Reflection 153                                Resolution                          Previous reflections

 

Since today is Pentecost Sunday,
let's have a break from the usual document reflection
and instead use this prayer composed by Pope John XXIII for Vatican II.
It was used at the beginning of every session of the Council

 

Prayer to the Holy Spirit

We stand before you, Holy spirit, conscious of our sinfulness,
but aware that we gather in you name.

Come to us, remain with us, and enlighten our hearts.

Give us light and strength to know your will, to make it our own,
and to live it in our lives.

Guide us by your wisdom, support us by your power,
for you are God, sharing the glory of Father and Son.

You desire justice for all:
enable us to uphold the rights of others;
do not allow us to be misled by ignorance
or corrupted by fear or favor.

Unite us to yourself in the bond of love
and keep us faithful to all that is true.

As we gather in your name
may we temper justice with love,
so that all our decisions may be pleasing to you,
and earn the reward promised to good and faithful servants.

You live and reign with the Father and the Son,
one God, forever and ever. Amen.