Feast of Ss Philip and James – 1 Cor 15:1-8; John 14:6-14

Hope. Especially when storms come.
Christ is man’s only hope.

Jesus told Philip that when you see Him, you’re actually seeing the Father, a message that’s been around for two thousand years and is still just as powerful today. In Jesus, God has completely shown us who He is – how Jesus lived and interacted with people is exactly how God our Father relates to us.

Even though Jesus said that anyone who believes in Him would do the same kind of works – and maybe even greater – He didn’t mean we’d do these things on our own. It’s God’s power flowing through us. And that doesn’t take anything away from how crucial His death and Resurrection are. Perhaps those greater works aren’t about gaining tons of followers but simply letting God work in and through us.

Sometimes we might be frustrated when our prayers, even ones we make in Jesus’ name, don’t get answered the way we want. It could be that our requests weren’t quite in line with His plan. I remember spending ages praying for something I thought I really needed, only to realise later it might not have been the best thing for me after all.

In the end, it’s all about trust. God’s word tells us we’ll receive what we ask for, but we also need to leave room for His bigger purpose. It’s about letting go of our personal agenda and humbly saying, “not my will, but yours.” That’s where genuine peace and confidence really start to grow.

Heavenly Father,
We gather our hearts before you, trusting in your boundless love and guidance as the cardinals prepare to meet in conclave. Pour out your Holy Spirit upon them, so they may set aside any divisions, grudges, or misunderstandings and truly listen to your voice.
In this time of decision, fill them with courage to uphold the truths of our faith, yet keep them humble enough to reach across differences with grace. May they stand united in Christ, mindful that they are servants first—servants of your people, servants of your Kingdom.
We ask, Lord, that you stir in them a spirit of harmony and cooperation, so they’ll be open to one another’s wisdom and respectful of one another’s concerns. Grant them the discernment they need to choose the next shepherd of our Church, someone who will lead us closer to you and guide us in unity and peace.
Bless our Holy Mother Church, that this conclave will be a beacon of hope and renewal for all of us. Hold us together in your love, Lord, and help us remember that in our diversity, we can still find harmony if we let you lead the way.
We offer this prayer in Jesus’ name, Amen.