# Prayer for Pope Benedict XVI and Others in Need
*2023-01-05*

> Bill and John pray for the soul of Pope Benedict XVI, a football player recovering from cardiac arrest, and for priests, religious, and all who seek God’s mercy.

## Welcome and Intentions

Bill greets listeners and wishes everyone a happy New Year. He notes that Pope Benedict XVI, who passed away at 95, is now with the Lord and the Blessed Virgin Mary. The hosts also intend to pray for a football player who suffered cardiac arrest and is in critical condition.

## Opening Prayer

Bill leads an opening prayer invoking the Father, Son, and Holy Spirit. He asks God to pour out His mercy on the souls in purgatory, especially the soul of Pope Benedict XVI, and on the ailing football player. He asks that the blood and water which flowed from the heart of Jesus become a fountain of mercy for us.

## The Lord’s Prayer and Hail Mary

Bill and John recite the Our Father, the Apostles’ Creed, and the Hail Mary, asking God to forgive our trespasses, protect us from evil, and bless the faithful.

## Prayer for Priests and Religious

The hosts pray for the priests and religious, asking that Jesus, source of all goodness, increase His grace in those consecrated to His service. They request strength for them to perform works of mercy so that all may glorify the Father of Mercy.

## Special Prayer for Pope Benedict XVI and the Football Player

Bill offers a heartfelt prayer for Pope Benedict XVI, thanking God for his holy life and asking for his eternal rest. He also prays for the football player, asking that God’s merciful gaze be upon him, granting healing and restoration.

## Closing Prayer and Reflection

Bill closes with a prayer that God’s endless mercy may increase in us, especially in difficult moments, so that we may submit to His holy will with confidence. He reminds listeners of the power of prayer, citing the Gospel story of the ten lepers, and encourages gratitude for the blessings we receive.

*May we continually turn to God’s boundless mercy, trusting that He hears our prayers for the departed, the sick, and all who serve Him.*