Catholic Revelation

From time to time I run into mothers who are sad that their children are leading lives drastically different than those they held in their dreams. But, even more sad than a life of failed dreams, is a life void of God where joy is simply not attainable. I also hear mother’s mourn the loss of faith in their children’s lives.

Trouble strikes us all. Our children will suffer. We know this because of our own experiences. What is important is how our children manage their troubles. The only effective way to manage hardship is through faith in God. That is what really counts. We might mourn the loss of what we dreamed life would be like for our children, but what is more important is a life of faith in God. As parents, we should strive to keep our children, no matter how old, in tune with God. If they stray, we should pray. The Church I attend holds a prayer session in the adoration chapel for parents whose adult children no longer attend Mass. Personal experience has shown me how powerful this kind of prayer can be.

I wrote this prayer in celebration of the new year. I plan on saying this prayer every day for the next year and beyond. Perhaps you would like to say this prayer as well or even modify it to suit your own needs.

In the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Spirit.

Dear Heavenly God of Peace,

Please embrace my children. Allow me, as their mother, to lovingly place them into your arms. Let them be messengers of your Heavenly Word, and dedicated and loving servants, giving themselves totally and completely over to your will. May they always hear your call for their lives and respond without haste. May they never forget to nourish themselves with the Body and your Blood of your Son, Jesus Christ, as they dutifully, joyfully, and cheerfully participate often in your Holy Sacrifice. When trouble strikes as it most surely will, no matter how small or how big, let them find and take their consolation in You and their Holy Mother, Your Church. Should they find themselves in the company of unbelievers, let them never be tempted, but always a light pointing the way. And Lord, as events continue to unfold in my own journey, help me always, in good times and in bad, be for them, that unwavering example of faith and trust in you. I pray this through the intercession of your blessed Mother who shows us the way. Hail Mary full of grace . . . .

In the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Spirit. Amen.