PRAYERS OF THE FAITHFUL: HOSTAGE CRISIS

MINISTRY FOR LITURGICAL AFFAIRS

121 Arzobispo St., Intramuros, Manila

TO : PARISH PRIESTS, RECTORS, CHAPLAINS OF PARISHES, SHRINES AND CHAPLAINCIES IN THE ARCHDIOCESE OF MANILA

SUBJECT: PRAYERS OF THE FAITHFUL (HOSTAGE CRISIS)

The hostage taking incident that occurred on August 23, 2010 that left 9 dead has deeply wounded our psyche and soul for its inexplicable violence and senseless brutality. That this tragic scenario played out under the glaring, and oftentimes, irresponsible coverage of the media has magnified the hurt and pain of the family, friends, countrymen of those who perished, and also of all peace-loving citizens of our nation.

In this period of mourning and self-examination we turn to our loving God, the source of all consolation, wisdom and peace. While many already have prayed and are praying for those who suffered in this unfortunate incident, we propose that we lead the congregation in a communal prayer through our prayers of the faithful. We present here two prayers to be inserted in the Prayers of the Faithful for all masses on August 29 and September 5, 2010.

May our prayers reach up to heaven to God our Father, and through His Son Jesus give us peace and through the Holy Spirit enlighten our minds and hearts.

Inserts to the Prayers of the Faithful: August 29 to September 5, 2010

1. For all who have died, especially those who lost their lives in the hostage-taking tragedy on August 23, that in death they may pass on to complete freedom, to the land where there is neither tear nor sorrow, nor anger and pain, let us pray to the Lord.

2. For our brothers and sisters who are grieving and in pain at the tragic death of loved ones, countrymen, and fellowmen, at the August 23 hostage crisis, for all of us all who witnessed this violent and senseless taking of innocent lives, that we may not allow the power of hatred to blind us but that we may discover the creative power of forgiveness and understanding to stop the cycle of violence and hatred, let us pray to the Lord.

Sincerely,

REV. FR. GENARO O. DIWA
Director
Archdiocesan Liturgical Commission