Our God, we give thanks for the weekend just past, for the opportunity to rest and recharge, for the quiet moments and the joy of the fine weather. We thank you for all the good things we have received, and for the renewed strength with which we can now set out on the week ahead. We ask that you accompany and help us in the days ahead, so that we may carry out our duties with patience, hope and perseverance. Bless the Alexian communities throughout the world. Grant them strength and joy in the service they provide for the elderly, the sick, those in need, and all those who require assistance. Bless also those who work alongside them: the carers, all our staff, the helpers and supporters, so that through their joint efforts as many people as possible may experience care, love and respect for human dignity. We pray in particular for the future of the Alexian communities. This ministry, spanning more than 800 years, can only continue if new people recognise within themselves the call to live for others. Send us courageous and committed young people who joyfully embrace the path of service and who will carry forward the love and care that has helped so many people over the past centuries. Be with us this week; help us not to carry yesterday’s difficulties with us, but to look ahead with confidence and to see in every day the opportunity for goodness, for helping others and for love. Amen.