How to Pray for the Catholic Church TodayThe Phantom Intercessor - 11 Feb 2013
He's one of the world's most influential men, leader of the largest Christian Church and today Pope Benedict XVI stood down.
At a meeting of Cardinals this morning:
The pope took a sheet of paper and read from it. He just said that he was resigning and that he would be finishing on February 28,"
"The cardinals were just looking at one another. Then the pope got to his feet, gave his benediction and left. It was so simple; the simplest thing imaginable. Extraordinary. Nobody expected it. Then we all left in silence. There was absolute silence … and sadness. " Monsignor Oscar Sanchez (Mexican Prelate) Guardian 11Feb.
That silence and sadness echoed around all corners of the church today with the incoming Anglican Archbishop of Canterbury Justin Welby expressing that he heard the news with a 'heavy heart'.
Please take time today to pray for the Catholic Church. Here are 3 ways in which you can pray:
- For Pope Benedict XVI. The pope cites his age and a recent lack of strength as the reasons for his resignation.
This must have been an incredibly difficult and brave decision for the pope to make. Pray he receives peace and comfort from the Holy Spirit. We all long to hear that great "Well Done" from the Father - pray he may hear that in the coming weeks. The pope wishes to serve the church "in the future through a life dedicated to prayer" may he find peace and joy in that place of prayer.
- Pray for the Catholic Church.
May they find peace and security in Jesus today, pray that the faith of many might be strengthened and in a year where nominal Catholics are being urged back to church would they find the embrace of a waiting Father.
- Pray for those that will decide who the next pope will be... and for that man.
Pray that God's choice of leader would be raised up, pray for wisdom and courage for those who will discern who that should be and strength, grace and peace on the incoming pope.
Jesus in all things may your will be done.