The Decree of Return

No fixed feast day in the calendar

God moves the heart of King Cyrus to set His people free from exile.

King Cyrus decrees the people's return

After seventy years of exile in Babylon, God fulfilled His promise to bring His people home. He moved the heart of King Cyrus, the Persian emperor, to issue a historic decree. The king declared that all of Israel was free to return to their homeland to rebuild the Temple in Jerusalem. Beyond granting permission, the king ordered local officials to provide silver, gold, and livestock to those traveling back. Most importantly, Cyrus returned all the sacred vessels of gold and silver that Nebuchadnezzar had previously looted from the Temple. This was a clear sign of God’s providence, as He used even a pagan ruler to carry out His plan of salvation for His chosen people.

Prayer

God Remains the Master of History

God remains the master of history. Even in the darkest circumstances, He guides every event according to His will.
God never forgets His covenant. He faithfully carries out what He has promised to His people.
God's faithfulness is the foundation of our faith. Even when we feel abandoned or exiled by sin, we can still rely on Him.

We must trust that God always provides a way for us to return to Him.

Prayer

Lord, help me to always trust in Your providence, even when I feel lost. Amen.

The text on this page is the card in the Catholic Information app, word for word.