Friday 4 August

St John Vianney

Leviticus 23:1, 4-11, 15-16, 27, 34-37;
Psalm 80;
Matthew 13:54-58

Just as Jesus was not accepted in his home town, John Vianney (1786-1859) was regarded as ‘unpromising’ by his superiors and assigned to a very isolated parish. But sanctity cannot be obscured, and his reputation as preacher and confessor drew thousands back to their faith. He is patron of parish clergy. This is a day to pray for your priests. Dear God, be with our priests in their every moment. Guide and guard their ministry. Bless their humility. Help them to persevere, especially when they doubt their effectiveness or their ability to serve.