Prayer for Japan

Merciful God, you never depart from us even in the worst of times; be with us in both our joy and in our sadness. Grant your aid and encouragement to those who suffer in the face of this great calamity. We, too, continue to offer you our prayers and sacrifices for their sake. Bring us with all possible haste to the day when all can live in safety. May all those who have lost their lives in the devastation find peaceful repose in your presence. Mother Mary, pray for us. Through Christ our Lord, Amen.  [Composed by the Japanese Bishops Conference]

[Father Paul Matsumoto, C.P., Vice Provincial Superior of the Passionists in Japan]

A Passionist Companions Prayer

A Passionist Companions’ Prayer

Lord Jesus Christ, You have called me to be your companion, to walk by your side as the two disciples did on the road to Emmaus..

Give me the grace to place the message of the Cross at the centre of my life, that I may understand the scriptures and recognise you in the breaking of the bread. Following the example of Saint Paul of the Cross, may I contemplate your Passion, the great sign of your love, and find in it the strength to live as a Passionist Companion.

Help me to be faithful to prayer and to solitude, poverty and penance. Help me to grow in fraternal communion with the other members of the Passionist family. Give me the grace, Lord Jesus, to live each day in union with you, to respond in love to your presence in those who suffer, and to share with others the riches of faith, hope and love that you have given me.

Amen.

[Composed by Fr. Paul Francis Spencer, C.P.]

Prayer is an act of faith

Prayer is an act of Faith by Fr. David Colhour, C.P.  here

With thanks to the Passionists of Holy Cross Province, Studies of St. Paul of the Cross Series.

Those most dear to God ….

“We must realise that to reach a deep union with God through love, we must pass through great trials. Those who are the most dear to God are the most tried, afflicted and tempted. Even though you may be afraid that you have fallen from the grace of God, he is hidden deep within you.” (Letters of St. Paul of the Cross)