Camino: December 3rd

Feast of St Francis Xavier:

Francis was a friend of Ignatius of Loyola, as they studied together in Paris. Together they founded the great Jesuit order, and it is fitting today that we pray for the ministry of Jesuits throughout the world, not forgetting a special prayer for the first Jesuit Pope, Francis. After his ordination in 1537, Francis was sent to establish a mission in Goa--his missionary zeal took him to Japan and China and died on the island of Shangchwan. He was noted for his practical care of all and his stand for justice for native people, especially in the face of European domination. The Gospel today tells the parable of those wise people who build their homes on solid foundations and not the sand--their home will stand during any storm. As we move forward to the light of Christmas, we need that faith of Francis Xavier: we need to base our lives firmly with Jesus.

TODAY: pray for the Church in China

We can pray:

O my Lord Jesus!

Teach me to be generous;

teach me to serve You as you deserve;

to give, and not to count the cost;

to fight and not to heed the wounds;

to toil and not to ask for rest;

to labour, seeking no reward,

save that of knowing that I do your will. AMEN.