Liturgy Alive ST. JOSAPHAT, Bishop and Martyr, Memorial
Introduction
How tragic it is that "Christ is divided" in many denominations and sects… The Polish bishop Josaphat (1580-1623) dedicated much of his life in the 17th century to the reunion of the Orthodox Church with Rome. This task cost him his life. The work of Church unity is far from ended. There are still many obstacles in the way. Good progress has been made, though, toward mutual tolerance and respect.
Opening Prayer
One God and Father of all,
St. Josaphat dedicated his life and his death
to unite in one faith and love
those who believe in your Son, Jesus Christ.
Let your Holy Sprit pour out his love
in all those for whom Jesus
is the ground and meaning of their lives.
Let this love unite us in one common bond
of understanding and respect of one another
and let this love dispose us
to live for one another and to serve one another
in our brother Jesus Christ, our Lord.
Prayer over the Gifts
Lord our God,
at his invitation, we gather at the table of your Son
and we prepare ourselves to share his meal together.
As he has united us as his brothers and sisters,
may the Holy Spirit keep us one
in the life of every day.
Let him bind us together
in strong and dedicated communities,
in which we accept one another
notwithstanding our differences.
Unite us in the one love
of Jesus Christ, our Lord.
Prayer after Communion
Lord our God,
the Psalmist rejoices
whenever brothers and sisters
can live together in one love.
Let this become a reality among us
who believe in our one Lord, Jesus Christ.
Let the deepest witnessing of our faith be,
that we live for one another in the same unity
that united your Son Jesus, with you,
our living and loving God,
now and for ever.
