)
All		Amen.
CLOSING SONG