2nd February and the 2 highlights
There are two important highlights for today - apart from and arising from the feast of the presentation that we celebrate.
1. Candlemas:
Today in the Catholic Church we have the tradition of blessing candles and entering the Church in procession with the candles. This is called the Candlemas and it signifies the entry of the Light of the World (Jesus Christ) into the temple.2. World day of prayer for Consecrated Persons:
This was begun by Pope St. John Paul II in 1997. He invited every Catholic member of the Church to pray for the Consecrated men and women and thus praying, to promote vocations to consecrated life.
Intercessions for the World day of prayer for Consecrated Life
For those consecrated to God by the vows of chastity, poverty and obedience that
they may seek to live their baptismal promises more intensely and have the grace
to persevere in their commitment to the Lord and serve with open hearts and
willing spirits.
For those who have responded to the prompting of the Holy Spirit to be a
consecrated person that they may experience the support of the Church as they
continue their growth in holiness.
We pray for all those who are discerning their vocation in life, particularly those
whom the Lord is calling to consecrated life. May they be given the wisdom to
hear God's call and the courage to respond generously.
For all who actively support the promotion of vocations to the priesthood and
consecrated life, that they may see the fruit of their efforts in a rich harvest of
vocations.
That the life and mission of the men and women in consecrated life be a means of
sanctification for them and building up the kingdom of God.
For all pastors and parish priests of our diocese, that they will recognize and invite
those men and women being called to ordained and consecrated lives to answer
the call.
For all involved in the examination of candidates to priesthood or to consecrated
life, that their choices will benefit the Church.
That many young women will be open to Jesus’ call to consecrated life to serve
the many needs of the Church and of the world.
For all men and women preparing for the priesthood or consecrated life, that
their days of formation be filled with joy, peace and the certainty of God’s love.
