WORLD DAY OF PRAYER FOR VOCATIONS
SUNDAY – 8 May
“Almighty ever-living God, lead us to a share in the joys of heaven,
so that the humble flock may reach where the brave Shepherd has gone before.”
The Fourth Sunday of Easter is known as Vocations Sunday or Good Shepherd Sunday, and is marked as the World Day of Prayer for Vocations. The purpose of this day is to fulfil Jesus' instruction to “Pray the Lord of the harvest to send labourers into his harvest” (Matthew 9:38). While appreciating all vocations, the Church concentrates her attention on raising up shepherds for God's people - vocations to Holy Orders (the priesthood and diaconate) and to the religious life - while encouraging all who are discerning their vocation to pray more earnestly that they may hear and respond to God's call.
Loving Father,
you call us by name.
As we journey through life
help us to be confident in our own unique identity
and to find opportunities to
develop our own gifts and passions.
We pray that the Holy Spirit
will pour on us wisdom and guidance
to help us realise and follow our dreams,
discerning your plan for our lives.
Bless your Church
by raising up dedicated and generous people
from our families and friends
who will serve as Priests, Deacons,
Sisters and Brothers.
May we support one another in response to God’s call.
We ask this through Jesus Christ our Lord.
Amen
