When are Prayers of the Faithful Said at Mass?
The Prayers of the Faithful, also known as the Universal Prayer or General Intercessions, are an important part of the Catholic Mass. According to the General Instructions of the Roman Missal (GIRM), these prayers are typically said at a specific point in the liturgy.
The Prayers of the Faithful are offered after the Creed in the Order of Mass. They form the conclusion of the Liturgy of the Word, which precedes the Liturgy of the Eucharist. This placement is significant as it allows the congregation to respond to the Word of God they have just heard by offering prayers for the needs of the Church and the world.
The structure of the Mass places these prayers at a pivotal moment:
- After the homily, there may be a brief silence for reflection.
- If the Creed is said, it follows the period of silence.
- Immediately after the Creed, the Prayers of the Faithful are offered.
This sequence allows the faithful to profess their faith and then, rooted in that faith, to turn their attention outward in prayer for others.
It’s worth noting that on certain occasions, such as the celebration of Confirmation, the exchange of marriage vows, or funeral rites, the Prayers of the Faithful may take on a special character appropriate to the celebration and may occur at a different point in the liturgy.
In essence, the Prayers of the Faithful serve as a bridge between the Liturgy of the Word and the Liturgy of the Eucharist, allowing the congregation to bring the needs of the Church and the world before God as they prepare to participate in the Eucharistic sacrifice.