Churchill Avenue News

On October 24th Pope Francis published his most recent encyclical Dilexit Nos or “He loved us”. This letter explores the human and divine love Jesus has for us all. In it, Pope Francis has asked us to rediscover our own love for one another and for Jesus’ Sacred Heart. As we head towards Christmas, may our prayers be focused on how we can love one another and create a more just and peaceful community for all.

Dear Lord,

In a world where everything is bought and sold, people’s sense of their worth appears increasingly to depend on what they can accumulate with power or money.

The love of Jesus has no place in this, yet only this love can set us free.

Christ’s love can give a heart to our world and revive love wherever we think it has been lost.

Our Church also needs love, unless the love of Christ be replaced with outdated structures, our own opinions, and fanaticism.

Let us welcome the love of God that liberates, enlivens, brings joy and builds communities.

We ask Jesus to grant that his Sacred Heart may continue to pour forth the streams of living water that can heal any hurt we have caused, strengthen our love and service of others, and inspire us to journey together towards a world of justice, solidary and love.

Amen.

Prayer adapted from Delixit Nos no. 217-220.