“Before, by yourself, you couldn’t. Now, you’ve turned to our Lady, and with her, how easy!”--St. Josemaria Escriva
Prayer for the Faithful at St. Francis Chapel
O Mother of Jesus, whose intercession strengthens the Church, conserve, increase and make fruitful this congregation at St. Francis Chapel. O Mary, you care for the brethren of your Son with a mother’s love; watch with maternal charity over all who rejoice today to be part of this family. Sustain our priests in their apostolate, protect travelers on their journeys, guide students who seek truth, heal the sick and afflicted, and be a bulwark for all the faithful who gather at this chapel in living out their vocations at home and in the marketplace. Blessed Mother, who have already reached the perfection of grace, mercifully pray for us that by the merits of your Son we shall increase in faith, hope and love till the consummation of heaven. Amen.
Reflection
When the wedding party at Cana ran out of wine in the midst of the festival, the stewards turned to Our Lady for help. From the very beginning Our Lady was known as one to whom others could go for aid. It was Our Lady’s desire to help the poor couple maintain the celebration of their love and of the Lord’s blessings by intervening on their behalf that brought about the first of Christ’s miracles. Her charge to the wedding stewards to “Do whatever he tells you,” is the deepest wisdom. Our Lady continues to be a help to all her children who raise their concerns to her ears.
Resolution
Is there anyone you know who us losing the joy of life due to the difficulties of these times? Ask Our Lady to help you help them.