23 September 2025, Memorial of Padre Pio, the International Day of Sign Languages, and the Equinox

25th WEEK IN ORDINARY TIME - TUESDAY

Memorial of Padre Pio, the International Day of Sign Languages, and the Equinox 

Gospel: Luke 8:19–21

On this day of the Season of Creation, we celebrate the Memorial of Padre Pio, the International Day of Sign Languages, and the Equinox. Each reminds us of listening—through prayer, through human expression, and through creation’s harmony. With open hearts, let us bring our prayers before the Lord: LORD, HEAR OUR PRAYER or MAKE US YOUR FAMILY, O LORD.

1. That the Church may imitate Christ by hearing God’s Word and putting it into action through mercy, Eucharistic devotion, and service to the poor, as Padre Pio lived so faithfully. Let us pray to the Lord.

2. That government leaders may promote inclusion and dignity for all peoples. On this International Day of Sign Languages, may they ensure accessibility for the deaf and hard of hearing, affirming that all voices matter in God’s family. Let us pray to the Lord.

3. That as the earth turns in its rhythm of autumn in the north and spring in the south, we may learn to live in harmony with creation, respecting the balance of light and dark, and all God’s seasons. Let us pray to the Lord.

4. That those who suffer in body, mind, or spirit may find hope in Christ. Inspired by Padre Pio, who called the Eucharist his “food” and “sweetness,” may the sacraments bring healing and holiness to all. Let us pray to the Lord.

5. That our beloved dead may now share in the eternal banquet of God’s kingdom, where every tear will be wiped away. Let us pray to the Lord.

Lord, you call us to be your family by hearing your Word and acting upon it. Through the intercession of Padre Pio, may we cherish the gift of creation, and welcome every brother and sister. Through Christ our Lord. Amen.

Prayer for Creation from Laudato Si’

This prayer by Pope Francis appeared at the end of his 2015 encyclical Laudato Si'. It is for all who believe in God who is the all-powerful Creator.

All powerful God,
you are present in the universe
and in the smallest of your creatures.
You embrace with your tenderness all that exists.
Pour out upon us the power of your love,
that we may protect life and beauty.
Fill us with your peace, that we may live
as brothers and sisters, harming no one.
O God of the poor,
help us to rescue the abandoned
and forgotten of this earth,
so precious in your eyes.
Bring healing to our lives,
that we may protect the world and not prey on it,
that we may sow beauty,
not pollution and destruction.
Touch the hearts
of those who look only for gain
at the expense of the poor and the earth.
Teach us to discover the worth of each thing,
to be filled with awe and contemplation,
to recognize that we are profoundly united
with every creature
as we journey towards your infinite light.
We thank you for being with us each day.
Encourage us, we pray, in our struggle,
for justice, love and peace.