Mass on Founder's Day (30th September)

MAY TAKE THESE READINGS

1st Reading: 

Acts 20:17-24 Paul Speaks to the Ephesian Elders

Or -Acts 2:14-36 Peter Addresses the Crowd

Or - Acts 10: 34-43 Gentiles Hear the Good News

Gospel: 

Mt 9:35-38 Harvest is plenty, Labourers are few

Opening Prayer

Almighty and ever loving Father as we commemorate the anniversary of the death of (our Founder) Father. Peter Mermier may we be inspired by his spirit, example and teaching. Make us fully aware of our mission, totally unselfish and dedicated, full of compassion and love. Enable us to offer ourselves to the service of the Church, the society and the people. May we seek your kingdom of justice and peace, and the salvation of all. Grand this through our Lord Jesus Christ, your Son, who lives and reigns with you and the Holy Spirit, one God, for ever and ever.

Prayer Over the Gifts

Together with these offerings, Lord, accept us, all here present, the congregation, the Church and the whole creation. As you change the bread and wine into the body and blood of Christ, a pleasing sacrifice offered to you, may we become a living sacrifice dedicated and pleasing to you. May our love of renunciation be total and generous capable of overcoming every obstacle. We ask this through Christ our Lord.

Prayer after Communion.

Lord, we ask you for making us one with Jesus Christ through this Eucharist. May we be filled with his spirit. Keep us always united and enable us to love one another as brothers and sisters. Inspired by the example of St. Francis de Sales, may we become, true disciples of Christ and all to all like him. We pray that (our founder) Fr. Peter Mermier who followed Jesus after the example of St. Francis de Sales be raised to the honours of the altar. Grant this through Christ our Lord.

Prayer of the Faithful for the Founder's Day (30th September)

This Prayer of the Faithful is designed to reflect the virtues and missionary spirit of Fr. Peter Mermier, while bringing the needs of the Church, the world, and the MSFS congregation before the Lord. (Modify as per your local needs - Fr.Wilson)

Celebrant: Dear brothers and sisters, as we gather today to celebrate the legacy of our founder, Servant of God, Fr. Peter Marie Mermier, we bring our prayers and petitions before the Lord, trusting in His mercy and love.

Response: "Lord, hear our prayer."

1.  For the pope, the bishops, the clergy and the religious: That the leaders in the church, through the intercession of Fr. Peter Mermier, may continue to grow in love, humility, and missionary zeal, spreading the Gospel to the ends of the earth. Let us pray to the Lord.

Response: "Lord, hear our prayer."

2. For the Missionaries of St. Francis de Sales (MSFS): That the members of the MSFS congregation, following the example of their founder, Fr. Peter Mermier, may continue to serve with dedication, humility, and compassion, bringing the love of God to the marginalized and forgotten. Let us pray to the Lord.

Response: "Lord, hear our prayer."

3.  For Religious and Missionaries Worldwide: That all those consecrated to religious life may be inspired by Fr. Mermier’s life of service, living their vocations with deep faith, courage, and trust in God’s providence. Let us pray to the Lord.

Response: "Lord, hear our prayer."

4.  For the Growth of Vocations: That young men and women may be inspired by the missionary spirit of Fr. Peter Mermier, responding generously to the call of the Lord to serve in the priesthood, religious life, and missionary work. Let us pray to the Lord. Response: "Lord, hear our prayer."

5.  For the Poor and Marginalized: That, following the example of Fr. Mermier’s deep compassion for the poor, we may work tirelessly to uplift the lives of those who are vulnerable, marginalized, and suffering, showing them the love and dignity they deserve. Let us pray to the Lord.

Response: "Lord, hear our prayer."

6.  For Peace in the World: That through the gentle and loving example of St. Francis de Sales and Fr. Mermier, all people may work toward peace, reconciliation, and justice in our world, especially in areas torn by war, violence, and division. Let us pray to the Lord.

Response: "Lord, hear our prayer."

7.  For All Gathered Here: That as we honour Fr. Peter Mermier today, we may be renewed in our commitment to live out our faith with humility, dedication, and missionary zeal, bringing the light of Christ to those around us. Let us pray to the Lord.

Response: "Lord, hear our prayer."

8.  For the Canonization of Fr. Peter Mermier: That our beloved founder, Fr. Peter Mermier, a Servant of God, may one day be canonized, and that his life of holiness and missionary service may continue to inspire generations to come. Let us pray to the Lord.

Response: "Lord, hear our prayer."

Celebrant: Heavenly Father, we thank You for the life and legacy of the Servant of God, Fr. Peter Marie Mermier, Your faithful servant. As we honour him today, we ask that You hear these prayers and grant them according to Your holy will. We ask this through Christ our Lord. Amen.