Prayer

Saint Laurence O’Toole, man of peace, you were in the middle of family and political conflict from your earliest days. Give the gift of peace and hope to all who experience the trauma of division in families, in communities and among nations.

St. Laurence O’Toole, man of prayer, you recognized the call to serve God in a particular way at Glendalough. Give the gift of perseverance to all who are discerning their Christian vocation.

St. Laurence O’Toole, man of faith, you had the openness to accept a position of leadership in your community at an early age. Bless our young people with a spirit of generosity to offer themselves in the service of the Gospel.

St. Laurence O’Toole, man of prayer, you inspired people by your commitment to the spiritual life and the recitation of the Prayer of the Church. Fill us with that desire to pray in communion with each other throughout each day.

St. Laurence O’Toole, man of faith, you opened your heart and your doors to those who were poor. Increase our awareness of those in need and inspire us to act with justice and charity at all times.

St. Laurence O’Toole, man of prayer, you were respected for your commitment to your Church and to your country. Grant us the grace to live in this world while always reflecting the eternal values of the kingdom.

St. Laurence O’Toole, man of peace, you gave your last ounce of energy in the cause of peace. Give us the gift of tirelessness as we try to live as instruments of Christ’s peace, love and tolerance. 

Amen

St. Laurence O’Toole, born Lorcán Ó Tuathail in Castledermot, Kildare, in 1128, is the patron saint of Dublin. He became Abbot of Glendalough at 25 and the first Irish Archbishop of Dublin in his early 30s. Known for his mediation skills, he gained the respect of the Irish, Vikings, and Normans. He died on November 14, 1180, in Eu, Normandy, and was made a saint in 1225.

During a time of great social change, he promoted inclusivity in his diocese and embraced different traditions. He was known for building churches, praying, and performing miracles, but his most significant contribution was his care for the poor, homeless, and orphaned children, offering them shelter in his home.