Gentle God,
You call us by name and lead us to life.
Through baptism you commission us to proclaim the Good News.

Bless and strengthen all men and women,
Lay and ordained, who serve in the church.
Guide and give wisdom to those discerning their vocation.
Enrich our Church with dedicated married and single people,
with priests, religious and deacons.

Filled with joy and your Holy Spirit may we follow Jesus, our Good Shepherd,
now and always.   Amen.

 

The historical origin of Priests and Bishops extends back to the Twelve Apostles appointed by Jesus Christ. At a Priest’s ordination, Holy Orders, he promises, with the help of the Holy Spirit, to care for God’s flock, preach the Gospel, teach the Catholic faith, celebrate the sacraments especially the Eucharist and Reconciliation, and pray unceasingly.
This Novena, seeking the Blessed Virgin Mary’s help for all Priests and Religious, can be said during any nine-day period.

O Mary, Mother of Jesus,
you were with Him from the beginning of His life on earth and throughout His Ministry.
You stood beside Him when He was lifted high on a cross and gave His life for all.
O Mary, we ask you now to be with our Priests,
who give themselves in service to God’s people.
Intercede for them that they may grow in holiness;
proclaim God’s word with courage;
celebrate the sacraments with joy;
and be among God’s people as Jesus, the Good Shepherd, was.
We offer this prayer to God the Father,
through your intercession,
in the name of your Son, Jesus,
and through the power of the Holy Spirit. Amen.

… Mary Queen of Heaven: Pray for our Priests …