a Prayer for World Youth Day 2008

God Our Father,
we consecrate to you the World Youth Day in Sydney in 2008.
Guide and protect Pope Benedict and all the leaders of the Church.
Inspire and direct all those leading and planning the World Youth Day. Unite and protect them by your fatherly care.
Amen

Lord Jesus Christ,
before you ascended to the Father,
you promised to send your Holy Spirit so that we might be your witnesses to the end of the earth.
Bless and multiply the efforts of all our staff and volunteers.
Help us to take up our cross and follow you
under the heavenly sign of the Southern Cross.
Amen

Holy Spirit,
pour out your grace on this Great South Land
of the Holy Spirit and grant to us a New Pentecost.
Make of this land a true place of welcome
for the young people of the world.
Grant to those young people who come conversion of life,
a deeper faith, and love for all.
Enable them to build a new civilization of life, love and truth.
Make them true witnesses to your power and grace.
Amen

Our Lady of the Southern Cross, Help of Christians - pray for us.

Blessed Mary MacKillop - pray for us.