Happening Now: Join in the Prayer Vigil for the Synod

Right now in St. Peter’s Square, pilgrims are participating in a Prayer Vigil on the eve of the Ordinary Synod of Bishops. You can watch live at the Vatican website.

Or join with me in praying this prayer, which was published by Pope Francis in his Angelus address on December 13, 2013.

Jesus, Mary and Joseph,
in you we contemplate
the splendor of true love,
to you we turn with trust.

Holy Family of Nazareth,
grant that our families too
may be places of communion and prayer,
authentic schools of the Gospel
and small domestic Churches.

Holy Family of Nazareth,
may families never again
experience violence, rejection and division:
may all who have been hurt or scandalized
find ready comfort and healing.

Holy Family of Nazareth,
may the approaching Synod of Bishops
make us once more mindful
of the sacredness and inviolability of the family,
and its beauty in God’s plan.

Jesus, Mary and Joseph,
graciously hear our prayer.