A Prayer for Paris

A grieving statue, (detail)
Père Lachaise Cemetery, Paris

Father of mercy,
You invite all who are burdened to come to You.
Embrace the victims in Paris;
bring them comfort and hope.
Most loving Jesus,
we know that in the fullness of time
You will wipe away every tear.
Restore those who suffer and grieve to wholeness;
let them know Your gentle compassion.
Bless those You have called to Yourself,
lead them into the light of Your love.
May we never forget that every knee will bend at Your name.
On that day, an occasion of unrivaled joy,
sin and death will be no more,
and we shall see You face to face. Amen.