Lord God, as somebody so beautifully put it, 'friends are the family we choose for ourselves'. In a world where everything seems so unstable and brother turns againstbrother, there is nothing more comforting than the thought of having faithful friends who are always readyto offer us their help and support.
You taught us, Lord, to love one another as you hadloved us and that there is no greater love for a man thanto give his life for his friends. Through your life andpersonal example you gave us a lesson on what true friendship means. Help us to follow you and to be goodfriends to our friends. Fill us with your Holy Spirit, sothat we can find the right words to pray for them and tothank you for bringing them into our lives.
And as we pray, from the depth of our heart and mind, we say to you: my Lord, watch over my friends. Protectthem from all evil and harm and never abandon them when they are in need, as they have never abandoned me when I was in need. Be their helper and comforter as theyhave been my helpers and comforters in times of trouble.
Never let any of their prayers return from you unanswered. Never let them feel the sting of loneliness or the bitterness of despair. When all hope seems gone, bring it back in the most wonderful way. When faith is lost, restore it and make it ten times stronger. When theyface challenges, hold them by their hand and bear their burdens all along the way. Let them feel the power of your unchanged love with every step they take.
Work in their lives. Be strong in their hearts. Heal their bodies and souls and help them make the best of this life as they prepare for eternity. Reveal to them the beauty of your creation and the miracle of your love. Give them a faith so strong that it can move mountains. And as theyacknowledge you in their lives, come and sit at their table and dine with them. Make room for them in your eternal kingdom and keep their candle burning until the end of times.
Amen