THE YEAR OF CONSECRATED LIFE PRAYER SERVICE FOR VOCATIONS

Leader: Let us begin in the name of the + Father, the Son, and the Holy Spirit. Today we pray for all those being called to the priesthood, diaconate, or religious life. May they have the courage to discern this call, listen to God’s voice, and overcome the pressures that our culture puts upon them to ignore this path in life. Reader 1: John 1: 35-42 The Word of the Lord. All: Thanks be to God.

Silent Reflection Leader: Let us offer our prayers for the fostering of vocation of people of all ages to the consecrated life. Reader 2: For young people that they may respond generously, with open hears and willing spirits, if the God calls them to consecrated life. We pray to the Lord: All: Lord, hear our prayer. Reader 3: In this year of Consecrated Life, for women and men to respond to God’s call to spread the Good News of Jesus Christ as consecrated persons. We pray to the Lord: All: Lord, hear our prayer. Reader 4: For those who encourage others to respond to God’s call, may they be inspired by the Holy Spirit to be excellent examples of their own vocation in life. We pray to the Lord: Reader 5: For the Church and all who minister in it, especially Pope Francis, our Archbishop Dennis and our Auxiliary Bishop Joseph, may they continue to guide us inspirited by their own vocation in life. We pray to the Lord: All: Lord, hear our prayer. Reader 6: For the parent of young people responding to God’s call, may they find comfort and joy in the brave answer that their children make to their vocation. We pray to the Lord:

All: Lord, hear our prayer.

Reader 7: May our families, our schools and parishes nurture a culture of vocations, making know that the consecrated life is a viable option. We pray to the Lord: Reader 7: For those preparing to make their vows and for those men religious receiving the Sacrament of Holy Orders this year, may they be strengthened in their determination to do God’s will in service to God and the Church. We pray to the Lord:

All: Lord, hear our prayer.

Leader: May Jesus give us all the courage to heed his call to discipleship and may we all be drawn into his loving care as we go out and make disciples. May God bless this Year of Consecrated Life. May it inspire many young women and men to listen for their calling. We ask this through Christ, our Lord. Amen.

All: +Sign of the Cross.