As the time nears when Pope Benedict XVI arrives in Scotland to begin a 4 day state visit to the UK, we recall the Holy Father’s words of encouragement when the visit was first announced:

“Encourage your people to pray that it will be a time of grace for the whole Catholic community… Assure them that the Pope constantly remembers them in his prayers and holds them in his heart.”

Catholic schools across Scotland are encouraged to use the resources provided to help children and young people to prepare themselves spiritually for this event, to spend time praying for the success of the Pope’s visit, for its positive impact on all people of the United Kingdom, for the Church and for the happiness and fulfilment of all young people engaged in education.

During this week we pray particularly for the Pope’s Intentions in August.
As we think of the significance of his visit, we reflect on what it means to come together in communion with one another in the Eucharist and what a special occasion the Pope’s visit offers us:

“God is not solitude, but perfect communion. For this reason the human person, the image of God, realises himself or herself in love.” Pope Benedict XVI

Each day, united in prayers of preparation with schools, parishes and families across the UK, we look forward to welcoming the Holy Father to our country.

God of truth and love,

we pray for Pope Benedict and look forward with joy to his forthcoming visit to our countries. 

May he be a witness to the unity and hope which is your will for all people. 

We make our prayer through Christ our Lord,  Amen

Our Lady Mother of the Church, Pray for Us
St. Andrew, Pray for Us
St. George, Pray for Us
St. David,Pray for Us