Blessed Francisco, who died in 1905, was a Brazilian priest whose mother courageously gave him birth and raised him, though she was a slave and a single parent. His Feast Day is September 23.
Lord, we thank you for Blessed Francisco,
And for the example of courage
Which his mother gives to all
Who are pregnant and afraid.
We thank you for the priestly service
That Francisco gave to your people,
Reminding them that you call each of us from the womb
And appoint us, from before the foundation of the world,
To the mission that you have for us
To build your Kingdom of Life.
Bless all the children in the womb,
And bless their moms, and all of us,
With a deep reverence for your plan and your Providence.
Give us all the courage to say yes to Life
And to fulfill the vocation you gave us
From before we are born.
cWe pray through Christ our Lord. Amen.
Blessed Francisco de Paula Victor, pray for us!
Fr. Frank Pavone, National Director, Priests for Life