Reflection
It is with both sadness and joy that we reflect on the life of Pope Francis this week as we heard the news of his passing. The students at St Bede's over the years have engaged with some of his teachings, in particular as we continue to explore his encyclical Laudato Si. The focus of this teaching was helping us to understand the importance of caring for our common home. The words in this papal writing connected beautifully with our study of the concept Sustainability.
Prayer of the Faithful
For Pope Francis, who proclaimed the joy of the Gospel, that the merciful Lord, Jesus Christ, may accompany him to our heavenly homeland. Lord, hear us. Lord hear our prayer
For the Church, having been led by Pope Francis, that we can now continue to listen to the Holy Spirit in our lives to hear God’s call for the future. Lord, hear us. Lord hear our prayer
For Christians everywhere, that the life of Pope Francis can continue to inspire greater closeness to Christ in our earthly lives. Lord, hear us. Lord hear our prayer
That the tireless efforts of Pope Francis, now called to the Lord, may bear fruit in unity, peace, and love among all men and women. Lord, hear us. Lord hear our prayer
For the sick, that they may be comforted by their loved ones and accompanied in their time of distress, taking hope and inspiration from Pope Francis’ trials in his illness. Lord, hear us. Lordhear our prayer
For all those who have died, that they too may share in Christ’s resurrection and enter joyfully intoheaven with Pope Francis. Lord, hear us. Lord hear our prayer
Let us Pray...
God, in your wisdom you chose Pope Francis to be your servant and lead your Church on earth. We give thanks for his faithful service to your Son, Jesus Christ, in his time on earth as priest, bishop, and pope. Having served your Church in his life, we pray that he may now share fully in the Easter mystery, the resurrection of Christ and his entrance into heaven. We make this prayer through Christ our lord.
Amen
Please see the links below for some additional reading about the life of Pope Francis
Remembering Pope Francis by Archbishop Mark Coleridge
https://brisbanecatholic.org.au/gods-people/archbishop-mark-coleridge-remembering-pope-francis/
A Witness of Joy and Hope by Melbourne Catholic