MONDAY OF THE FOURTEENTH WEEK IN ORDINARY TIME

Bishop John Stowe, OFM Conv, Shepherd of the Diocese of Lexington, KY, offered this Opening Prayer at the Outreach 2021 LGBTQ Catholic Ministry Conference on Saturday, June 26. The Conference format was a webinar.

All loving Creator, who reveal your power in mercy and compassion, look upon us as we gather from many places united in our desire to serve, to learn from, and lift up your LGBTQ+ children. Help us to form true bonds in this time together to bridge more than our geographical distances, so as to truly reflect and be the Body of Christ, your Love Incarnate. May Your Spirit be upon all of us as we celebrate and uphold with Pride the dignity of all your children – diverse and wonderful. Bless our efforts to imitate the ministry and love of Jesus – who bent down to touch and heal our wounds and lifts us up on his shoulders to carry us to safety. Surround in love your children who have yet to discover their dignity and value or question it because of distortions of your Word. Be with those who are isolated, lonely, or looking to escape their pain in unhealthy ways. Inspire us as church to be more effective in outreach, in mission, and in embodying your all merciful love. Amen.