Prayer to the Cure of ars

Holy Curé of Ars, your whole life was a single-minded offering of yourself to God for the service of men. Through your intercession, may the Holy Spirit lead us now to respond without faltering in our daily lives to the call which you have given to each one of us.

* You were steadfast in adoring Christ in the tabernacle. Teach us to draw close, in faith and reverence, to the Eucharist, to relish the silent presence of God in the Blessed Sacrament.

* You were the friend of sinners, to whom you said : "Your sins are as a grain of sand by comparison with the huge mountain of God’s mercy." Free us from the bonds of fear which sometimes keep us far from God’s forgiveness ; increase in us repentance for our sins. Give us a true understanding of the way the Father looks upon us, waiting tirelessly waiting for the return of the prodigal son.

* You were the sustainer of the poors : "My secret is quite simple : to part with everything and keep nothing." Teach us to give up our comfort so that we can share with those in need ; free us from attachment to money and to all deceptive riches.

* You were a loving son of the Virgin Mary, "your most long-standing affection." Teach us to turn to her with the trust and simplicity of a child.

* You have become an outstanding model for the parish priests of the whole world. May your pastoral charity lead those who care for souls to aspire to closeness with them all, whomever they may be. Give pastors a love for the Church, apostolic zeal, and steadfastness in trial.

* Awaken in the hearts of young people an awareness of the splendours of the priestly ministry and the joy of responding to the call of the Good Shepherd.

Holy Curé of Ars, intercede for us with God. Through you, humble and faithful pastor, tireless in the service of God and man, may we be granted what we ask.

Amen.

Father Guy Bagnard, bishop of Belley-Ars