The Great Intercession

The litany or prayer of intercession originally occurred before the Anaphora. However, in many liturgies, it was later transferred to the Anaphora, as the prayer of intercession was believed to have special efficacy in the presence of the Body and Blood of Christ.

St. Cyril of Jerusalem states:
“It will be a great benefit to those souls for whom prayer is offered, while the holy and most sacred sacrifice lies before us.”

Six Prayers of Intercession:

• Three for the Living:
  • The Pope, bishops, and pastors.
  • The faithful Christian people.
  • Christian kings.
• Three for the Dead:
  • The Saints.
  • The Fathers of the Church.
  • The faithful departed (specific names may be mentioned here).

For each intercession:

• The priest offers two prayers: one silently and the other aloud.
• The deacon exhorts the people to pray.
• The people respond with Kurie eleison (Lord, have mercy).