A Reflection on John Vianney
by
Most Rev. John W. Flesey
*Originally given at the Sacred Heart Cathedral Basilica
on August 4, 2009
A
Prayer for Priests
Lord
Jesus, you have chosen your priests from among us and sent them out to proclaim
your word and to act in your name.
For so great a gift
to your Church, we give you praise and thanksgiving.
We ask you to fill them with the fire of your love, that their ministry
may reveal your presence in the Church.
Since they are earthen vessels, we pray that your power shine out through
their weakness.
In their afflictions let them never be crushed; in their doubts never
despair; in temptation never be destroyed; in persecution never abandoned.
Inspire them through prayer to live each day the mystery of your dying
and rising. In
times of weakness send them your Spirit, and help them to praise your heavenly
Father and pray for poor sinners. By the same Holy Spirit put your word on their
lips and your love in their hearts, to bring good news to the poor and healing
to the brokenhearted.
And may the gift of Mary your mother, to the disciple whom you loved, be
your gift to every priest.
Grant that she who formed you in her human image, may form them in your
divine image, by the power of your Spirit, to the glory of God the Father.
Amen.