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Intention

“For I was hungry and you gave me food, I was thirsty and you gave me drink, I was a stranger and you welcomed me.” Matthew 25:35

Today we pray especially for those who may be overlooked or forgotten: the poor and homeless, refugees and migrants, the unemployed, those who are sick or housebound, prisoners and their families, carers, those who are lonely or grieving, those struggling with addiction or hardship and all who feel distant from the Church.

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Reflection

On the threshold of the Ordination of our new Bishop, we turn our attention particularly to those who may find it difficult to feel that they have a place in our communities. Christ teaches that whenever we encounter someone who is hungry, thirsty, lonely, suffering or in need, we encounter Him.

Today we entrust to St Philip Howard all those whose circumstances are difficult. We pray for people whose suffering is known to many and for those whose pain is hidden. We pray that our Diocese may be a place of practical compassion, where people are welcomed, accompanied and treated with dignity.

May our new Bishop and all of us be attentive to those on the margins and may we never allow anyone to believe that they are forgotten by God.

St Philip Howard, faithful servant of Christ, pray for all who are in need.

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‍Together we pray:

Our Father…

Hail Mary…

Glory Be…

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Prayer for Bishop-elect Stephen

Lord Jesus, Good Shepherd of your people,

as Bishop-Elect Stephen prepares to receive the fullness of the sacrament of Holy Orders,

give him a shepherd's heart.

May he love every parish entrusted to his care, know the joys and struggles of your people,

and lead us always closer to you.

Through the intercession of St Philip Howard,

prepare him for his ministry among us.

Amen

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Our Lady, Assumed into Heaven, pray for us.

St Joseph, pray for us.

St Philip Howard, pray for us.

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