Prayer Request

A reader writes:

Would you please pray for the intercession of Blessed Fr. Joseph Gerard, OMI, for a very brave young man overseas? My nephew has just been diagnosed with cholangiocarcinoma (cancer of the bile duct) and has been given a year at most, with chemo, and a few months without.

He was born deaf and grew up needing pins in his legs every few years because of a condition of the bones. He also has growths under his skin; those under his feet make it feel as though he is walking on sharp stones. Through it all he has been uncomplaining. He is not Catholic (his father is lapsed – we pray for him too!), so it’s difficult to explain redemptive suffering and the whole process of the miracle we are praying for.

Father, hear our prayer for this man and grant him healing from his sufferings and grace to join them with the sufferings of your Son Jesus. Give grace, consolation, and peace to all who love him and wisdom, skill and compassion to his caregivers. Mother Mary and Blessed Fr. Joseph Gerard, pray for all concerned. We ask this through our Lord Jesus Christ.

In other news, I am sad to report that Deacon Robert Jergovic has died. May his soul and all the souls of the faithful departed, through the mercy of God, rest in peace.