# A Prayer for the World Meeting of Families, Philadelphia 2015
*2015-08-13*

> Bill Young offers a heartfelt prayer for families worldwide as the World Meeting of Families gathers in Philadelphia, invoking the Holy Family and the Holy Spirit.

## Opening Thoughts

Good morning. This is Bill Young, and welcome to the Prayer and Lunch podcast. Today is Thursday, August 13th, the feast of Saints Pontian and Hippolytus. I’m preparing to travel to Washington, D.C., to see Pope Francis, and I’m looking forward to meeting new friends and possibly recording a podcast with fellow apprentices.

## Prayer for the World Meeting of Families

In the name of the Father, the Son, and the Holy Spirit, Amen.

God and Father of us all, in Jesus, your Son and our Savior, you have made us your sons and daughters in the family of the Church. May your grace and love sustain families everywhere. May the families gathered in Philadelphia be united in fidelity to the Gospel. May the example of the Holy Family, with the aid of the Holy Spirit, guide all families—especially those most troubled—into homes of communication and prayer, always seeking truth and living in your love. Through Christ our Lord, Amen.

## Invocation of the Saints

Jesus, Mary, and Joseph, pray for us.

*May the Holy Family inspire every family to live in love, prayer, and truth.*