Prayer

Heavenly Father, 

We give You thanks and praise for the gift of our new Holy Father, 

called to shepherd Your Church in love and truth. 

Strengthen him with Your Holy Spirit— 

grant him wisdom like Solomon, 

compassion like Christ, 

and courage like Peter, the Rock.

Guide his words and actions 

as he leads Your people in faith and unity. 

May he be a beacon of hope in a divided world, 

a voice for the poor and forgotten, 

and a tireless worker for peace and justice.

Bless his health, protect him from harm, 

and surround him with faithful counselors and friends. 

May his heart always remain close to Yours, O Lord, 

and may his service bring glory to Your name 

and healing to Your Church.

We ask this through Christ our Lord. 

Amen.