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| The Calling of Peter and Andrew, DUCCIO di Buoninsegna c. 1308 |
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"Dear friends, this is the mystery of God's call, the mystery of vocation. It is part of the life of every Christian, but it is particularly evident in those whom Christ asks to leave everything in order to follow him more closely. The seminarian experiences the beauty of that call in a moment of grace which could be defined as "falling in love". His soul is filled with amazement, which makes him ask in prayer: "Lord, why me?". But love knows no "why"; it is a free gift to which one responds with the gift of self."
(Pope Benedict XVI, Cologne 2005)
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Novena of Prayer for Vocations to the Priesthood and Religious Life
Lord Jesus, bless the Archdiocese of Philadelphia with priests after your heart. May the young men of our parishes whom You are calling to be priests, respond generously. Give them the courage and the insight to discern your invitation, by speaking with a trusted priest or friend. We pray as well for the young women of our parishes to consider the consecrated life. May their prayer be that of Mary - to proclaim the greatness of the Lord - through a life of service as consecrated religious. Most Holy Trinity - Father, Son and Holy Spirit --- we are confident that you will hear our prayer and send good priests and consecrated religious to guide us. Amen.
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| Icon of the Martyrdom of St. Stephen, Patron Saint of Deacons |
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St. Cecilia's looks forward to the ordination of our own Pat Diamond to the Permanent Deaconate on Saturday 9 May 2009.
May Our Lord bless him and his work always!
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Prayer for Deacons
Heavenly Father,
since the time of the Apostles
you have inspired the Church
to commission certain members
to assist in a special way
in the pastoral mission of Christ.
Bless the deacons
and all other ordained
and non-ordained ministers
that they may be humble
and faith-inspired in their service.
We ask this through Christ, our Lord. Amen
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