In the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Spirit
OPENING PRAYER
Father, you raise men and women to lead religious lives; may we be inspired by their example, and in humility always be at the service of your Son, Jesus Christ, born in a stable.
SCRIPTURE
Read from the Gospel of St Luke 2:36-40:
‘There was a prophetess, Anna the daughter of Phanuel, of the tribe of Asher………she spoke of the child to all who looked forward to the deliverance of Jerusalem’.
In a world of heightened activity, it can be that older people are ‘left behind’. Yet, the challenges and joys of many years can bring wisdom. Old age, even with all its difficulties is a treasure not to be overlooked. And for those who lead quiet, religious lives, we should not be deceived into thinking they are far from reality; indeed, in their holy devotion they are journeying through life no less than we are; and through their prayers accompanying us in our daily lives.
ADMIRABILE SIGNUM
Pope Francis tells us:
‘The Magi teach us that people can come to Christ by a very long route. Men of wealth, sages from afar, athirst for the infinite, they set out on the long and perilous journey that would lead them to Bethlehem.’
CLOSING PRAYER
We pray for the elderly, those with dementia and their carers. We pray for all those in Religious Life. We pray for all those who seek meaning in their life. O God, whose Angels led the shepherds to the stable, and whose star guided the Wiseman from the east; may we always journey to the Christ-child, who shows the way to everlasting joy in heaven.
ACTIVITY
If you are able, place some food items in the foodbank collection; or parcel some clothes to be taken to the local charity shop.