Voorbeden

Voorbeden are a standard part of Dutch-language Christian worship, consisting of intercessory prayers offered aloud during a service. The term, literally “prayers for” or “prayers offered in advance,” is used to refer to a set of petitions addressed to God on behalf of the church, the world, and people in need. In Catholic practice these prayers are often called the Prayers of the Faithful (Voorbeden) and form the General Intercessions.

Placement and leadership: They are typically proclaimed after the homily as a distinct part of the liturgy, though the exact placement may vary by denomination. A presiding priest, sometimes a deacon or lector, introduces each intention and invites the congregation to respond with a short formula such as “Amen” or “Lord, hear our prayer.” The texts can be fixed in a diocesan or parish collection or drafted anew for a given service.

Content: The intentions cover broad themes: the church and its leaders, the global community, the sick and bereaved, the dead, refugees and vulnerable people, those affected by war or disaster, and civic leaders or needs within the local community. They can be organized into groups or presented as a single list.

Notes: The term is used across several Dutch-language denominations; in Protestant churches the related term “intercessions” is common, while in Catholic contexts “voorbeden” is the standard Dutch label. While the general idea is shared, specific texts and practices vary by region, season (Advent/Lent), and local custom.