Engraved icon of Saint Alexius which adorns the monastery of the Irish Alexian Brothers.

In Bakonybél, next to the country house, there is a retro museum from the communist period of the 1950s, which displays old children's toys, means of transport, motorbikes, cars, utensils, vinyl records, home furnishings, etc. We visited this museum with Brother Barry during his visit to Hungary.

A bone relic of Saint Alexius in the chapel of St Bernadette in the Alexian Monastery in Hungary. The crocheted figure of Saint Alexius is the work of the Hungarian artist SYLVEE'S CROCHET.

Brother Barry in front the Alexian Monastery in the village of Győrújbarát, Hungary.

Saint Alexius,

our merciful patron saint, who, having abandoned earthly riches, lived your life in poverty and humility, and who is patron of the homeless, pilgrims and the Alexian Brothers, pray for us! At the beginning of this week, help us to turn with open hearts and love to those in need. Give us the strength to recognize the dignity of those living in poverty and to help them overcome their difficulties. Guide us on the path of love and mercy, so that we may also demonstrate faith and love by our actions. Please protect the homeless, give them shelter and warmth, food and hope. Accompany the pilgrims on their journey, protect them from danger and guide them to their destination. Bless the Alexian Brothers, give them strength and endurance in their service, so that they may alleviate suffering by their loving care.

Help us to follow your example, to live our lives with humility and love, always remembering that the greatest riches are love and devotion to God and to our fellow human beings.

Amen.

Photo: the cross with two doves on the roof of
the chapel of St Bernadette in the Alexian Monastery in Hungary.

Eternal God,

on All Souls' Day, we remember with love and sorrow those who have died and await the promise of resurrection. We pray for the souls of all the faithful departed, especially, whose earthly lives are ended but whose memory lives on in our hearts. We commend them to your merciful care, knowing that death does not end our relationship with them, but rather transforms it. Grant them, O Lord, the light of your countenance and the peace of your kingdom. Forgive their sins and failings, and welcome them into the joy of your eternal embrace. May they rest in peace and rise in glory. We pray also for those who mourn their loss, that they may find comfort in your love and strength in their grief. Grant them patience, hope, and the assurance of your abiding presence.

Through Christ our Lord, Amen.

Almighty God,

on this All Saints' Day, we celebrate the communion of saints, the vast and glorious company of those who have gone before us in faith and now rejoice in your presence. We give thanks for their lives, their witness, and their prayers. We remember with love and gratitude those we have known who have died in the hope of resurrection. May they rest in peace and light. We also remember all the saints known and unknown, whose names are written in the book of life. Their lives, though diverse, were united by their love for you and their dedication to your service. May their example inspire us to live lives of holiness and faith. Grant us, O Lord, the grace to follow in their footsteps, to live lives pleasing to you, and to one day join them in your eternal glory.

Through Christ our Lord, Amen.