Ours to Do PRAYERS AND REFLECTIONS FOR MINISTRY

Transcription

1 Ours to Do PRAYERS AND REFLECTIONS FOR MINISTRY

2 Ours to Do PRAYERS AND REFLECTIONS FOR MINISTRY

3 Table of Contents Introduction... 1 Acknowledgements...2 Core Values Prayers...3 Felician Prayers & Reflections...15 Franciscan Prayers...25 Meeting Prayers Mission and Vision Prayers Prayers for Leaders...67 Miscellaneous Prayers... 73

4 Introduction Felician Services, Inc. is very pleased to bring you this collection of prayers and reflections. We hope that you will find them useful in your ministry. They cover a wide range of topics and will be helpful in a variety of situations. We think that as you review them you will find yourself inspired by the words. You might also find yourself placing post-it markers on numerous pages as many of these prayers will immediately speak to an occasion or situation that calls for prayer. Most of these prayers and reflections stand by themselves and can be spoken by a single prayer leader. Others will be used best by multiple participants. Many can be spoken alone or can be part of a larger prayer service. All of them offer prayerful possibilities. Some thoughts on using these and other prayers: 1. Decide what the occasion or situations calls for. Is there an expectation for a brief prayer, or a larger prayer service? Is the prayer alone sufficient, or should scripture be included? 2. Always allow for and invite quiet prayerfulness. Prayers can never be rushed and should have a quality of silence around them. 3. Direct the gathering or audience as to what is about to happen. For example, tell them if you want them to pause after the prayer for a moment of quiet, or if they can offer their spoken reflections as a result of the prayer. As a leader, remember that it s your job to begin the prayer session, end it, and help others through it. 4. Some of the prayers will require that you copy the prayer so that others can participate. Be sure to label or name clearly the various parts. Finally, we hope this collection of prayers inspires you to develop your own prayers. Remember, public prayer always comes back to this: the heart, soul and needs of the group being lifted up to God in praise, thanksgiving and holy petition. 1.

5 Acknowledgements We owe a special thanks to Sister Julie Weckwerth, CSSF under whose inspiration this book began. Many of the prayers came from a collection she gathered over a number of years. She also did the initial selection and editing of the contents. In August 2003 Felician Services, Inc. published Prayers While You Walk. It represented an early attempt to gather prayers that would be useful for leaders, staff, and board members in our Felician- Sponsored Ministries. Sister Mary Roberta Moser, CSSF was largely responsible for the work. Many of the prayers in that book have been incorporated into the present compendium. We are grateful to Sister Roberta for her efforts to support reflection in our ministries through the lens of the five core values for ministry. Finally, we gratefully acknowledge the support and leadership of Sister Mary Clarette Stryzewski, CSSF who provided the clear direction to move this new work forward. Without her encouragement Ours to Do: Prayers and Reflections for Ministry might still be sitting on a shelf in a forgotten closet. Dedication For the Felician Sisters who have so generously provided education, healthcare and social services for immigrant populations and others in need for 140 years in North America. May God be known, loved and glorified! 2.

6 Core Values prayers CORE VALUES PRAYERS

7 Respect for Human Dignity Lord God, you made us in your image and likeness. You sent us Jesus and you call us to follow him and build your kingdom. We want to follow in the footprints of Jesus as we continue to treasure and deeply respect all those with whom we serve. For we know that we are to respect and reverence all persons because they reflect your image and likeness. Walk with us today and always as we come to realize more deeply the sacredness of life. May we appreciate those whom you have placed at our side in our workplace. A Prayer for Racial and Cultural Diversity (Respect) O God, you created all people in your image. We thank you for the astonishing variety of races and cultures in this world. Enrich our lives by ever-widening circles of friendship, and show us your presence in those who differ most from us, until our knowledge of your love is made perfect in our love for all your children; through your son, Jesus Christ our Lord. ~ Book of Common Worship, Presbyterian Church USA 3.

8 Compassion God of Compassion, you are with us always. Give us eyes filled with kindness and a deep sense of compassion. May we respond to the needs of others, bringing them peace and warmth to body, mind and spirit. Compassion God, who is Compassion, take us to where your people are hurting. Like Francis and Blessed Angela, may we see you in their faces. May we hear you in their voices. May we be the instruments and channels of compassion and generously extend our time and our care to those in need in the workplace and in the community. 4.

9 Transformation The psychologist Carl Jung said that deep transformation happens primarily in the presence of images. They alone can touch the unconscious soul. It might also take the form of a biography, a song, a theatre piece, a movie, a dream image, a scripture, an inner vision, a piece of art. But after the encounter, you see things differently. One hundred sermons could never have moved you to this new place. Ideas and concepts don t change people; they tend to keep us inside our dualistic thinking, judging back and forth, whether we agree with the idea, the wording, who said it or how it was said. One could say that the reason we have 30,000 Christian denominations in the world now, is that they made it all depend on words. They should have known that the Word became flesh. But here I am, supposedly a Catholic, writing more and more words! None of them will take until they become an image inside you. ~ From True Transformation, Fr. Richard Rohr OFM Transformation God, grant me the serenity to accept the things I cannot change; the courage to change the things I can; and the wisdom to know the difference. 5.

10 Prayer in Times of Change: Transformation We gather here today knowing that in the weeks ahead, there will be changes in our ministry that will challenge us and new grace that will sustain us and move us forward. We recall the words of the Cardinal of the church, John Henry Newman: Perhaps in heaven it will be otherwise, but on this earth, to live is to change and to be perfect is to have changed often. Let us pray today for the gift of being able to recognize the changes that are needed in our ministry, the gift of being able to discover the opportunities that lay before us that we had never seen before, and the gift of being able to welcome and embrace these opportunities with the courage and faith that St. Francis and Blessed Angela had. We place ourselves into your safekeeping. Write our names on your palm. For in your hands we are home, where all will be well. All WILL be well in you. 6.

11 Transformation God of all, we have looked at ourselves and our ministry and have realized that it is time for us to change, to be transformed. However, we want to hold on to our old ways, our comfortable ways. It s not that the old has been bad, but that we are living in a new day. That which has been has brought us to where we are now. We need to look to ourselves again and continue to make changes, to step into the new and unknown, to make our lives and the entire ministry all the more successful and meaningful. We are hesitant, though, Lord. It is easier to stay where we are for we know that what is was good. Be with us, Lord, and all of us in this ministry as we continue, to change, grow, and become transformed. In Jesus name, we pray. ~ Sister Mary Louis RustOWICZ, CSSF Villa Maria College, Buffalo, NY 7.

12 Source of Transformation NUDGE ME with your ever present love into the spaces of self, yet untapped. FILL IN the gaps where I fall short of becoming the person you want me to be. RESTRAIN my impatient heart when I want to hurry the pace of my conversion. TEMPER my anxieties when change is inescapable. And, MOLD ME into the image of your Son. ~ Sister Mary Jacqueline Benbenek, CSSF Felician Center, Kingstree, SC Transformation To transform the WORLD, we must begin with ourselves; and what is important in beginning with ourselves is the intention. The intention must be to understand ourselves and to leave it to others to transform themselves.... This is our responsibility, yours and mine, because however small may be the world we live in, if we can bring about a radically different point of view in our daily existence, then perhaps we shall affect the world at large. ~ Krishnamurti 8.

13 Prayer of Blessing: Transformation May God bless YOu with discomfort at easy answers, half truths, superficial relationships, so that you will work to transform your heart. May God bless you with anger at injustice, oppression and exploitation of people so that you will work to transform darkness into light. May God bless you with tears to shed for those who suffer from pain, rejection, starvation and war, so that you will reach out in comfort and transform pain into joy. May God bless you with the foolishness to think that you can make a difference in your family, in your Church, in your workplace and in your neighborhood, so that you will do the things which others tell you cannot be done to transform the world. ~ John PetrikOVIC, OFM Cap. 9.

14 Solidarity with the Poor God of us all, teach us to recognize how we can best demonstrate our love for the poor. Whether that means for those poor in spirit, in health, in relationships or in fact be with us to strengthen our resolve to respond to those in need. Justice for the People of Haiti I know that the Lord secures justice for the poor and upholds the cause of the needy. (Psalm 140:12) Out of the depths we cry to you, O God. We cry for our Felician Sisters serving in Haiti, as well as our Haitian brothers and sisters. We thank you for embracing them in their suffering. Give them continuing strength and comfort. Give us love and courage to stand with them as they struggle for justice and freedom and seek to rebuild their lives. May we share our hope with them. Keep us committed to the truth and empower us with the Spirit of love: A love that always sees possibilities for peace founded on justice; a love that seeks justice without vengeance or retaliation; a love that reaches out to enemies as Jesus taught. 10.

15 Justice and Peace Our true home, Lord, is in the present moment. To live in the present moment is somewhat of a miracle. It isn t like walking on water. The real miracle is to walk on earth with eyes wide open, and with attention to the possibilities of new relationships through the works of justice and peace. Peace is, after all, all around us. Once we learn to touch this peace, we will be healed and transformed. It is not just a matter of faith; it is a matter of practice. Be with us Lord, and teach us your ways. God of Challenge: Justice God of challenge, God of our hope, God who empowers us and call us forth: We stand in gratitude for all that you have fulfilled; We stand in expectation of your dreams yet to bear fruit. And we stand in promise to bear with love and with justice those gifts and those challenges you have entrusted to us. 11.

16 Prayer for Justice and for Peace Creator of all, make us men and women of your peace and your justice. Where there is oppression, let us bring equality. Where there is abuse, dignity. Where there is fragmentation, unity. Where there is exploitation, justice. Where there is conflict, resolution. Where there is discrimination, mutuality. Where there is violence, vision. Where there is powerlessness, power. O Strengthening Spirit, Grant that we may not so much seek, To compete as to collaborate, To exclude as to include, To dominate as to complement. For it is in healing that we are healed, It is in reconciling, that we are reconciled, It is in our common bond, that we become whole. ~ S Ingrid Peterson, OSF 12.

17 10 Economic Commandments: Justice You will not exploit. You will not ignore the economic plight of others. You will not be satisfied while others are in material need. You will not waste the resources of God s good earth. You will not exercise selfish personal or national control over those resources. You will not forget the Creator s goods held in common. You will not consider goods you own as anything but goods held in trust. You will thank God minute-by-minute for your food, shelter, clothes, job and your pension. You will thank God minute-by-minute for sharing in a land of such material abundance. You will use your material possessions, regardless of the amount, large or small, to praise God and to serve others. ~ National Catholic Reporter, 7/84 13.

18 FELICIAN PRAYERS & REFLECTIONS Felician prayers & reflections image courtesy David E. Smith

19 Prayer to Blessed Angela God our Father, We praise and thank you for the gift of Blessed Mary Angela, who lived your will in faith and trust, and lived your love in service to others. I pray, in confidence, that through her intercession you will grant me the favor which I request: (pause to mention your intention) I ask this through Christ our Lord. In the Words of Blessed Angela May the Lord be our everything everywhere in place of everyone. May God fill our souls with all kinds of consolations. May God give us: A humble love which expends itself, A generous love which forgets itself, A strong love which is not afraid of pain, A stable love which does not change, A patient love which can bear everything, A fervent love which never weakens, A constant love which never falters. We offer this prayer to you, O God, Through the Immaculate Heart of Mary, our Mother. 15.

20 Litany of Blessed Mary Angela Praise to YOu, God, our Creator. R: All praise and glory and thanksgiving. Praise to you, Jesus, our Savior. R: All praise and glory and thanksgiving. Praise to you, Spirit of Love. R: All praise and glory and thanksgiving. (Response to each invocation: Pray for us.) Blessed Mary Angela... Lover of God s will... Lover of Jesus in the Eucharist... Lover of Mary... Lover of the Gospel... Lover of Christ s Body, the Church... Lover of beauty and learning... Lover of your native land... Devoted daughter and sister... Faithful follower of Francis... Spiritual Mother... Servant of the needy... Guardian of family life... Enlightened woman of your day Dedicated advocate of the poor...

21 Compassionate caregiver... Pioneer religious woman... Woman of faith and prayer... Woman of mercy... Woman of vision and courage... Woman of contemplation and action... Woman of wisdom and understanding... Model of self-denial... Model of reparation... Model of humility... Model of simple living... Model of perseverance. Angela, you were moved by the plight of neglected children, women, the sick, the homeless, the aged, the illiterate, immigrants, victims of war, and all who did not know the love and mercy of God. R: Pray for these people in our world today. Angela, you suffered from government opposition and political oppression. R: Pray for all enduring the same today. Angela, you bore the cross of severe deafness for many years. R: Pray for the deaf and all who are physically impaired. Angela, you knew feelings of depression, darkness of soul and abandonment by God. R: Pray for those suffering emotionally and spiritually. 17.

22 Angela, you were sensitive to the weaknesses of human nature. R: Pray for those struggling in their commitments to God and others. Angela, you patiently waited many years for the Church s approval of the Congregation. R: Pray for those who are losing faith in the Church. Angela, you spent many enjoyable hours cultivating flowers for the altar. R: Pray for all who cherish the earth. Angela, you endured a long and painful death from cancer. R: Pray for those suffering terminal illnesses. Angela, you were on fire with love of God and zeal for the salvation of all people. R: Pray for us, that we may ever cooperate with Christ in the spiritual renewal of the world. Angela, you are the Foundress and Mother of the Felician Congregation. R: Pray for all who share in your spirit, mission and charism; may they inspire others to follow God s call to ministry in the Church. Let us pray: God our Father, you graced Blessed Mary Angela with a living faith and a boundless love which she manifested in complete surrender to your divine will. By her prayers and witness may we strive to seek, to accept, and to fulfill your will in all circumstances of our lives. Grant this through our Lord Jesus Christ, your Son who lives and reigns with you and the Holy Spirit, one God, forever and ever. 18.

23 Prayer of Blessed Angela (an adaptation) May God give YOu a humble heart which expends itself. R: Blessed Angela, help me to be open to new ideas and new ways of doing things. May God give you a generous love which forgets itself. R: Blessed Angela, help me to respond to those most in need. May God give you a strong love which is not afraid of pain. R: Blessed Angela, help me to have the courage to make choices that are life-giving. May God give you a stable love which does not change. R: Blessed Angela, help me to work together with others to carry out our mission and live our values. May God give you a patient love which can bear anything. R: Blessed Angela, help me to have the patience I need to truly listen to others. May God give you a fervent love which never weakens. R: Blessed Angela, help me to have a passionate heart that is on fire to serve others. May God give you a constant love which never falters R: Blessed Angela, help me to be respectful of the dignity of each person I meet. 19.

24 Prayer of Gratitude and Love God of all goodness, Blessed Angela and St. Francis were filled with a desire of sharing your love with all those who came into their lives. We have been called to reflect your love through our mission and values. We thank you for love that reminds us of the dignity of each person, Love that draws us to a greater sensitivity to the diversity that is among us, Love that extends compassion to those who are hurting, Love that fosters a spirit of working together, Love that urges us to work for the common good of all people, Love that longs for peace throughout the world, Love that seeks to respond to those in need, Love that urges us to share our resources with others, Love that calls us to new growth and vision, Love that encourages an open mind and heart, Love that lures us to the sacred. Loving God, we are grateful for your abiding presence in all these forms of love. May our lives witness to your love for us each day. 20.

25 The Felician Challenge The Felician community was formed for humans. And humans are vulnerable. They must be lifted up again and again. And humans fail. And they must be given another chance to live life anew. And humans cherish life, and they must possess both the reasons and the resources to live it fully. Our Foundress, Blessed Angela, was one who lived in that understanding. Within her beat a great womanly heart. Her singular purpose: Giving a home to all who needed one. Her singular mission: The spiritual renewal of society. Her singular compulsion: Doing God s will. She built. She dreamed. She entered deeply into the mystery that is mission. She empowered others by the force of her life. Then on October 10, 1899, she left the meaning of that life to others: to the church, to the Congregation and now to us. It is for us to begin daily anew to thus empower present and future generations. 21.

26 Standing on the Shoulders of Giants God of all times and places, grant us the Wisdom of the Ages the Heart of your son, Jesus Christ; the faithfulness of His Mother, Mary, and the disciples; the holiness of your angels and saints; the steadfastness of Saint Francis of Assisi; the servant leadership of Saint Clare of Assisi; the unbounded love of Blessed Mary Angela; the grit of Five Pioneering Felicians in America. Do you think someone might stand on my shoulders? ~ Sister Mary Jacqueline Benbenek, CSSF Felician Center, Kingstree, SC 22.

27 Sister Samuela s Kitchen: a Reflection Soon after being re-established in Kraków, the Felician Sisters became concerned about the many impoverished students who came flocking into the city from the surrounding countryside, each seeking education at the ancient University of Kraków. Many of these young people came knocking at the door of the convent on Smolensk Street to beg for food, and Mother Angela directed a free meal be given to all who came, even though the congregation itself was far from well-to-do. The infirmarian of the congregation, Sister Mary Joseph, opened the students kitchen under Mother Angela s supervision. Sister Joseph had come with the Foundress and was to become her constant companion and nurse during the long years of illness. The younger Sister Mary Samuela assisted in the work, then became a directress and was in charge of the meal program for more than sixty years until shortly before her death in At the institution known throughout Kraków as Sister Samuela s Kitchen, free meals are still served to some five hundred students each day. The work is supported by a number of business and professional people who, in their own student days, shared in the benefits of this Felician work. 23.

28 Franciscan prayers FRANCISCAN PRAYERS

29 St. Clare s Second Letter to Agnes (adapted) Let us be mindful, of our founding purpose, always seeing our beginning. What we hold, may we continue to hold, what we do, may we keep doing and not stop, but with swift pace, nimble step, and feet that do not stumble so that even our walking does not raise any dust. May we go forward tranquilly, joyfully, briskly, and cautiously along the path of happiness, trusting in no one and agreeing with no one insofar as they might want to dissuade us from pursuing our founding purpose or might place a stumbling block in our way, preventing us, in that perfection with which the Spirit of the Lord has called us, from fulfilling our obligations to the Most High. St. Francis Blessing of Brother Leo May God bless and keep you. May God smile upon you, and be merciful to you. May God turn his regard toward you and give you peace. May God bless you. 25.

30 26. Canticle of the Sun (adapted) All praise be YOurs, my Lord, for Sister Death, from whose embrace no mortal can escape. All Most high, all powerful, all good Lord, all honor and all blessing. praise is yours, all glory, To you alone, Most High, do they belong. no mortal lips are worthy to pronounce your name. All praise be yours through all that you have made, for Brother Sun, who brings the day. All praise be yours through Sisters Moon and Stars: in the heavens, shining, precious and fair. All praise be yours through Brothers Wind and Air, all the weather s moods, which you cherish, you have made. All praise be yours through Sister Water so humble, so useful and pure. All praise be yours through Brother Fire; how beautiful, full of power and strength.

31 All praise be yours, for Sister Earth, our mother who feeds us fruits and herbs. All praise be yours, my Lord, through those who grant pardon for love of you, through those who endure sickness and trial, happy those who endure in peace. By you, Most High, they will be crowned. praise be yours, my Lord, for all your people scattered in rainbows of colors across this shrinking planet in crowded cities and rural lands. All praise be yours, my Lord, for those who work to bring your Good News to the poor and who struggle for justice and peace. All praise be yours, my Lord, for the gift of yourself in the Eucharist, and for our Mother Mary. All praise be yours, my Lord, for Francis and Angela, who brought rebirth to your people, and those whose lives still energize ours. All praise be yours, my Lord, for our pioneer sisters in North America and in our province, 27.

32 for those whose readiness to embrace all human misery sowed the seeds of your love and life in so many hearts. All praise be yours, my Lord, for the sisters because with them as women of faith, we share our weaknesses and visions and find new hope in you. All praise be yours, my Lord, through the lives and beings of each of us. All praise be yours, my Lord, for working through us and in us, and for those women who will join us and renew our own lives. Franciscan Blessing for Animals Blessed are you, Lord God, maker of all living creatures. On the fifth and sixth days of creation, you called forth fish in the sea, birds in the air and animals on the land. You inspired St. Francis to call all animals his brothers and sisters. We ask you to bless this animal. By the power of your love, enable it to live according to your plan. May we always praise you for all your beauty in creation. Blessed are you, Lord our God, in all your creatures. 28.

33 Franciscan Intercessions O God, through Francis and Clare you taught us the values of community and joy. Hear our prayers this day. (Response: Grant us simplicity of heart) Loving creator, your son, Francis, and your daughter, Clare, praised you in all your creatures. Strengthen all who labor to preserve our environment. Let them see the rewards of their labors, we ask you... Christ Jesus, you came to preach the gospel to the poor. May the poor of our world hear the gospel in the way we serve them, we ask you... Through Francis and Clare you taught us love and care for the sick and the dying. Grant that we may follow their example of service, we ask you... From the hills of Umbria, you raised up an Order that encircles the globe. Bless all the followers of Francis and Clare and keep them true to the spirit of their founders, we ask you... O loving God, you renewed the marks of the suffering of Jesus in the body of Francis and the heart of Clare. Inflame our hearts with the fire of your love. Through their intercession and all the saints of the Franciscan Order, may we learn the joy of humility and simplicity and live in love as sisters and brothers. We ask this through Jesus, our brother. 29.

34 St. Francis Letter to the Rulers of the People (adapted) To all Leaders and Representatives of the People: We, the followers of Francis of Assisi and your coworkers in struggling for a better society, send greetings and peace and this message. Keep a clear eye toward life s end. Do not forget your purpose and destiny as God s creature. What you are in his sight is what you are and nothing more. Do not let worldly cares and anxieties or the pressures of office blot out the divine life within you or the voice of God s Spirit guiding you in your great task of leading humanity to wholeness. If you open yourself to God and his plan printed deeply in your heart, God will open himself to you. Remember that when you leave this earth you can take with you nothing that you have received fading symbols of honor, trappings of power but only what you have given: a full heart enriched by honest service, love, sacrifice and courage. Embrace the God of us all and his Word wherever it surfaces. Imitate his preference for the poor and the powerless. Enter into his plan of liberating all peoples from everything that oppresses them and obstructs their development as human beings. Do not grow tired of working for peace among all people. Help remove unjust social structures and patterns of exploitation. Uphold the rights and dignity of the human person. Foster the creation of a society where human life is cherished and where all peoples of the planet can enjoy its gifts, which God created for all, in a spirit of love and justice and equality. 30.

35 St. Francis Praises of God You are holy, Lord, the only God, and your deeds are wonderful. You are strong. You are great. You are the most high; You are almighty. You, Holy Father, are King of heaven and earth. You are three and one, Lord, God, all good! You are good, all good, supreme good, Lord God, living and true. You are love. You are wisdom. You are humility. You are endurance. You are rest. You are peace. You are joy and gladness. You are justice and moderation. You are all our riches, and you suffice for us. You are beauty. You are gentleness. You are our protector. You are our guardian and defender. You are courage. You are our haven and hope. You are our faith, our great consolation. You are our eternal life, great and wonderful Lord, God Almighty, Merciful Savior. 31.

36 St. Francis Prayer Before the Crucifix Most High glorious God, enlighten the darkness of my heart and give me true faith, certain hope, perfect charity, sense and knowledge, Lord, that I may carry out Your holy and true will. Who is my leper? According to the LAW of Moses, a leper had to declare him/ herself unclean when approaching anyone (Lv 13:45). Lepers suffered not only physically but emotionally, in being considered unclean, thus less-than, and culturally by having to dwell apart, to be isolated from the community (Lv 13:46). In Mark s account, the leper is emboldened to approach Jesus crying not unclean, but, if you wish, you can make me clean (1:40). Jesus responds to this act of faith not only with pity, but he touches the man with leprosy (imagine the gasps of the onlookers) and makes him clean, i.e. free from disease, free from self-loathing, free to re-enter the community. Disregarding Jesus admonition to tell no one anything, the man cannot contain his joy and gratitude so tells everyone he meets about his encounter with Jesus. Who can blame him? 32.

37 Francis of Assisi had his encounter with a leper, a pivotal moment in his conversion when he recognized Christ in a person he so dreaded. In his embrace of the leper, all that had been bitter to Francis became sweet. From that moment, Francis acted as Paul encouraged the Corinthians to act: whatever you do, do everything for the glory of God (1 Cor 10:31). Everything is a tall order, but freed from his own fears, repulsions and doubts, Francis could later exclaim, My God and my all! Who are the lepers in my life? We all have them, people I avoid for one reason or another--fear, disgust, anger, resentment, dislike, strong disagreement. Perhaps I am my own leper, unable to claim my innate, God-given dignity, beauty and gifts. Perhaps I can recognize and touch in some way the leper in my life, making the bitter sweet. ~ Adapted from the Franciscan Federation newsletter 33.

38 St. Francis and the Origin of the Christmas Crèche The story of the Christmas crèche rests with St. Francis of Assisi. In the year 1223, St. Francis, a deacon, was visiting the town of Greccio to celebrate Christmas. Greccio was a small town built on a mountainside overlooking a beautiful valley. The people had cultivated the fertile area with vineyards. St. Francis realized that the chapel of the Franciscan hermitage would be too small to hold the congregation for Midnight Mass. So he found a niche in the rock near the town square and set up the altar. However, this Midnight Mass would be unlike any other Midnight Mass. As St. Bonaventure relates it: Francis prepared a manger, brought hay, an ox and an ass to the place appointed. The brethren were summoned, the people ran together, the forest resounded with their voices, and that venerable night was made glorious by many and brilliant lights and psalms of praise. The man of God (Francis) stood before the manger, full of devotion and piety, bathed in tears and radiant with joy; the Holy Gospel was chanted by Francis. Then he preached to the people around the nativity of the poor King and being unable to utter his name for the tenderness of his love, he simply called him the Babe of Bethlehem. Although the story is centuries old, the message is clear for us. Our own Nativity scenes which rest under our Christmas trees are a visible reminder of that night when our savior was born. May we never forget to see in our hearts the Babe of Bethlehem. May we too embrace Him with all of our love as did St. Francis. 34.

39 meeting prayers MEETING PRAYERS

40 Lord Jesus Our Brother Lord Jesus, our brother, you have promised to be present among us whenever we come together in your name. Remain with us as we meet for the benefit and love of your people. Guide us in our discussions, and help us to do everything for your honor and glory and for the salvation of your Church. ~ Canadian Conference of Catholic Bishops (CCCB), A Book of Blessings (OttAWA, Canada: Publications service, 1981), 188 Heavenly Father Heavenly Father, send the Spirit of your Son to remain with us during our meeting. Let him guide us, and inspire us to think and speak according to the mind of Jesus. Fill us with your joy and love, and help us to put our plans into practice. ~ A Book of Blessings, CCCB,

41 Lord our God Lord our God! Look with love on the people of this community and keep them safe in your service. Guide the members of this ministry, and help them to work together for the good of all. Bless their plans and deliberations, and bring them to success. ~ A Book of Blessings, CCCB, 190 Blessed Are You, Lord Our God Blessed are you, Lord our God, maker of the universe and Father of all. Guide the members of this meeting and help them to serve the people of. Bring success to their work and reward them for the good they do. ~ A Book of Blessings, CCCB,

42 Father in Heaven Father in heaven! Bless us as we gather today for this meeting. Guide our minds and hearts so that we will work for the good of our community, and help all your people. Teach us to be generous in our outlook, courageous in face of difficulty, and wise in our decisions. ~ A Book of Blessings, CCCB, 193 Praise to You Praise to YOu, Lord God, king of the universe! You have made the world for us to live in. Grant us light to know the needs of our community, and strength to make wise decisions for the benefit of all. Do not let self-interest or greed influence us, for you have chosen us to serve your people. ~ A Book of Blessings, CCCB,

43 Heavenly Father Heavenly Father! Maker of heaven and earth! You have chosen us to be your people: help us to give you glory in everything we do. Bless this (Name), and let it bring many people together. Help us to meet one another in joy and to gain many benefits from being here together. ~ A Book of Blessings, CCCB, 194 Blessed are You, Lord God Blessed are you, Lord God! Ruler of all creation! You know our hearts and our plans, and guide all that we do for your glory. Grant that this project will be for your honor and for the benefit of all your people. ~ A Book of Blessings, CCCB,

44 Heavenly Father Heavenly Father! Maker of heaven and earth! We praise you for your glory. Bless us as we continue to do our work, and bless all that we do for you. Help us to carry out all our activities for your honor and glory and for the salvation of your people. Guide us in all we do, and help us to build up your kingdom and come to our reward through Jesus Christ our Lord. ~ A Book of Blessings, CCCB, 195 Lord, May Everything We Do Lord, may everything we do begin with your inspiration and continue with your help, so that all our prayer and work may begin in you and by you be happily ended. We ask this through Christ our Lord. ~ Book of Blessings (Abridged Edition), Liturgical Press, Collegeville, MN, 1992,

45 Lord, God, Guided by Your Light Lord, God, guided by your light, may we be beacons to the work that lies in front of us. Enveloped by your peace, may we engage with each other in openness and civility. Bathed in your presence, may we recognize that our work is always your own. We ask that you give us the wisdom, the patience and the humility we need to do our work and live your will. And we ask this, as always, in the name of Christ Jesus, the Lord. ~ William Hall Lord, You Tell Us Lord, You tell us that when two or three are gathered in your name, you are fully present with us. We acknowledge your presence and thank you for being here. We gather today to do our work together. As we begin, help us remember that our work is also your own. Help us to remember that we are your hands, that we are your heart. Open our minds and hearts to your inspiration so that the decisions we make and the plans that we develop may truly be toward the fulfillment of your will. We ask this in your name, Lord Jesus Christ. ~ William Hall 40.

46 Before a Difficult Meeting Lord, the tasks in front of us call us to be open and honest about what is in our minds and hearts. Give us the courage to speak our truth and the graciousness needed to hear the truth of each other. Let us recognize our common purpose and the good of the whole as more important than the differences that may separate us. Yet let us also remember that within our diversity is much richness and beauty. Grant that we all show respect to each other, and help us to remember that virtue is more important than selfishness or pride. Grant us also a sense of humor and lightness of spirit, knowing that you carry our burdens and will help us through our challenges. We ask this in the name of Jesus, your son and through the power of the Holy Spirit. ~ William Hall 41.

47 End of a Work Day Meeting Lord, we gather now at the end of a day of work. We are weary and sluggish and maybe even a bit irritable. Help us to shake off our fatigue, take a deep breath, and give ourselves to the task at hand. As we begin this meeting, let us first recognize your presence among us. Let us gain strength from you when ours feels spent. Let us also gain strength from each other, knowing that the load gets lighter when we share it with others. Keep us focused and efficient and patient and effective. Keep us in good humor to the end. We ask this in your name. ~ William Hall Lord of Surprise and Wonder Lord of surprise and wonder, As we gather today, help us to be open to new ideas and novel perspectives. Let us not stay caught in old ways when new ways are needed. Let us not prejudge without careful consideration. Help us to see things from the viewpoint of others and not just our own. 42.

48 Give us fresh eyes and new ears so that we may be intrigued and inspired. Bring grace and good intentions to all of us. And let us always be ready to do what is best for our work and your will. We ask these things in the name of Jesus, your son and our brother. ~ William Hall The Well of Wisdom Be with us, lord, as we come together for our meeting today. Fill us with your spirit and help us to have meaningful conversation. Help us to draw from the well of your wisdom, where knowledge and truth lead to insight and soulful understanding. May the words we speak and the decisions we make draw us to greater unity in mind and action. We pray all things in the name of Jesus, the Lord. ~ William Hall 43.

49 A Meeting Prayer for Busy People In the midst of busy lives, Of appointments and deadlines, Of schedules packed with things to do And expectations to be fulfilled, Help us to stop, Lord, and be still for a moment. Help us to quiet the noise in our heads, The buzz that rings in our ears, The din that drowns out your Word. Bring us to a deeper sense of ourselves, to our inner place, Where slower breaths and calmer thoughts can take place. Help us to remember the big picture of what s really important to the mission we share and the lives we touch. Let us not get caught in details that distract us from your central call. Help us to know that our busy schedules need balance and prioritizing. Guide as we sort through our issues and concerns. And give us wisdom and humor to ease the way. You are the still point around which all of life circles. You are the center toward which all of life is drawn. Never let us forget that, Lord. Never let us forget that. ~ William Hall 44.

50 As We Gather Today As we gather today to discuss our issues and concerns, Remind us, Lord, to keep our focus on the good that has been given to us. Help us to be ever grateful for the ministry that we have been entrusted with. Help us to see our work as an opportunity to serve and bring good into the world. Help us to recognize the talents of all gathered here. Help us to remember that, taken together, our talents are always greater than their mere sum. Bring us into unity of mind, purpose and spirit. Form us into a community where our mission guides our discussion, And where You, Lord, are our model and source of wisdom. We ask this in Your name. ~ William Hall 45.

51 As We Convene Today As we convene today, may we recognize the gifts we all carry within. Help us to see the light that emanates from within each of our souls. Help us to know that we are never alone, that we are connected to the entire universe. Help us to feel our part in the rhythm of the earth and see our gifts as unique in God s plan. Help us to understand our work within the divine masterwork, to see our plans within the Holy Master s plan. We seek this help in the name of Jesus, the Lord. ~ William Hall Prayer in Time of Transition Lord, change is upon us and we must be ready to face it. But change is often hard and often scary. We know our past, but cannot be sure of our future. What lies ahead is full of uncertainty and mystery. Plans are only plans, And the road is unmapped and full of twists and turns. Help us to face the future with hope and confidence.help us to discern our direction with hearts that are open and responsive to our deepest calling. Give us the wisdom and insight to see bright possibilities, and help us to trust in what is good and noble. 46.

52 Mostly, help us to rely on your inspiration and grace as we speak and listen, And as we pause and ponder new thoughts and ideas. May all our efforts on behalf of others always begin and end in your great mercy and love. ~ William Hall Open Minds and Hearts As we gather together today, Be with us Lord and inspire our work. Open our minds and hearts to hear what lies below the words spoken. Help us to listen with the ear of our hearts to the needs and concerns of each other. Assist us in being sensitive and compassionate, in seeking the good of the other before our own. Lead us to conclusions and decisions that promote the best for all concerned. Help us to discern your will in all we do. We ask this in the name of Jesus, your Son and our brother. ~ William Hall 47.

53 Different Gifts In his letter to the Roman, St. Paul writes: Brothers and sisters, we, though many, are one Body in Christ and individually parts of one another. Since we have gifts that differ according to the grace given to us, let us exercise them. As we gather together today, let us be mindful of the different gifts we each possess. Let us rejoice that this is true, knowing that the variety of talents serves the whole. Let us listen openly and carefully to what each of us has to say. Let us consider all points of view. Let us also be mindful that, though individual and separate, we are also part of the whole. Let us speak with the good of the group in mind. Let the needs of our ministry be at the center of our individual concerns. Let the future of the whole outweigh personal concerns. Let the Holy Spirit be guide and guardian. Let the Father be our goal. We ask this in the name of Jesus, our Redeemer. ~ William Hall 48.

54 We Call Upon You, Lord We call upon YOu, Lord, to be present to us as we begin our meeting. Fill us with a listening spirit and an open mind. Help us to refrain from snap judgments to either ideas or to our colleagues. Keep us from needing to be right or from seeing others as wrong. Invite us into a more tentative place where the gray area lives. Let us dwell there at least for awhile so that we might have ample time for reflection. And, as we move forward in our deliberations, Let us do so with patience and gentleness. We ask this in the name of Jesus, your Son, and in the power of the Holy Spirit. ~ William Hall 49.

55 As We Begin Our Meeting (Response: Be with us, Lord) As we begin this meeting... As we make decisions today... As we face the challenges that lie ahead... When fear rises up within us and we do not believe in our ability to be your instrument... When the busyness and schedules of our lives press upon us and create questions about your will for us... In everything we do today, be with us, Lord. Help us to remain faithful to you and to your gospel. We ask this through Christ our Lord. ~ Prayers While You Walk, 95 Gathering Prayer As we gather together today, we pray, hoping to become more aware of the wholeness and holiness that are ours by our very identity as human persons, by virtue of our creation at the hand of a loving God, and by the power of the dream that lives within us. We celebrate the unity with our past and our future, within ourselves and with each other, with the larger communities of which we are a part, with our ministry, and with our world. 50.

56 We invoke the Spirit and her life-giving presence, to inspire and sustain our meeting today, to weave connections among us, linking us and our work together so that we may be strengthened from within and without. We ask this in the name of Christ our Lord. ~ Prayers While You Walk, 97 Prayer Before Work O God, whose presence makes every space sacred, Bless us in our work today. We praise you, for your wisdom surpasses our wisest decision, and your grace silently inhabits the routine and mundane moments of the day. We give you thanks for the gifts of education and experience that make it possible for us to do our jobs. Make us mindful of your design for our life and our work even as we focus on the list of tasks before us. Make our efforts at work today build up the People of God. In the name of the workman of Nazareth, Jesus Christ, I pray. ~ Adapted from Prayer at Work, Ann Bamford Adams 51.

57 Prayer of Guidance Lord God, as we gather together today we ask you to join us for you are the giver of all good gifts. May ours be the gift of reverence for all created things. May we face bravely and enthusiastically the responsibility to preserve and care for the beauty of the earth. May the wellsprings of compassion flow deep within us until we can taste the tears of our brothers and sisters. May our friendship with God be strong and healthy. May that love be both a comfort and a challenge as we struggle to find our way through whatever the day may hold. May our spirits be open and perceptive in discovering the will of God for us. May our prayer be that of wisdom, guidance, and a deeper understanding of God s way for us. May our lives this day be a gift given to God. ~ Prayers While You Walk, 96 Psalm before Beginning Work To you, Creator God, from whose hands comes the work of creation, so artfully designed, we pray that the work we are about to do may be done in companionship with you. May the work we will soon begin be a shimmering mirror of your handiwork, In the joy of doing it together, 52.

58 In our openness to its outcome, In our invitation to others to share it, And in its bearing fruit for the world. May we be aware that through our work, we draw near to you. We come to you, O God, ready. ~ From Prayers for a Planetary Pilgrim, Edward Hays Prayer to the Spirit God of power, God of life! We thank you for the many gifts of your people. Send your Holy Spirit upon us today to renew us, to recreate us, to enable us to be open to each other. Enlighten us during our time together so that we may discover new and fresh ways to follow our call to mission and ministry. We ask this through Christ our Lord. ~ Prayers While You Walk,

59 A Prayer to Open a Meeting Leader: Lord, gather our thoughts and fill our hearts with renewed energy so that we may plan and work for the good of your children and all others we meet. Come to stay with us and be the source of our strength and dedication as we serve you. L: Lord Jesus Christ, we have come together in your Name to work for the good of the Felician Sisters Child Care Centers. As we begin our meeting, we do so with Your Divine Presence here at the center of us all. R: We ask for your guidance to be at work in our midst, that you might stir up in us the gifts that we need to lead the Centers with integrity and focus to the tasks at hand. L: As we proceed with our daily work, guide us so that we think wisely, plan carefully, and act diligently. R: Help us in the midst of difficult decisions to have peace of mind, trust in your guidance, and look toward the long term goals of our ministry. L: Let harmony reign among us, and direct, O Lord, our actions by your holy inspirations, and carry them on by your gracious assistance that every prayer and work of ours may begin always with You, and through You be happily ended. ~ sister Mary Juanita Szymanski, CSSF Montessori Center of Our LADY, Livonia, MI 54.

60 A Prayer to Close a Meeting Lord of Day and Night of beginnings and endings, as we prepare to conclude this meeting, we once again lift up our hearts to You, the Divine Source of All Life. We thank you for the gifts that have been present within this act of service to the community. For the gifts of fellowship and understanding, of mutual respect and shared vision, we are grateful. For the gifts of perseverance and of insight into the common concerns we share, for these and all other graces, we are thankful. As You have blessed our coming together, now bless our departure and journey back to ministry. May Your blessing be upon us, In the name of the Father, Son and Holy Spirit. ~ SISTER Mary Juanita Szymanski, CSSF Montessori Center of Our LADY, Livonia, MI 55.

61 Meeting Prayer Gracious God, present in and among us, help us to be open to your blessings in this gathering. Keep us focused on the mission, vision and charism of our Felician Franciscan tradition. May our discussions and deliberations give us insight into how we are called to serve in this time and history. We ask this through Christ our Lord. ~ Sister Mary Juanita Arnister, CSSF Felician College, Lodi, NJ Meeting Prayer Lord, Eternal God, we are about to begin our meeting, and we do so with the awareness that without Your Divine Presence, here at the center of our meeting, and also within ourselves our work will be empty. We ask that the work of this meeting be a vessel for us to serve one another and you. May the ritual of the agenda be a cause for communion among us. Grace us with Your Wisdom and Vision; gift us with Holy Humor and Humility so that not only this meeting, but all our lives may be a meeting place for Your Kingdom. We ask this through Our Lord, Jesus Christ, who lives with You in the unity of the Holy Spirit, now and forever. ~ Adapted from Prayers for the Servants of God, Edward Hayes 56.

62 mission & vision prayers MISSION & VISION PRAYERS

63 Attitude The longer I live, the more I realize the impact of attitude on life. Attitude is more important than facts. It is more important than the past, Than education, Than money, Than circumstances, Than failures, Than successes, Than what other people think or say or do. It is more important than appearance, giftedness, or skill. It will make or break a company... a church... a home. The remarkable thing is we have a choice everyday regarding the attitude we will embrace for that day. We cannot change our past... We cannot change the fact that people will act in a certain way... We cannot change the inevitable... The only thing we can do is play on the one string we have, And that is our attitude... I am convinced that life is 10% what happens to me and 90% how I react to it. And so it is with you... For truly, only we are in charge of our attitude. ~ Charles R. Swindoll 57.

64 Carriers of a New Vision The story of our journey has its beginnings in the creative spirit that hovered over the abyss at the dawn of time. We are carriers of the Creator s dreams; and this is the sacred truth we carry all life is one. We are sisters and brothers of one God. The earth is our heritage and freedom is our birthright. We are carriers of Jesus dream that all may be one loved and accepted persons of immeasurable value. Being itself is the measure of our worth. We are carriers of the Spirit s dream, of Angela s dream to participate in the mission of Jesus who frees the oppressed and brings new life! We are called to be people of the Gospel, committed to conversion, a community of disciples, who live simply, love tenderly and act justly. We are called to be people of prayer, Servants of the Word, celebrators of Eucharist, open and vulnerable to transforming power. We are called to be WOMEN of the Church, faithful to who we are, choosing to live in the present, with an awareness of the past, an openness to the future, committed to dialogue and collaboration... inviting each to speak their work... that the truth and wisdom of the whole people be the basis for our life and work. We are carriers of a new vision which is God s dream for us... to be creative and loving and free... as we witness the Word to the world! May this Word free us all and bring us abundant life! ~Adapted from Carriers of a new Vision, Carista Henrich, SLW 58.

65 In Your Service Strengthen, O God, for your service, these hands stretched out to receive your sacred gifts. Grant that these ears once open to your voice, may be closed to clamor and dispute. May these eyes which saw your great compassion also see your blessed hope appear. May these tongues which chant Holy now speak only what is true. May these feet which have walked in your house, follow paths which are filled with Your light. May we experience your great love that we may praise you for ever and ever. ~ From the Syro-Malabar Liturgy Our Covenant Prayer God made a covenant with the people. Jesus made a covenant with his followers. His followers made a covenant with each other. This community made a covenant with society. We continue the covenant as we serve God s people. ~Terry Maltby, R.S.M. 59.

66 Mission: The Balancing Act of All We Do If we are truly a mission-driven organization, what do we look like in these challenging times: First, it is important to remember that our mission is our purpose, our reason for existence. Everything we do is part of our mission. Second, it is important to remember that we need to balance our mission activities. Care for our patients, attention to our communities health status; special concern for the poor; ministry to the body, mind and spirit of the people we serve; sound stewardship of our financial resources; and a safe and satisfying work environment for all employees are a part of what our mission demands of us. Third, we need to find measures of our mission s success. These measures should include quality patient care, employee satisfaction, patient loyalty, physician commitments, and an organizational bottom-line sufficient to continue our ministry in the spirit of Jesus. Balancing all of these elements, which is not easy, is the responsibility of all of us. But always, our focus is our mission, for that is the reason we exist. Thanks to all who question it, struggle with it, challenge it, support it, promote it, and do it. This is what makes our mission live. ~ Adapted from a writing of Rev. Dennis Brodeur 60.

67 Passion for Mission There is a story told in the Southwest of a series of Franciscan Friars who came to evangelize a pueblo in what is now New Mexico. As the first ones arrived, and before they could so much as explain their mission, they were promptly put to death by the unfriendly and suspicious natives. But more kept coming to the number of nine. This set the people there thinking that there must be some rugged driving force that compelled these Friars to come to them. Finally, when the tenth one came, they heard him out and embraced the faith. The question could be asked here, how many times have we come to our mission as the tenth missionary came to the people? We too have appeared on a scene that others had prepared before us and gave their lives to. We too have reaped harvests that others have planted. It was others who opened doors for us, it was they who gained respectful entry and hearings for us. Richly have we received from the past, richly must we donate to the future. ~ Rev. James Turro 61.

68 Prayer for Meaning, Integrity and Passion God, inspire me to transform my work into a calling. Help me to rekindle the flame of passion that can burn so brightly as I go about my everyday work. Teach me again how to find meaning and satisfaction in my work. Give me the insight to think in new ways, the confidence to trust my instincts, and the humility to learn from those who are wiser and more experienced. May I find the courage to stand up for what I believe. May I never compromise my integrity. Remind me, God, to treat my colleagues and those who may report to me, with patience, kindness, and respect. Most of all, I pray that my work be a reflection of your will, and that today I can help to bring truth and goodness into this world. ~ Adapted from a prayer by Rabbi Naomi Levy Service Service is the virtue that distinguished the great persons of all times and that which we will remember them by. Service places a mark of nobility upon its disciples. It is the dividing line which separates the two great groups of the world those who help and those who hinder, those who lift and those who lean, those who contribute and those who only consume. How much better it is to give than to receive. 62.

69 Service in any form is comely and beautiful. To give encouragement, to impart sympathy, to sow interest, to banish fear, to build self-confidence and awaken hope in the hearts of others, in short to love them and to show it is to render the most precious service. ~ Bryant S. Hinckley, early pioneer of the American West To Live Well To live well, we must have faith to live by, a self fit to live with, and a work fit to live for something to which we can give ourselves. We cannot tell what may happen to us in the strange medley of life. But... we can decide what happens in us how we can take it what we do with it and that is really what counts in the end. How to take the raw stuff of life and make it a thing of worth and beauty that is the test of life. Living is an adventure of faith, if we are to be victors over it, not victims of it. Faith in the God above us, Faith in the infinite soul within us, Faith in life and in our kindred spirits. ~ Joseph Newton 63.

70 The World as Our Mission The Christian faith does not cut us off from the world, but immerses us in it. The Church is not a fortress set apart from the city, but is a follower of that Jesus who lived, worked, battled and died in the midst of a city. The essence of the Church lies in its mission of service to the world. The Church exists to live in solidarity with the hopes and with the joys, with the anxieties and with the sorrows of men and women. To put it in one word, the world which the Church ought to serve is, for us, the world of the poor. ~ Salvadoran Archbishop Oscar ROMERO A Mission Prayer Let us pray We call upon you God our Father to bless this gathering of those who live and follow the Mission of our Ministry. Help us to keep in mind our commitment to our Mission of dedicated service to the poor of body, mind, and spirit who are with us each day. May we continue to make a positive difference in their lives through our love, compassion, and sensitivity to their particular needs. We thank you God and Father for past blessings. Inspired and motivated by the spirit of St. Francis and Blessed Mary Angela, continue to empower us with the gifts of your Holy Spirit so that all who are under our care may always enjoy a fullness of life. 64. ~ Chris Shay, McGuire Memorial, new brighton, pa

71 Prayer of Ministry God of Life, we give thanks: for this new day, for our lives, for our ministry for all the promise and possibilities these hold. May we follow the example of your Son as both servant and leader. Let us respond to Jesus invitation to serve one another, to love one another, to respect the dignity of each person. May we listen to the compassionate call of your voice which gathers diverse believers to form one community. Transform our minds and hearts so that we are open to the gifts each person brings and teach us what we most need to know. Lead us to create a community that stands in solidarity with those in need. In all things, we ask for your justice and peace to guide us. ~ Vicky Schneider, Villa St. Francis, Milwaukee, WI 65.

72 A Prayer For Missions Dear Lord, Be with those we often forget. Comfort them in their distress. Let them know although they carry heavy burdens, you are by their side, helping them carry their heavy weight. Let them find help through the beauty and generosity of others. ~ Jeff Hulbert, Our LADY of the Sacred Heart High School, Coraopolis, PA 66.

73 prayers for leaders PRAYERS FOR LEADERS

74 Discerning Leaders Give us insight enough ourselves to choose as leaders those who can tell strength from power, growth from greed, and leadership from dominance. We ask you, Great God, give us the vision as a people to know where global leadership truly lies, to pursue it diligently, and to require it to protect human rights for everyone everywhere. We ask these things, Great God, with minds open to your word and hearts that trust in your eternal care. ~ Adapted from Joan Chittister, OSB The Human Heart Can Go the Length of God The human heart can go to the length of God. Dark and cold we may be, but this is no winter now. The frozen misery of centuries breaks, cracks, begins to move. The thunder is the thunder of the floes, the thaw, the flood, the upstart Spring. Thank God our time is now, when wrong comes up to face us everywhere, never to leave us till we take the longest stride of soul men and women ever took. Affairs are now soul-size. ~ From The Sleep of Prisoners, Christopher Fry 67.

75 Prayer for Leaders Give us, O God, leaders whose hearts are large enough to match the breadth of our own souls and give us souls strong enough to follow leaders of vision and wisdom. Give us leaders who lead this nation to virtue without seeking to impose our kind of virtue on others. Give us a government that provides for the advancement of this country without taking resources from others to achieve it. ~ Joan Chittister, OSB May The Gift of Leadership May the gift of leadership and governance awaken in you as a vocation, keeping you mindful of the Providence that calls you to serve. As high over the mountains the eagle spreads its wings, may your perspective be larger than the view from the foothills. When the way is flat and dull in times of gray endurance, may your imagination continue to evoke horizons. When thirst burns in times of drought, may you be blessed to find the wells within. May you have the wisdom to read the times clearly and know when the seed of change will flourish. In your heart may there be a sanctuary for the stillness where clarity is born. May your work be infused with passion and creativity; and have the wisdom to balance compassion and challenge. May you welcome your own vulnerability as the ground where healing and truth join. May integrity of soul be your first ideal the source that will guide and bless your work. 68. ~ From To Bless the Space Between Us, John O Donohue

76 The Paradoxes of being a Servant Leader A Leader must be Strong enough to be weak Successful enough to fail Busy enough to make time Wise enough to say I don t know Serious enough to laugh Rich enough to be poor Right enough to say I m wrong Compassionate enough to discipline Mature enough to be childlike Important enough to be last Planned enough to be spontaneous Controlled enough to be flexible Free enough to endure captivity Knowledgeable enough to ask questions Loving enough to be angry Great enough to be anonymous Responsible enough to play Assured enough to be rejected Victorious enough to lose Industrious enough to relax Leading enough to serve ~ Poem by Brewer as cited by Hansel, Holy Sweat, Dallas Texas, Word, 1987, p

77 Prayer of a Reluctant Leader You asked for my hands that you might use them for your purpose. I gave them for a moment, then withdrew them for the work was hard. You asked for my mouth to speak out against injustice. I gave you a whisper that I might not be accused. You asked for my life that you might work through me. I gave a small part that I might not get too involved. Lord, forgive my calculated efforts to serve you; Only when it is convenient for me to do so, Only in those places where it is safe to do so, And only in those who make it easy to do so. Lord, forgive me, renew me, heal me, nurture me, empower me, send me out as an instrument of your peace that I might take seriously the meaning of servant-leadership. ~ Joe Seremane 70. Ten Characteristics of Franciscan Leadership Respect for the individual: A Franciscan leader instinctively cultivates respect for individuals, based on the belief and recognition that all are sons and daughters of God, created in the divine image. Empowerment: A Franciscan leader becomes empowered by striving to empower others.

78 Collaboration: A Franciscan leader invites others to share and actively participate in decision-making and in the execution of common projects. Communication: A Franciscan leader strives to have open, honest, and consistent communication with co-workers and other stakeholders. Ethical worldview: A Franciscan leader bases her or his behavior and decision-making on a deeply seated value system and does what is ethical simply because it is ethical. Commitment to growth of others: A Franciscan leader is committed to assisting others to grow and develop as people and as professionals. Informed decision making: In making decisions, a Franciscan leader: defines the situation or problem, gathers the necessary information, confers with those involved and affected by the decision, attempts a consensus, and makes the decision if a consensus cannot be achieved. Open to learning: A Franciscan leader recognizes that they may not have previous experience relevant to every decision but is open to learn through experience, consultation, and ongoing personal education. Compassionate, fair, and strong: A Franciscan leader is compassionate and fair, but knows how and when to be decisive. Servant: A Franciscan leader is a servant leader based on the example of Christ who washed the feet of his disciples. ~Ten Characteristics of Franciscan Leadership, Michael J. Higgins TOR,

79 Prayer of Gratitude for Years of Service In the Litany of Blessed Mary Angela, some of the phrases attributed to her are: Woman of faith and prayer; woman of vision and courage, woman of contemplation and action. These phrases remind us, who minister in a Felician institution, of our call and commitment to be models of virtue, service and fidelity to God s will. Today we pay tribute to our colleagues whose service and virtue, in following God s will, has made a difference. So we pray.... Gracious God, you have gifted our Celebrants in many ways. As we acknowledge their anniversary years, we ask that you bless them with all they need to carry out the mission of this Felician Franciscan Ministry. In their role of service to this community, may they be living examples of our core values. For all here present, bless us, loving God, with the assurance of your Presence and Grace, in all that life sets before us. Most importantly, may we see Christ in the lives we touch and respond to all with loving service, respect, compassion and joy. We do this through Christ our Lord. ~ Sister Mary Juanita Arnister, CSSF Felician College, Lodi, NJ 72.

80 miscellaneous prayers MISC. PRAYERS