Prayer for new seminarians

Lord Jesus,
we ask your special blessing
on all our new seminarians
beginning their preparation for the priesthood today,
their families and friends who have accompanied them.
We pray that they will grow in
faith, hope and charity.
May their hearts overflow with your
compassion, understanding and generosity,
and may their desire to serve you inspire others to answer your call.

Lord, give our new seminarians the grace
to follow you more perfectly.
When they are discouraged or lonely,
fill them with your peace and courage.
Jesus, gentle Shepard, meek and humble of heart,
make the hearts of all our new seminarians like yours.

Lord bless the families and friends of our new seminarians
and all who encourage, inspire and guide them
in responding to your call to be a priest. Amen.