Praying Together 2021

58 Gather Light a candle as a sign of God’s presence and sit quietly. Ring a bell or chime to start the prayer. The Lord be with you. Alleluia! And with your spirit. Alleluia! COLLECT As we rejoice in the many gifts God gives us, let us pray. (pause ) Ever generous God, you bless us with so many wonderful gifts. May we take care of all you have given to us and always remember to thank you with a joyful heart. Through Christ our Lord. Amen. SCRIPTURE A reading from the first letter of St Paul to the Thessalonians 5:16-18 Brothers and sisters: Always be joyful and never stop praying. Whatever happens, keep thanking God because of Jesus Christ. This is what God wants you to do. The word of the Lord. Thanks be to God. RESPONSE In today’s reading, St Paul reminds us to always be joyful and to keep thanking God! What are you grateful for today? Invite the young people to share their responses. The prayer leader may like to take a large sheet of paper, write “Thank you God for..” and record everyone’s responses. Watch and listen as the list grows. There are so many things to thank God for! DISMISSAL May the joy of the Spirit fill our lives. Alleluia! Alleluia! May God bless us in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Spirit. Amen. Ring the bell or chime to signal the end of the prayer. Extinguish the candle. “Always be joyful and never stop praying.” Monday Week 3 Easter 19 April 2021