Feast of Sts. Anne and Joaquim

July 25, 2017

“First of all, then, I urge that supplications, prayers, intercessions, and
thanksgivings be made for all men, for kings and all who are in high positions, that we may lead a quiet and peaceable life, godly and respectful in every way.”

-1 Timothy 2: 1-2

Meditation
When Steve and his wife Shelly were preparing to get married, they decided that they wanted to consecrate their wedding to Mary. To do this, they planned to bring a statue of Mary into the sanctuary. Unfortunately, for a variety of reasons, the pastor at the time would not allow them to bring Our Lady into their wedding.

Shelly was not ready to take no for an answer. She decided to make a deal with Mary’s parents, Sts. Anne and Joachim. Watch this week’s Live It! video for an amazing story of the power of intercessory prayer.

Live It! Tip of the Week: Ask for intercession for something that has been weighing on you. Don’t be afraid to ask the saints for some help. They want to pray for you!

Prayer
My family is the heart of my life. It is my little Church. Saint Anne, guard the members of my family against all physical and spiritual danger.
You lived in the presence of your husband Joachim and your little daughter Mary. Later, you welcomed your son-in-law, Saint Joseph, and above all your beloved Grandson Jesus, our Saviour.
May your family inspire our families. May we remain united in a deep mutual love. If my family is broken by separation or divorce, remain for us the Saint of tenderness and lead us to God.
Saint Anne, you were a spouse, a mother, and a grandmother; bless all the members of my family. Keep us faithful to the Lord.
May we remain attentive to the needs of other families. Protect all families. Amen.
-Text from a prayer card from the Shrine of Sainte Anne de Beaupré in Quebec, Canada.