Prayer for the visit of Pope Francis

written by Sister Jeremy Gallet, SP

Loving and gracious God, Shepherd of all your faithful people,
look with favor on your servant Francis
whom you established as head and shepherd of your church.
We pray, that by word and example,
he may be a visible source and foundation
of unity, love and peace.

We entrust him to your hands, O God,
That, as he makes his pilgrimage,
he will travel in peace and safety,
and will bring the good news of salvation to all he meets.

Remain with all your servants on their holy pilgrimage
and guide their way in accord with your will.
Shelter them with your protection by day,
give them the light of your grace by night,
and as their companion on the journey,
bring them to their destination in safety.

As we rejoice in the presence of Pope Francis in our nation,
may your grace move our hearts
and inspire all people to love you more deeply, to serve you more generously,
to live more simply and to tread more lightly upon this Earth.
Through the grace of the Holy Spirit,
guide us, your pilgrim Church, to seek You in all things
so that in all the paths we follow,
we may remain wholeheartedly faithful to you.

We ask all these things in the name of Jesus Christ our Lord.
Amen