Tuesday, December 07, 2010

Wexford priest writes prayer for Irish economy

A prayer, composed by a County Wexford based curate, and asking for help for the Irish economy, has made headlines around the world.  

Fr John Carroll, curate at Barntown parish in the Diocese of Ferns, read out the prayer at all masses in his local church last weekend. 

Fr Carroll later posted the prayer on the parishes’ Social networking site Facebook, which he helped set up, and within hours it had been picked up by a number of national and international news outlets including the influential Giornale newspaper in Italy. 

The prayer also received a number of hits on the Barntown Facebook site.  

The prayer reads:
God make your presence felt among us in this moment of our history. 
Be close to all charged with discerning the way forward for our nation and our people. 
Remind us of the many talents and opportunities that continue to be found in the citizens and resources of our country. 
In your son Jesus Christ, may we be mindful of the need for solidarity with one another especially the vulnerable and the needy. 
Steady our nerve in these days and point out to us the shortcomings of panic and fear alone. 
Help us to achieve true and sustainable perspective as our faith path unfolds. 
May each of us realise afresh our ability to make a difference through participation in family, in parish in the wider community and in our State. 
In your Holy Spirit, guide officials and political representatives, local volunteers and community groups.  Mobilise among us a reawakened belief and Patriotism as we seek to become again the people you call us to be. 
Lead us as committed , charitable and caring citizens, sharer's of an agreed, open and workable plan that is respectful and inclusive of all. 
Amen.
SIC: CIN/IE