"Come away... and rest for a while."

Today I had the privilege of being the acolyte for Mass here at St. Meinrad seminary.  I thought I would share with you my reflections:

Introduction

Today we are encouraged by the Church to allow ourselves to be led by our Lord to rest and fulfillment.  Let us recognize His guidance in our lives this day, that we may be able to come away with Him to rest in His peace.

Intercessions

·         For the Church, that she may worthily fulfill her call to bring souls to the verdant pastures and restful waters of Christ’s love, let us pray to the Lord

·         For all civic leaders, that they may enact and uphold laws that reflect the justice and mercy of the One Who has given them their charge, let us pray to the Lord

·         For this community, that we may willingly accept the guidance of the Good Shepherd found in our superiors, our brothers and sisters, and ourselves, let us pray to the Lord

·         For those who are suffering physically or mentally, that they may come to see and feel Christ’s presence even in the deserted places of their souls, let us pray to the Lord

·         For the dead, that they may finally enter the house of the Lord, where nothing is lacking, and no evil is feared, let us pray to the Lord