Memorial of Saint Bernard, Abbot and Doctor of the Church

Opening Prayer

Holy God, You are Father and Mother of us all. Thank You for being the Wisdom Who teaches us – the Word spoken to us. Thank You for landing feet first in our midst, and creating Your dwelling place within and among us. Pour forth Your Wisdom that we might see Your glory! Speak again Your Word that we might listen more carefully and hear You! Humble us to know that we are the living stones of Your Temple, but You are the glory Who dwells within. Humble us to get over ourselves, and not carry on with grand public gestures that do not reflect the truth of our hearts. We pretend that we are the show! Pour forth Your Spirit of Wisdom to purify us that we might have integrity of intentions, words and deeds. Save us from hypocrisy and arrogance which blind and bind us and others. We ask You this in the name of Jesus, who is Your Wisdom, Your Word, Your Presence among us!