Today is the Memorial of St. John Vianney! St. John Vianney was born in 1786 and ordained to the priesthood in 1815. Three years after his ordination, he was assigned to the parish in Ars, France, where he spent almost 42 years pouring himself out for his people through zealous preaching and teaching, long hours in the confessional, and service to the poor. He is the patron saint of parish priests.
Let us pray today in a special way for our priests! Thank you, Fathers, for all that you do to bring Jesus to our diocese and to show us the face and heart of the Father.
A Prayer for Priests Through the Intercession of St. John Vianney:
Most gracious Heavenly Father, we thank You for our faithful priests and bishops, whose spiritual fatherhood and example of fidelity, self-sacrifice, and devotion is so vital to the faith of Your people.
May our spiritual fathers be guided by the example of St. John Vianney. Give them valiant faith in the face of confusion and conflict, hope in time of trouble and sorrow, and steadfast love for You, their families, and for all Your people throughout the world. May the light of Your Truth shine through their lives and their good works.
Assist all spiritual fathers, that through Your Grace they may steadily grow in holiness and in knowledge and understanding of Your Truth. May they generously impart this knowledge to those who rely on them.
Through Christ our Lord. Amen.
St. John Vianney, pray for us and for our priests!
(Prayer source: sjvcenter.org/about/saint-john-vianney)
