The Visitors of three provinces of the United States, in process of reconfiguration, had a meeting in Rome, at the General Curia 2-5 March. They left us this beautiful prayer for a New Community. With it, all the members of the Congregation of Mission could join in this intention, when and how they think best.
PRAVER FOR NEW COMMUNITY
Good and gracious God, we give you thanks in every time and place for the many ways you guide and care for your people. Many years ago you led Felix de Andreis, Joseph Rosati, and their companions into the frontier lands of the United States for the formation of the clergy and the evangelization of the poor. As faithful followers of St. Vincent de Paul, they relied on the guidance of your Divine Providence in establishing the Congregation of the Mission in young America.
We pray now for this same Little Company in the western region of the United States, that we may discover that same spirit which stirred those first missionaries. Help us find the wisdom, courage and strength to move our provinces into a New Community. Inspire us to look for new ways to live our mission with simplicity of purpose and holiness of life. Grace us with the virtues of mortification, simplicity, humility, meekness, and zeal. Direct us in a common life which will enable us to better serve you in your Church.
Lord God, you sent your Son Jesus Christ to preach the Good News to the poor, and to that end your servant Vincent de Paul dedicated his life. Never let us forget that purpose for which we have consecrated our lives, and to which we have given the strength of our arms and the sweat of our brows. Above all, may we be united in the holy bond of truth and peace; that we may with one mind and one heart glorify you through your Son Jesus Christ, our Lord, who lives and reigns with you in the unity of the Holy Spirit, one God, for ever and ever. Amen.
