Prayer of the Faithful For 17th May 2026 Ascension of the Lord Introduction Today we are celebrating the Feast of the Ascension of the Lord. Jesus returned to the Father in glory and remains with us always. Let us pray that we may follow Him faithfully and prepare our hearts for the Holy Spirit. Prayer of the faithful Celebrant : Jesus prayed to the Father that His disciples may remain one in faith and love. Trusting in God our Father, let us place our prayers before Him. Response : Father, graciously hear us. For the Church: For the Holy Father, Bishops, Priests, Religious and the Lay faithful, that God our Father may keep them united in faith and love, we pray to the Lord. For the World: For world leaders and all people, that God our Father may help them spread the message of Jesus through love and kindness, we pray to the Lord. For Those in Need: For the sick and those who are troubled, that God our Father may give them strength and hope, we pray to the Lord. For Our Community: For our parish and families, that God our Father may help us grow in love and prepare our hearts to receive the Holy Spirit, we pray to the Lord. (Let us now pray silently for our own personal intentions and for the needs of our community…… we pray to the Lord.) Celebrant : Heavenly Father, hear the prayers we offer with faith and help us to live in unity and love through Christ our Lord. Amen. Thanksgiving Prayer Heavenly Father, we thank You for the gift of Jesus Your Son. Help us to follow Him with faith and love and prepare our hearts for the coming of the Holy Spirit. We make this prayer through Christ our Lord.   Amen.