# Prayer to Mary, Mother of Mercy by St. John Paul II
*2017-08-24*

> Bill Young reflects on a short but powerful prayer to Mary, Mother of Mercy, written by St. John Paul II, and invites listeners to pray it, trusting in the good works God has already prepared for each of us.

## Introducing the Prayer

Good evening, I’m Bill Young. In today’s episode we turn to a special prayer to Mary, Mother of Mercy, composed by St. John Paul II. Although it’s brief, the prayer touches on a deep truth: God has already designated good works for each of us, and Mary intercedes that we may fulfill them with freedom and love.

## A Personal Reflection

I’m not a theologian—no doctorate or formal training—but this prayer gave me a real “eureka” moment. The line “accomplished with freedom, the good works which God has already designated for us” reminds us that God’s plan includes specific works of love and mercy. It humbles me to ask Mary to obtain this grace for us all.

## The Prayer Itself

Let us pray together:

“Oh Mary, Mother of Mercy, watch over us all so that the Cross of Christ may not have been borne in vain, that we may not wander astray from the path of goodness, nor lose our awareness of sin, but rather grow in the hope of God, rich in faithful love, accomplished with freedom the good works which God has already designated for us, and thereby become, with all our lives, a praise of His glory. Amen.”

## Putting the Prayer into Practice

When you feel uncertain about your vocation or the tasks God calls you to, repeat this prayer. Ask Mary to help you discern the specific good works God has set before you. In my experience, the more we open our eyes and ears to God’s promptings, the clearer those works become. For me, the central conversion of sinners and leading souls to Christ is the primary mission.

## Closing Thoughts

Remember Mary’s “yes” at the Annunciation. By saying “yes” to God’s plan, we ensure that Christ’s sacrifice is not in vain. May this prayer guide you to embrace the good works God has already prepared for you.

*Say “yes” like Mary, and the good works God has destined for you will become a living praise of His glory.*