“Charity is the cement that unites communities to God and individuals to each other, so that he who contributes to the union of hearts in a community binds it indissolubly to God.”
– St. Vincent de Paul

Lord, give me a heart so filled with loving concern for those who make up my particular “community” that there is no room for criticism or self-seeking.

“We must never be surprised when those upon whom we relied fail us; it is then that God steps in to do His work.”
– St. Vincent de Paul

Lord, when those in whom I trust fail me and all seems lost, teach me to forgive from my heart. Be my strength at those difficult times.

“Religion does not limit the powers of the affections, for our Blessed Savior sanctifies and approves in us all the endearing ties and connections of our existence. Religion alone can bind the cord over which neither circumstances, time, nor death have any power.”
– St. Elizabeth Ann Seton

How fortunate I am to have family and friends who care about me. As death begins to claim these loved ones, console me in my grieving and keep the remembrance of them alive in my heart.

“Is it to be expected that all the world approve our every proceeding and we never have occasion to find fault with the deportment of others? In that case, God would have to change human nature.”
– St. Vincent de Paul

Heavenly Father, help me to ignore the disapproval and slights which sometimes come my way. Never let such things stand in the way of my moving ahead with the work I am doing for you.

“For very just reasons, God sometimes conceals from his servants the fruits of their labors, even though he blesses them with very great results.”
– St. Vincent de Paul

When what I am doing doesn’t seem to have much meaning or the outcome seems obscure, with you at my side I know, Lord, my efforts will be rewarded no matter the results.

“Our dear Savior was never in extremes.”
– St. Elizabeth Ann Seton

One of my greatest needs is for balance in my life, Lord. When I begin to go off on this or that tangent, bring me back to you, who are the center of my life and all things will fall into place.

“You have a thousand reasons for rejoicing in God and for hoping for everything from him through Our Lord who dwells within you.”
– St. Vincent de Paul

During the day, I will find at least one specific reason for rejoicing and make it a prayer to you, Lord.

“Many contradictory things happen to us: unfavorable opinions about ourselves, our works, our intentions. These contradictions have the advantage of preventing vain-glory, of obliging us to throw ourselves more confidently into the arms of God.”
– St. Vincent de Paul

Contradictions have a way of leveling my excessive pride and challenging me to rely more heavily on you, Lord. I place my confidence in you.

“What, my sister? You bear with me so much, why should I not support you?”
– St. Louise de Marillac

Heavenly Father, I ask you to help me live with my own brokenness and have the mercy to forgive and support those with whom I live or work and who also bear the burden of their own brokenness. Lay your healing hand on us and unite us in a bond of mutual charity.

“May the good pleasure of God be forever the peace and calm of your afflicted hearts.”
– St. Vincent de Paul

“Hearken, O Lord, to my prayer and attend to the sound of my pleading. In the day of my distress I call upon you, for you will answer me.” – Psalms 86:6