BY: LYNDA PALAZZOLO
LEADER
One of the most precious gifts we have is the maturity and wisdom of the elderly. They are the guardians of our traditions and memories. With advancing age comes human frailties, which causes them to become more dependent upon others, but it also brings about the link to different generations. It is a special gift to have the opportunity to spend time with our elders and learn from them.
READER
What you have not saved in your youth, how will you acquire in your old age?
How becoming to the gray-haired is judgment, and a knowledge of counsel to those on in years! How becoming to the aged is wisdom, understanding and prudence to the venerable! The crown of old men is wide experience; their glory, the fear of the Lord. Sirach 25:3-6
LEADER
Lord God, help us to share Christ by building appropriate supportive relationships with clients' families while maintaining professional boundaries.
ALL
Lord, hear our prayer.
LEADER
Lord God, enable us to see the face of Christ in all whom we serve and in one another.
ALL
Lord, hear our prayer.
LEADER
Lord God, give us a strong work ethic to do our best as we would do for You.
ALL
Lord, hear our prayer.
LEADER
Lord God, help us to have compassion toward the hurting and the patience in dealing with their constant needs.
ALL
Lord, hear our prayer.
LEADER
Lord God, grant us the ability to enjoy our rest and relaxation so that we might be ever fresh and alert while on duty.
ALL
Lord, hear our prayer.
LEADER
"Gracious God, we ask you to bless especially your children who have grown old. When they can no longer care for themselves, send them loving caretakers who appreciate their wisdom and the richness of their experience. Send your angels to keep them safe as long as they live and to lead them home to you when their work is done. Bless the families of the elderly with insight and good judgment. Send your Holy Spirit to help them make wise decisions, and grant them the patience to care for those who once cared for them. We pray in the name of Jesus."*
ALL
Amen.
*www.stmarcelline.com/prayersforblessing.htm
Lynda Palazzolo
Mission Resource Assistant
Catholic Health Association
"Prayer Service," a regular department in Health Progress, may be copied without prior permission.