Prayer 

God of Boundless Love, 

As we begin our 2025 Lenten season, we turn to you with hearts open to the call of hospitality. You invite us to arise and shine, reflecting your light to all. We acknowledge that true hospitality extends beyond our own comfort, embracing the stranger, inviting other people into our community and supporting those in need.

During this time of almsgiving, prayer and fasting, may we be mindful of our stewardship of creation. Help us to use our resources wisely, sharing with those less fortunate and caring for the earth that sustains us all. May our fasting deepen our empathy for those who lack even the basic necessities, prompting us to act with generosity and justice.

Inspire us to "pay it forward," extending kindness and compassion to all we encounter. May our homes, our parishes and our Marian community be places of welcome, where all feel valued and belong. 

Guide us to see Christ in every person and empower us to build bridges of understanding and solidarity. Together, we can build on our College motto of strong minds and gentle hearts.

We ask this through Jesus Christ, our Lord, who taught us to love one another as he loved us. Amen.

Special Prayer for Pope Francis. 

God of healing and comfort

We pray for Pope Francis, who is unwell in hospital. We ask for your loving presence to surround him during this time of illness. Grant him strength and courage to face whatever challenges he may be experiencing. Bless the doctors and nurses caring for him, that they may be guided by your wisdom and compassion. Please ease his pain and anxiety, and grant him a swift and full recovery, so that he may once again serve your people with joy and vigor. 

Amen