The Friars Are Praying for You

It has been a week now since the House of Studies had to suspend public access to its liturgies. The priory chapel remains filled with friars, of course, but our friends are noticeably absent. We miss you all.

As many of you have suffered in these days having little access to churches and the sacraments, your intentions and well being have been remembered constantly in our prayers. In fact, besides maintaining our regular schedule of Mass and the Divine Office, we have increased the times when we gather to pray before the Blessed Sacrament. The community now has a period of adoration every day of the week. We have made this addition to our schedule with you particularly in mind. Because you have been able to adore the Lord less than usual, we have devoted ourselves to adoring him more. We are praying not only for you—that is, for your intentions—but also for you—that is, in your place. May the merits of these vicarious prayers sustain you in joy and peace until we can come together again in common worship.

The community is also offering a novena to St. Luke and St. Jude, asking their intercession for a quick end to the COVID-19 threat. We seek their prayers, too, for the healing of all suffering infection, and for the strength and courage of those fighting the virus on the front lines. May God protect them and keep them healthy.

May the Lord bless and guard you all, too, during this difficult time. Of course, the mysteries of faith ever remain our light and consolation. For instance, if the bonds forged between us by baptism survive the ravages of death, then we can be certain that they will easily outlast a little social distancing.

Sacred Heart of Jesus, have mercy on us!

Our Lady, Health of the Sick, pray for us!

St. Joseph, pray for us!

St. Dominic, pray for us!