Ember Friday in Whitsun Week. Christ was crucified (Fast and abstinence)
by VP
Posted on Friday May 24, 2024 at 01:00AM in Tradition
"THIS being the time, when the Holy Ghost, the Comforter as Christ had promised, came down upon the apostles, in the form of fiery tongues, and so replenished them with anew spirit, that they were now fitted for that great work, which Christ had recommended to them, of preaching His faith to all nations; with gratitude acknowledged this mercy, and give praise to God for the blessing of this time. The Holy Spirit was sent down upon the apostles to be their guide, to teach them, and lead them into all truth; to be their light, to go before them, and give them understanding: to be their comforter, to abide with them for ever. He was their life and strength; He prepared and fitted them to preach the faith of Christ to all nations, and to establish his Church as an eternal kingdom. Endeavour to be truly sensible of this goodness, and that living a faithful servant of God, you may have the benefit of His holy institution. Express your hearty desires, that as this Holy Church is your unspeakable comfort and support, amidst the distracted notions of an unbelieving world, so it may daily bring forth children to God, who may walk here by the Gospel and spirit of our Lord Jesus, and being translated from this Gis mystical body here on earth, may be added to those choirs above, there to give him eternal praises for all His mercies.
It being Ember Week, join in fasting, humiliation, and prayer, as the Church requires, and offer your petitions to God, in particular for those, who at this time are promoted to Holy Orders, throughout the Church; that the Holy
Ghost may rest upon them, and every way prepare them for that great and
difficult charge, to which they are called. Recommend to Almighty God
all the ministers of His holy altar, that they may be vested with holiness, and walk in all things, according to the sanctity of their vocation; that when the prince of pastors shall appear, they may receive an unfading crown of glory." The Catholic Year by Fr. John Gother
Prayer to the Holy Ghost for Priests
O Holy Ghost, Thou Friend of priests, send them daily Thy seven gifts, that they may live worthy of their calling, and become all to all in order to win souls for heaven. Give them patience with children, pity for the sick, humility toward the poor, and generosity toward the enemies of Thy holy Church. Make them active in teaching, untiring in the tribunal of penance, and zealous in distributing Holy Communion. Let them be terrible to the demons of hell and messengers of peace to all who are of good will. May Thy blessing accompany them wherever they may go; may Thy peace enter with them in the dwellings they may visit; mayest Thou bless all whom they may bless. Make them true apostles and saints. Amen. Come Holy Ghost, a compilation of prayers in honor of the Divine Spirit. 1932 Fr. Lester Martin Dooley.
