On the Feast of the Exaltation of the Cross we pray at the foot of the cross. Missionary Servants of the Most Blessed Trinity sisters were joined by others as we gathered around the mission cross at several of our sites. We invite you to join with us virtually in prayer.
Feast of the Exaltation of the Cross
Prayer at the Mission Cross
for the Suffering of the World
September 14, 2020
On the feast of the Exaltation of the Holy Cross, we pray at the foot of the
Cross for a world that is suffering. Remembering the words of St. Pope John
Paul II we join in “the unceasing effort to stand beside the endless Crosses on which the Son of God continues to be crucified.”
O God our Healer, show your compassion for the whole human family that is in
turmoil and burdened with illness and with fear. Hear our cry, O God.
We place in your gentle Heart Oh Christ, the elderly, the frail, people
with disability, prisoners, children, young people and families, our
indigenous peoples, all people of color, those who are poor, lonely and
isolated. As you walk with us, free them from fear, and give them patience
and hope.
Sustain all workers and business owners who suffer loss of livelihood due
to shut-downs, quarantines, closed borders, and other restrictions…
protect and guard all those who must travel.
For those throughout the world who care for the sick, especially those with COVID-19.
When they diagnose… give them patience.
When they protect the vulnerable… give them your protection.
When they work to heal… give them strength.
When they comfort… give them consolation.
When they are tired… give them rest.
When they are discouraged… bring them your hope.
For those seeking a cure for the virus
Come, Holy Spirit, enlighten the minds of women and men of medical science who are working to find a solution to this viral infection. Guide their research and help them discover what you provide in creation, sure ways of control, protection, inoculation and healing. Strengthen them in their tiring
work and enrich in them the virtue of hope.
For those who govern and represent us
Eternal Wisdom, guide leaders called to serve us in our nation and in our world. May they respond to the challenges of this affliction with prudence and sound judgement. With foresight, may their planning alleviate the economic burdens, compensate for losses, protect employment and ensure ample food for the poor and isolated. Amen.
For those who have died of the coronavirus
Hold in your gentle embrace all who have died and who will die this day.
Comfort their loved ones in their despair. Hear our cry, O God.
Merciful Lord, we stand before you in our human weakness.
We confess that we have been caught up in the pride and presumption that drives our worldly society. Free us from the arrogance that afflicts our age, for now we stand confounded by conditions beyond our control or understanding.
Give us humble and honest hearts to discern the greater mystery of your providence in creation. May we accept your justice and trust your redeeming mercy. Amen.
We adore You, Oh Christ, and we bless you,
because by your Holy Cross You have redeemed the world.
