A Vigil for Peace at Saint John's Seminary

Last Sunday, Pope Francis offered an extended reflection on the need to pray for peace, especially in the light of the war in Syria and the possible involvement of the international community in this conflict. In his address before the Angelus, the Holy Father prayed that “the plea for peace rise up and touch the heart of everyone so that they may lay down their weapons and let themselves be led by the desire for peace.”

In particular, he invited all local churches to join him in observing “a day of fasting and prayer for peace in Syria” on the vigil of the birth of Mary, Queen of Peace, next Saturday, September 7th.

In solidarity with the Holy Father, Saint John’s Seminary wishes to invite you to join us in a Vigil for Peace from 1pm to 6pm on Saturday, the same time that the Holy Father will be praying in Saint Peter’s Square. As you will see form the attached schedule, the day will begin with exposition of the Blessed Sacrament at 1:00pm and continue with prayers and readings from Sacred Scripture throughout the afternoon. The day will conclude with a Mass celebrated by Cardinal O’Malley at 5:00pm in Saint John’s Seminary Chapel.

While space in the Chapel is limited, the entire Vigil will be open to the public. The front doors to the Chapel will remain open throughout the afternoon.

Here is the schedule for the Vigil on Saturday, September 7, 2013:

1:00pm   Exposition of the Blessed Sacrament
1:30pm   Reading I (Isaiah 9:1-6 His dominion is vast and forever peaceful.)
               Responsorial Psalm (Psalm 72; Justice shall flourish in his time, and fullness of peace forever.)

1:45pm   Reading II (Colossians 3:12-15 Let the peace of Christ control your hearts.)
               Responsorial Psalm (Psalm 85; The Lord speaks of peace to his people.)

2:00pm  The Rosary with meditations on Peace for the Luminous Mysteries (USCCB text)

2:30pm  Reading III (Philippians 4:6-9: The peace of God will guard your hearts and minds.)            

              Responsorial Psalm (Psalm 122; Give peace, O Lord, to those who wait for you.)

3:00pm  Chaplet of Divine Mercy

3:30pm  Reading IV (James 3:13-18: The fruit of righteousness is sown in peace.)
              Responsorial Psalm (Psalm 23; The Lord is my Shepherd, there is nothing I shall want.) 

4:00pm  A Litany for Peace

4:30pm  Benediction and reposition

5:00pm  Mass with Cardinal Sean O'Malley, OFN, Cap.
              Homily by Monsignor Moroney

              Mass in Time of War or Civil Disturbance