On Monday 21st August the National Office of the WMOF 2018 Launched the One Year programme of preparation at the Marian Shrine of Knock.  Fr. Timothy Bartlett Secretary General of the WMOF 2018 and his team hosted a wonderful family fun day of prayer and activities.

During the celebrations the  image of the World Meeting of Families Icon 2018 was anointed by Archbishop Diarmuid Martin at the 3pm Mass in the Basilica. The Icon was written by the Redemptoristine Community Drumcondra.   People travelled the length and breadth of Ireland to mark the one year launch.

We were delighted that Kielty and Annette Hughes along with their five children travelled from Armagh to represent the Archdiocese of Armagh in the opening procession of the Mass.

I would like to invite you all to pray daily the official World Meeting of Families Prayer for your own intentions and for families around the world.

OFFICIAL FAMILY PRAYER FOR WORLD MEETING OF FAMILIES 2018  

 

 

 

 

 

 

God, our Father,

We are brothers and sisters in Jesus your Son,

One family, in the Spirit of your love.

Bless us with the joy of love.

Make us patient and kind,

gentle and generous,

welcoming to those in need.

Help us to live your forgiveness and peace.

Protect all families with your loving care,

Especially those for whom we now pray:

[We pause and remember family members and others by name].

Increase our faith,

Strengthen our hope,

Keep us safe in your love,

Make us always grateful for the gift of life that we share.

This we ask, through Christ our Lord, Amen

Mary, mother and guide, pray for us.

Saint Joseph, father and protector, pray for us.

Saints Joachim and Anne, pray for us.

Saints Louis and Zélie Martin, pray for us