Lord, source of mercy, we give thanks to you for the communities of the Alexian Order, which now look back on a history of 800 years, and who—in Hungary, Ireland, Germany, the Philippines, Belgium, and the United States—serve the sick, the elderly, the poor, and all those in need with love and self-sacrifice; we ask that you bless them with physical and spiritual health, strengthen them in their vocation, grant them perseverance, peace, and joy in their daily service, and awaken new vocations, so that they may be people of heart who carry on this holy tradition of mercy and love for future generations. Grant that they may always recognize your presence in their ministry, and that those who suffer may find comfort and hope in you. “Whatever you did for one of the least of these brothers and sisters of mine, you did for me.” (Mt 25:40) Amen.