A priest, deacon or lay member of the parish can help prepare the Prayers of the Faithful. The parish decides who drafts the intentions; the writer does not have to be the person who reads them at Mass.
The General Instruction of the Roman Missal distinguishes the ministries exercised during Mass. Its directions on the Universal Prayer do not designate one exclusive author. Here are the people who may contribute to a parish draft:
- Liturgical Committees: Many parishes have committees dedicated to preparing the Prayers of the Faithful. These groups ensure that the prayers align with the liturgical calendar and reflect the needs of the community.
- Priests or Deacons: A priest or deacon may prepare the draft intentions, working with those responsible for the parish liturgy. A deacon assists at Mass; he is not its celebrant.
- Members of the Congregation: In some parishes, parishioners are encouraged to submit their own prayer intentions. These contributions can be included in the Prayers of the Faithful, promoting community involvement.
Who leads and reads the intentions at Mass?
The priest celebrant leads the Universal Prayer, beginning with an invitation and ending with a concluding prayer. The intentions are announced by the deacon or by a cantor, reader or another lay member of the faithful. The whole assembly participates through its response or silent prayer.
These roles are set out in GIRM 69-71. Being asked to read the intentions does not, by itself, mean you must also write them.
Guidelines for writing the prayers
When preparing a draft, I recommend these practical checks:
- Concise: Each intention should be clear and to the point.
- Inclusive: The prayers should reflect the needs of the Church, the world, and the local community.
- Prayerful: Name a need the whole assembly can pray for, without turning the intention into an announcement or personal commentary.
Who should check the draft?
Agree the draft and any named intentions with the person responsible for liturgy in your parish before Mass. Check names, the response and any local guidance. If you are supplying a draft for a wedding or funeral, send it early enough for review.
Sources and next steps
General Instruction of the Roman Missal: paragraphs 69-71 describe the Universal Prayer, paragraph 93 the priest’s ministry, and paragraph 111 the shared preparation of the celebration. Follow the liturgical guidance applicable in your country and parish.
For the next stage, see a complete example with the response or how to read the intentions at Mass. When preparing a funeral, see writing funeral intercessions.