Day Three
Father of the Hospital
Father of the Hospital
In the year 1120, King Baldwin of Jerusalem described Gerard as the’father’ (pater) of the Jerusalem Hospital.
A good father watches over his children with love and also with strictness when required. He is present when his family needs him. Gerard directed his foundation and regarded his paternal responsibility as a gift from God, as a talent to be used. In our days, we must never presume to set ourselves up as fathers, teachers or instructors on our own account (cf. Mt 23:9-11), but rather see our duties asparents, as superiors or as academics before God and man: All who exalt themselves will be humbled and all who humble themselves will be exalted. (cf. Mt. xxiii:12)
Prayer
Jesus Christ, God and man, Son of the Father: Help our families to see ever more clearly their duties as the domestic Church.
Lord hear our prayer.
Help couples to remain united in fidelity in a world hostile to marriage.
Lord hear our prayer.
Help parents and children to understand one another.
Lord hear our prayer.
Help academics, researchers and teachers to fulfil their duties responsibly in your sight.
Lord hear our prayer.
Our Father... Hail Mary... Glory be to the Father…
Pray for us, Blessed Gerard
That we may be made worthy of the promises of Christ.
Let us Pray.
O God, in love of you and of our neighbour, you have established everything that the sacred laws decree; grant unto us that, in keeping your commandments, we may enter into eternal life. We ask this through our Lord Jesus Christ your Son, who lives and reigns with you and the Holy Spirit, one God, for ever and ever. Amen. (Collect for Sunday XXV of the Year)
