Monday, June 15, 2020

Pray for Life: For Supportive Fathers

Featuring monthly intentions in support of...
PRAY FOR LIFE
June 2020
Intercession

May expectant mothers be supported by the fathers of their children in welcoming new life.

Prayers

Our Father, 3 Hail Marys, Glory Be

Reflection

“Fatherhood is first a spiritual reality, because fatherhood has its origins in God who chose to reveal Himself to us as Our Father, sending his only Son for the sake of our salvation. Fathers therefore have a special and unique role ‘in revealing and in reliving on earth the very fatherhood of God’ ( FC 25).* Fathers have a vital, unique, and important role to play in the personal and spiritual development of their children, and in reflecting the love of God the Father himself. Fathers are called to show the world the virtues of a tender protector, while living out the virtues of humility and courage.

In all circumstances, but especially in difficult circumstances, a father needs to be encouraged to faithfully accept the role entrusted to him by God and support the mother of his child. Through our prayers and through the intercession of St. Joseph, patron of fathers, may fathers come to know the irreplaceable role they hold in the lives of their children, and the responsibility they share in welcoming God’s gift of new life!”


Acts of Reparation   (Choose one.)

  • Pray a decade of the Rosary, followed by this Prayer to St. Joseph for all expectant mothers and fathers, especially those who are in difficult circumstances. May they be guided and inspired by the example of Mary and Joseph in welcoming new life.

  • Choose one of your favorite foods, beverages, snacks, or treats to fast from for one day for this month’s intention.

  • Offer some other sacrifice or prayer that you feel called to do for this month’s intention.

One Step Further

Consider using this simple activity guide to create a spiritual bouquet seeking the intercession of St. Joseph, patron of fathers, on Father’s Day. In addition to the personal intentions brought to your heart by Father’s Day, please also pray for expectant mothers to be lovingly supported by the fathers of their children in welcoming new life.


*Excerpts from  Familiaris consortio  ( On the Family ), no. 25 © 1981, Libreria Editrice Vaticana. Used with permission. All rights reserved.