  PRAYER SUPPORTYour prayer support is a great source of strength and encouragement for our missioners and staff. We have many stories of individuals who call or write and share their appreciation for our work and bless us with their prayerful spirits and intentions. Here are some ways you can pray for us:
- Pray for the formation and ongoing discernment of our missioners-in-training. We currently have a group of 7 missioners preparing for mission in Latin America and Africa. Pray for their spiritual development in preparation for the many challenges and joys that await them.
- Pray for our current missioners in the field. There are six missioners in Bolivia and one in Tanzania preparing to return to the United States at the end of this year. The transition can often be difficult -- known as "reverse culture shock". Many experience a more difficult transition than the one of adaption to their host country. Pray that their spiritual life remains strong and many loved ones surround them with patience, listening ears, and a desire to understand their experience.
- Pray for the financial stability of FMS. May those who are able give to this life giving ministry. As is true for most non-profits, our donations have decreased significantly in this time of economic turmoil. Pray that those with financial means feel called to support us.
- Pray for our staff as they work to support our missioners in the field.
A Franciscan prayer for missioners
Lord, make our sisters and brothers serving in other countries instruments of your Peace...
...In the midst of conflict give them serene spirits.
Where there is hatred, let them sow love...
...Grant that our missioners be bridges of reconciliation
Where there is injury, pardon...
...Make our missioners a truly healing presence.
Where there is doubt, faith...
...Give our missioners absolute trust in your Providence.
Where there is despair, hope...
...Keep our missioners ever-mindful of your empowering presence in the world.
Where there is darkness, light...
...Grant that the witness of our missioners illumine the way for all they encounter.
Where there is sadness, joy...
...Keep the spirits of our missioners lifted by the grace of their vocation.
O Divine Master, may our missionary sisters and brothers not so much
seek to be consoled as to console...
...In the midst of the pain which they witness.
To be understood, as to understand...
...In the trying reality of their missionary lives.
To be loved, as to love...
...Each person without thought of class, race or religion.
Help our missioners believe the all-important truth:
That in giving they receive
That in pardoning they are pardoned
And that in dying they are born to eternal life.
Amen
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