I'm thankful for priests. Our pastor is on pilgrimage in the Holy Land right now. Normally we attend 8.00 Mass, but Kieran didn't wake up until around 7.30, so we ended up going to 9.30 Mass. A visiting priest was scheduled to celebrate Mass, but at 9.30 he wasn't there and so our two new deacons decided they'd have a communion service. I admit that I was a bit bummed about that, but I was thankful I'd still get to receive the Eucharist.
After the deacon's homily, though, it was revealed that the visiting priest had arrived. So, although he was late, we still got to have Mass! I was reminded of how blessed we are to have the priests we do.
I've posted this prayer invoking the intercession of St Jean-Baptiste Vianney before, but I think it's appropriate to post it again:
Most gracious Heavenly Father, We thank you for our faithful priests and bishops, whose spiritual fatherhood and example of fidelity, self-sacrifice, and devotion is so vital to the faith of your people.
May our spiritual fathers be guided by the example of St. John Vianney. Give them valiant faith in the face of confusion and conflict, hope in time of trouble and sorrow, and steadfast love for you, for their families, and for all your people throughout the world. May the light of your Truth shine through their lives and their good works.
Assist all spiritual fathers, that through your Grace they may steadily grow in holiness and in knowledge and understanding of your Truth. May they generously impart this knowledge to those who rely on them. Through Christ our Lord.
Amen.
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