2020 brings new challenges which ask us to face ancient questions about the different ways we value life. While the society around us often shows that some lives are worth more than others, we reject that idea and all the ways in which it is demonstrated.

We are all frail, all equal, all precious.  Pope Francis, 2020

Suggested prayers for inclusion in Prayer of the Faithful

Loving God who welcomes everyone to feast at your table, help us to value and protect the vulnerable members of our families, communities, society and nation in all we do.

Loving Father, we seek wisdom to guide all who will vote in next week’s election, keeping in mind the protection of the most vulnerable who need it the most.

Almighty God, awaken in our hearts your own love for the most vulnerable members of our society. Recognising our own fragility and vulnerability, help us to protect all people, from before birth to the natural end of our lives, and to eliminate discrimination and exclusion because of illness and disability

 Ahakoa he iti, he pounamu – Although little, it is precious

Prayer for use after Communion or at home

Loving God, who calls each one of us to Respect Life,

We recognise at times we are all frail, all equal, all precious,

Each of us at times in need of protection.

We ask you to change hearts to help us value the vulnerable members

Of our families, our communities, our society.

To use our hearts and minds and strength to protect

Lives that others might cast aside.

Loving God, there is room at your banquet table for everyone.

Guide us in your revolution of tenderness

To find room also for each person at our tables and in our hearts.

Gospel for 11 October 2020

'Go out, therefore, into the main roads and invite to the feast whomever you find.’

The servants went out into the streets and gathered all they found and the hall was filled with guests.

Matthew 22

More resources for Valuing the Vulnerable are found on the NZCBC website under Resources

The idea that some lives matter less is the root of all that’s wrong with the world.