Prayers for Pope Benedict XVI

We pray that God, through the Holy Spirit, may give you the strength, wisdom and sanctity to govern our Church. Throughout your reign make us more aware of our faith. Help us, by your example, to become holy and devout Catholics. Through Christ our Lord, Amen. On behalf of the parishioners of St Wilfrid's Parish.

God our Father, shepherd and guide, look with love on John Paul's successor, the future pastor of your Church. May his word and example inspire and guide the Church, and may he, and all those entrusted to his care, come to the joy of everlasting life. Grant 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. Taken from text prepared by the Department for Christian Life and Worship.

Prayers for Pope John Paul II

Pope John Paul II, we thank you for dedicating many years of your life as leader of our Faith. We especially thank you for visiting us here in York. We pray that you are now with God and His Angels and Saints and are reaping the rewards of your labours whilst serving His people here on Earth. Rest in Peace. Amen. On behalf of the parishioners of St Wilfrid's Parish.

O God, from whom the just receive an unfailing reward, grant that your servant John Paul, our Pope, whom you made vicar of Peter and shepherd of your Church, may rejoice for ever in the vision of your glory, for he was a faithful steward here on earth of the mysteries of your forgiveness and grace. We ask this through Christ our Lord. Amen. Taken from text prepared by the Department for Christian Life and Worship.