B A L I T A A N

Pope Francis addressed the faithful gathered at St. Peter's Square on the occasion of World Day of Vocations, 2013:

Look! I would like to ask you: have you sometimes heard the Lord’s voice, in a desire, in a worry, did he invite you to follow him more closely? Have you heard him? ... Have you wanted to be apostles of Jesus? We must bet on youth for the great ideals. Do you think this? Do you agree? Ask Jesus what he wants of you and be brave! Be brave! Ask him this!

Behind and before every vocation to the priesthood or to the consecrated life there is always the strong and intense prayer of someone: a grandmother, a grandfather, a mother, a father, a community.... This is why Jesus said: “Pray therefore the Lord of the harvest”, that is, God the Father, “to send out labourers into his harvest.” (Mt 9:38). Vocations are born in prayer and from prayer; and only through prayer can they persevere and bear fruit.

Prayer for the 2020 Province Chapter

God of mercy and compassion, You have called us and sent us to be the living images of Jesus the Good Shepherd in the midst Your flock.  You have journeyed with us through dark valleys and green pastures.

As we prepare for our Province Chapter, renew and transform our hearts with Your love.  Together as mission partners, both sisters and lay, make us sensitive to the power of the Spirit within and around us. Enable us to enter into the discernment process with an open mind, open heart and open will.  May we accept our reality, see the world as it is, discover creative possibilities and move into the emerging future that is calling us.

Energized by Your love, impel us to find new ways forward to respond to the cry of the poor and of the Earth. Gifted with the zeal of St. John Eudes and St. Mary Euphrasia, make us passionate for mission. Empower us to face the many challenges of our times with audacity and hope. In our weakness may we find in You our strength so that our struggles will lead to transformation and bring forth new life.

Amen.