Dear St. Anthony, because you experienced
disappointments and sickness in your brief life here,
I salute you the more respectfully.
Your own life assures me that you understand my need.
There is nothing so humiliating as sickness.
It forces us to depend on others,
leaves undone our daily tasks,
upsets our self-assurance and composure,
and makes us feel useless.
Help me, then, good St. Anthony,
in sickness and trouble.
Teach me, please, how to profit spiritually from my bodily ills.
Intercede for me with God so that my health may improve.
When recovered in body,
let me be also improved in spirit, too.
I ask this blessing for the honor of Christ, our Lord,
Amen.
V. Pray for us Saint Anthony,
R. That we may be worthy of the promises of Christ.
