Stewardship Prayer
On October 11, 1962, Saint Pope John
XXIII prayed the following prayer to open
the Second Vatican Council. Thereafter, the
bishops at the Council continued to pray
this prayer together before every session.
We stand before you, Holy Spirit,
conscious of our sinfulness,
but aware that we gather in your name.
Come to us, remain with us, and enlighten
our hearts.
Give us light and strength to know your will,
to make it our own,
and to live it in our lives.
Guide us by your wisdom, support us
by your power,
for you are God, sharing the glory of
Father and Son.
You desire justice for all:
enable us to uphold the rights of others;
do not allow us to be misled by ignorance;
or corrupted by fear or favor.
Unite us to yourself in the bond of love
and keep us faithful to all that is true.
As we gather in your name
may we temper justice with love,
so that all our decisions may be pleasing
to you,
and earn the reward promised to
good and faithful servants.
You live and reign with the Father and
the Son,
God, forever and ever.
Amen.
