Take Up Your Cross

Almighty God, by your Holy Spirit you have made us one with your saints in heaven and on earth: Help us to see your presence burning in the hearts of others; grant that we may be united in a fellowship of love and prayer; give us the courage to pick up our cross and respond to the needs of the world, give us the stamina to follow you, to be your hands and heart in the world; enable us to witness to your grace and mercy. We pray all this through the love your son, Jesus Christ. Amen.