Memorial Mass for Pope John Paul II
During the Easter Season

Liturgical Information

Themes & Motives: consolation, prayer, resurrection, hope

Introit:
Other options are possible -- see Sacramentary
Just as Jesus died and rose again, so will the Father bring with him those who have died in Jesus. Just as in Adam all men die, so in Christ all will be made alive, alleluia. (I Thes 4:14; I Cor 15:22)

Opening Prayer:
Other options are possible -- see Sacramentary
Father,
eternal shepherd,
hear the prayers of your people
for your servant, John Paul,
who governed your Church with love.
In your mercy bring him with the flock entrusted to his care
to the reward you have promised your faithful servants.
We ask this through our Lord Jesus Christ, your Son,
who lives and reigns with you and the Holy Spirit,
one God, for ever and ever. Amen.

• Acts of the Apostles 10:34-43 [Peter proceeded to address the people. /v.34]
• Psalm 27:1 / 4,7 / 8,9 / 13-14 [R. The Lord is my light and my salvation. /v.1]
• I Corinthians 15:51-57 [Death is swallowed up in victory. /v.55]
• Gospel Verse: Jn 11:25,26 [I am the resurrection and the life, said the Lord: he who believes in me will not die for ever.]
• Luke 24:13-35 [The Lord has been raised! It is true! /v.33]

Prayer over the Gifts:
Other options are possible -- see Sacramentary
Lord,
in you love receive this sacrifice of peace your people offer.
We entrust your servant John Paul to your mercy with faith and confidence.
In the human family he was an instrument of your peace and love.
May he rejoice inthose gifts for ever with your saints.
be counted now among your priests in the life of your kingdom.
We ask this through Christ our Lord. Amen.

Preface for Christian Death I: [The hope of rising in Christ]
Other options are possible -- see Sacramentary
Father, all-powerful and ever-living God,
we do well always and everywhere to give you thanks
through Jesus Christ our Lord.

In him, who rose from the dead,
our hope of resurrection dawned.
The sadness of death gives way
to the bright promise of immortality.

Lord, for your faithful people life is changed, not ended.
When the body of our earthly dwelling lies in death
we gain an everlasting dwelling place in heaven.

And so, with all the choirs of angels in heaven
we proclaim your glory
and join in their unending hymn of praise:

  Holy, holy, holy Lord...

Communion Antiphon:
Other options are possible -- see Sacramentary
I am the resurrection and the life, says the Lord. If anyone believes in me, even though he dies, he will live. Anyone who lives and believes in me, will not die, alleluia (See Jn 11:25-26)

Prayer after Communion:
Other options are possible -- see Sacramentary
Lord,
at this meal of eternal life
we ask your mercy for your servant John Paul.
May he rejoice for ever in the possession of that truth
in which he made your people strong by his faith.
We ask this through Christ our Lord. Amen.