Common prayer for Earth and for humanity – by Pope Francis

Pope Francis presents us with a new common prayer for Earth and humanity, which he urges us all to pray during these difficult times. May we all awaken to his call to feel interconnected and interdependent, and may our current sufferings become the birth-pangs of a new world.

Remember, we pray with our hearts not with our eyes. So please use this reflection to help lead into prayer, but also remember to put aside personal prayer time to reflect more deeply on the words and messages Pope Francis presents us.

Here are the words for you to read and reflect on, in your own time.

Loving God,

Creator of Heaven, Earth, and all therein contained.

Open our minds and touch our hearts,

so that we can be part of Creation, your gift.

Be present to those in need in these difficult times,

especially the poorest and most vulnerable.

Help us to show creative solidarity

as we confront the consequences of the global pandemic.

Make us courageous in embracing the changes

required to seek the common good.

Now more than ever, may we all feel interconnected and interdependent.

Enable us to succeed in listening and responding

to the cry of the Earth and the cry of the poor.

May their current sufferings become the birth-pangs

of a more fraternal and sustainable world.

We pray through Christ our Lord,

under the loving gaze of Mary

Help of Christians,

Amen.