30 September 2025, Memorial of St Jerome and International Day of Translation

26th WEEK IN ORDINARY TIME - TUE

Memorial of St Jerome and International Day of Translation 

Gospel: Luke 9:51–56

As we honor St Jerome, whose translations opened Scripture to the world, we also mark the special day for translators, reminding us of the irreplaceable value of human expertise in accuracy, cultural sensitivity, and spiritual depth. As Pope Leo XIV reminds us, Artificial Intelligence may be an exceptional product of human genius, but it remains only a tool—never a substitute for the human spirit. With trust in God’s Word, we pray: LORD, HEAR OUR PRAYER or WORD OF GOD, TRANSFORM US.

1. That, following St Jerome’s love for Scripture, we may hear God’s Word clearly and act on it with faith. Let us pray to the Lord.

2. That leaders of nations may be guided by truth and dialogue in building peace and protecting creation. On this International Day of Translation, may languages serve as bridges of justice and unity. Let us pray to the Lord.

3. That translators and interpreters may be strengthened in their vocation, so their work of communication promotes understanding, cooperation, and respect among all peoples. Let us pray to the Lord.

4. That those who suffer—especially the poor, refugees, and those excluded by barriers of language or poverty—may find healing, dignity, and solidarity. Let us pray to the Lord.

5. That the faithful departed may now rejoice in the eternal Word, Christ Himself, who brings life and light to the world. Let us pray to the Lord.

God of all peoples, you speak in every tongue and call us to communion in your Word. Through the intercession of St Jerome, may we treasure Scripture, respect every language, and care for creation in truth and love. 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.