Prayer for the Family, the Sanctuary of Life
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Father of all, we praise you, 
We adore, and bless you, 
And we thank you for all you have given us. 

We thank you for creating us in your image, 
An image reflected in each and every human life, 
And in the love by which we give ourselves away for one another.

We thank you for showing us the meaning of love 
In the sacrifice of your Son Jesus Christ on the cross 
And the power of his Spirit in our lives. 

We thank you for creating the gift of marriage, 
And for calling so many to live out this mystery of love and life 
Which reflects the mystery of Christ and his Church. 

We thank you for the gift of children, 
Created by you and entrusted to us 
To be protected, nurtured and taught to live your life. 

We thank you for the family, 
Which is the sanctuary of life, the domestic Church, 
And the sign of the unity to which you call all humanity. 

We ask you today to look with favor on your people. 
Protect every child in danger of abortion, 
And protect every marriage in danger of divorce. 

Heal the wounds of families that are broken, 
Inspire reconciliation in hearts that are estranged, 
And calm the fears of those who are alone. 

Bless your Church, as she prepares 
For the world meeting of families in September
And for the Synod of Bishops in October.

May every family unite in faith and prayer,
As in a great worldwide Cenacle 
Awaiting a new Pentecost for families and for life. 

Bless every family and every person, 
That they may always experience 
The peace that only you can give, 
And that nobody can take away. 

We pray through Christ our Lord. Amen.