Traditionally on this day, priests gather with their Bishop for an extraordinary Mass, the Chrism Mass. They receive the Sacred Oils that will be used throughout the year for the Sacraments of the Church and they renew and reaffirm the promises and commitment to the priesthood made at their ordination. In these extraordinary times, this Mass has been postponed. Pray in a special way for our priests and in thanksgiving for the gift of the Sacraments.
Gracious and loving God, we thank you for the gift of our priests.
Through them we experience your presence in the sacraments.
Help our priests to be strong in their vocation.
Set their souls on fire with love for your people.
Grant them the wisdom, understanding and strength they need
To follow in the footsteps of Jesus.
Inspire them with the vision of your Kingdom
Give them the words they need to spread the Gospel
Allow them to experience joy in their ministry.
Help them to become instruments of your divine grace.
In today’s readings, we find the remarkable reminder from God. Even while in the womb, he knew us intimately. We are called to place our trust and hope in Him. How intimately do I know God? Today, spend time in silent reflection with God. Find one new way to deepen your friendship with Him.
In today’s Gospel we encounter a deeply disturbed Jesus and his indescribable proclamation that one of those who he has loved so deeply will betray him. And yet, his trust and faith and love for His Father and for us, has another remarkable proclamation, “Now has the Son of man been glorified, and in him God has been glorified.” Jesus now knows the path that lies before him. He will lay down his life for us. Take time to reflect on this simple phrase, “whatsoever you do to the least of my brothers, this you do unto me.”