God our Father Creator and Lord of all that exists we adore You profoundly. We ask pardon for our sins as individuals and as a church and for those who do not believe, do not adore, do not hope and do not love You. As we enter a New Year we thank You for everything in our lives.
We ask Your Blessing on ourselves, our families, our country and the world, and on all our endeavours. Lord as You led Jacob by the hand, walk with us as we try to rise above recent calamities and put You at the centre of our lives.
During this year give us greater appreciation of the beauty, complexity and wonder of human life and of our place in creation. May we respect the dignity due to persons created in the image and likeness of God. We thank You for sending Jesus Your Son as our Saviour. During this year call us to prayer that we may remain faithful to You. May we grow in faith ,hope and love and by fostering peace and love in our hearts, we may witness to You by the example of our lives.
May all Christians be conscious that unity is necessary for effective evangelisation. May young Christians be encouraged to better prepare themselves to contribute to society. Grant that many may offer themselves as holy and heroic priests and religious in this time of great need. Angels of God accompany our missionaries who serve You in difficult situations. Be their safeguard against all evil as they strive to bring Your word to the ends of the earth. Lord through the faithful ministry of you shepherds may Your people be led along the narrow road that leads to eternal happiness. Bless and protect our Bishop Michael Smith on this the anniversary of his Episcopal ordination.
Holy Mary Mother of God and our mother enfold us in your loving embrace and lead us back to Jesus Your Son.
