Loved ones,

In recent days, we have seen an atrocity at a nightclub in Orlando Florida. Sadly, once again we are shaken by senseless killings. This horror and other tragedies, leave many people speechless with shock and grief. When minds are troubled and hearts are yearning for peace, Christians pray.

I invite you to pray to the God whose heart breaks for every life lost to violence. God in Christ suffers with those who are suffering. The Spirit of the risen Lord gives hope to everyone who turns from violence and chooses to love his neighbor.

Please pray, and bring your heart’s desire for peace and your mind’s anxieties about the world’s troubles, to the Lord Jesus. He said, “Come to me, all you who are weary and are carrying heavy burdens, and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you, and learn from me; for I am gentle and humble in heart, and you will find rest for your souls. For my yoke is easy, and my burden is light.” (Matthew 11.28-30)

Please pray, and find comfort in your faith and remember Jesus words in the Sermon on the Mount (Matthew 5:3-10)

“Blessed are the poor in spirit, for theirs is the kingdom of heaven.

 “Blessed are those who mourn, for they will be comforted.

 “Blessed are the meek, for they will inherit the earth.

 “Blessed are those who hunger and thirst for righteousness, for they will be filled.

 “Blessed are the merciful, for they will receive mercy.

 “Blessed are the pure in heart, for they will see God.

 “Blessed are the peacemakers, for they will be called children of God.

 “Blessed are those who are persecuted for righteousness’ sake, for theirs is the kingdom of heaven.

Please pray and remember that the Lord Jesus Christ, was born into the chaos of human history, and lived and died with violence, oppression, and the shadow of war. Ask Him to send his Spirit of peace to all who live in this moment of history, and breathe new hope for the whole human race. Turn fear and hatred to trust and understanding.

Please pray that greed and selfishness can be changed to generosity and care, and that we will learn to love every person created in God’s image.

May the Lord bless us and keep us; the Lord make his face to shine upon us, and be gracious to us; the Lord lift up his countenance upon us, and give us peace. Amen.

Please, please pray.

Blessings,

Fr. John+