Our mission as the parish community of Our Lady of Hope is to give witness to the love of Jesus in our families, our parish community and the world.
Our parish has a wonderful spirit and all of us together make that possible. Many people, who were here before us, believed that God is bringing us together and guiding our steps. They often asked, "What if …?" or "Why not …?" They gave thanks for what is and they hoped for what could be. We ask the same questions and share the same hope. Those who come after us will continue the same tradition that has been fashioned by the people of Our Lady of Hope, St. Bridget, St. John Vianney, Sacred Heart and Holy Cross.
We long to understand ourselves and each other;
We long to find healing and to grant forgiveness;
We long to know your will and to have courage to act;
We long to be free from fear and to be agents of your peace;
We want to be assured that we belong to something greater
than our own personal concerns.
We are restless, aware that we want more
yet we ae unclear about what we desire or need.
We are speechless and we pause in silent awe.
(a few moments of silence)
May we learn to journey together on this earth
in relationships that are healthy and holy.
May we embrace every situation as an opportunity to love
and to understand why we are here.
May we live in harmony and include everyone
in the circle of your love.
May we be grateful for all that we have received
and share generously with all who are in need.
May we appreciate our differences and heal our wounds.
May we be non-violent in our efforts to work for peace.
May we recognize the temptation to compete rather than
collaborate, to retaliate rather than reconcile.
May we have the participation and resources we need
to be a parish that is fully alive.
In You,
In accord with your will, we pray for our parish community,
our global church, and all of your created world.
Amen.